For as much as I travel it seems strange that I don’t have an international calling plan, but I’ve never felt it was something I needed except of course when I’m in a location with no access to wifi and I can’t remember where that place was that I wanted to see. By then it’s too late…
Toledo the perfect place to get lost
The good news is there is a way to bring travel guides along without signing up for an expensive international calling plan or dragging along heavy guide books. You may recall that I wrote to you last year about an app called GPSmyCITY, which allows you offline access to travel related articles from over 1000 cities around the world. Some of them written by yours truly!
Like many people who travel, I do a lot of research before I go, the problem is gaining access to that research once I’m at my destination. The reality is that wifi isn’t always available, which means I can’t guarantee that I’ll be able to pull up that great article, blog post, or map, when I need it most. However, even if I could, there’s the high cost of data to consider. This is where the GPSmyCITY app comes in handy!
What is a GPS-guided travel article?
A GPS-Guided travel article is exactly what it sounds like: An article with GPS coordinates embedded directly into the text. The best part is that once you’ve downloaded the article you won’t need access to the internet to use it! Download all the articles you’re interested in free of charge. Once you’ve decided on the article(s) that best work for your destination, you have the option to upgrade for a small fee $1.99*, which will activate the GPS coordinates within the article along with an offline map.
When you bring along a GPSmyCity article, you’ll have everything you need to find all the most recent hidden travel gems. There will be no need to drag along those heavy guide books, when you can get real world advice from fellow travelers right on your smart phone.
Here are two easy ways you can access GPS-guided travel articles:
Click on a link below for the article you are interested in (if you haven’t already downloaded the free GPSmyCity app, you will see a prompt to do so). After downloading the app, you will be directed to the article, where you can choose UPGRADE to get the GPS-guided version.
From the GPSmyCity app, you can browse by city to see which articles are available.
You can download any article for free or upgrade for offline GPS-guided use.
I’m really excited about the ability to share my articles with you, and hope you love it too. To introduce you to this fun idea, I’m able to offer one of my articles free of charge for the first week. (expires July 1, 2018)
Many of my other articles, are also available on GPSmyCity! They offer details about my favorite museums, shopping spots, off the beaten path surprises, and delicious food finds. With GPSmyCity on your smart phone, you’ll have the ability to really lose yourself without getting lost!
Here are just a few of my other articles featured on GPSmyCity:
*Note: If you do upgrade one of my downloaded travel articles, I receive a small portion of the sale, which I’m hoping might contribute to maintaining this travel blog…
Discovering the culinary delights of a new destination is one of the joys of travel, but it’s not always easy. How do you avoid the more touristy establishments and pinpoint the best places when you have limited time? This can be particularly difficult in larger cities where the vast number of choices can make it hard to choose and more often than not you end up disappointed.
A Taste of Los Angeles
You never have to hit the same restaurant twice in a city the size of Los Angeles, and I got to wondering… Just how many dining choices are there? So I asked Google, and it turns out the answer isn’t completely clear. Though what is clear, are that many of them sell doughnuts! “Seriously though” the most common answer was around 20,000 ish, so for the purposes of this post we’ll go with that.
Sidecar’s Pina Colada Doughnut
Based on that very “accurate” number I estimate that if you dine out three meals a day 7 days a week it would take 18 years to eat at every dining establishment in LA! Precisely why this list won’t try to tell you the Best Of, but rather some of my favorites, a taste if you will, and a small one at that. After all I’m only two years in!
I should also say, that while I do love to eat, I don’t love to take photos of my food, but have done my best to try and convey the deliciousness.
Life is short so dessert first!
Sidecar Doughnuts
Location: 631 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica
warm from the oven huckleberry doughnut
Sidecar Doughnuts is our favorite Westside doughnut shop, and we’ve tried a few! We aren’t the only ones who love them, so be prepared for a long line. I promise you it’s worth the wait they’re baked fresh all day long.
Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken
Location: 516 W 6th Street Los Angeles
Maple Bacon & Flavor of the month
Fried chicken and honey w/honey butter
Astro Doughnuts and Fried Chicken is our new favorite Downtown LA doughnut shop. I’m glad this place isn’t closer to home because the food was so good I know I’d be there every chance I got!
Somi Somi
Location: 621 S. Western Ave (upstairs)
Tayaki with fruity pebbles
We love Somi Somi in Koreatown for Taiyaki, a fish shaped pastry with a texture somewhere between a waffle cone and a pancake and do our best to enjoy it whenever possible. Traditionally filled with red bean paste, custard and Nutella are other popular options.
Compartes
Location(s): 912 S. Barrington Avenue, Los Angeles 10250 Santa Monica Blvd #1625 at the Westfield Century City Mall
Dark Graffiti
Fred Segal Collaboration
California Love Chocolate bar
Not a meal exactly, but Compartes chocolate bars are so filled with goodness they very well could be! They’re literally bursting with deliciousness. An LA institution since the 1950s these fabulous chocolate bars are a mixture of art, style, and design. Often partnering with other iconic LA brands these are some of the most luxurious and fashionable chocolate bars you’ll ever have the occasion to eat.
Milk Shop
Location(s): 7290 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles & 1639 Silver Lake Blvd., Los Angeles
Grasshopper Macaron Ice Cream Sandwiches
Cookies & Cream Bar
Macaron with cream milk ice cream and fruity pebbles
Cookie dough to go!
Milk Shop is an old fashioned ice cream parlor and bake shop with a modern day twist! Not only were the treats Insta worthy, but they were delicious. I couldn’t resist the cookie dough to go, yes please!
Sunday Chocolate Tea
Location: Langham Hotel 1401 South Oak Knoll Avenue, Pasadena
Chocolate Fountain
The Sunday Chocolate tea at the Langham is a real treat! You’ll know you’re in the right place when you smell the chocolate, you’ll turn left at the chocolate fountain, the centerpiece of the all you can eat chocolate buffet. In addition to chocolate you’ll be treated to traditional tea sandwiches, scones and cream, and bottomless champagne. Oh, and yes multiple tea selections are available as well.
Chocolate fountain treats
Tea Sandwiches
Bottomless Champagne or Sparkling Rose
Work off all that chocolate playing lawn games in the Horseshoe Garden including, croquet, frisbee golf, and badminton.
Bean Bag Toss in the Horseshoe Garden
Croquet on the Horseshoe Lawn
Langham Gardens
Tea service is held everyday of the week, however the Chocolate Tea is only held on Sundays. Reservations are required.
Smitten Ice Cream
Location: 10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles
Cookie dough with brown sugar caramel
Churned to order and paired with delicious toppings we are smitten with Smitten.
Mini Monster Milk Tea
Location: Universal City Walk, Universal City
Mini Monster Bubble Tea and Strawberry Lemonade
If you love bubble tea (I do!) and cute things, then you’ll want to stop in at Mini Monster! Their delicious boba is served in your choice of unique and reusable jars in various fun shapes!
Cookie Good
Location: 2448 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica
S’mores Cookie
We took a bite of every one!
The cookies here are so delicious we bought a dozen different flavors and took a bite of every single one!
Pie Hole Location: 714 Traction Ave Downtown Los Angeles
Whether you like it savory or sweet you’ll be guaranteed a unique and tasty treat at the Pie Hole. With 5+ locations throughout the greater LA area you have no excuses!
Lark Bake Shop
Location: 3337 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles
Eat Cake Be Happy
We stopped in Lark Cake Shop at the request of the kids, and thankfully we were in the mood to say yes! The Ice Box Cake was so delightful we considered going back for a second round.
Suberba Food & Bread
Location: 1900 S Lincoln Blvd.Venice
Fried chicken sandwich
I’ve yet to try something at Superba that I didn’t love! The vibe is all Venice complete with an urban garden out back. Try to resist the bakery counter, I dare you.
The Wee Chippy
Location: 1301 Ocean Front Walk, Venice
BEST fries I’ve ever had!
