These days it’s all about documenting. After all if you haven’t posted it on Instagram, were you really there? Of course you were, but sharing the fun is a big part of any experience, which is one reason why I started this blog in the first place! Sharing the fun!
The famous Pink Wall at Paul Smith on Melrose #paulsmithla
As an amateur photographer, I appreciate that a great photo, not only documents the moment, but also tells the story. So, as a tourist in my own town, I’ve been on a quest to see new places, enjoy the moments, AND get that #pic.
Are You Looking for that LA Experience?
Another Insta Icon the #madeinla wall at Cisco Home on Melrose
Whether it be a #selfie, a portrait, or just your surroundings, If you’re looking for more than just a photo, but an experience to go along with it consider some of these #fun on and off the beaten path LA locations:
1. Colette Miller Angel Wings Location: 453 Colyton Street, Los Angeles
If there’s one #instapic you have to take while visiting the City of Angles it’s the one with a pair of Colette Miller’s Angel Wings. Surely, you’ve heard of Colette Miller’s Angel Wings project by now, and if not, you have now! With multiple locations around LA, and now the world, you are bound to run across a pair! This particular pair is located just outside the DTLA Arts District Co-op, which also happens to be a great shop!
2. Fnnch Honey Bear Mural Location: 608 Mateo Street, Los Angeles
The #insta #opportunities in Downtown’s Arts District are endless. No matter your taste, there is street art for everyone! It was while looking for another piece that we came upon this lovely “little” honey bear by the San Francisco based artist known as Fnnch. Of course I had to take a quick #pic with my #littlehoney!
3. The Most Famous Artist Mural Location: 608 Mateo Street, Los Angeles
You might already be familiar with the polka dot wall as it’s become an #icon of the LA #instawall scene. (Is that a thing? I guess it is now!) The work of Matty Mo, otherwise known as The Most Famous Artist, its just one of many murals made with the intention of being featured on social media. It’s conveniently located in the same area as some other pretty nice pieces.
4. The Broad Museum Location: 221 S. Grand Ave, Los Angeles
If you only have time to visit one museum while in LA, I highly suggest The Broad located in DTLA. Entry to the museum is free, and the collection is top notch! Not only that, the building itself makes a lovely #instawall backdrop! Do keep in mind that it’s incredibly popular and advance reservations are required.
5. The Chandelier Tree Location: 2811 W. Silver Lake Drive, Los Angeles
The Chandelier Tree, created by, Silver Lake resident and artist, Adam Tenenbaum is a magical piece of art which is located in his front yard! The tree’s restored chandeliers have been collected over time through donations, swap meet purchases and film sets. Visitors to the tree are very welcome and if you’re so inclined you can contribute to Adam’s electric bill, by inserting coins into the meter beneath the tree. Check out this neat little video to learn more about the Chandelier Tree.
6. Elliot Smith Figure 8 Wall Location: 4334 W. Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles
Just a few minutes away from the above #instaspot you’ll find the Elliott Smith Figure 8 Wall. If you’re a music lover, you might be familiar with Elliot Smith, who met a tragic end in 2003. This wall was featured on the cover of his last album and has since become a place where fans can snap a #pic and pay tribute to the deceased singer. As my husband is a big fan of Elliott’s music, our son is also named Elliot…
7. Micheltorena Stairs Location: 3400 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles
Painted by artist Corrine Carrie the Micheltorena Stairs are not only a lovely spot for an #instapic, but part of a larger network of “hidden”stairs within the Silver Lake neighborhood. If you’re feeling inspired after you snap your #staircandy pic, why not consider an urban hike! You’ll get some exercise along with your #snap!
8. View of DTLA Griffith Observatory Location: 2800 E. Observatory Rd, Los Angeles
The views from the Griffith Observatory, are quintessential LA, so it’s no wonder this very view was featured in the movie LA LA Land. Not only will a visit here provide you fabulous views of #DTLA, but the #iconic Hollywood Sign as well. Thats two birds with one #instastone!
9. The Hollywood Sign Location: 2800 E. Observatory Rd, Los Angeles
One of the most famous icons in Los Angeles and the world, no trip to Los Angeles would be complete without a glimpse of the famous Hollywood Sign!
10. Urban Light at LACMA Location: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles
There’s something so magical about artist Chris Burden’s Urban Light installation, I could spend hours there! I couldn’t stop taking photos. The solar powered installation is made from 202 restored cast iron street lamps from 1920s and 30s Los Angeles. Part of LACMA’s permanent collection, the exhibit is free to the public. Urban Light is an incredibly popular place to take photos and hang out, so unless you visit in the middle of the night, expect to have other people in your photos.
11. Carrera Cafe Location: 8251 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles
Located just across the street from the pink #paulsmithla wall on Melrose Avenue, Carrera Cafe, is not just a pretty face, but also a lovely little cafe with both sweet and savory treats.
12. Social butterflies LA Location: 8222 W. 3rd St, Los Angeles
You’ll be kept plenty busy exploring all the restaurants, shopping, galleries and fun #wallcandy on West 3rd Street, which is located in West Hollywood about one mile from Melrose Avenue.
