Tips for Los Angeles

Since July 2024 California law requires hotels and short-term rentals to show a price that includes mandatory fees, such as resort or destination fees, with only government taxes added later. Compare the total shown at the start rather than the base rate, and ask the front desk whether any charge is not included. If…

The Hollywood Roosevelt opened in May 1927 across from the Chinese Theatre, and the first Academy Awards ceremony was held in its Blossom Room in 1929. Staying here is a bit of film history: the Tropicana Pool has a David Hockney painting on its floor, and Marilyn Monroe was photographed around it early in her career…

Smorgasburg LA is an open-air food market at ROW DTLA that runs on most Sundays, with free entry and over 100 vendors serving local and international food. Arrive near opening to avoid lines, leave dogs at home since pets are not allowed, and use the free parking window for the first two hours. The market takes a few…

Each year in late October or early November, Hollywood Forever Cemetery hosts a large Dia de los Muertos celebration with altars by local artists, Aztec dancers, vendors and an outdoor film screening. It runs rain or shine. Bring cash, since some vendors may not take cards, and wear a costume or face paint, which…

The Troubadour opened in 1957 and still books live shows regularly, from small rising acts to the occasional surprise set by a big name. It sits just over the West Hollywood line, a short ride from Hollywood. Buy tickets only from the venue or its official ticketing partner, since the club says third-party sellers are…

The Hollywood Bowl lets you bring your own food, wine and beer to LA Phil concerts, with picnic areas around the grounds. Skip the traffic by taking the Metro B Line to Hollywood/Highland, then the Bowl shuttle from Orange Court, which is free with a Metro fare, or walk the mile uphill. Walking down after the show is…

The Last Bookstore fills a former bank building on Spring Street downtown with new and used books, records, local art and a coffee counter. Climb to the mezzanine for the famous tunnel of books, and look for the room of cheap used books. It also hosts readings and live music, so check the store site for current hours…

The Melrose Trading Post sets up every Sunday on the grounds of Fairfax High School, with about 260 local makers selling vintage clothes, handmade goods, furniture and art. Ticket sales fund arts education at the school, and there is live music and food on site. Go early for the best vintage finds, use the Genesee…