One of my favorite local record stores. They stock over 15,000-20,000 LP’s and 12" singles and have a great selection. I usually stick to the left side of the shop where soul, disco, and international records are.

If you make it to the top, you can get an incredible 360 degree view of practically all of Los Angeles. Below you to the South is Hollywood, and beyond that, on a clear day, you can see over a hundred miles of mini malls all the way to Mexico. To the West on your right go the hills until they turn into mountains and meet the Pacific Ocean. Behind you to the North stretches the entire San Fernando Valley, above which stand the gorgeous San Gabriel mountains. To the East the mountains eventually disappear above hundreds of miles of urban sprawl, and beyond that is the dessert.

Located less than one mile from my home in downtown, this is the best cafe in the area. It is nestled in a corridor between two buildings on a brick path with beautiful outside seating — quite the hideaway. They have the best prosciutto sandwich and the coffee is delicious.

Only about 45 minutes from Los Angeles, this is a great quick campground for a one night escape from the city.

Private and romantic