Los Angeles is known for its never-ending sunlight, and surf along the Pacific coast, giving this city its under emphatic nature. There are multiple dining venues, numerous boutiques to explore, and street art that can be photographed. LA is chaotic and the energy is disruptive, but in comparison to other cities, LA is the most vibrant and active. LA is a city that refuses to be understated.
Image sourced from Pinterest, all rights reserved to the original creator
Los Angeles is home to some of the most addictive social media attractions in the world. Whether you are a visitor or a resident of LA, a visit to the iconic murals, landmarks, boutiques, and restaurants is a must.
Mural Highlights
The Pink Wall, located at Paul Smith, is a wall that is recognized globally and one of the most photographed spots in Los Angeles. Other than the Pink Wall, there are other Instagrammable murals located in Los Angeles.
Paul Smith
8221 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles 90046
Image sourced from @balletzaida, all rights reserved to the original creator
The line to take a picture at this wall is always long, and many photographers travel to LA for the opportunity to take this photo.
The Angel Wings
Melrose Ave and N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles 90046
Image sourced from @ _ , all rights reserved to the original creator.
In LA, these angel wings murals are surpassed only by the Pink Wall pair, and are arguably the most photographed murals in the world.
Colette Miller created this mural as part of her Global Angel Wings Project, which began in 2012. The artwork encourages people to see every individual as a fallen angel and to appreciate the moment and those around them. Miller's angel wing murals have been painted in 38 cities around the globe.
The Rainbows Wall
Location: 8050 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Image via @estefaniaacuna; copyright is attributed to the original creator.
This rainbow made of rope is one of the most well-known pieces, and is located on the outside of a storefront called The Paper Bag Princess.
Made in LA
Location: Cisco Home, 8025 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Image via @la.racked; copyright is attributed to the original creator.
Located on Melrose Avenue, this wall belongs to Cisco Home. Be cautious about oncoming traffic as this wall is positioned right next to the road.
TableArt Blue Wall
Location: TableArt, 8024 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Image via @lifrbythshore; copyright is attributed to the original creator.
This blue wall is located directly across from Made in LA, and is bright and clean which makes it easy to take nice photos.
Polka Dot Wall
Location: The Springs, 608 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Image via @la.racked; copyright is attributed to the original creator.
The wall in the downtown area was previously part of a restaurant that has since been closed, but the polka-dots have remained.
Goddess Wall
Location: 801 S Hope ST A, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Image via @the LA Girl
Be prepared to arrive with some extra time as the wall will likely be popular with pedestrians and might be difficult to get a clear view of.
Mondrian Wall
Address: 1660 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 9003
Image via @localadventurer; copyright to the respective owner.
This wall outside Artist & Craftsman Supply features the iconic red, yellow, and blue color pattern inspired by the collision of colors from the works of the Dutch painter Mondrian.
Los Angeles has more photo walls than you could possibly count. While some of the most notable ones are located on Melrose Avenue, you can really enjoy the artistic walls of LA by taking a chance and exploring the city as they will await you around every corner.
Photo worthy locations
Attractions in Los Angeles are so frequently and popularly photographed that they could fill an entire itinerary of recognizable destinations. And, it can be a surprise to discover that they are all in the city.
OUE SKYSPACE
Address: 633 W 5th St #840, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Image via @molllified; copyright to the respective owner.
While Downtown Los Angeles is much less overwhelming than the skyscraper-lined streets of New York or Chicago, it does provide a great spot for viewing the city from OUE SKYSPACE. The building is also one of the tallest in Los Angeles, and its 70th-floor observation deck offers a unique experience as it provides a 360-degree view of the city.
Image via @localadventure; copyright to the respective owner.
There was a
slide on the 69th floor, and in order to access the slide and the deck, you needed a combined ticket to both.
To enjoy the best views, arrive before the sun sets.
Urban LightAddress: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
I love this spot: Instagram photo copyright Urban Light is located at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). The even rows of street lamps create endless opportunities for photographers. Depending on when you visit, you can experience one of two moods. Go in the morning for softer light or visit when the lamps are lit at dusk.