13. Palm Tree Photo Mural Location: 1130 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice
For a guaranteed LA experience and those #instagood #instapics don’t miss one of the hottest streets in town, Abbot Kinney located in Venice. Both sides of the street are lined with not only fabulous street art, murals and pasteups, but many of the most sought after fashion brands have stores here. After you’ve snapped and shopped, you can satisfy your hunger in the one of the many trendy bars and restaurants. It’s #instapic heaven! This Noah Abrams photograph is on the wall outside of Kit and Ace.
14. J. Goldcrown’s #bleedinghearts #Lovewall Location: corner of Santa Clara Avenue and Abbot Kinney Boulevard
While you’re in the neighborhood, why not make a stop at J. Goldcrown’s #bleedinghearts #lovewall, which is painted on the side of the Green Leaf Chopshop. Don’t worry, it’s okay to take photos at both! Then stop by the TOMS store and pick up a matching pair!
15. Will Rodgers State Beach Location: 17000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Los Angeles
Tourist or not, there’s nothing quite like an LA #sunset, and the best part: It happens each and every night!
#happysnapping
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Would you like directions to all these fabulous places? Why not take me with you! you can download this and other fun hilarystyle articles using the GPSmyCity app!
Mikaela Ann
Love this💜
Hilary
Thank you!
Chloe
This is such a fun post, I love all the fun murals in LA that are perfect to take pictures with! #citytripping
Hilary
Thank you! This is just a taste of what’s out there… with so many fun spots, I may have to do a part two!
stylepackgo
Hilary – this post is great and so fun! I smiled at the places I recognize (having lived in LA) and noted the ones I didn’t know about. Next time I’m there – I’ll be instagramming some wall art compliments of this post!
Hilary
I’m so glad you discovered some new fun! Xx
Ruth
Hilary, I adore your post! I have to go to Mateo Street in the Arts District since I am trying to put together a post about the street art in the area. I went two weeks ago but didn’t check that street. There so much street art in LA but the thing is that is scattered all over. Hope I can capture more examples once I replace the car that was damaged in an accident. #citytripping
Hilary
I love that area and have been “collecting” LA Street art for quite a while now… there’s SO much! Maybe you’d like to collaborate? Just a thought…
Bumble Bee Mum
Very cool!! I don’t recall seeing all these street art when I was in LA.. But I guess I wasn’t really looking as my eyes were glued to the map.. haha… #CityTripping
youngandundecided
Ugh! I love all of these so much! I almost made it to LA last year but chose Orlando insead (cos Disney!) but I am a sucker for a cool insta! (I expecially like that you have included the adresses! Nice touch 🙂 ) #FarawayFiles
Hilary
So glad you love the post! Hey! We have Disney too and Harry Potter… come here next! Xx
MummyTravels
I love this idea for a post! That pink is so gorgeous – you’d have to jump. And pose in front of the angel wings. This would be such a fun way to explore (and I do love my IG as well). Thanks for linking up on #citytripping
Hilary
Thank you! Yes, one can have a field day #wallhopping in LA! Here are so many fun spots I’m already halfway to post #2!
katy@untoldmorsels
Love the Urban Light installation and all your fun pics Hilary. LA is such a bright and vibrant city and next time I’m there I’ll be searching out the wings for sure! Thanks for sharing on #farawayfiles
Hilary
Thank you! I’m having an amazing time seeking out all it has to offer, which should take me just about forever!!
Clare Thomson
That one of your two boys in front of the sunset is the best pic ever! You should get it framed. Such a great way of visiting a city, through its Insta landmarks. Great post, Hilary. #FarawayFiles
Hilary
Thank you!! We did frame that one! It was also my holiday card photo. Lucky me we get to walk to that beach from our house!
WanderMum
Great idea for a post. Really enjoyed seeing your photos- particularly like the chandelier tree and the last one with the sunset is awesome #citytripping
Hilary
Thank you so much! Xx
Anisa
Love these pictures they are so fun and colorful! Next time I am in LA I need to check out more of the street art and those street lights. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Hilary
I’m so glad you enjoyed them! I’ve been having such a great time playing tourist in my own town!
baublesandknots
Love how much you embrace the instagoodness of LA.
Addie
Love this post! Most of the time my instas are just of major sights and what not – I’d really love to get some of these shots in there if I could! #FarawayFiles
Hilary
Thank you! It’s funny I never used to post any photos with me in them but I’m realizing it’s actually pretty fun!
CatherineRose || La Vie En C-Rose
Love this!!! I’ve been wanting to road trip down to LA and these are exactly the kinds of places I would seek out (for Instagram of course!!) Thanks for sharing 🙂 #FarawayFiles
oregongirlaroundtheworld
You are ridiculously adorable. Great list of spots to track down in LA. Love the honey bear – how cute is that! Cheers! Erin #FarawayFiles
Hilary
Awe, you’re so sweet! This post was a ton of fun, so much so, that I’m working on part 2! Thank you!! xo
malaysianmeanders
Great photos, especially the one of your two boys at sunset. I would love to see that Chandelier Tree and the Angel Wings. Whenever we visit LA, we’re so busy going from one relative’s house to another that I never manage to squeeze in much sightseeing.
Hilary
Thank you! I completely understand that’s what happens to me in Seattle… just bring them with you!!