Located on Westminster just off Ocean Front Walk at Venice Beach, the Wee Chippy is a walk up fish and chips joint, owned by a Scottish fellow. The fish is great, but the chips are easily the best I’ve ever had. Anywhere!
Okay, this isn’t actually a photo of Groundwork, or coffee, but it is just across from the front door! We love to stop at their beach front location during our morning bike rides. My favorite blend is Lucky Jack.
Get the Spanish Latte! I promise you won’t be disappointed when you taste this delicious coffee concoction! Seriously, what are you waiting for? Go there! Then take your coffee for a walk along the beach!
Gelina’s Take Away GTA
Location: 1429 Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Gelina Take Away Meatballs
Gelina’s meatballs are almost a right of passage, but securing a table at one of LA’s most popular eating establishments can be challenging. No need to miss out though they’re available next door at the Gelina Take Away counter!
Wabi
Location:1635 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Los Angeles
Poke Bowl
The interior of Wabi on Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Lunch Special @wabi
We love everything about Wabi from decor so beautiful we want to move in, to the fabulous food and top notch service. Dinner can be pricey and requires a reservation, but lunch time walk-ins are welcome and much easier on the pocketbook.
Hatchet Hall
Location: 12517 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles
We love the quirky decor, bustling atmosphere and fabulous service at Hatchett Hall, but it was these rolls that really won me over! I just can’t stop thinking about them!
Esters Wine Shop & Bar
Location: 1314 Seventh Street, Santa Monica
Charcuterie platter & curried cashews
Esters is my absolute favorite place and I love everything about it. The service is excellent and unpretentious, the food is creative and delicious, and the atmosphere is welcoming and cozy. Get the curried cashews, you’ll be hard pressed not to pour them directly into your mouth.
Sugarfish
Location: 1345 2nd Street, Santa Monica
simplicity = perfection @sugarfish
The menu and presentation at Sugarfish couldn’t be simpler, and the food couldn’t be more delicious. Go early for the best chance at a table and the chance to sample sushi perfection.
Kazu Nori
Location: 120 Broadway #104, Santa Monica
Kazu Nori is small and it’s popular, so get there early, or be prepared to wait. The menu consists of one thing: hand rolls. They’re made to order and to delicious perfection.
Forma Restaurant & Cheese Bar
Location: 1610 Montana Avenue
Butternut squash risotto
If you love cheese, Forma Restaurant & Cheese Bar is the place for you, their cheese menu is extensive, but its the main dishes prepared inside a giant wheel of cheese, yes I said a giant wheel of cheese that keep me coming back! Excuse the poor photo, but trust me it was delicious!
Back on the Beach Cafe
Location: 445 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica
Sunset at Back on the Beach Cafe
Views for days, toes in the sand dining and delicious food are all waiting for you at Back on the Beach Cafe. Kids will love the playground just next door!
Stay cozy inside on a stormy day or eat out when the sun is shinning, either way the Malibu Farm Cafe Restaurant is the perfect little breakfast spot! Locals only! Just kidding, but do check this place out if you’re looking for something a little less touristy.
Neptune’s Net
Location: 42505 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu
Fish & chips, motorcycles, and gorgeous ocean views! Need I say more? You’ll find Neptune’s Net just a short drive up the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway.
Eataly
Location: 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles
Eataly is overflowing with deliciousness
A meal at Eataly is a dining experience like no other. Deciding which of the fabulous restaurants you want to dine at won’t be easy, they’re all amazing. Consider an early lunch for the best chance at a table without a wait.
Din Tai Fung
Location: 10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Level 2 Los Angeles
Soup Dumpling
Cucumber Salad
It’s a dumpling experience! More than a decade after eating at Din Tai Fung for the first time I can still say I’ve never had any that were better! Go there!
Furaibo
Location: 2068 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles
These chicken wings are AMAZING!
You’ll find Furaibo in LA’s Japantown, not to be confused with Little Tokyo. They are famous for their Japanese style chicken wings, which are AMAZING!
Bonus: There is parking in the back.
Hurry Curry of Tokyo
Location: 2131 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles
If you’re looking for a unique Japanese cuisine experience Hurry Curry of Tokyo located in Japantown is the place! I’m obsessed with the white sauce.
Pink’s Hot Dogs
Location: 709 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles
Pink’s famous chili cheese dog
No trip to Los Angeles would be complete without a trip to Pink’s a true LA institution! Famous for it’s chili cheese dog, Pink’s has been in the same spot on La Brea Avenue for 77 years and if the perpetually long line is any indication, it’s not going anywhere.
Laurel Hardware
Location: 7984 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood
Don’t be fooled by the exterior when you pull up outside Laurel Hardware, one of West Hollywoods most trendy eateries. It may look like an old hardware store from the outside, but the inside is gorgeous and the food is delicious, as are the cocktails.
Canter’s Deli
Location: 419 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles
Pastrami on rye
High Hat Cupcake
Canter’s, an LA institution, has been serving up their award winning pastrami sandwiches and other deli fare since 1931. Beyond pastrami, other favorites on my list are the Mish Mash Soup, and the High Hat, which is basically a cupcake married to a ding dong! Delicious!
Jon and Vinny’s
Location: 412 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles
Excellent food, service and celebrity sightings are what you can expect at Jon and Vinny’s. No wonder it’s consistently listed as one of LA’s top restaurants. Getting a table can be tough, so book ahead, or consider a late lunch when you might even be able to walk right in.
Gracias Madre
Location: 8905 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood
Almost too pretty to drink
Almost too pretty to drink
Let me say upfront that I am not a vegan or a vegetarian, but I LOVED my dining experience at Gracias Madre a plant based Mexican restaurant. The “fish” tacos were some of the best I’ve had as was the guacamole. The service is perfect as is the atmosphere, which is so lovely I’d consider living there. Oh, and the drinks… almost too pretty, but we managed it.
Gracias Madre is a vegan restaurant.
Brothers Korean BBQ
Location: 3680 W 6th St, Los Angeles
Brothers Korean BBQ is our family’s go to for special occasions. My favorite part is the banchan (sides) that come with your meal.
Wurstkuche
Location: 800 E. 3rd Street @Traction Avenue, Los Angeles
Wurstkuche’s exotic sausages and delicious fries are a savory and popular treat. There is a constant line out the door, but don’t be fooled you’ll find a large amount of communal seating in the back.
Manuela
Location: 907 E 3rd Street, Los Angeles
Roasted cauliflowerHalawi date vinegar, almonds
Cream biscuits with honey butter and country ham
Located in the heart of DTLA’s Arts District, Manuela, is one of my new favorite places. The perfect place to stop in for a mouth watering bite in-between hunting for street art and poking in and out of the area’s fun one of a kind shops and galleries.
Cole’s Originators of the French Dip Sandwich
Location: 118 East 6th Street, Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles
The original French Dip sandwich
Portrait of a root beer float
If you’re a French Dip fan you won’t want to miss a visit to Cole’s the very place the sandwich was invented in 1908!
Cole’s is a bar, but children are welcome.
Otium LA
Location: 222 South Hope Street, Los Angeles
Otium’s roast chicken and crispy potatoes
Txakolina
I almost never order chicken when dining out, but I make an exception at Otium LA also, the crispy potatoes are beyond description. I love any place that has my favorite Spanish wine on the menu!
Smorgasburg
Location: 777 Alameda Street, Los Angeles
Bánh mì hot dog @smorgasburgLA
Looking for something a bit more eclectic? Consider Smorgasburg LA a weekly Sunday food market with a wide variety of local vendors offering everything from bánh mì hotdogs and spiral fries to boba and french macarons.
2 hours free parking at The Row.
Alfred Coffee
Location: 3337 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles (Multiple Locations)
Alfred Cold Brew
Avocado Toast
If you ask me Alfred Coffee has their priorities straight, because, while it may be cliche, as far as I’m concerned nothing happens before coffee! With locations all over town, including a tea room, you’ll be able to get your priorities straight as well! Oh, and Avocado toast!
