Discovering downtown LA is like unwrapping a present – full of surprises and delicious treats!
As a travel writer for a popular online travel magazine, I am always on the lookout for unique destinations that offer a blend of adventure, culture, and gastronomy. That’s why my latest assignment, exploring downtown LA, has me thrilled and excited to see what this vibrant city has to offer.
Downtown LA is a hub of activity that attracts millions of tourists each year. From its iconic architecture and landmarks to its bustling streets, downtown LA has something for everyone. For me, the best way to dive into a new city is by exploring its hidden gems, unique attractions, and of course, indulging in its local cuisine.
Stay tuned as I uncover the top attractions and tasty treats that make downtown LA a must-visit destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
As I wandered through the bustling streets of downtown LA, I couldn’t wait to explore all of the top attractions that I had heard so much about. My first stop was the iconic Grand Central Market, where I was greeted by an eclectic mix of food stalls and vendors. From fresh oysters to mouthwatering tacos, there was something to satisfy every craving.
Next up was The Broad, a contemporary art museum that has quickly become one of the city’s most popular attractions. As I made my way through the sleek, futuristic building, I was struck by the sheer variety of the artwork on display. From massive sculptures to colorful paintings, there was something to capture my attention at every turn.
Of course, no visit to downtown LA would be complete without a trip to the Griffith Observatory. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, this iconic observatory offers incredible views of the skyline and beyond. I spent hours exploring the exhibits and gazing up at the stars through the powerful telescopes.
As I made my way from attraction to attraction, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the insider tips that I had received before my trip. Without them, I might have missed out on some of the most amazing exhibits and experiences that downtown LA has to offer.
Hidden Gems
As I explored downtown LA, I stumbled upon some hidden gems that are not as well-known as the popular attractions but are definitely worth a visit. One of these gems is the Bradbury Building, an architectural masterpiece that was built in 1893 and is now a National Historic Landmark. As I walked into the building, I was immediately struck by the stunning atrium with its ornate ironwork and the glass ceiling that let in natural light. I took the elevator up to the fifth floor, where I got a breathtaking view of the atrium from above. It was definitely a memorable experience.
Another hidden gem that I discovered was the Last Bookstore, a quirky and eclectic bookstore that has a unique vibe. The bookstore is housed in an old bank building and has an impressive collection of new and used books. What sets it apart, however, is the art installations that are scattered throughout the store. From a tunnel made of books to a sculpture made of typewriters, the Last Bookstore is a feast for the eyes as well as the mind.
Finally, I visited Olvera Street, a historic marketplace that is often overlooked by tourists. The street is lined with colorful stalls selling Mexican handicrafts and souvenirs, and there are several restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisine. I tried some of the street food, including tacos and churros, and they were delicious. It was also interesting to learn about the history of the street and its significance to the Mexican-American community.
Overall, I highly recommend checking out these hidden gems in downtown LA. They offer a different perspective on the city and are a great way to experience the local culture and history.
Tasty Treats
– Personal experiences and recommendations of the best restaurants and street food in downtown LA
– Description of the different types of cuisine available (e.g. Mexican, Asian fusion, vegan, etc.)
– Unique dishes to try and insider tips on where to find them
I have to say, as a travel writer, exploring downtown LA was a dream come true. I was blown away by the variety of attractions and foods available in this bustling city. While the most popular attractions like Grand Central Market and The Broad were incredible, I found myself drawn to the hidden gems that truly showcased the unique culture of downtown LA.
One of my favorite hidden gems was the Bradbury Building. This historic building is filled with ornate details and has been featured in many movies and TV shows. As I walked through the building, I couldn’t help but feel like I had been transported back in time.
Another hidden gem that I loved was the Last Bookstore. This massive bookstore is a book lover’s paradise. I spent hours browsing the shelves and discovering new titles to add to my reading list. The store also has a beautiful art installation made entirely of books, which was an added bonus.
Of course, no trip to downtown LA would be complete without sampling some of the amazing cuisine available. I highly recommend checking out Guisados for some delicious Mexican food. Their tacos are made with handmade tortillas and filled with flavorful meats and veggies. For dessert, head to Milk Bar for their famous crack pie – you won’t regret it.
Overall, my experience in downtown LA was unforgettable. There is something for everyone in this city, whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or art lover. I can’t wait to come back and explore more of what this city has to offer.
Food Tours and Services
As a foodie, one of the best ways to experience a new city is through food tours. During my trip to downtown LA, I decided to try out a walking food tour. It was a great way to not only taste different cuisines but also learn about the history and culture of the area.
The tour I went on took us to various hidden gem restaurants and food stands that I would have never found on my own. One of my favorite stops was a small taco stand called Guisados, which served the most delicious braised meat tacos I have ever tasted. The guide also gave us insider tips on how to order like a local and what other dishes to try.
Another food service that I found useful during my trip was food delivery. After a long day of exploring, sometimes I just wanted to relax in my Airbnb and have food delivered to me. I used a popular food delivery app to order from a nearby restaurant and was pleasantly surprised by how quick and easy it was.
Overall, I highly recommend trying out a food tour and utilizing food delivery services during your trip to downtown LA. They not only provide delicious food but also a unique and convenient way to experience the city’s diverse cuisine.
Accommodations and Transportation
When I first visited downtown LA, I opted for an Airbnb in the heart of the city. The location was perfect for exploring all the top attractions on foot, and the cost was much cheaper than staying in a hotel. Plus, staying in an Airbnb allowed me to cook my own meals and save money on food expenses.
As for transportation, I highly recommend taking advantage of the city’s public transportation system. The metro trains and buses are frequent and easy to use, and they can get you anywhere you need to go in the city. One of my favorite experiences in downtown LA was taking the metro to the Arts District and exploring all the street art and galleries in the area.
If you prefer to have your own transportation, renting a car is also a viable option. However, keep in mind that parking in downtown LA can be a hassle and expensive. I only rented a car for a day trip to Malibu and found that it was more trouble than it was worth.
Overall, whether you choose to stay in a hotel, Airbnb, or utilize public transportation or a rental car, there are plenty of options for getting around and exploring all the amazing sights and sounds of downtown LA.