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Los Angeles may be famed for its celebrity culture, Hollywood glitz and A-list postcodes – but this is only the beginning. LA is home to eclectic neighbourhoods and some of the best beaches in the world. Love it or hate it, you’ll find a side of the city’s personality that captivates you.
From iconic neighbourhoods like Beverly Hills, which was immortalised by Julia Roberts' shopping spree in Pretty Woman, to the illuminated Ferris wheel on Santa Monica Pier and the celebrated Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles has it all. Simply a walk along the familiar streets of LA can feel like you’re starring in your favourite movie or TV show. For a true LA experience, hang out with the locals at a buzzing gastro pub in Downtown LA, see the iconic Hollywood sign from the Griffith Park Observatory or cycle along the bustling Venice Beach promenade. Sit courtside at an LA Lakers game or spend an adventurous weekend at Joshua Tree National Park.
showMarch
If you're a film buff this is your last chance to catch the Hollywood costume exhibition, held at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures up until 2 March. Among the 200+ costumes, you'll find Dorothy's ruby slippers and her blue gingham dress. Celebrate the traditional Indian custom of Holi and welcome the first signs of spring at the LA Festival of colors on 7 March – where you'll witness a technicolour display of powder dousing the skies and filling the streets. On 14 March Kate Tempest, UK's Mercury Prize nominee, performs at the Echo. Expect a hybrid of stories and rap-spoken word, backed by a live band and dance troupe. Pico Park turns into an Easter Eggstravaganza on 28 March. The Easter Bunny and friends hang around for pictures, while kids go on an egg hunt, have their face painted and take part in the hula hoop contest.
showApril
The 7th annual LA Beer Festival takes place at LA Center Studios on 4 April. With over 50 selections of both international and domestic drafts on tap, a dozen or more food stations and live music to entertain – it’s the perfect celebration of America's favourite beverage. The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books is a great place to bring kids too. Get inspired by the literary talent – discover new authors, watch screenings and enjoy live music at the University of Southern California from the 12 to 13 April. BritWeek returns to Los Angeles from 18 to 19 April and takes over the city with events throughout Los Angeles – from its star-studded Red Carpet Launch to music, film, fashion, art, theatre, and cultural events.
showMay
Prepare to be dazzled by Diavolo – the global sensation, featuring mind-blowing acrobatics centred around mammoth architectural structures. The company’s latest performance, ‘Fluid Infinities’, sees spellbinding sequences performed around an awe-inspiring orb, at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica on 1 and 2 May. Calling all film buffs… Grab your tickets for the Sunset Film Festival, on 16 and 17 May, at venues across LA (see website for full details). Showcasing a variety of short and feature-length movies from up-and-coming film-makers, this is a must for serious cinephiles. Legendary ‘Jazz Singer’, Neil Diamond, will be taking to the stage of the iconic Hollywood Bowl on 19 May, belting out material from his latest album Melody Road, along with such classics as America and Sweet Caroline. Then stop by Marina del Rey Farmers’ Market on 21 May to peruse handcrafted jewellery and clothing, along with delicious organic foods.
Associated with movies, glitz and glamour, Hollywood and West Hollywood are a ‘must see’ for celebrity spotters and film fanatics. One of LA’s most popular neighbourhoods, this area is home to the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Immerse yourself in the world of movies and experience thrilling family attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood. Mingle with LA’s elite at trendy nightclubs on the Sunset Strip or shop until you drop on upscale Melrose Avenue. This desirable area offers some of the city’s finest hotels and provides a more affordable alternative to those found in nearby Beverly Hills.
You’ll be spoilt for choice with the wide range of fantastic beaches that LA has to offer. Back in the heyday of Route 66, Santa Monica was the end of the line. Now it is better known for the bustling Santa Monica Pier, with its illuminated Ferris wheel. Just south of Santa Monica, you’ll find the eclectic Venice Beach. Stroll along the boardwalk or embrace the bohemian vibe in the cafes, bars and galleries. Admire the exclusive houses along Malibu Beach or grab your surfboard and take to the waves at Huntington Beach.
Home to the world-famous zip code that is synonymous with wealth, status and celebrity. These uber-chic, ultra-posh and overly pricey neighbourhoods are home to many famous faces, including Madonna and George Clooney. Head to Rodeo Drive for designer shopping and small private boutiques. This area is popular with wealthy shoppers, sunglass-wearing celebrities and tourists hoping to see their fashion icons. Don't forget to look at the road itself; you'll spot some impressive and high-priced vehicles parked up.
Orange County is the ideal family destination. It’s home to an array of world-class theme parks, which include Disneyland Resort, Knott’s Berry Farm and Legoland. Downtown Disney has something for everyone, from restaurants to bespoke shops and an AMC movie theatre. Create your own unique toy car at Ride Makers. Block at Orange and GardenWalk offer plenty of opportunity for retail therapy, with arcades and bowling to keep the kids happy.
Downtown LA is home to the city’s premier red carpet venue, LA Live. This thriving entertainment complex is a great place for seeing a movie or grabbing a bite to eat. While Watercourt at California Plaza is a whimsical urban park with fountains – a popular location for films or music videos. If you hang out long enough, you’ll probably see someone filming something. In this area renowned for its cultural diversity, admire the striking architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall or watch baseball with the locals at the nearby Dodgers Stadium.
