Candytopia Santa Monica

The most recent addition to the Insta experience club, opened this past weekend at Santa Monica Place in downtown Santa Monica. It’s called Candytopia, and Elliot and I were excited to be among some of the first to visit what turned out to be a pretty sweet time! Pun intended!

Candytopia? What’s that?

Candytopia, similar to The Museum of Ice Cream and The Happy Place, is a themed interactive experience with no real purpose other than fun and of course Instagram photo opportunities galore.

Once inside you’ll follow a one way path through a variety of brightly colored and very cheerful rooms full of interactive exhibits, photos ops, and of course all the sweet treats you can eat.

Related: The Museum of Ice Cream Los Angeles

Related: Happy Place Los Angeles

Entrance Hall

As soon as you enter the entrance hall you’ll be immersed in all things Candytopia, and not just sights, but sounds too!

The employees are dressed like Oompa Loompas, and a flair for the dramatic is most definitely a requirement for anyone seeking employment in Candytopia.

Library and Introduction

The “Library” is where you’ll hear a little bit about the founder of Candytopia, get your first candy treat, yummy chocolates, and sign the guest book.

Unlike the other interactive locations we experienced, visitors were welcome to take more than one treat.

Treat: Lindor Chocolates

Museum Gallery

This was one of my favorite rooms. The walls were lined with famous portraits and recreations of famous paintings and statues made completely of candy. In fact almost everything inside Candytopia was made of candy!

Alongside each piece of art was listed the amount of candy and type used, as well as the calories and grams of sugar.

Seeing all those calories in writing definitely helped keep my candy intake in check!

Treat: Candy Necklaces

Under the Sea

Candy sea creatures of all types filled this under the sea themed room, but the boys were on the fast track and didn’t stay long…

Treat: Pixie Sticks

💯Swing & Op Art Room

We all loved this room. The 💯 emoji swing was my favorite, but I think Elliot liked the whirlpool and flying among the clouds.

Treat: Airheads

Tropical Beach

We breezed through the beach area, but not before Elliot gave both the hammock and the surf board a quick spin.

Treat: Saltwater Taffy

When Pigs Fly

What is it about confetti? I know this room had multiple interactive experiences, but honestly we were so busy playing in the confetti, which seemed to be flying out of a pig’s rear end that we didn’t pay much attention to anything else.

After we’d had our fill, and our clothes and hair were filled too, we set off for the next room…

Treat: Gummies

Marshmallow Pit

The final room, and Elliot’s favorite was the giant “marshmallow” pit, which filled the room entirely. In actuality they were foam pieces in the shape of jumbo marshmallows, but it was a great illusion, and the Elliot and his friend had a wonderful time romping around.

Personally, I found it quite difficult to move at all, and after a short while I gave up and enjoyed watching them from the sidelines.

Gift Shop

The gift shop was filled to the brim with delicious treats and fun gifts, but we’d had our fill during the visit, so after a quick look around we went on our merry way… After all that candy it was time for lunch!

These tickets were purchased as a holiday gift, which eased some of my guilt about them being on the expensive side. We had a lovely time, took a ton of photos and had more than our fill of candy. Of the three Insta experiences we’ve attended I felt that Candytopia was the most family friendly.

Tips & Advice:

Candytopia tickets are available online and must be purchased in advance.
Don’t be late. Only 30 ish people are allowed in for each time slot and if you’re late you’ll have to wait and hope there is room in the next time slot.
Candytopia is located on the East side of the Santa Monica Place Mall. The entrance is on the second floor. You’ll exit on the ground level.
Parking is available in the mall parking structure. Depending on where you park the first three hours are free.
No outside food or drinks are allowed inside Candytopia.

Pin for Later:

December 5, 2017December 4, 2017

Happy Place Los Angeles

Can a person be too happy? Is that even possible? I didn’t think so, but I admit to being accused of it on occasion. Yep, that’s right, I was once accused of smiling too much! That was awkward, but you can’t keep me down! I’m a morning person, I end most sentences with exclamation points, and in general I’m a pretty cheerful person, so when I heard about a place that was literally called: Happy Place, I knew I had to go there. Stat!

