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Let the Fun Begin500+ Pages of Things to DoYour Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles!
Last Updated: February 16, 2026
Westsidelosangeles.com was created from a simple belief: life is meant to be lived out loud. Growing up in Los Angeles, I fell in love with the idea that you could stand on the sand in the morning and be skiing in the mountains by afternoon — that in one extraordinary day you could experience the very best of what life has to offer. Beyond the iconic coastline and sunshine, the Westside is filled with incredible restaurants tucked into quiet corners, unforgettable live music in intimate venues, inspiring museums, breathtaking waterfall hikes, beach bike paths, and neighborhoods full of character and possibility. So many of these gems aren’t really hidden — they’re simply waiting to be noticed. These 500 pages are my way of opening the door and saying, “Look around.” There is beauty here. There is culture here. There is adventure here. Take the time. Explore it. Share it. Seize it. And most of all, enjoy your life while you’re living it. - Cheryl Travis
Few cities celebrate creativity like Los Angeles, a place that leads the nation in the number of museums and theaters while fueling a constantly evolving music and gallery scene. Cultural landmarks such as The Broad in Downtown L.A., the hilltop Getty Center in Brentwood, and LACMA along Museum Row anchor the city’s art world, while spaces like the Underground Museum in West Adams push boundaries with innovative film programming. Music lovers can experience the power of the LA Philharmonic inside the architectural marvel of Walt Disney Concert Hall or enjoy open-air performances at the Hollywood Bowl, picnic blanket included. Wander a neighborhood art walk, explore the Arts District’s bold street murals, or stumble upon live painting and performance—whether it’s books, film, opera, or experimental art, Los Angeles expresses creativity with confidence, diversity, and unmistakable flair.
Our curated event listings help you discover everything from family-friendly theater to cutting-edge LGBTQ performances, Latin music festivals, and magic shows that'll leave you wondering how they did it.
Explore: Ballet • Classical Music • Comedy • Concerts • Family Entertainment • Jazz • Latin Events • LGBTQ Events • Magic Shows • Musicals • Opera • Plays
Each LA neighborhood has its own personality, and knowing where to go makes all the difference. Our detailed visitor guides break down what makes each area special—where to eat, what to see, and the hidden spots most tourists miss.
Coastal Communities: Start your morning in Santa Monica with coffee on the pier, spend afternoon browsing Venice's Abbot Kinney Boulevard, then watch the sunset from Malibu's El Matador Beach. The South Bay trio of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach offers a more laid-back beach town vibe with excellent restaurants and bars.
Westside Neighborhoods: Beverly Hills isn't just about Rodeo Drive shopping—though that's worth a visit. Nearby Brentwood offers upscale dining and boutiques without the tourist crowds, while Century City has transformed into a modern urban center. West Hollywood pulses with nightlife and celebrity-frequented restaurants, and Pacific Palisades provides a quieter escape with stunning coastal views.
Iconic LA: Hollywood still delivers the classic LA experience—walk the Walk of Fame, catch a show at the Hollywood Bowl, or hike up to the Hollywood Sign. Westwood, home to UCLA, blends college-town energy with Persian restaurants and the historic Westwood Village.
Explore Guides For: Beverly Hills • Brentwood • Century City • Hollywood • Malibu • Manhattan Beach • Hermosa Beach • Redondo Beach • Marina del Rey • Pacific Palisades • Santa Monica • Venice • West Hollywood • Westwood • Beverly Grove
Los Angeles offers an abundance of stunning outdoor destinations perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From picturesque beaches like Venice and Malibu, to the city’s most beautiful parks, such as Griffith Park and Runyon Canyon, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Take a scenic hike with breathtaking ocean views on the iconic Los Liones or Point Dume Trails, or explore epic waterfall hikes like the famed Eaton Canyon. For surfing enthusiasts, LA's top surf spots, including Zuma Beach and Huntington Beach, provide world-class waves. Rock formation hikes, such as those at Vasquez Rocks, offer dramatic landscapes, while charming reservoirs like Echo Park Lake provide tranquil spots for picnics and boat rides. Cyclists can enjoy scenic beach bike paths along the coast, while beach volleyball players can find some of the best courts in Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach. With so many outdoor activities to explore, LA’s natural beauty is endless.
