Los Angeles, The City of Angels
Currency: US Dollar
Language: English
Tax Refund: The United States of America does not have a national or federal sales tax system, which means that the government does not levy a sales tax. But instead each states have their own sales tax that is being levy to the resident and tourists. The sales tax varies. For example, Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon do not levy a sales tax, while California has the highest state sales tax rate at 7.5%.
One of the most popular place to shop, New York charge a 4.375% sales tax on all sales. However the city of New York waives the sales tax of 4% on all purchases of clothing and footwear if the item is under $110.
From Airport to the City
The flyaway bus runs directly from each terminal to various part in LA, some of the major places includes the Downtown Union Station, Hollywood and Santa Monica. They cost $8 per way.
The metro can be taken from the Aviation Station to various part in Los Angeles. To get to the Aviation Station from LAX you have to take the free bus shuttle “G” from the LAX Shuttle & Airline Connections sign on the Lower/Arrivals Level islands in front of each terminal. A ride on the metro cost $1.75. Taking the metro will take around 1hr.
Taxi cost around $72 and takes around 40 mins to reach Downtown, Uber and other private car services are much cheaper, costing around $40.
Attractions
Walk of Fame
One of the most famous attraction that is famed all over the world, it is located in Hollywood. Try your luck and find some of your favourite among the 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street. This place is located right in the streets and opens all day.
Hollywood Sign
The iconic sign that you definitely have to see for once when in Los Angeles. Some of the best photo spot will be from the Lake Hollywood Park, drive up on the surrounding routes and find the best photo spot. Some recommendation would be at 3000 Canyon Lake Drive or Griffin Park. One of the closest view and photo taking place would be 6018 Mulholland Hwy and Mr Lee Dr. After that take a hike up Mount Hollywood to enjoy the great air and the view of a clear day is amazing.
Hollywood
Besides the main streets of Hollywood which is perfect to stroll around, it is actually very crowded and touristy. The chances of meeting a celebrity are also very rare. Stroll around and enjoy the vibes. The place can be access by Vine or Highland Station.
Sunset Boulevard
The main road in Hollywood that stretch all the way to the pacific highway. The street on both side are lined by with numerous cafes and bars in Hollywood. It is pretty picture perfect with the people and the crowd. You definitely have to get one picture with the sign in the backdrop too.
Griffith Observatory
High up on the hills, this place is one of the most famous attractions in Los Angeles, a perfect time to go would be the early in the morning or in the evening during sunset timing. The view is impeccable. If you drove, parking is free here. Visitors can look through telescopes, explore exhibits. Admission to the building, grounds, and parking is always free, it is open from Tues to Fri from noon to 10pm and Sat and Sun from 10am. The surrounding parks offer a great view.
Santa Monica
A district that is very different from the rest of Los Angeles. Here it is more laid back and people try to surf and also enjoy the weather when it is good. The view and ocean is impeccable, you practically have the whole of Pacific Ocean to view. It is easily accessible with the metro with the station right in the heart of the area. Besides the pier and the shops the surrounding promenade also has numerous shops and restaurants. The place is perfect for pictures too.
Santa Monica Pier & Beach
A bustling boardwalk whose huge Ferris Wheel is the city’s icon. The long pier has an old-fashioned amusement park, with reasonable by-the-ride pricing, including a small roller coaster. The Pier has restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, and some street performers. At almost all hours you’ll find at least a few people fishing as well. The place has amazing coastal view. The beach is sandy and great too, take a stroll.
Union Station
An ornate opulent train station built in 1939 & still a major rail hub. The décor and interior of the station is worthy of a visit and there are a number of shops and eateries. The exterior white façade, palm trees are gorgeous and complement each other.
Grand Central Market
On South Broadway Street in a historical building, the Grand Central Market is a destination for food and games. There are numerous vendors there selling all sorts of food. It is also the city largest and oldest public market. It is open daily from 8am to 10pm. Some of the worthy visits are the Egg Slut stall.