In fact the moment I saw the advertisement I clicked buy tickets and scooped up the max allowed (8) for opening day. My friends we were coming for the Thanksgiving holiday break and I just knew they would want to share in all that happiness… or at least I hoped they would! Lucky for me, they did and we had the best time!

If you’re wondering, Happy Place is very similar to The Museum of Ice Cream, which if you don’t already know, is basically room after room of colorful photo ops. If you’re into taking selfies this is your heaven, and even if you’re not… Wandering through 13 + brightly lit rooms decorated to the hilt, and filled with cheerful activities, photo ops and yummy treats is a pretty great way to spend an afternoon! Raise your hand if you love an afternoon of silly fun with your besties!

The Happy Place Los Angeles California — Raise your hand if you love fun!

Here is a preview of just some of the fun we had during our visit.

Upon entering Happy Place you’ll be asked to watch an adorable little video, which basically spells out the rules, no selfie sticks, enjoy yourself, the path is one way only…

After the video you’ll head down the entrance hallway…

And through the door…

Giant Shoes

Lovable Sea Monster

The first two rooms were cheerful, but we weren’t exactly sure how to interact with them, I guess we needed to warm up a bit…

XO

…Becuase we figured it out in the next room, which also happened to be my favorite!

If You’re Happy and You Know It…

Celebrate Everyday!

I’m a big fan of celebrating! Really, any excuse will do! We couldn’t open any of the 400 presents on the walls, but did get these delicious cake pops!

Balloons!

Pop Up Flowers

We all loved this fun room where you could pop up among the flowers like gophers!

Topsy Turvy

I’m afraid this room was a bit beyond our capabilites, we weren’t quite sure how to make ourselves appear upside down. I ended up rotating the photos. My dad was definitely the best at this, I think I may be choking that teddy bear!

Four in One

The next “four” rooms were really all in one room together. The lines to get photos were quite long,especially for the rubber ducky tub, but we perservered…

Live Laugh Love

Rainbow Hearts

Rubber Ducky You’re the One

Mirror Mirror

The End of the Rainbow

This room was fun, but the “gold” is a bit rough on your feet when you land, and if you’re wearing a skirt or dress, you’ll want to hold on to it as you jump!

Snow Confetti Angels

We don’t get much opportunity to make snow angels here in SoCal, but confetti works too!

Snow Confetti Globe

The final room, and a favorite of our group, we loved this confetti filled dome! Once the door was shut the fans came on and the confetti was flying! Lucky us, no one was waiting and we got to go twice! You can’t believe the places the confetti finds itself…

Once you’ve had your fill of photos head to the final room for popsicles, lemondade, the gift shop, and a few final photo ops!

One last Photo Op!

With the exception of a few rooms you’ll be taking all your own photos during your Happy Place visit, or you can ask the friendly staff to take your photo. This “garden” had a camera set up, which took us a few tries to get just right. Once we were satisfied we emailed the photos to oursleves!

You’ll work up an appetite during your Happy Place visit, but don’t worry, you’ll find delicious RAINBOW Grilled Cheese sandwhiches just outside at The Happy Toast food truck! The perfect way to end an already fun afternoon!

Tips & Advice:

The Happy Place is located in the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District at 1242 Palmetto Street.
Parking can be a bit hectic. If you can, I suggest grabbing a spot on the street, but if there isn’t any available there are number of nearby lots.
Arrive 20 minutes before you timed entry to queue up.
The only restroom is at the start.
Don’t forget to bring your camera!
The rainbow grilled cheese sandwiches were delicious, but at $12 each priced a bit high.
If you have time explore the neighborhood, its one of my favorites, you’ll find plenty of street art, shopping, and delicious food all within blocks of Happy Place.

Will you be in the LA area in the next few months? Check out the Happy Place official website for ticket information. Not coming to LA? Don’t worry, sign up online for updates and information on the Happy Place’s next destination. You never know where the Happy Place will pop up next. The Museum of Ice cream has since opened locations in both San Francisco and Miami, and I hear the Color Factory could be headed to LA soon. My fingers are crossed! Stay tuned…

Insta Gallery

Pin for later:

August 8, 2017July 18, 2018

InstaLA! Part 3: Art Explosion

I’m back with more #Instafun? Are you ready?! Los Angeles is exploding with public art, and I’m on a mission to see as much of it as I can. I’ve got my work cut out for me, but I’m up to the task. There is literally something new going up every day, and if it isn’t new, it’s a new take on something old!