Pine & Crane
Location: 1521 Griffith Park Blvd, Los Angeles
Pork Dumplings
Pine & Crane is a delicious Taiwanese restaurant in the heart of LA’s Silver Lake neighborhood. The food is fresh, delicious and affordable!
More than 1500 words over my self imposed limit I’m going to end this list knowing that there are many fun and delicious places I have yet to share… I hope you enjoy these food finds as much as I do! Please do let me know if you’ve tried any of these places or have any you’d like to share.
Interactive experiences featuring everything from ice cream and candy to happiness and selfies are literally popping up all over Los Angeles. In fact, I admit I thought I might finally be over it (gasp), even deciding to skip both the selfie and illusion museums, until I heard about LA’s most recent pop up experience: Beyond the Streets: Vandalism as Contemporary Art. The exhibition features graffiti, street art, and you guessed it… beyond. You know I wasn’t missing this!
And really, is there an art form more suited to a pop up museum? With its temporary nature graffiti and Street Art are about as pop up as it gets. One day a blank wall, the next a fabulous larger than life mural, and maybe the next the entire building is gone…
Due to construction this mural is now gone.
Due to construction this mural is now gone.
Both the Shepard Fairey and Kim West Murals are now gone.
Unlike other recent “museum” pop ups Beyond the Streets really felt like a museum and less like an Instagram marketing opportunity. Not that there weren’t a few Insta moments available, and how could I resist posing with these fabulous LA Hands by OG Slick?!
Beyond the Streets encompasses 40,000 square feet and features graffiti and street artists from around the world. However, it was by no means a complete list. In my exploration of this art form I’ve discovered countless artists and discover more every day, but this was a great selection. Many of the pieces were created on site specifically for this exhibition.
RETNA
There are differing opinions as to whether graffiti and street art are one and the same. I strongly believe that just because a piece is technically graffiti doesn’t mean it isn’t art. Though not all graffiti is art. Along those same lines not all street artists are graffiti writers. These artists may not always be painting in traditional settings, but as soon as you take their work off the streets and put it into a museum setting it becomes immediately clear that it belongs as much as any other contemporary art.
Timothy Curtis
When viewing graffiti and street art out on the street we often don’t know what the artist was thinking, or why they painted a particular piece. Beyond the Streets gives us the opportunity to gain some insight into the different artists and the inspiration behind their work. Many of them use their medium to convey political and social messages.
Artist Unknown
Graffiti Art History!
Have you ever wondered who the first modern graffiti writer was? His name was Darryl McCray aka Cornbread. Did you know spray paint was invented in 1949? These are just a few of the fun facts we learned during our visit.
Photo Gallery
Below you’ll find a collection of photos from our visit, however, this is by no means a complete representation of all the artists on display. With the exception of a few instances I’ve included the artists name and a link to their website. I hope you enjoy exploring these amazing artists as much as I have!
Beyond the Streets is located at 1667 N. Main Street in the Mission Junction neighborhood of Los Angeles. The exhibition runs through July 6, 2018. Tickets can be purchased online.
No LA exhibition about graffiti would be complete without an homage to the Venice Pavilion now known as the Venice Art Walls. I myself have spent many an afternoon exploring the artwork, and have even contributed some myself!
This fake record store within the exhibition is representative of how street art and graffiti have long been associated with the music and skateboard scene.
Trash Records
After the show we explored the Mission Junction neighborhood and discovered some amazing pieces:
Palm Springs, an easy two hour drive from Los Angeles, happened to be one of the few well known Southern California cities our family had yet to explore, which made it the perfect choice for a quick getaway! The desert climate, landscape and architecture are all quite different from what we’re used to over on the coast, which really added to the feeling of being far from home, even if we really weren’t. We spent three relaxing days and two nights exploring and photographing the city and surrounding Coachella Valley.
Palm Springs Architecture
An architecture lover’s heaven, Palm Springs is famous for its distinctive Desert Modern architecture, and I found myself focusing the camera on many of the city’s unique architectural details.
It’s large concentration of historically important mid-century modern buildings put Palm Springs on the 2006 list of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations, an annual national list of only 12 cultural tourism destinations for architecture.
Another notable architectural style found in the area is Googie. Confesion, I’d never heard the term Googie before my teenage son mentioned it, which is somewhat embarrassing since I’m married to an architect. Though I’d never heard the term, its unique style wasn’t new to me. Influenced by car culture, jets and the atomic age, Googie later became part of the more commonly known mid-century modern style.
Many guided architecture tours are available, and self guided maps can be purchased in the Palm Springs Visitor Centers both Downtown and at the Tramway Gas Station Visitor Center. “My architect” opted for neither and instead we spent a lovely afternoon wandering through residential neighborhoods admiring the various examples of desert modernism and landscaping.
Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway
A masterpiece of mid-century modern, The Alexander Estate was at one time referred to as the Home of Tomorrow. Elvis Presley’s farther thought it would be the perfect place for Elvis and Priscilla to relax and get away from Hollywood life. They leased the home for one year in 1966 for $21,000, and honeymooned there on May 1, 1967.
Elvis and Priscilla honeymooned here in 1967
Located at 13500 Ladera Circle tours are offered daily at 1:00pm and 3:30pm. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ups are welcome (space permitting). Adults are $35, and children under 12 are $15.
The Tramway Gas Station
Considered a perfect example of modernist architecture the Tramway Gas Station was designed by Albert Frey and built in 1965. In 2015 the building was designated a National Historic Landmark and is now operated by the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism as the Palm Springs Visitor Center.
The visitor center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and located on the corner of North Palm Canyon Drive (HWY 111) and Tramway Road.
Palm Springs Art museum
The Palm Springs Art Museum, with three locations, is the largest cultural institution in Coachella Valley. The Downtown location features modern art and is spread out over three floors.
Palm Springs Art Museum
We all enjoyed this museum, which has a nice easy flow, a wonderful selection of art, and a lovely cafe. I loved all the different textures within the building.
Fabulous Wallpaper in the Palm Springs Art Museum Cafe
The Museum Courtyard and Cafe
At the time of this writing the main exhibition was a very impressive private collection of works by Andy Warhol, which took up one entire floor of the museum.
The Warhol Exhibit took up the entire 1st floor of the museum.
The Kids enjoyed flopping down on these Warhol inspired cushions in the middle of the ground floor, and poking around the exhibit specific pop up shop!
Taking a break from the heat
Warhol inspired cushions
Warhol Pop-up Shop
Some of our favorite works included, Yoshitomo Nara’s Your Dog, Chul-Hyun Ahn’s Tunnel, and Subodh Gupta’s Untitled, Duane Hanson’s Old Couple on a bench were so lifelike we all thought they were real people! Anthony Gormley’s Mother’s Pride was made completely of bread and wax.
Yoshitomo Nara’s Your Dog
The museum is located at 101 Museum Drive. Its operating hours are: Sun, Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thu 12-8 p.m.; free 4-8 p.m.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
If you’re visiting the Palm Springs area with younger children consider a visit to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. The animals featured here are from North America and Africa, and there are some unique and endangered species.
The desert gardens are beautiful and unique. A first at any zoo I’ve ever visited there were hiking trails and even the opportunity for camping overnight.
Open every day October 1 to May 31 9:00am to 5:00pm. Closed December 25 Summer Hours: Open every day June 1 to September 30 8:00am to 1:30pm Last admission at 1:00pm
There is a very limited amount of street art in Palm Springs, possibly because of a backlash after this Fin Dac/Starfightera piece appeared on Bar in 2013, but I did manage to hunt down a few pieces.