Walt Disney Concert Hall
This iconic music hall and concert venue is built by Frank Gehry and it has a quirky exterior to it. Classical music performance are being show here, but the key idea is to admire its exterior. On most days there would also be complimentary tours of the place at noon and also 1.15pm, meeting place at the lobby.
LACMA’s Urban Light
A recent addition to the Los Angeles list of attractions. This is a sculpture made using recycled street lights, a total of 202. It is solar powered and in the night it is picture perfect. Visit it and snap some photos, you will not be left disappointed. It is a short walk from Korea Town.
Los Angeles Gun Club
1375 East 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021
They are open from 3pm to 11pm on Mon to Thurs and from 11am on Fri to Sun. The cost of shooting includes paying for the rental, ammunition and lane. It cost min 50 bucks for two people.
LAX Firing Range
927 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90301, USA
This firing range offers a large selection of rentals for customers to try. Typical cost is a setup fee of 2 dollars, range fee per hour, per person of 16 to 20 and rental cost of 15 for handgun or 22 for rifles. They are open from Mon to Sat from 11am to 10pm and till 6pm on Sun. It is cheaper here than the LAGC.
Universal Studios Hollywood
The one and original studios that you have to visit if you are ever here in Los Angeles. There is a dedicated metro station at the attraction here, Studio City Station, connected by the red line. It is one of the main attractions in LA. Tickets should be bought online and cost from 105 to 129 dollars. Park hour’s changes but are usually open from 9am to 9pm. The studio tour is a must go.
LA Lakers / LA Clippers @ Staples Center
Located in downtown, the Staples Center is a place for NBA games as well as concerts and other shows. Check their website to get the latest update. The highlight would definitely be watching one of the basketball matches here. Tickets can be bought online. Getting to the center is also easy with many public transport. Buy in advance for cheaper tickets.
The Late Late Show with James Corden
At the CBS Television City, this comedy talking show hosted by James Corden is a popular one. Best of all, tickets are free and may be apply at their website online. Check a couple weeks ahead to apply for tickets and this is also your chance to see some of the celebrities as special guests. Besides this there are also several shows that offers free tickets such as The Voice.
Shopping
Desert Hills Premium Factory Outlets
48400 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230, USA
Located about a two hour drive out of Los Angeles, it is one of the country best outlets shopping with renowned names like Coach, Gap and Nike. Expect to see savings up to 25% – 60% off market price. It is open daily from 10am till 9pm, 8pm on Sun.
Camarillo Premium Outlets
740 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010, USA
May seems to be a better option since it is located nearer to Los Angeles than Desert Hills. The selection is huge and they are open daily from 10am till 9pm and 8pm on Sunday. Your time will definitely be well spent here.
The Original Farmers Market
6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
One of the original farmers market in LA since 1934, it is a popular spot for tourists and the locals to get food from the gourmet grocers. There is plenty of food stalls and prepared food, so come hungry. It is open on Mon to Sat from 9pm till 9pm and reduced to 8pm on Sat. On Sun it is open from 10am to 7pm. Grab something to eat while browsing thru the various unique stalls, this is the way of life.
The Grove
Right next to the farmers market above, this place is a shopping mall with a gorgeous promenade. While you are probably not going to buy anything here, the important thing is to take a stroll here and enjoy the vibes. Either way, Topshop and gap have one of their largest stores here.
Ralphs Supermarket
645 W. 9th Street
One of the largest supermarkets in Downtown, this place is the perfect place to stock up on all the American goods. Try out the way of buying things in bulk. This particular supermarket is open daily from 5am to 2am.
Hollywood Farmers Market
1600 Ivar Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA
Right in the heart of Hollywood, this place is bustling on Sundays. The only day that it is open from 8am to 1pm. It is the time where stalls and vendors will line up on the street, selling fresh produce.
Grand Central Market
Right in Downtown it is super accessible and a great place to visit. It also has its roots since 1917. It’s not only a place to shop but to eat as well, with many of the stalls worth a try, Tacos and Thai food never goes wrong. But the one you really got to try is Eggslut. It is open from 8am to 10pm daily. There is even a free shuttle. Check out the McConnell ice cream.