Street art is my passion, but I’m pretty happy about museums, pop up installations, and iconic architecture too! I’m an equal opportunity art lover. There is just something about visiting an amazing piece of art that makes my day, sometimes my week! Not to mention its a great way to get out and see the city. In your quest to get that #instapic you won’t just discover a great piece of art, but the fabulous neighborhood it’s located in! In my book thats an #instawin!

1. The Best of LA (available until August 31, 2017)
Artist: The Most Famous Artist/LA Magazine
Location: Corner of 3rd Street and Robertson Boulevard

In my quest to see and do more in and around LA, I subscribed to Los Angeles Magazine. Call it research! As soon as I saw this cover, I thought, “I hope that’s a real mural!” and to my delight it was! Of course I had to visit, and it just happens to be located on the corner of two great shopping streets: West 3rd Street, and Robertson Boulevard! As is often the case with wall murals, it’s only temporary, but don’t worry The Most Famous Artists, aka Matty Mo, is the artist behind a number of great wall murals around town. I featured another one of his pieces in my post InstaLA!

2. Take Note (available until July 31st, 2017)
Artist: Bumblebeelovesyou
Location: Downtown Santa Monica, Colorado Street

A local artist, and a favorite of mine, Bumblebeeloves you has a number of large pieces in the Los Angeles area. Take Note, a large standup, is part of a larger project sponsored by the City of Santa Monica! #RoamSantaMonica officially kicks off in August 2017, and will feature art installations by various artists. I can hardly wait!

3. Paul Smith Pride Wall (No longer available)
Artist: Blank Canvas LA/Paul Smith/Instagram
Location: Paul Smith Store Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles

While this particular mural has since been painted over, the original Pink Wall is back in place, it’s worth noting, that sometimes old becomes new, and revisiting is never a bad idea! This mural was done in celebration of Pride month, and I loved that so many businesses took part! Lucky me, I was able to visit on the last day of the installation. You can bet I’ll be looking out to see what’s up their sleeve next year!

4. Save the Bunny
Artist: Adam Dare, KwueMolly, Madmanart, and Outersource
Location: Colyton Street Downtown Los Angeles

You’ll find this colorful bunny located on the side of Dejavita on Colyton Street in the DTLA Arts District. This is piece has evolved several times, so I can’t promise this exact mural, but there is sure to be something great in this location! This is a favorite neighborhood of mine, because you’re sure to see something new each and every visit. Beyond all the fabulous art, there are many one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants in the area.

5. Dunkin Donuts
Artist: Bumblebeelovesyou
Location: Washington Boulevard, Culver City

Keeping up with all the art around this town can be a challenge! I knew about this adorable piece, but hadn’t had time to visit… Driving home one day, there it was! Good thing U-turns are legal!

6. Love wall
Artist: Curtis Kulig
Location: Smashbox Studios Higuera Street, Culver City

There is so much to LOVE about this mural! This is a popular #instadestination, and is one of the first wall murals I visited, when I moved here. I’m thinking a return visit is in order!

7. The Beverly Hills Hotel
Location: 9641 Sunset Boulevard, Beverly Hills

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve driven by the Beverly Hills Hotel, but it wasn’t until recently that I finally went in! Playing tourist in my own city has opened me up to so many lovely experiences, and I highly recommend a visit to this fabulous institution. However, if you can’t make it to the Beverly Hills Hotel, try a visit to your local luxury hotel, you deserve it!

8. Mural Collaboration
Artist: Fanakapan/Starfigherea
Location: 4th Street DTLA Arts District

The amount of art in the DTLA Arts District is staggering, so it’s no wonder that it took multiple visits before I discovered this amazing larger than life mural!

9. Angel Wings
Artist: Kelsey Montague
Location: Sun Life Organics, Malibu Country Mart

The best part about public art is that its there for everyone to enjoy! I love it even more when I get to interact with the art! These lovely wings are just one of many pair you’ll find around the City of Angels!

