Los Angeles - where the sun never stops shining, and everyone is beautiful. Do you need any more reasons than that? Surrounded by captivating mountains, desert, and the Pacific Ocean. Start your day hiking in the Hollywood Hills or taking a refreshing dip in your fabulous hotel rooftop pool. Marvel in the unique Mid-Century modernism as you explore this glamorous city, where the golden age of film began and walk amongst the stars.
HOTELS
1. Mr. C Beverly Hills
It doesn't get more Jet Set than Mr C. the epitome of 1950's Hollywood glamour on the outskirts of Beverly Hills. Enjoy your complimentary check-in cocktail from one of the lobbies sleek Eames loungers; very decadent. The walls are lined with stunning black and white photography celebrating the heyday of the silver screen. Rooms are bright and plush with sweeping views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood sign from afar.
1224 Beverwil Drive, Los Angeles CA 90035
T: 310.277.2800
2. The Standard Hollywood
There are two locations for Los Angeles, and where you decide to stay, begins with the simple question, Hollywood or Downtown? There is nothing more quintessentially LA than arriving at The Standard Hollywood, infamous for the glass tank behind reception where gorgeous half naked hunks or scantily clad starlets greet you with a wink and a wave. Rooms either face out over the pool toward downtown or across to the Hollywood Hills and the Sunset Strip. Hallmarked by clean lines and quirky details, the fact that The Standard was good enough for Carrie Bradshaw clearly speaks for itself.
8300 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood CA 90069
T: 323.650.9090
2. The Standard Downtown LA
This Mid-Century landmark located in the heart of downtown LA, boasts a fabulous rooftop pool, water bed cabanas, bar and Biergarten with dazzling views of the city. This fun and funky boutique hotel features groovy oversized guest rooms, big sunny windows, SPiN Standard ping pong and nightly DJ's. So pack your bikini, your sexiest disco stilettos and enjoy a speciality martini..or two.
550 South Flower at Sixth Street, CA 90071
T: 213.892.8080
3. Avalon Beverly Hills
This Mid-Century, modern-chic boutique hotel with a funky cool vibe was once home to Marilyn Monroe in the 1950's. It's centered around an hour glass pool (in which she was frequently photographed.) The Avalon has private cabanas, features iconic works by Eames, Nelson, Noguchi and geometric wall art in bold azure blues and teals. If you are looking for a hotel with iconic history and color look no further than The Avalon.
9400 West Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90212
T: 310.277.5221
4. Andaz
Once this landmark hotel was infamous for wild parties hosted by Rock 'n Roll legends including The Rolling Stones, The Who and Led Zeppelin. The hip boutique hotel still offers a fabulous rooftop pool not to mention spectacular views of downtown Los Angeles, The Hollywood Hills and the Sunset Strip. The Andaz with it's modern and uncomplicated decor is conveniently located within walking distance of Santa Monica Boulevard, making it the ideal home base for the perfect JetSetter experience. The Andaz is very gay friendly and known for it's contribution to the LGBT community.
8401 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90069
T: 323.656.1234
http://westhollywood.andaz.hyatt.com
5. The Sunset Tower
Nothing is more iconic than this Art Deco hotel on the Sunset Strip. Originally, designed in 1929 as an apartment block, it was home to Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Frank Sinatra. During the 50's it was just as iconically "LA" as the Hollywood sign is today. In the 1980's it was saved from demolition and turned into a luxury hotel, preserving many of the original Art Deco details. The rooftop pool, terrace bar and cafe boasts panoramic views of the city. If you have the cash to splash and want to enjoy Hollywoods legendary history, have your people to talk with their people about making a reservation.
8358 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90069
T: 323.654.7100
RESTAURANTS
6. Republique
Located in the heart of Los angeles and housed in an iconic building originally built by Charlie Chaplin to house his offices. The grandeur of the space still remains; featuring a casual bar and bistro in the front, with a more formal restaurant in the rear. Focused around French cuisine with a twist! Republique offers up a seasonal dinner menu, serving the freshest salads, pasta, steaks, seafood and recently introduced breakfast pastries; some of the finest in LA.
624 South La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles CA 90036
T: 310.362.6115
7. Craft
Award-winning architectural design of Bentel and Bental. Dreamed up and opened by Top Chef Tom Colicchio in 2007. Craft serves up a master class in contemporary American cuisine using the finest ingredients; produce from local organic farms, all-natural meats and day-boat seafood. Be sure you order their signature Gimlet and enjoy the great space and great food.