Fin DAC x Angelina Christina “The Mountain Charmers”
Artist: James Haunt
Location: The Corner of N. Canyon Drive & W. Racquet Club Road
Artist: Mad Man Art
Location: 707 N. Palm Canyon Drive
Fireborn painted on the back of Trio RestaurantBatman and Robin painted on the back of Trio Restaurant
Relaxation
Relaxation and a dip in the pool were two of the main reasons we chose Palm Springs for our mini vacation. The desert climate ensuring that at least one of those activities would take place.
Our hotel, The Riviera, had two separate pool areas, spacious rooms, and a welcoming lobby area complete with a pool table and a bar.
Date Shakes
During our visit to Palm Springs we learned that 90 percent of the world’s dates are grown in the Coachella Valley, and that the Date Shake is the unofficial official beverage.
Date Trees in Coachella Valley
Of course I had to try one, and as just about every establishment in town sells their own version of the shake there are multiple opportunities. Had we more time I would have loved to visit and tour one of the area’s nearby date farms.
Lapperts Ice Cream Date Shake
Day Trip to the Salton Sea
The Salton Sea is the largest lake in California and one of the world’s largest inland seas. Located just one hour east from Palm Springs, a drive around the 130 mile shoreline can easily be completed in one day making a great day trip destination.
You may not think the ruins of a once thriving resort town seem like a great day out, but many people (200,000 every year) are drawn to the Salton Sea, and the remnants of what it once was…
Would you like directions to these fabulous places? Why not take me with you! You can download this and other fun hilarystyle articles using the GPSmyCity app!
Angry dust devils and debris swirl around the mostly abandoned buildings, and the once vibrant beach is deserted as well. The water looks blue from a distance, but there is a slight tint of something else on the surface and the stench is unbelievable. The sand is long gone, in its place the remains of millions of dead fish, and as you walk along the shoreline your feet make a crunching sound as they sink deep into the bones.
Sounds more like something out of a dystopian novel then a destination, doesn’t it? In fact it’s not a fictional place at all, it’s the very real Salton Sea, which also happens to be the largest lake in California and one of the world’s largest inland seas. At -227 below sea level its also one of the lowest spots on earth. Located just one hour from Palm Springs, a drive around the 130 mile shoreline can easily be completed in one day making a great day trip destination.
You may not think the ruins of a once thriving resort town seem like a great day out, but many people (200,000 every year) are drawn to the Salton Sea, and the remnants of what it once was… My son and husband are definitely in that group. When I spoke to my son about why he liked it, he said it felt very post apocalyptic. Teens…
Shipwreck on Bombay Beach
What is the Salton Sea and What Happened To It?
The Salton Sea was created by accident in 1905 when the Colorado River broke through wooden canal gates in the nearby farmland of the Imperial Valley. It took engineers 18 months to stop the flow of water and the end result was the 45 mile long 20 mile wide Salton Sea.
Because the Salton Sea is located in the middle of a desert and there is no outlet the water is only replenished through agricultural waste runoff and rainwater. When the water evaporates it leaves behind salt and minerals making it saltier than the Pacific Ocean. The combination of high salinity and pollution make the lake uninhabitable for all but a few hardy species of fish. Because there are no bottom feeders when the fish die they float to the surface and eventually wash up on shore.
It’s said that during the height of summer the stench can reach all the way to Palm Springs. Our visit in late March meant we were spared that particular horror. However, the smell was still pretty bad.
The Sea is home to millions of birds who use it as a migratory stopover, but the polluted water didn’t look suitable for swimming or other recreational water sports. In fact the water is rapidly disappearing and if/when the Sea dries up it will pose a threat to the many species of birds that rely on it.
North Shore Beach and Yacht Club
Our first stop was the North Shore Beach and Yacht Club built in 1958 by architect Albert Frey, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. This building is now in use as a recreation center. We walked along the nearby shore and there are some abandoned buildings nearby as well including an old bait and sandwich shop.
View from the Recretion CenterBait and Sandwich Shop North Shore Beach & Yacht Club
Salton Sea Visitor Center
The Visitor Center was a great place to stop and eat our picnic lunch and learn more about the area. I admit we decided to eat in the car rather than the picnic tables. Afterwards we explored the center, spoke with the rangers, and watched a brief video.
The visitor center is open June – September Friday – Sunday. 10a.m. to 4p.m. and October – MayWednesday – Sunday 10a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking is $7 and is cash only.
Bombay Beach Club
Located on the Eastern shore of the Sea, Bombay Beach isn’t completely deserted, but almost. According to the 2010 US Census there are 295 people living in the community. We spent a little time driving around, and saw signs of a few inhabitants, but not many. The shoreline has become an art installation of sorts with some pieces even making use of the dead tilapia that wash ashore.
Pirates Only!
Salvation Mountain
Salvation Mountain is located just a few miles east of the Salton Sea, and is Like nothing I’ve ever seen. Made entirely of adobe, straw and thousands of gallons of non-toxic paint the mountain is covered with Christian sayings and bible verses.
Created over the course of 30 years by a local resident, Leonard Knight, Salvation Mountain has been recognized as a folk art site worthy of preservation and protection.
Slab City/East Jesus
Just down the road from Salvation Mountain You’ll find Slab City, a community of campers, squatters, artists, and hippies. Most of them stay for the winter and move north during the hot summer months when temperatures can reach as high as 120 degrees.
The area is uncontrolled with no water, electricity, sewers or trash service and is often referred to as the Last Free Place in America.
Within Slab City you’ll find East Jesus a large art installation made completely from recycled materials of all kinds. Visitors are encouraged to explore and interact with the many sculptures, however they do so at their own risk.
Desert Shores
Our last stop was Desert Shores a town of around 1200 people. We stopped for one last view of the Sea before heading back to Palm Springs.
Our visit to the Salton Sea was fascinating and strange. We had a great family day out, but had mixed emotions about the level of desolation and pollution. Our visit opened the door for some good discussion about causes, solutions and possible reasons why people would choose to live in these areas.
Artist: Findac?
Seasons & Climate
Keep in mind a visit to the Salton Sea and surrounding areas in summer means temperatures of up to 115 degrees. The best time to visit is October through May when temperatures are more manageable.
Not knowing what to expect we filled our gas tank and packed a lunch. This turned out to be perfect for us. Bird watchers will want to stop at the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge at the South end of the Sea. Banana lovers will love a visit to the Banana Museum, which was closed on the day of our visit. Its located at the northern tip.
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My mission to take advantage of everything Los Angeles has to offer is almost two years in and I still feel I’ve barely scratched the surface. You might think I would have grown tired of all this trekking around by now, especially when contending with LA’s notorious traffic, but rather than wane my interest has only intensified. There is still so much to discover!
Culture Club
I knew I couldn’t be alone in my desire to seek out and experience new and interesting activities in my own city, so I set out to recruit some local friends to join me on my adventures. I’m excited to say I’ve found some willing recruits, and we had our first Culture Club meeting last week. It was a big success!
Heart of Koreatown Mural
We’ve decided to make this a regular thing and explore a different part of the city at least once a month. Our first destination:
Koreatown
Encompassing three square miles west of Downtown Los Angeles, Koretatown is the most densely populated area in Los Angeles County. It’s a vibrant and diverse community, which is fast becoming one of LA’s most popular neighborhoods. It’s no wonder as there are countless restaurants, shops, bars and entertainment venues just waiting to be explored.
Ornamental crosswalks in Koreatown
The official boundaries of K-Town are Vermont Avenue, Western Avenue, Third Street and Olympic Boulevard.
Alchemist Coffee Project
Location: 698 S. Vermont Ave
We started our day at Alchemist Coffee Project where we spent a little time going over the days’s activities. I loved the mix of modern and industrial looking decor, especially the pipe shelves and lighting, but it was the delicious Royal Milk Tea Latte that I know I’ll be back for. If you’re a fan of matcha then you’ll love the Lavender Matcha Tea Latte. In addition to these fun tea drinks there are coffee drinks, pastries and savory items on the menu.
Parking is free in the lot.
