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. 

Authentic Korean BBQ in Koreatown. Delicious meats and big variety of mushrooms, interestingly good fried rice, metal chopsticks, and a buzzer you can press to alert the waiter.

The best ramen I had in LA, maybe anywhere. Even my food-critical son loved it.

You have to cross this bridge when you're driving to downtown from East LA. It gives you an amazing view on the River, old industrial buildings and the high rises of downtown Los Angeles. Remember that famous scene from Grease? This is the place. I'm still trying to figure out how to get my car in here.

A secret gem hidden in LA. This park has stunning views of downtown, a waterfall, and plenty of space for a picnic under the many trees in the grassy field.