10100 Constellation Boulevard, CA 90067
T: 310.279.4180
http://www.craftrestaurantsinc.com
8. Joan's on Third
This "wildly popular" eat in/take out American bakery on Third Street, serves great gourmet sandwiches, salads, delicious baked goods and includes a fine marketplace with a plethora of cheeses and meats. Be prepared to overload all your senses! Joan's hosts open communal tables with casual limited outdoor seating, for breakfast, lunch and dinner (closing at 8pm and 7pm Sundays.) A perfect splurge for a perfect picnic.
8350 West Third Street, CA 90048
T: 323.655.2285
9. Umami Burger
Born and raised in LA, this is possibly the best burger I have ever eaten, and that was just their vegetarian option! Yes, it is a chain but don't let that discourage you. It has signature buns, toppings and condiments (the ketchup alone stands up for itself, and don't get me started on the parmesan crisp!) Make sure you order a side of cheesy potato tot's (not always mentioned on the menu.) There are several locations in Los Angeles, so check out their website, whether you are shopping at Fred Segal in Santa Monica (which is adjacent) or maxing out your credit card at The Grove, why not stop in for lunch and make your mouth water.
Umami Santa Monica
500 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90401
T: 310.451.1300
Umami The Grove
189 The Grove Drive, Suite C-10. CA 90036
T: 323.954.8626
10. Urth Caffe
This is my go to breakfast spot in LA, whether I'm hanging out in Santa Monica, staying in Beverly Hills or exploring West Hollywood (there are also locations in downtown LA and Pasadena.) They are known for their own brand of fresh roasted whole bean organic coffee and fine teas. Urth offers an array of breakfast and dinner items, that will leave you pondering until it's your time to be served (the eggs salmon are amazing.) Order and pay in line at the counter, before searching for a table amongst the yoga pant cladded pretty people.
Urth West Hollywood - 8565 Melrose Avenue
T: 310.659.0628
Urth Beverly Hills - 267 S. Beverly Drive
T: 310.205.9311
Urth Santa Monica - 2327 Main Street
T:310.314.7040
Urth Downtown - 451 S. Hewitt Street
T: 213.797.4534
COCKTAILS
11. Chateau Marmont
Definitely Hollywoods best kept secret, the Chateau Marmont is modeled after the infamous royal residence Chateau d' Amboise, and opened its doors to the public in 1929. A notorious A-List hideout for Hollywood stars seeking refuge away from the paparazzi, where privacy is key (If you plan on misbehavior then the Chateau Marmont is the place for you.) For years, celebrities have enjoyed illicit affairs, recovered from addiction or suffered the consequences of over partying, over doses and, on a few occasions, even a tragic death (they don't call it the most haunted hotel in Hollywood for nothing.) The building is pure movie set and certainly on the pricier side, but that shouldn't stop you from enjoying a few well crafted cocktails at the saucy saloon (try the Pimm's cup) or wet your appetite with some gastro bar snacks.
8221 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90046
T: 323.656.1010
12. Tropicana Bar and Pool
Most famous for the beautiful Roosevelt pool whose bottom was expressively painted by artist David Hockney. Lush foliage disguises the hotels elite cabana rooms. This is where Hollywood starlets and the fashion set come to party. Arrive early to avoid the lines.
7000 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90028
T: 323.466.7000
13. Pour Vous
Looking to dust off your cocktail attire and get transported to Paris for the evening? This is the closest you'll get to Moulin Rouge in Hollywood. A unique, energetic bar with a strict dress code. Pour Vous has an elegant Parisian setting, complete with fireplace, oysters, great cocktails and features burlesque dancers at weekends. Mellow out to some old skool jazz or Sinatra while sipping on a Manhattan. Reservations recommended.
5574 Melrose Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90038
T: 323.871.8699
14. Edison
Travel back to the roaring 20's by stepping inside the Edison. Steeped in that old world glamour, the industrial architecture intermingles beautifully with Art Deco decor. Easily one of the most beautiful and ambient bars in Los Angeles. Decadent drinks and live performances are set in a sleek space with a strict dress code. Slip into your flapper dress or coat tails and start practicing the Charleston.