Alchemist Coffee Project
Lavender Matcha Tea Latte
Royal Milk Tea Latte
Koreatown Pavilion
Location: Olympic Boulevard and Normandie Avenue
Next we stopped at the Seoul International Park to see the Korean pavilion and gardens. They’re located just across from where Koreatown begin in the late 1960s. The brightly colored pavilion is called Dawooljong, meaning harmonious gathering place, and was built by South Korean craftsman using only traditional building methods. Unfortunately its closed on Mondays so our only view was from outside the gate.
The Pavilion is closed on Mondays. Parking is free on the street.
Dawooljong Pavillion
Guelaguatza
Location: 3014 W. Olympic Blvd
Just a short walk from the Korean Pavilion is Guelaguetza one of LA’s best Mexican restaurants and winner of the prestigious James Beard Award. While we didn’t have time or room in our stomachs to eat at every place on our list, we did stop to admire the building’s large Lapiztola murals and pose with one of three sets of Colette Miller’s Angel Wings. I was interested to learn that the majority of Koreatown’s residents are of Hispanic decent.
Valet parking is available.
LapiztolaColette Miller Wings
Koreatown Galleria
Location: 3250 W Olympic Blvd
There are many unique shopping opportunities in K-Town, but we were most excited about visiting Kitchen Plus, located in the basement of the Koreatown Galleria. A restaurant supply store catering to Asian stye restaurants, you’ll find everything from Korean BBQ tables, to sake carafes, and everything in between. We loved wandering up and down the aisles dreaming up all the amazing meals we could make if only we had that tiny frying pan, or bibimbap pot!
Kitchen Plus is located on the basement level of the Galleria, but if you have the time I highly recommend exploring the rest of the mall. We stopped at the makeup counter, the grocery, and the electric mop store! Who knew mopping could be so fun?!
Parking is free in the Galleria’s lot.
How cute is this makeup display?!
Heart of K-Town Mural
Location: Ssooniestyle 3324 W 6th S.
This fun Heart of K-Town Mural is located on the side of Ssooniestyle a makeup and hairstyle boutique. A great place to get some fun insta pics and just down the street from our next destination… Maybe next time I’ll get my hair done first?
Parking is free in the lot.
The Line Hotel – Commissary Restaurant
Location: 3515 Wilshire Boulevard
Two blondes (vegetarians) and a brunette (omnivore) go to lunch in Koreatown…
Okay, that’s not the start of a joke, but rather exactly what happened. K-Town is the place to go for authentic Korean BBQ, but knowing my companions don’t eat meat meant changing things up, and I’m so glad we did! Otherwise I may never have dined at the Commissary located in The Line LA, a hipster hotel located in the heart of K-Town.
The Commissary at the Line Hotel
The Commissary is located on the 2nd floor adjacent to the hotel pool and has a funky greenhouse meets mismatched kitsch kind of vibe. The food and service are both excellent, and bonus the ping pong tables on the patio outside overlook the city.
The Commissary is famous for their burger
The menus at the Commissary
Don’t forget to look up or you’ll miss the massive Shepard Fairey mural which covers one entire side of the hotel. You’ll also find a peekaboo Dface around the side of the hotel on the street level.
Valet parking starting at $12 is available at The Line with validation from the Commissary.
Somi Somi
Location: 621 S. Western Ave (upstairs)
Taiyaki is a fish shaped pastry with a texture somewhere between a waffle cone and a pancake. The cone is traditionally filled with red bean paste, but custard and Nutella are other popular options. Soft serve in traditional asian flavors like ube and black sesame is next and the whole thing is then covered in a variety of toppings. We discovered this fun desert a few years ago and since then do our best to enjoy it whenever possible.
Somi Somi is walking distance from The Line.
Tayaki
Milk Tavern
Location: 528 S Western Ave.
The Milk Tavern is my kind of bar with unicorn crepe cakes, cotton candy burritos, rainbow grilled cheese sandwiches, and ping pong! Video games too, if you fancy them. Not only is it an instagrammers dream, but the food is delicious too.
The Milk Tavern is walking distance from Somi Somi.
The Milk Tavern does serve alcoholic beverages, but children are welcome too. Ping pong and video games are free with the purchase of food or beverages.
K-Town Street Art
I’m always on the lookout for fun new street art, and Koreatown, loaded with murals, is a gold mine I’ve only begun to explore. Here are just a few from our day’s adventure.
Artist: David Gilmore Location: W. 6th & Serrano Ave
Artist: Colette Miller Location: Guelaguetza 3014 W. Olympic Blvd
Colette Miller Angel Wings Guelaguetza
Artist: Lapiztola Location: Guelaguetza 3014 W. Olympic Blvd
Guelaguetza LaPiztola
Korean BBQ
Location:
While we didn’t make it to a Korean BBQ restaurant on this outing, it is one of my favorite K-Town activities. Brothers Korean BBQ has been our family’s go to for special occasions. The service is excellent as is the food. My favorite part the banchan (sides) that come with your meal.
Banchan
The Wiltern Theater
Location: The Corner of Western and Wilshire
Located at the corner of Wilshire and Western, The Wiltern, was built in 1931 as a vaudeville theater. It was restored to its original glory in 1981 and today it’s a live music venue. If you’re interested in visiting the Wiltern during the day tours can be arranged by calling the venue at (213) 531-0557.
The Kills at the Wiltern
Interested in your own K-Town adventure? Follow in our footsteps with this handy map:
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Los Angeles isn’t just filled with iconic places, the entire city is an icon! The home of Hollywood, many places in the City of Angels have been featured* repeatedly in movies television shows, video games, and songs giving them a familiar feel to people around the world.
View from the Griffith Park Observatory
Touring around town for the first time, you’ll recognize familiar street names like Rodeo Drive or Sunset Boulevard, and sights like the Hollywood Sign or the Santa Monica Pier. Although there are countless places just waiting to be discovered it makes perfect sense to check a few of these icons off your list first!
Paradise Park Santa Monica Pier California
1. The Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is one of the most famous icons in the world, making it the perfect place to start! How can you come all the way to LA, and not see the Hollywood Sign! There are many places around town to get a view of the famous sign, but Bronson Caves or the Griffith Park Observatory, both in Griffith Park are nice options for closer views if you’re not up for a hike.
View from the Bronson Caves Walk
Featured in: San Andreas starting Dwayne Johnson, Grand Theft Auto, Miley Cyrus Party in the USA, Katy Perry California Gurls and so many more.
If you’re in the neighborhood viewing the Hollywood Sign why not check out The Griffith Observatory? Looking out from the Observatory and it’s grounds there are incredible views in every direction and on a clear day you can see forever.
A visit to the Griffith Park Observatory includes something for everyone! Fabulous views of Downtown Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign, hiking, The Halls of Space, a planetarium, and a cafe. Entrance to the Observatory is free of charge.
Featured in: La La Land, Jurassic Park, Freaks and Geeks, Transformers, The Terminator, and Rebel Without A Cause are just a few of the many titles filmed in the area.
3. The Walk of Fame
Another nearby famous Hollywood institution is the Walk of Fame, which runs 1.3 miles along Hollywood Boulevard between Gower Street and La Brea Avenue. There are more than 2,500 stars along the Walk and you’ll be sure to recognize a few of your favorite entertainers.
Located on the famous corner of Hollywood & Vine, the iconic Capital Records Building isn’t open to the public, but its still a fun sight to see. The landmark building is designed to look like a stack of records and was the world’s first circular office building.
Capital Records Building
The red light at the top blinks the word Hollywood in morse code.
Featured in: Earthquake, Hancock, The Day After Tomorrow. Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys, and Paul McCarney are just a few of the music legends who have recored at Capital Studios.
5. Graumans Chinese Theater
Don’t miss a visit to the famous Grauman’s Chinese theater located on Hollywood Boulevard. The theater is famous for the many celebrity prints which have been pressed into the courtyard floor and its fun to fit your hands and feet into molds of some of films greatest legends. The theater is operational, and many movies are premiered here.