10. Love Mural
Artist: Unknown
Location: Hollywood Forever Cemetery (Just outside the Entrance)

I love this mural for so many reasons! Its cheerful message seems to be saying I love LA, which I wholeheartedly do! It’s located just across the street from the entrance to the iconic Hollywood Forever Cemetery, which is definitely worth a visit. What was it I was saying about discovering new neighborhoods?!

11. The Venice Sign
Artist: Venice Chamber of Commerce
Location: Pacific & Windward, Venice

A perfect example of always evolving art, The Venice Sign, which stretches across the road at Pacific and Windward, changes throughout the year to represent holidays, and other events. Rainbow lights for PRIDE month, red and green for Christmas, and of course red, white and blue for the 4th of July. The diagonal crossing should make snapping that #instapic a bit easier, but do be careful! Traffic is heavy in this popular area.

12. Rear View
Artist: Dface
Location: Pico Boulevard & Federal, Los Angeles

Pico Boulevard has recently undergone quite a transformation with murals of all kinds on either side of the road. This one struck a cord with me, as I discovered it just prior to heading out on a road trip.

13. The Broad
Artist: Yayoi Kusama
Location: Grand Avenue, Los Angeles

LA is home to some pretty fantastic museums! This Infinity Room exhibit is currently on display at the Broad Museum, and was well worth the price of admission: FREE! Do keep in mind that entrance to the exhibit is extremely limited, and an early visit is your best bet.

14. I AM Love
Artist: Ruben Rojas/Beautifyearth.org
Location: Rose Avenue, Venice

Completely transformed in the past few years, Rose Avenue is definitely worth a visit. Lined with one of a kind boutiques, restaurants and markets, there’s a little something for everyone! Not to mention lots of great #streetart!

15. Venice Art Walls
Artist: Varies
Location: Ocean Front Walk, Venice

You’ll find the Venice Art Walls just west of the Venice Sign on Ocean Front Walk. The walls are transformed every Saturday and Sunday by professional and amateur street artists alike! A pretty great spot for that #insta if you ask me!

I love LA, and the more I discover the more I love it! The opportunities are endless! Stay tuned…

Pin for later:

Take me with you!

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!

SaveSave

April 11, 2017July 18, 2018

InstaLA! Part 2: #WallAntics

Attention #dreamers, wanna be #angels, #lovers, and #wildthings, are you ready for some #instafun?! I hope so, because I enjoyed putting together my previous InstaLA post and the ensuing #wallantics so much, I decided a part two was in order.

#lovewall by Artist J. Goldcrown on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica

From Santa Monica, to Silver Lake, Mar Vista to Venice Beach, Melrose to Downtown LA, and everywhere in between, there is no shortage of fun to be found in and around the City of Angels and I’m so excited to share this next round of #insta favorites and their locations with all of you! While some of these might be familiar, I’m hoping there will be a few surprises as well!

Getting a photo isn’t as easy as it looks… Incase you need some Insta inspiration, check out this incredibly silly video of me at the Paul Smith LA Pink Wall… trust me when I tell you I wasn’t the only one…

16 Fun Instagram Locations in and Around LA!

1. Rock Paper Scissors Building
Artist: Risk Rock Location: The corner of Broadway and Cloverfield, Santa Monica

Occupied by post production company, Rock Paper Scissors, the “graffiti” building on the corner of Cloverfield and Broadway, recently received a fresh coat of paint! Take the time to walk all the way around!

2. The Swan Stairs Flight #2
Artist: The Painted Line Mural Co. Location: 2958 Swan Place, Los Angeles

Named for their location, the Swan Stairs were painted in 2015 by The Painted Line Mural Co. and are separated into three different flights totaling 287 steps. Each flight of stairs is unique with different shapes and colors.

3. The Swan Stairs Flight #3
Artist: The Painted Line Mural Co. Location: 1784 Rotary Drive, Los Angeles

The final of the three Swan Place flights, and my favorite, showcases a quote from the band the Decembrists: “Los Angeles, I’m Yours.”