I love this spot: Instagram photo copyright The Broad Museum
Address: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
I love this spot: Instagram photo copyright wacowla The Broad Museum is one of the hallmarks of contemporary art in Los Angeles. The museum is the result of a US$140 million investment by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, and showcases a portion of one of the world’s most prestigious collections of contemporary art. Many of the artworks will seem recognizable from photographs, but it is a whole different experience to view them in person.
The museum’s most popular installation is without a doubt Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room. A separate line to entered the room was required, and visitors could only stay for 45 seconds.
I love this spot: Instagram photo copyright @anniewearsit
I love this spot: Twitter photo copyright
Due to how popular the museum was, the lines were always long.
It is ideal to book through the official site and wait a month prior to visiting to save time.
The Bradbury Building
Address: 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Image from @la.curbed, copyright from the original creator.
Image from
, copyright from the original creator.
When you’re exploring what Downtown LA has to offer, make sure to not skip out on the Bradbury Building. One of the oldest commercial buildings in Los Angeles, it was completed in 1893 and is now recognized as a National Historic Landmark. The building's Victorian-style atrium, with its wrought-iron railings and birdcage elevator, creates a wonderful atmosphere that you’ll only find in period movies. While the upper floors are closed to the public as they are used as office spaces, the first-floor public area is open for visitors. Quiet photography is allowed.
Image from CLUTCH Magazine, copyright from the original creator.
Angels Flight Railway
Address: 350 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Image from @aglobewelltravelled, copyright from the original creator.
Angels Flight became popular again after the LA LA LAND film. It is also known as the world’s shortest funicular railway, at only 99 meters. It was built over a century ago in 1901 to help affluent residents skip the uphill climb, and after being out of service for a while, it was refurbished and reopened after the film brought a lot of attention to it. A ride on the railway costs $1, and is a great way to add a little romance to your walk around downtown.
Image from @tripadvisor, copyright from the original creator.
Secret Swings
Address: Elysian Park, 929 Academy Rd, Los Angeles, CA
Image from @withlovefrombella, copyright from the original creator.
The Secret Swings are no longer much of a secret.
They are set atop a hill in Elysian Park and provide a nice backdrop for the sunset and city lights. There is a very short walk from the parking area to the actual observatory, so practical shoes are a much better option than heels. Griffith Observatory Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 Image via @ copyright to the original owner. Griffith Observatory, another site made even more popular by the film LA LA LAND, offers views of the Hollywood sign as well as the la skyline at night. It has always been a city landmark and a popular location for filming. The Hollywood sign is less than 10 minutes away from the observatory, meaning Griffith is a famous site for many tourists. Its celestial shows and displays of astronomy guarantee a large number of visitors in addition to the photo shots. Shopping can be included in the photo itinerary too. These LA-exclusive style stops prove that a few bucks can be a souvenir. Glossier Address: 8407 Melrose Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90069 Image via @mind-mag\, copyright to the original owner. Image via @ copyright to the original owner. The so-called supreme of beauty brands, Glossier, had long ago expanded beyond niche status when it opened its permanent Los Angeles store in May 2018.
The baby-pink color scheme and close resemblance to Antelope Canyon create both a shopping destination and a photo opportunity. \n \n \n Image courtesy of @architecturaldigest. Copyright Original Content. \nA’maree’s Boutique \n\n2241 West Coast Hwy,
Newport Beach, CA 92663 \n\nImage courtesy of @pauldavisarchitects.format. Copyright Original Content. \n\nNestled within a small harbor in Newport Beach, about an hour from downtown Los Angeles, this boutique’s location is truly one-of-a-kind. The shop is bathed in sunshine and has a warm and inviting atmosphere. They sell clothing, jewelry, and home decor, striking an excellent balance between practicality and playful sophistication. They create an environment that makes you want to spend the whole day there.\n\nImage caption: @pauldavisarchitects.format;
Copyright Original Content. \n\nInstagram-able Eats\n\nFood in Los Angeles is known to be some of the best, most authentic, and most flavorful among world cuisine. Not only does the city boast amazing food, but the atmosphere at many of the restaurants is just as good. \n\nThe Ivy \n\n113 N Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048\nImage courtesy of @pencilshavingsstudio. Copyright Original Content. \n Image courtesy of @instagram. Copyright Original Content. \n\nThe Ivy is famous among locals as an excellent place to celebrity spot. Each table is covered with flowers and bright plates, making an Insta worthy scene, and the complimentary champagne adds an extra touch. Seafood is the specialty, and the prices can get high. Lobster pasta and lobster ravioli are the top recommendations. And yes, they are worth the price.