Recent Premiers: Game Night, Tomb Raider, Pandas, Pacific Rim Uprising, and The Handmaid’s Tale
6. The Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl is located one mile from the famed corner of Hollywood and Highland and is an amazing place to see a show, however, you don’t have to attend a show to see this wonderful landmark. The Hollywood Bowl is a public park! An easy walk from Hollywood Boulevard, the Bowl is open to the public during the day and very worth a look around. While you are there check out the free museum featuring artifacts from the Bowl’s history.
Featured in: A Star Is Born, Double Indemnity, Anchors Aweigh, Tom and Jerry in the Hollywood Bowl, Xanadu, Some Kind of Wonderful, Beaches Escape from L.A., and Zombieland
The Sunset Strip is a mile and a half stretch of Sunset Boulevard that passes though West Hollywood. It is home to many famous night clubs, massive billboards, hotels, and boutiques.
Whisky a Go Go
Famous Venues: The Viper Room, The Whiskey a Go Go, The Sky Bar, and The Chateau Marmont
Featured in: Sunset Boulevard, Sunset Strip
8. Rodeo Drive
First timer or resident, there’s something special about a stroll down Rode Drive. You’ll hear music as you stroll the down the street peeking in and out of the many world famous luxury boutiques. Looking for something a bit more affordable? Both the Paley Center for Media and the Beverly Hills Fountain are nearby and both are free.
Featured in: Pretty Woman, Beverly Hills Cop, Clueless
The Beverly Hills Hotel is located in the city of Beverly Hills on Sunset Boulevard, and opened in 1912, before Beverly Hills was even a city! You can’t miss its iconic pink paint and famous sign. The Hotel’s famous pink color and Polo Lounge didn’t come along until the early 1940s, but the Hotel has long been associated with the glamour of Hollywood’s film and rock stars.
Not a guest? Don’t worry, you can still visit the hotel. Eat in one of the hotel’s famous restaurants and enjoy the lovely ambiance.
Featured in: California Suite, The Way We Were, Shampoo, and American Gigolo. You might also recognize it from the cover of The Eagles’ Hotel California album.
Yes, it’s very touristy, but everyone should visit the Santa Monica Pier at least once! Not only does it boast the only over water Roller Coaster in the world, but it also has na adorable little aquarium and an old fashioned carousel. My favorite time to go is at night when it’s all lit up!
Featured in: A Night at the Roxbury, Miracle Beach, Forrest Gump, Not Another Teen Movie, Iron Man, Dark Ride, Cellular, Falling Down, Ruthless People, Love Stinks, Hancock, Hannah Montana, 2012, The Glenn Miller Story, Pacific Rim Uprising,
There’s nothing like the beach in Southern California, and when you throw in everything else that Venice has to offer you’ve got nothing short of paradise! Venice is easily my favorite place in all of LA and the first place I bring all newcomers. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Featured in: Lords of Dogtown, The Real World, The A-Team, Three’s Company, The Truth About Cats and Dogs, Fletch, Skatetown USA, and The Seventh Sign
The newly reopened Angels Flight Railway has been in operation on and off since 1901, and at 298 feet is the world’s shortest railway. When it opened, one hundred years ago, its location was the main hub of commerce and entertainment in Downtown Los Angeles. The Angels Flight Railway is a treasured piece of LA history, and it has given more than 100 million rides!
*This is just a sampling of films, videos, tv show, and songs that each of these locations has been featured in. There is simply no way I could list them all.
I’m sure you’ve noticed the many amazing works of art on the streets these days? It’s hard not to when they are everywhere! Gorgeous works of fine art, and make no mistake that’s what they are, have been popping up in cities around the world. It makes sense! All those blank walls are perfect canvases, creating a world wide, never ending, always evolving art exhibition.
Bumblebeeloves you “Used to Bee” in Seattle, Washington
Who Is Behind This Worldwide Explosion Of Art?
The more I’ve seen the more I’ve wanted to learn about these artists, some of whom have pieces up around the world. I had questions:
Who are they, and what compels them to create? How did they get their start? Do they have formal training? Do they feel bad when their work is painted over or torn down Were they commissioned, or did they throw it up on the fly? What’s the meaning behind the paintings? Is there one? Do they consider their work graffiti, street art, or just plain art? Is it hard? How do they do it?
The artwork of Karlos Marquez
Meeting the (Street) Artists
Recently I’ve had the opportunity to meet some of these amazing artists, whether it be coming across a work in progress (these murals don’t appear magically), serendipity, a studio visit or at an art show. They’ve all been a real pleasure to meet and in some cases I even had a chance to take photos and ask questions.
The art of WRDSMTH
BumbleBeeLovesYou
The whimsical nature of BumbleeLovesYou‘s art has made him one of my favorite artists, and lucky for me he’s local, so I get to visit his various pieces regularly. His pieces evoke a feeling of childhood innocence, and often include fun little details, like hearts, animals, and flowers.
Girl in a Garden Superba Food and Bread
My initial meeting with BumbleebeeLovesYou came about via social media. I wondered where a certain piece (Take Note pictured below) would end up after its exhibition in Downtown Santa Monica ended. Before I knew it we were direct messaging about the piece coming home with me! Lesson here: It never hurts to ask!
Take Note is 8′ x 28′
I can’t express how excited I was when we actually met! Not only did I end up with a fabulous piece of artwork at my home, but I’ve made a new friend.
Take Note Installation
Tim and I with Bumblebeelovesyou
I’ve since visited his studio and had the chance to chat with him about his work, but I think this wonderful video tells the story better than I ever could.
Private Home
Karlos Marquez
I was Introduced to Karlos Marquez’s work through a mutual friend, and was immediately attracted to his combination of street inspired lettering and neon light.
I visited Karlos at his studio in South Central LA where he was gracious enough to show me around and answer my many questions.
In your opinion are street street art and graffiti one and the same?
In my opinion, Street Art” is just a name that has been given to “Graffiti” in the past few years. Its used by galleries, museums and art auctions to label Graffiti.
Graffiti has a negative connotation, and by nature its vandalism plain and simple, so to some its vandalism and to others its art. I think the elite have used the word STREET ART to give it a cool hip name to sell it.
All the large murals you see on th side of buildings today are just that, MURALS. Just because you used spray paint does not make it graffiti.
If you have permission to paint a MURAL on a wall with spray paint and I painted the other side with spray paint without permission they would both still be called STREET ART. Call me old fashioned, but I would rather see good old graffiti done on walls, it is a more raw and free expression of art.
When did your graffiti art move from the street to the studio?
I stopped doing graffiti over 20 years ago and I have been doing studio artwork over 10 years.
What type of artist to you consider yourself?
A visual artist because I like working not just with canvas, but I use all different media to create my artwork. I paint on furniture, sculptures, metal wood, cement, or anytime I can get my hands on.
Karlos will be exhibiting his abstract work at Fathom Gallery in the California Market Center Building located in Downtown Los Angeles on April 28, 2018 from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Unable to make the show? You can learn more about Karlos and his art and where to see it on his website.
WRDSMTH
WRDSMTH refers to himself as a “Writer Doing Time in Hollywood.” His pieces can be found everywhere in Los Angeles, and around the world. It’s his positive and meaningful messages delivered in a simple way that make his work particularly appealing. He really puts himself out there, which is so refreshing since so many of us don’t feel comfortable enough to do such a thing, but wish we could.
Meeting WRDSMTH @ his Solo Show.
I attended his solo show “I’d Like To Have A WRD with You” where we had a chance to meet. Funny enough I was surprised when he introduced himself as Brody. It never occurred to me that he actually had a “real” name. We spoke about his inspiration, much of which comes from personal experiences or favorite songs.
