Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is not just famous for glamorous Hollywood but also a canvas of diverse cultures, rich cuisine, and countless exciting things waiting for you to discover. To truly feel the rhythm of life here, forget typical tourist tours and try exploring the city on foot like a real local.
In this article, we will share tips and suggestions so you can fully enjoy Los Angeles, from choosing “secret” neighborhoods and savoring unique street food to immersing yourself in the art scene and finding the most beautiful views of the city.
Start Your Day Like a Local: A Tasteful Morning in Los Angeles
Locals in Los Angeles often start their day simply but tastefully. Instead of fancy restaurants, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Grand Central Market, a historic food market located in the heart of the city.
Here, you can enjoy the famous Eggslut egg sandwich, a breakfast favorite among locals. With its creamy runny egg yolk combined with soft bread, Eggslut is sure to be a perfect start to your day.
Eggslut egg sandwich, a popular breakfast at Grand Central Market
If you’re looking for a more classic and cozy space, The Original Pantry Cafe is a great option. This diner has been serving Los Angeles locals since 1924 with a classic American menu including pancakes, fried eggs, and strong coffee. Don’t forget to order a glass of fresh orange juice, a California specialty, to replenish vitamins and energy for your Los Angeles exploration journey.
Discover “Secret” Neighborhoods: Silver Lake and Echo Park
Hollywood and Santa Monica are familiar destinations for tourists visiting Los Angeles. However, if you want to experience the city more authentically, try exploring lesser-known neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Echo Park.
These are artistic neighborhoods with colorful murals, independent coffee shops, and peaceful atmospheres, completely different from the noise and bustle of downtown.
In Silver Lake, you can stroll around the small lake, visit unique bookstores like Skylight Books, or enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at Lamill Coffee. Echo Park is famous for its bohemian atmosphere, street music performances, and green park, where locals often gather for picnics on weekends.
A peaceful corner in Echo Park, Los Angeles
Quick tip: Wear comfortable sneakers, because these neighborhoods are worth exploring on foot, every nook and cranny!
Savor Street Food: The Flavors of Los Angeles at Your Fingertips
Street food is an integral part of experiencing Los Angeles like a local. This city is famous for its food trucks scattered everywhere, offering diverse flavors from around the world.
If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, try the tacos at Mariscos Jalisco, a food truck famous for its crispy fried shrimp tacos with rich flavors. For those who love Asian flavors, Kogi BBQ is a must-visit. Kogi BBQ is famous for its Korean BBQ combined with tacos, creating a unique and appealing flavor. Locals in Los Angeles often queue up to enjoy these dishes, especially in the evening when the street atmosphere becomes more vibrant than ever.
Unique Korean BBQ and taco fusion from Kogi BBQ
Also, don’t miss In-N-Out Burger, an iconic California fast-food chain. A local’s tip is to order “Animal Style” from the secret menu, a burger loaded with cheese, grilled onions, and special sauce. The rich and irresistible flavor of Animal Style will surely leave a lasting impression.
Immerse Yourself in Los Angeles Culture: Art and Music
To truly explore Los Angeles like a local, you need to understand and experience the city’s diverse culture. Spend an afternoon at The Getty Center, a renowned art museum famous not only for its valuable artworks but also for its stunning panoramic city views. Locals often come here to relax, read, or watch the sunset.
Panoramic view of Los Angeles from The Getty Center
If you’re a music lover, don’t miss The Hollywood Bowl, a legendary outdoor amphitheater in the city. In the summer, Los Angeles locals often bring snacks and wine to enjoy concerts under the stars. It’s a great way to experience the city’s unique artistic vibe.
Vibrant atmosphere at a concert in The Hollywood Bowl
Additionally, Koreatown (K-Town) is an ideal destination to experience vibrant Korean culture with karaoke bars, BBQ restaurants, and 24/7 spas. Locals often gather here on weekends to relax and have fun.
Catching the Los Angeles Sunset: “Secret” Spots
There’s nothing better than ending a day of exploring Los Angeles with a brilliant sunset. Instead of crowding at Venice Beach, try visiting Griffith Observatory. From here, you can admire the panoramic city sparkling in the sunset, from skyscrapers to the distant coastline.
Beautiful sunset at Griffith Observatory
Another option is Point Dume in Malibu, a peaceful cliffside by the coast where you can hear the waves crashing and feel a rare tranquility. Locals often choose these spots to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Los Angeles.
Conclusion
Exploring Los Angeles on foot like a local is a wonderful experience to feel the rhythm of life, culture, and diverse cuisine of this city. Try the suggestions above and create a truly memorable Los Angeles exploration journey for yourself! Are you ready to lace up your shoes and start your journey?