Make sure you book in advance and mention that you want to sit outside if that’s possible.
Image via @ ; Copyright is with the original creator.
Catch LA
Address: 8715 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Image via @ ; Copyright is with the original creator.
Image via @***; Copyright is with the original creator.
Catch LA, with its garden-esque decor, completely embraces romance. Oysters, crab legs, steak, sashimi, and strong cocktails make a good case not only for the atmosphere but also the menu. For the best experience, reserve a table by the window. Some diners have claimed that there are policies concerning the use of photography, so you should check with the staff about taking pictures.
The Boiling Crab
There are multiple branches.
Image via @cupsofrice; copyright belongs to the original creator.
For many visitors, The Boiling Crab is a must-visit place in Los Angeles. It serves satisfying seafood and its sauces are so good that people lick their fingers long after finishing the meal.
IN-N-OUT
There are multiple branches.
Image via Pinterest; copyright belongs to the original creator.
There is no need to describe this place. It is one of the best burger places in California and is a must-visit on a road trip in California.
Grand Central Market
Address: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Image via @travelchannel; copyright belongs to the original creator.
Grand Central Market is located in downtown LA and is an all-around food hall. You can shop and eat as you go. It is a great place to recharge as there are many sights
One popular seller is eggslut, which is famous for its sandwiches, fried eggs, and mashed potatoes.
Image via Pinterest, copyright remains with the owner.
Malibu Farm Cafe
Address: 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Image credit @cntraveler, copyright remains with the owner.
Image credit @whitneybearr, copyright remains with the owner.
Malibu restaurants enjoy a commanding view of the ocean, which is almost a given in Malibu. Additionally, the restaurant is divided into two sections, with Malibu Farm Restaurant at the beginning of the pier serving full meals with a reservation-only policy, while Malibu Farm Cafe at the end serves brunch and offers afternoon tea on a first-come basis with no reservations. On a clear day, the choice is obvious, and sea breezes while sitting outside are highly recommended.
Nearby Recommendations
If schedule permits, several nearby excursions to the Los Angeles area, which are easily accessible as day trips, should also be considered.
MALIBU WINE SAFARIS
Address: 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Image credit @Pinterest, copyright remains with the owner.
Malibu combines a winery and an animal park, where you can enjoy wine tasting while interacting with farm animals and even alpacas and zebras. Until recently, they had Stanley the giraffe, who starred in The Hangover Part III and became a minor Hollywood star. Tours had to be booked in advance and lasted between one to two hours for options ranging from over $70 to over $100.
Potato Chip Rock
Address: Ramona, CA 92065
Image credit @.kelleylouise, copyright remains with the owner.
This rock formation, renowned for its potato-chip shape, is particularly known for a photograph taken from an angle where the formation looks like it is dramatically protruding over a cliff.
Reaching this location will involve a three to four hour hike so come prepared and leave the heels at home.
Newport Beach
Image courtesy of @timeout, copyright remains with the original owner.
For those who have an affinity for the ocean, Newport Beach has whale watching tours (however, sightings are dictated by the season and a little bit of luck). It is also a pretty wealthy harbor with yacht rides and plenty of shopping.
Mission Inn Hotel & SPA
Address: 3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
Image courtesy of @amenagementdesign, copyright remains with the original owner.
The Mission Inn is about an hour's drive from Los Angeles, and is impressively Spanish in style. It has become one of the most popular wedding venues in the area due to its stunning architecture and beautiful flower arrangements throughout the venue. Each passing moment feels disconnected from the busy city, allowing visitors to stroll as they please. In order to enjoy the tranquility of the area fully and to be able to take pictures, an overnight stay is recommended.
Image courtesy of @travelandleisure, copyright remains with the original owner.
Lastly
Los Angeles has a lot to offer and to describe it all in one list would be impossible. That is why it can not be done properly in one or two trips. The ideal LA itinerary always has space for further exploration