Fais Dodo
Thinking that his technique must be a closely guarded secret I was delighted to find out that he was taught by another street artist and has been only too happy to pass on the knowledge. Who knows, maybe I’ll ask for a lesson one of these days? As I found out above it never hurts to ask, does it?
WRDSMTH Brick Lane
Fairfax District
The Hanger
Venice Beach
The Art of Chase
Chase is a Belgian artist, but has called Los Angeles his home for the past 20 years. I was recently invited to meet him and attended his solo show here in Los Angeles.
Chase’s signature eyeball makes his pieces easy to spot, haha, and there are plenty here in the LA area, especially in Venice Beach.
I’m hoping to catch up with him again soon, and when I do I’ll update this post.
Fanakapan
Okay, Fanakapan isn’t based in LA, but he does have a gorgeous collab piece in Downtown LA, and I can’t write this post without including my meeting with Fanakapan! I’m a big fan of his shiny but photorealistic style and knowing his work can occasionally be seen on London’s Brick Lane, I set out specifically to find one.
4th and Merrick Downtown Los Angeles
Not only did I find one, I found him! As I came around the corner I saw a man painting, and immediately upon seeing the shiny work in progress, I knew it was him. Serendipity!
You might find this hard to believe, but I can occasionally be shy. Not this time! I knew this was probably my one and only chance to speak up.
I’m VERY happy to be meeting Fanakapan on Brick Lane
Graciously taking the time to speak with me, we chatted about his work, the piece he was working on, and his visits to LA. He did tell me his real name, and we took some photos together, but like many street artists Fanakapan prefers not to show his full face online. He gave me permission to post this one with his face partially covered.
A work in progress
WIP
The piece he was working on was clearly political. It shows a fox (Trump) holding a dead duck in its mouth with more ducks (Americans) blindly following behind. We found ourselves in the area a few different times and so were able to watch the progression of this piece.
We located one other Fanakapan piece on our trip, also in Shoreditch, but no promises that either of these are still available to view.
Nicky Nailed It
“Nicky” is the most unknown of this bunch. I met him during one morning while on bike ride in Venice Beach. There is hardly a place in LA where you won’t find a Nicky Nailed It, so I shouldn’t have been surprised when I turned around and there he was installing one of his signature pieces, but I was. It was fun hearing about his many adventures, but I’m not sure he plans to do much more with this. His pieces are often found near murals and other works, and I asked if the other artists mind? He says he tries hard to be respectful. I think they do mind. Of all the artists I’ve met his pieces are the only ones that really feel illegal. They are definitely graffiti in the truest sense of the word.
He’s been plastering Nicky around town, and just about everywhere for the past seven years. Now that I’ve introduced him to you I guarantee you will see him EVERYWHERE made of whatever material he can get his hands on. If you’re wondering the stencil is a portrait of him as a child.
6 “Los Angeles” Artists & Where to Find Them
Would you like to visit some of these pieces yourself? This handy map will show you the way to the public pieces that were still available to view when I wrote this post.
This map should get you started, but is by no means a complete list. Each of these artists have multiple pieces around town and the world. Happy hunting, and do let me know if you find a new piece you think I’d like!
Atlanta, Georgia was never on my vacation destination list, but when I received an invitation to a girls only weekend I never hesitated. I’d never visited or researched Atlanta before, so I really had no idea what to expect. Here’s what I did know: I would be traveling without my kids, to explore a new city, with one of my best friends! What more did I need to know?
Me and my Hometown Guide!
Turns out Atlanta has a lot to offer, and with stops in Virginia Highlands, Little Five Points, Decatur, Historic Downtown, Midtown, and Candler Park we covered a lot of ground. Of course having a hometown guide was invaluable, and because we visited many of her personal favorites at least one of us knew what to expect!
The Atlanta BeltLine
The BeltLine was the perfect place to get an overview of Atlanta. The addition of this mixed use redevelopment project, which takes advantage of the City’s existing railway corridors, is transforming and revitalizing the city of Atlanta in the best possible way.
Art By: Ouizi
The multi-use pedestrian friendly pathways are perfect for cycling, running, and walking, but the BeltLine is much more then just an exercise path getting you from point A to point B. With a skate park, shopping, restaurants and the South’s largest temporary public art installation the BeltLine is a destination!
The Historic Fox Theater has a long fascinating history, and in addition to the 250+ events, which take place there annually, the theater offers a variety of behind the scenes tours as well.
The Historic Fox Theater
Originally intended as a meeting place for the Shriner’s organization the theater was built to look like the ancient temples and palaces of Egypt and the Far East.
The financial burden proved too much and shortly before it was completed the Shriners leased the theater to Willam Fox who turned it into a movie palace. The theater opened to a sold out crowd on Christmas Day 1929. The move was Steam Boat Willie, starring Mickey Mouse!
The Theater seats 4,665 people!
During our tour we had a chance to explore the 250,000 square foot building, including the theater which seats 4,665, and has a twinkling ceiling, The Egyptian Ballroom, and many other ornately decorated spaces.
This lamp is 8 feet tall!
Interior of the Fox Theater Lobby
The Lobby of the Fox Theater Atlanta
Vintage Neon Sign at the Fox Theater Dancing Tonight!
The Egyptian Ballroom
By the mid 1970s the Fox Theater had fallen into disrepair and was facing demolition. The people of Atlanta realized what a great loss this would be and banded to gather to save The Fox.
This column shows the state of disrepair the theater was in prior to it’s being saved in 1974.
Margaret Mitchell House and Museum
More than 75 years after it was released Gone With The Wind is still considered one of America’s most successful films. A life long fan of both the book and the movie, I was delighted to discover that we’d be visiting the home of book’s author, Margaret Mitchell.
Margaret Mitchell Journalist
Gone With The Wind was written almost by accident. Yes, one of the most famous books of all time, was almost never written. A journalist, who unexpectedly became confined to her apartment due to an injury, Mitchell spent her recovery reading everything she could get her hands on. When she’d exhausted all the library had to offer, her husband suggested she try writing a book of her own. She never planned to publish the book, but when someone suggested that it would never amount to anything, she decided to show them a thing or two… And the rest is history!
The Margaret Mitchell house is run by the Atlanta History Center. Tours are offered daily, check the website for detailed information.
THE Door to Tara
After you’ve toured the home take some time to explore the museum, which has plenty of memorabilia including photos of the cast, premiere movie tickets, and even props from the set of Gone With The Wind.
Portrait of Scarlet from the film
Dish Towel
Ticket to the Opening Night of Gone With The Wind
Margret Mitchell and Clark Gable
Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier
Ponce City Market
The Ponce City Market is a trendy and fun shopping area located in what was once the Sears & Roebuck Company building. There are fun reminders of the building’s history throughout. Inside you’ll find multiple food choices, unique boutiques and plenty of insta opportunities.
The Market links directly to the Atlanta BeltLine and is directly across from the Historic Fourth Ward Park, making it a perfect place to stop for a quick bite or to meet friends and stay awhile.
The Atlanta Botanical gardens
Open all year round you’re sure to see and experience something different each time you visit the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Visiting in the winter meant there weren’t as many outdoor flowers blooming, but that didn’t mean there wasn’t a lot to see.
Japanese Garden
The Chihully sculptures placed throughout the gardens provided a bright pop of color on a rainy winter afternoon.
The Orchid Festival was not only lovely, but provided the perfect backdrop for some fun group photos.
Atlanta Botanical Garden Atlanta Georgia
I wasn’t traveling with the boys this trip, but I know they would have loved this fabulous play space filled with so many things to discover and experience.
We loved our meal at Leon’s Full Service, which is located in a former service station. The vibe is hip, but casual, and they have an extensive list of local brews on tap. The food was delicious, but definitely on the heavier side.
The Livingston is located in the Georgian Terrace Hotel just across the street from the Historic Fox Theater. They serve southern style cuisine with a modern twist. I loved my chicken and waffles, don’t tell my mom, but the apple fennel slaw might have been the best coleslaw I’ve ever had!