Restaurants
IHOPs
800 S Flower St, Los Angeles, CA 90017, USA
The classic American diner for pancakes and breakfast, the chain restaurant is open 24 hours and widely available. If classic American fair is your thing, you should never miss out this place.
Howlin’ Ray’s
727 N Broadway #128, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
Known for being the place for the best fried chicken in the US. This counter serves up the best chicken waffles in the states. It is only open from Wed to Sun from 11am to 4pm. The chicken waffles however are only available on the weekends. You can also choose from 5 levels of spiciness.
The Original Pantry Café
877 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90017, USA
A casual diner since 1924, serving up simple American fair like pancakes or ham steak and eggs, the portions are huge. Furthermore it is open 24hr. This is the classic scene. The proximity to Staples Centre makes it crowded especially after shows.
101 Coffee Shop
6145 Franklin Ave, Hollywood, CA 90028, USA
One of the retro diner in Hollywood, it whips up classic American coffee shop eats. The price is fair. Breakfast is served all day, the popular choice would be the Mikey Fitz. The blackened catfish sandwich is a crowd favourite. Save a space for the 50/50 Shake made with orange sherbet and vanilla ice cream. This place was also used as a filming site for Swingers, Gilmore Girls and Entourage. It is open daily from 7am to 3am.
Swingers
8020 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
802 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA
This popular diner has two locations in Los Angeles, one near Hollywood another In Santa Monica. They offer free parking as well. Both location opens close to 24 hours. A short stack of pancakes is one of the diner’s best breakfast plates, made an even bigger accomplishment by the fact that they’re plain and not doused in whipped cream or slivers of fruit. The French toast is a dream, too.
The Nickel Diner
524 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
This is a cosy vintage style diner in Downtown that serves up version of comfort fare and creative dessert. It is also said to be one of the best diner in LA. Closed on Mon, it is open for lunch from 8am to 3.30pm and dinner from 6pm to 10pm. On Sun it is closed for dinner. This place is also advertised before on Diners, Drive In and Dives. The dinner selection is huge. The cakes are great too. Try the sample donuts.
Beer Belly
532 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020, USA
This place is casual and relaxing. It serves up simple grub with homemade brews. Their duck fat fries and duck confit are absolutely delicious. Prices are fair, the happy hour is from 3 to 7pm on weekdays. It is open daily from 11.30am till late.
Fish Time
310 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203, USA
Located in the Burbank area and near the zoo and also the Hollywood Sign, this place is famed for its grilled fish, sandwiches and also poke bowl. Prices are reasonable and they are open from 11am to 10pm daily. Many of their items are a must try such as the Lobster Roll, Shrimp & Crab Melt Sandwich.
The Pie Hole
714 Traction Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
6314 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
A couple of location spread out the city, this pie café is the best for resting your legs and indulging in some comfort pies. Their menu is vast, from savour to sweets creations. The earl grey tea pie is popular among customers. The price may be slightly pricey though. It is open from 11am to 7pm.
Kettle Glazed Doughnuts
6211 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA
A block away from Hollywood, this chic bakery is famous for their bakes, especially the Cronuts. While not as good as the original one in New York, theirs is also a good try. A single one cost 3.75, while hefty it is still worth for that bite. It is open from Mon to Sat 6am to 9pm and Sun from 7am to 7pm.
Cre8 Crepes
6654 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA
The best crepe store in Los Angeles, it allows you to customize and choose from an array of fruits, spreads, toppings, and treats. It is open from 11am till at night, with extended hours from Thur to Sun. it starts from 5 bucks for 4 toppings and you can add a scoop of ice cream for a buck.
CottonHi
3825 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90020, USA
In Ktown, this places serves up organic soft serve ice cream and candy flow but the speciality here would be the tiramisu which is top with salted caramel cotton candy and soft serve. It is open daily from 11am to 11pm, extended to 1am on Fri and Sat.
Seeing The World In Steps 