The LA Opera at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on Grand Street in downtown LA is a must during the fall and holiday season when they have a solid lineup of opera and ballet. Very inspiring. 

Home to an incredibly programmed slate of classic, cult, and indie films, this little spot on Fairfax is a cinema-buff's paradise. Parking is a bit miserable, so park for free at Canter's Deli. Put a Hot Pastrami on Rye with Matzo Ball Soup down your neck, then just walk a couple blocks to the theater. Trust me, you'll need to walk a bit after that meal anyway. I've seen a number of special events here, including a screening of Fantastic Planet with sound and dialogue entirely performed by a live experimental orchestra, which made my list of top movie-going experiences ever! There's also a patio out back for intermissions, post-film receptions, barbecues and occasional outdoor-screenings where you can crack open an ice cold PBR or Tecate! Check their website for movie listings www.cinefamily.org

Small book store with really hard to find photography and art books. Love their collection of stuff as well as presentation.

One of my favorite things to do on weekends is to head to Grand Central Market for brunch, grab a few glasses of wine at the Oyster bar and then roam around downtown collecting pigeons. Over the past few years the market has been modernized and has become a really trendy spot, but it still retains aspects of what it was like decades ago. Some of my favorite stands are The Oyster Gourmet, Sarita's Pupuseria and the Belcampo Meat Co.

Vintage store off the beaten path, with good prices and cool decorations. Have found many good things here!