108 West 2nd Street #101, Los Angeles, CA 90012
T: 213.613.0000
15. The Abbey
Known as the "best gay bar in the world" The Abbey offers 14,000 sq ft. of lounges, outdoor terraces and some of the hottest hunks you will see this side of the Northern hemisphere. Enjoy a "Sunday Funday" party on the sunny terraces with WEHO regulars and if you are lucky, a few LA celebrities (everyone from Sarah Jessica Parker to Perez Hilton have been spotted at this West Hollywood hot spot.) Stop by with some friends and enjoy the party.
692 N Robertson Boulevard, CA 90069
T: 310.289.8410
SHOPPING
16. Opening Ceremony
Modern global retailer specializing in designer clothing and accessories in a stylish store. A favorite among celebrities with outposts in New York, London and Tokyo. You can't possibly step out into LA and not be sporting the latest hot trend. Opening Ceremony is here to help.
451 N. La Cienega Boulevard, CA 90048
T: 310.652.1120
17. Fred Segal
This upscale LA based clothing retailer opened doors in the 1960's. Fred Segal offers a variety of self contained, well curated departments specializing in women's, mens, accessories and kids. A little pricey, but worth a pilgrimage to rub elbows with the international fashion crowd. Definitely check out one or both of their locations in Santa Monica and West Hollywood.
8118 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood 90046
T: 323.651.4129
500 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90401
T: 310.458.6365
18. America Rag
Stylish outpost that stocks a variety of trendy designer labels including RRL, Alexander Wang, and Rag & Bone. American Rag also features high quality, well curated vintage for men and women. A must for denim.
150 S. La Brea Ave, CA 90036
19. The Grove
Large outdoor retail shopping and entertainment experience, complete with restaurants and movie theater. Shops include Nordstrom, Unionmade, Topshop, Zara and Barneys.
189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036
20. Abbot Kinney Boulevard
This street is probably the coolest thing about Venice, and well worth the drive. Chic shops, Scotch & Soda, Gant Rugger, Aviator Nation and Steven Alan. For fabulous food, have breakfast at 3 Square Cafe, lunch or dinner at Gjelina and enjoy a coffee experience at Intelligentsia (also try Zinque on the corner of Abbot Kinney and Venice Blvd.) Great interior shops include A+R and Huset for great Scandinavian design pieces. You won't be leaving in a hurry so plan to spend a day or leisurely afternoon.
SIGHTS
21. Runyon Canyon
A 130 acre park two blocks from Hollywood Boulevard. There are entrances on Fuller Avenue, Vista Street and iff Mulholland. Where else can you hike and trail run amongst Hollywood's celebrities and fitness fanatics while also taking in the amazing views of Los Angeles from above?
22. The Getty Center
A must for anyone visiting or living in Los Angeles. The Getty is well known for it's architecture (designed by Richard Meier,) stunning gardens and the most incredible overlooks of Los Angeles, not to mention the amazing art on display. A great way to pass a morning or afternoon perusing some of the finest art exhibits in the city.
Admission is free, parking is $15, $10 after 5pm, closed Mondays.
1200 Getty Center Drive, CA 90049
T: 310.440.7300
23. Griffith Observatory
An icon of Los Angeles located up on Mount Hollywood. A great opportunity for a birds-eye view of Los Angeles. Stunning views out towards Santa Monica, the Pacific Ocean and some of the closest views of the Hollywood sign. Arrive before sunset (parking can be tricky because the sunsets are phenomenal) and if you are feeling particularly energetic take one of the many hiking trails that wind through the Hollywood hills. Admission to the Observatory is free. You won't be sorry to put this on your to-do list while you are here.
2800 East Observatory Road, CA 90027
24. Stahl House- Case Study home No. 22
Built in 1960 as part of the Case Study Houses program, and considered an iconic representation of 20th century modern architecture in Los Angeles. If you want to return to modernist roots and have the opportunity to walk around what is considered to be among "America's Favorite Architecture," reserve your tour in advance, as this place sells out months in advance. Day and evening tours available.
25. The Eames House
This was once the residence of designers Charles and Ray Eames, who designed and built the house located in the Pacific Palisades. The Eames House looks out onto the Pacific Ocean and is considered a landmark of the 20th century modern architecture. This house is still preserved with the original decor and collections and has been largely untouched since their deaths. Reservations are required, but you are welcome to view the Eames House (exterior only) on a self guided tour.
203 Chautaugua Boulevard, Pacific Palisades,
CA 90272 T: 310.459.9663
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