Barcelona Vinoteca is a neighborhood wine shop/bar with a cozy vibe. Stop in for a drink, or bring a bottle home. The large pull down maps on the walls brought back memories of my pre smart board school days.
Located in the heart of the Little Five Points, we stopped at the Yacht Club for late night drinks. This place is the definition of a dive bar!
Have you ever turned over the travel planning to someone else? Was it a success? Would you do it again?
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Take Me With You!
Would you like directions to these fabulous places? Why not take me with you! You can download this and other fun hilarystyle articles using the GPSmyCity app!
Is there one thing you always do when visiting a new place? For our family it’s the zoo. We always said that having children wouldn’t stop us from seeing and doing all the things that interest us in a given place, but that doesn’t mean we can’t allow time for child friendly activities as well.
Finding a balance is key and the zoo with animals and beautiful gardens has often been the perfect place to achieve that balance. Though as my children are getting older I’ve recently started finding my own balance…
Over the years we’ve visited as many as 25 different zoological gardens around the world, so we consider ourselves something of zoo connoisseurs! Traveling with kids, and considering a zoo, take a look and see if your destination is on our list:
Audubon Zoo
Mexican Wolf
I don’t have photos from every one, but for the purposes of this post I dug out some old photos. I admit in advance that some of them aren’t the highest quality.
The Woodland Park Zoo has to be one of my favorites, probably because I grew up going there. However, the zoo is laid out really well and has a wide variety of animals. The Children’s Zoo has a lovely farm and a petting zoo.
A zoo and an aquarium, Point Defiance does a great job with both. We loved visiting the beluga whales and the zoo’s playground is quite good. I once rode a camel here, and really regretted it for a number of reasons, not the least of which is this awful photo.
We really enjoyed the Portland Zoo, which has a very Pacific northwest feel about it. The forested areas, natural habitats, and lots of interactive exhibits made the entire experience fun and immersive for the entire family.
I really enjoyed this zoo, that is until I decided that the white tiger exhibit wasn’t quite secure enough for my liking. That might have been because the zoo keeper told me that enclosures are really more to keep the people out than to keep the animals in… Yikes!
I admit San Francisco Zoo isn’t my favorite. The layout isn’t easy to follow, and the enclosures are spaced far from one another. They did have these fun interactive posters though…
Sadly, I don’t have any photos of our visit to the Oakland Zoo, but we really enjoyed our visit here. A pretty standard zoo, there are also rides and an overhead tram.
This was my neighborhood zoo for many years! I know, a neighborhood zoo, how cool is that?! So, why don’t I have ANY photos? Too busy enjoying ourselves I guess… This zoo may be small, but it has a lot to offer including a wonderful indoor area with science exhibits and play areas made just for the little ones.
A bit off the beaten path, this zoo is perfect for the younger set. It’s not terribly large, but there are interactive exhibits, and an amusement park with rides perfect for toddlers through age 8.
We always get lost in this zoo, but there is a really nice selection of animals and interactive exhibits, so we don’t mind. I especially loved watching these Chinese Cranes. Keep in mind the zoo is located in Griffith park, which is a giant hill.
The Santa Barbara Zoo is a family favorite. It’s an absolutely lovely little zoo with a fabulous ocean view! The gardens are beautiful and finding your way around is relatively easy. There are many unique animals and if you’re interested you can even feed the giraffe! We loved the playgrounds, and if you fancy it there is a little train around the zoo as well.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Palm Desert, California
If you’re visiting the Palm Springs area with younger children consider a visit to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. We loved the Giraffe exhibit, and if you’re interested you can feed them for an additional fee. The animals featured here are from North America and Africa, and there are some unique and endangered species. Did you know the giraffe is endangered?
The desert gardens are beautiful and unique. A first at any zoo I’ve ever visited there were hiking trails and even the opportunity for camping overnight. It was a lovely afternoon out, though I don’t recommend a summer visit, as it was blazing hot even in March.
I know the San Diego Zoo is world famous zoo, but I admit it wasn’t my favorite. This was mainly due to a confusing layout and the many hills, which weren’t easy to navigate with a stroller. We did see pandas though, so thats something!
The Shark Reef Aquarium, located in Mandalay Bay, is a fully accredited aquarium, and is home to not only sharks, but many other fascinating creatures as well. I know this isn’t a zoo, but my sons insisted I include it here, as there were animals as well as fish.
Another favorite and well worth your time is the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is open and free 365 days a year. My parents grew up going to this zoo, and it’s been such a treat visiting with them and my own children. The enclosures are beautifully done and the play areas are wonderful. There are sea creatures here as well. A perfect zoo if you have limited time.
The Brookfield Zoo is a very large zoo, so you’ll want to allow the better part of an entire day if you decide to visit. A fairly standard zoo I prefer Lincoln Park zoo.
I feel pretty confident when I say the Audubon Zoo in Uptown New Orleans is pretty great! We’ve been three times! The zoo has a wide variety of animals from around the world, but my favorite part of any zoo is the exhibit showcasing the local area and the Audubon Zoo does a great job of this with their Louisiana swamp section, which features local animals and foliage. You can even get alligator jambalaya at the zoo cafe! We loved seeing the white alligators, and they have a white tiger too!
We visited the Brooklyn Zoo, when my older son was only 4 years old, and I admit to having only a vague recollection, so I can’t really tell you how it measures up.
Even though you won’t see all the animals from the Madagascar movies, The Central Park Zoo is a wonderful little zoo right in the heart of the city. A perfect place to give the kids a New York Minute before carrying on with the rest of your New York day.
The London Zoo, located in Regent’s Park is not only the worlds oldest scientific zoo, but it was also the home of Winnie the bear. A.A. Milne changed the name of his famous storybook character Pooh Bear to Winnie-The-Pooh after he and his son Christopher Robin visited the London Zoo. We’ve been to the London Zoo twice, 12 years ago, and again just this past Christmas Eve.
We had a really nice visit at the Edinburgh Zoo, even with the rain, because… Pandas and Penguins! I wouldn’t say this about every zoo we’ve seen, but if the littles are growing tired of yet another historic site or museum and just need a break this is a very nice place to visit.
The Barcelona Zoo was the perfect place to give our littles a break from all that sightseeing. On the smaller side, we were able to see it in just a few hours!
Bioparco di Roma, is one of the oldest zoos in Europe, and is located near the Villa Borghese Gardens. We wandered through the gardens and then around the zoo on Christmas Eve. It was a nice break, especially for the little guy.
The oldest zoo in Japan, the Ueno Zoo is located in Ueno Park in Taitō, Tokyo. We really enjoyed our afternoon here and saw animals that we’ve never seen in any western zoos.
My husband says The Tower of London Doesn’t count, but did you know that it was at one time a zoo. Yes, for 600 years the Tower of London was a zoo?! This is where Kings and queens kept the exotic animals gifted to them from other monarchs around the world. There is a great exhibit showcasing the different types of animals that lived here including a polar bear who once lived in the moat and fished in the River Thames! The wire replicas of animals throughout the grounds are pretty cool, even if they aren’t real…
Unfortunately, we were unable to visit the Paris Zoo, but the Jardin des Plantes is a fabulous place to visit with children, and I hope to find my way back.
That time we almost went to the Paris Zoo
Have you been to any of these zoos? What is your favorite go to family activity when traveling? How many times can one person say zoo?
Another notable architectural style found in the area is Googie. Confesion, I’d never heard the term Googie before my teenage son mentioned it, which is somewhat embarrassing since I’m married to an architect. Though I’d never heard the term, its unique style wasn’t new to me. Influenced by car culture, jets and the atomic age, Googie later became part of the more commonly known mid-century modern style.
The visitor center is open June – September Friday – Sunday. 10a.m. to 4p.m. and October – May Wednesday – Sunday 10a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking is $7 and is cash only.
