After your flight descends over the vast grid of lights, the warm air of Los Angeles greets you with the promise of endless discovery. Moving from the terminal into the energy of the city, you quickly find that the local spirit is defined by a constant overlap of cinematic history and coastal life.
Griffith Observatory
Perched on the slope of Mount Hollywood, this Art Deco landmark provides a sweeping view of the basin and the Hollywood Sign. It is a place where you can look through public telescopes to see the stars after watching the city lights flicker below.
Santa Monica Pier
The wooden planks of this historic structure stretch out over the Pacific Ocean, marked by the silhouette of a solar-powered Ferris wheel. The salt air and the sound of the waves create a sensory shift from the fast pace of the inland streets.
The Getty Center
This hilltop campus is notable for its white travertine architecture and gardens that overlook the Santa Monica Mountains. It houses a massive collection of European paintings and decorative arts within a space designed to play with the bright California light.
Grand Central Market
Located in Downtown Los Angeles, this food hall has been in operation since 1917. It acts as a crossroads for the city, where neon signs hang over stalls selling everything from wood-fired pizza to traditional pupusas.
Venice Canals
Hidden just blocks away from the beach, these man-made waterways offer a quiet pocket of arched bridges and local flora. Walking along the paths reveals a different side of the city’s design, focused on reflection and a slower pace of life.
The Broad
This contemporary art museum is recognisable by its "veil and vault" exterior, which filters natural light into the galleries. Inside, you can find significant works of modern art that reflect the bold and often experimental nature of the local creative community.