4. Alfred Coffee
Location: 33371/2 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles

Alfred Coffee has become something of an LA institution, and rightfully so! Their coffee is excellent! They have multiple locations throughout town, each with it’s own unique decor. This particular location happens to be conveniently located near the Hidden Stairways of Silver Lake…

5. Dreamer
Artist: Ruben Rojas Location: Walgrove Ave and Palms Blvd., Mar Vista Los Angeles

The minute I discovered this recent street art addition to the Mar Vista neighborhood, I just knew I had to see it in person. I love the bright colors and positive message created by artist Ruben Rojas as part of the Beautify Earth initiative.

6. Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Artist: The Art of Chase & Hashim Thomas Location: 1400 block of Abbot Kinney, Venice

Beyond world class shopping, great food, and overall good vibes, Abbot Kinney is a treasure trove of fabulous art, like this fun mural painted by The Art of Chase. Be sure to walk down both sides of the street, so you don’t miss anything!

7. Barry’s Boot Camp
Artist: Kelsey Montague Location: 1500 Lincoln Blvd., Los Angeles

No matter how many times you drive up and down Lincoln Boulevard there is always something new to discover! My latest discovery was these fabulous wings painted by Kelsey Montague. Of course I had to stop… #whatliftsyou

8. Collete Miller Angel Wings
Artist: Colette Miller Location: Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles

With multiple locations around LA, and the world, there’s a pretty good chance you’ve heard of Colette Miller’s Wings! This particular pair, which are located on Melrose Avenue were pretty busy, with a long line of Instagrammers anxiously waiting their turn.

9. Where the Wild Things Are Wall Mural
Artist: PDB Crew Location: 7629 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles

My little one was really excited when he recognized these characters from one of his favorite stories, Where the Wild Things Are, painted larger than life on the side of a wall! He happily posed for this shot, and in fact he requested we have it printed. It now hangs in his bedroom!

10. American Vintage Wall
Artist: Adam Dare Location: 7575 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles

The entire American Vintage shop is covered in fabulous wall art! Big small, pasted, painted, you name it! Artists of all kinds leave their mark here and it’s definitely worth a visit. There’s some pretty neat stuff inside the shop too!

11. Arts District Co-op
Artist: Royal Location: 453 Colyton St, Los Angeles

I’m crazy about the DTLA Arts District and no trip would be complete with a visit to the Arts District Co-Op. Not only will you find loads of #insta opportunities on the outside, the inside is pretty great too!

12. Kiss The One You Love… Mural
Artist: WRDSMTH Location: 300 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles

I’m a big fan of WRDSMTH! He often uses a “typewriter” stencil to convey his very positive WRDs of wisdom, but went a different route this time. Might be a fun place to pose with your sweetheart?!

13. Cafe Gratitude Love Is…
Artist: J. Goldcrown Location: 300 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles

While I felt I might be pressing my luck if I asked for an action shot in front of WRDSMTHs mural, I thought I might have a good shot with this one just across the way! You might recognize these #bleedinghearts from my previous InstaLA post as they’re in multiple locations around town!

14. Colette Miller Angel Wings – The Very First Pair!
Artist: Colette Miller Location: Traction and Hewitt in the Arts District, Los Angeles

These are the wings that started it all, and considering how temporary street art can be, its pretty amazing that they are still there. Every pair is unique, why not make a stop at each one if you can?

15. Artist & Craftsman Supply
Artist: Kurt Thompson Location: 1660 S La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles

The Mondrian style wall on the side of the Artist & Craftsman Supply in mid-city is one of LA’s most popular #InstaWalls!

16. Chinese Laundry Headquarters
Artist: @itsaliving Location: 3485 La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles

Last but not least, is my most recent discovery, and one of my favorites, the fabulous California Dreaming wall located at the company headquarters of Chinese Laundry!

Now that we’ve taken so many pics and had so much fun in the process, what will we do with all the photos? I mean, beyond post them on Instagram? Make our own wall art of course!

Los Angeles is a veritable treasure trove of art and fun! The more I search the more I find, so don’t be surprised if there’s an InstaLA! 3 in the future…

Pin for Later:

Take me with you!

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!

SaveSave

February 21, 2017June 11, 2018

InstaLA! 15 Places to Snap Those InstaGood Pics

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!

#paulsmithwallla — 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

Pin For Later:

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!