Los Angeles might be the City of Angels, but it’s also the city of influencers, beach culture, art, food, and much, much more. After all, there’s a reason why everyone started penning goodbye letters to New York and making their way west. Under the palm trees and the Hollywood sign, the expansive city can be a little overwhelming. To narrow down your itinerary to the very best L.A. has to offer, here’s our guide for what to see, where to eat (and drink), and where to catch some Zzzs.
What to See
Dioriviera Pop-Up at The Beverly Hills Hotel
What’s better than a hotel pool? A hotel pool that’s been taken over by Dior, that’s what. For the second year in a row, the French house has teamed up with The Beverly Hills Hotel to launch its Dioriviera capsule collection, complete with toile de Jouy décor in bright coral and a spa residency, in case you want to the feeling of relaxation to continue.
LACMA
The art scene in this city right now is unparalleled, and the number of must-see exhibits is never-ending. But if you want a one-stop-shop, head over to the LACMA, where you can see “ED RUSCHA / NOW THEN,” an exhibition of the artist’s photographs of L.A. streets.
Angeles National Forest
Debating whether Runyon Canyon is an actual hike or a walk with a slight incline is all too common in these parts. Actually going on a hike will make you legit. The number of trails are endless, but if you have time for a day trip, head over to Angeles National Forest to breathe in some fresh air.
Bala Bangles 1 lb. Weighted Bangles
Athletic Propulsion Labs Women’s Streamline
Where to Eat
Stella
Ever since Beyoncé and Jay-Z paid a visit, Stella has become the new go-to spot for traditional Italian cuisine using local California ingredients. We recommend the big three: pizza, pasta, and princess cake (with a side of soft-serve gelato for good measure).
The Benjamin
If Cheers was a restaurant, it would be branded as The Benjamin. The just-opened Hollywood hangout developed by Ben Shenassafar, Jared Meisler, and Kate Burr aims to bring a little New York hospitality to the West Coast with thoughtful riffs on classic American dishes (think: shrimp cocktail served with crispy shrimp heads and a “Cookies & Cream” dessert featuring house-made whip).
Leora
When in L.A., do as the Angelenos do: eat seasonal fare plucked from the city’s famous (celeb-frequented) farmer’s markets. Leora, an all-day café cleverly hidden in the offices of United Talent Agency on Civic Drive, serves up a fresh new menu every day. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio and don’t skip the matcha.
Jennifer Fisher Mini Samira Hoops
Where to Drink
Bar Funke
For drinks with a view and an almost guaranteed celebrity sighting, head to Bar Funke. The rooftop venue atop Funke—chef Evan Funke’s eponymous restaurant with a cult following—offers a lush outdoor space that looks over all of Beverly Hills.
Delilah
This swanky club does not have general admission, so if you’re lucky enough to squeeze inside with a reservation, don’t miss the opportunity. The ultra-exclusive, celebrity-loved bar and restaurant has drawn attendees the likes of Zoë Kravitz, Drake, the Biebers, and the Jenners, so splurge here for night of cocktails and dancing.
The Dresden
The Dresden is an L.A. institution, but not necessarily for its steak dinners and killer cocktails. Yes, this iconic Los Feliz landmark is rumored to be haunted. And yes, it has been featured in films such as Swingers. But the real draw is to catch lounge singers Marty and Elayne on jazz night. The ’50s lounge will set you back in time.
Brandon Blackwood Arlen Bag
Cult Gaia Zadie Leather Wrap Sandals
Where to Stay
Sunset Tower Hotel
Located right smack in the center of West Hollywood, The Sunset Tower has all the trappings of a warm-weather home away from home: a scenic pool, lively bar scene, gym, and desserts delivered nightly to your door. You’ll never have to leave—or even want to.
Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
Enjoy the finer things in life at the Four Seasons. Check out its lauded Wellness Rooms in particular—an entire floor dedicated to making guests feel like their best and absolute bougiest. Bonus amenities include in-room Alo Yoga equipment, hypoallergenic wood floors, air and water purifiers, and “energizing light to help regulate circadian rhythm.” You’re in L.A., after all. Soak it in.
Oceana Santa Monica
If you want to live like a true Californian, and specifically one that enjoys relaxing ocean views and SoCal vibes, head over to Santa Monica. Specifically, book a night at Oceana. Consider it a cure to your mid-winter blues, complete with spacious suites, a sunset terrace lounge, a heated pool, Peloton equipment, and Bottega Veneta toiletries.
Garrett Leight Navarre Sun Sunglasses
Frankies Bikinis Mila Plissé One Piece Swimsuit
Beauty Picks
YSE Beauty The Overachiever Brightening Eye Masks
Jet lag, be damned. YSE Beauty’s eye masks instantly cool your eyes from the Cali heat and are made with a special no-slip, hydrogel technology to ensure they stay put. Say goodbye to dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines.
Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer And Volumizer Hot Air Brush
Beach waves are essential as soon as you touch down at LAX. Get the look with Revlon’s cult-favorite hot air brush, which gives you bouncy, effortless curls at a very affordable price.
Dior Lip Glow Oil
Who needs fillers when you have this influencer-loved lip oil? (Or, you know, do both.)
