Los Angeles is a city that has captured the imaginations of dreamers worldwide for generations. With its stunning coastline, pleasant weather, and thriving arts and entertainment scene, it is no surprise that millions of tourists flock to the city every year.
For travelers who want to experience LA like a true local, we have a few key tips to keep in mind.
Embrace Your Inner Foodie
LA is a melting pot of cultures reflected in its diverse food offerings. From Korean barbecue to Mexican street tacos, LA offers something for every palate. To truly experience Los Angeles’s food scene like a local, you need to be willing to venture beyond the well-trodden tourist hotspots.
A fun way to explore LA’s food scene is to take a food tour. Many companies offer guided tours of LA’s most exciting neighborhoods, such as Downtown LA and Koreatown. These tours are a great way to discover hidden gems and learn about the history and culture behind the food.
Another way to experience the food scene like a local is to visit some of LA’s famous food trucks. LA is home to some of the world’s most innovative and exciting food trucks, serving everything from gourmet burgers to vegan tacos. Check out websites like Roaming Hunger or download the Street Food Finder app to find the best food trucks.
Get Outdoors
One of LA’s best features is its mild climate. This makes it a perfect city for outdoor activities, and locals take full advantage of the year-round sunshine. To experience LA like a local, you should explore some of the city’s stunning natural scenery outdoors.
A beloved way to experience the outdoors is to hike in the Santa Monica Mountains. The Santa Monica Mountains offer miles of hiking trails with breathtaking city and ocean views. Popular hikes include Runyon Canyon and Solstice Canyon.
Another must-do outdoor activity is visiting the Griffith Observatory. The Griffith Observatory is located in Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The observatory offers stunning views of the city and the night sky and is a popular spot for stargazing.
Attend Local Events
LA is a city that is always buzzing with activity, and there are always exciting events happening around town.
One popular event is the LA County Fair, which occurs every September at the Fairplex in Pomona. The LA County Fair is one of the country’s largest and most popular fairs, offering everything from carnival rides to live entertainment to a wide variety of food.
Another popular event is the Rose Parade, which takes place every New Year’s Day in Pasadena. The Rose Parade is a beloved LA tradition, featuring elaborate floats decorated with flowers and other natural materials.
Some Helpful Travel Tips
Because LA is such a big city to explore, visiting can be challenging if you’re unprepared. Thankfully, we have a few tips to help make your trip a bit easier.
Luggage Storage
Storing their luggage at LAX may be convenient for travelers who want to experience Los Angeles like a true local. Many travelers are trying to make the most of long layovers or arrive early in the morning before they can check in to their hotels, making it difficult to explore the city with their luggage in tow.
Fortunately, luggage storage facilities are available throughout the airport. These facilities provide safe and secure storage for travelers’ bags, suitcases, and other personal items for a fee.
Travelers can easily locate the luggage storage facilities by asking an airport staff member or checking the airport’s website for more information. By taking advantage of these services, travelers can explore LA like true locals without the hassle of carrying their luggage around with them.
Get a Car
Renting a car is another great way to experience Los Angeles like a local. LA is a sprawling city, and having a car can make exploring all the city has to offer easier.
Several car rental companies are located at LAX, making it easy for travelers to rent a car as soon as they arrive. Additionally, many hotels in the city also offer car rental services, which can be a convenient option for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the airport.
Soak Up the Sun!
LA is a city that has something for everyone. Still, to experience the City of Angels like a true local, you must be willing to step off the beaten path. By embracing the food scene, getting outdoors, and attending local events, you can experience the city in a way that few tourists ever do.
So, the next time you visit LA, remember these tips and get ready to experience the city like a real Angelino.
