The Magic Castle is a nightclub for magicians and magic enthusiasts, as well as the clubhouse for the Academy of Magical Arts. It bills itself as "the most unusual private club in the world." A typical evening features several close up magic and stage illusions. Formal dress is strictly enforced and you must either be a member or be invited by a magician. The lobby of the Castle has no visible doors to the interior, and visitors must say a secret phrase to a sculpture of an owl to gain access, exposing the entrance to the club. What I enjoy most is walking through the corridors and staring at the posters and photographs of the history of magic.

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

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.

The Smell is a non-profit, all-ages music venue who's run the gamut of completely rad and completely shitty acts, but is doubtlessly an interesting and worthy place to use up a pair of earplugs. After all, it's not everyday you see a dude shred his fucking face apart playing an amplified shard of glass! The Smell is a little difficult to find, but when you hit the dark alley in which it resides -- and which every fiber of your being tells you will be host to your mugging -- just clutch your purse, keep your chin up and head straight down until you run into a grip of hipsters in a haze of smoke, donning asymmetrical haircuts, and one-too-many animal prints, and you're there! It's alcohol-free, so make sure you either drink before you arrive, or head out between acts to one of a couple local bars to sauce up!

For dreaming.