The Best Summer Pop-Ups in L.A.

There are so many fun activities to do during the summer in L.A. From trips to the beach to backyard BBQ’s the options are endless. One of our favorite things to do in town is just as limited as summer. Meaning you’d better hurry. That’s right, we’re talking about L.A.’s best summer Pop-Ups! With the craze of last years Museum of Ice Cream why would we not be? Check out the list below of all the short-term pop-ups in town! Your Instagram will thank you.

Location: TBD

is a Harry Potter-themed pop-up bar that is combining magic and mixology in a 90-minute experience. Upon entry, you’ll be given a robe and wand so that you can truly immerse yourself into Hogwarts as you experiment in the ancient art of “potion-making”. Admission to this enchanting adventure includes a tasty hot mead and a boozy potion you’ll be concocting; additional drinks and food can be purchased at the bar. Currently there’s only a waiting list to be notified when this event becomes available, but you can sign up there now.

Location: DTLA

Refinery29’s signature pop-up experience features 29 individual rooms curated around the theme of “Turn It Into Art.” Created through a collaboration between the digital media company and global artists, pop-up guests can expect to find a funhouse of exhibits that blend fashion, art, and pop culture. Though the LA location closed in December 2017, the pop-up is opening in San Francisco June 21-24, and will hopefully be back to LA after that!

Location: DTLA

The Museum of Ice Cream was the pop-up that started a revolution, the OG installation that drove the social media world wild with its photogenic pink exhibits, rooms filled with sprinkles and ice cream samples. The museum now has additional locations in San Francisco and Miami. The LA location is currently relocating but should be back up and running soon.

Location: Glendale

Sure, each of these pop-ups is made for Instagram—but this Glendale installation isn’t just about getting that perfect shot but getting the shot yourself! Everyone loves selfies, but most don’t realize that the history of the self-taken photo goes back 40,000 years. At this interactive museum, attendees will learn about the origin of the selfie through the lens of art, history, technology, and culture, all while taking some of their own.

Location: 468 North Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills

An immersive journey through the Fashion House’s 160-year history of creative artistic collaborations. Discover over 180 items from Louis Vuitton’s archives and shop the 2nd floor pop-up shop for an exclusive product offering. The exhibit will also highlight the brand’s collaborations, featuring a variety of objects, accessories and ready-to-wear pieces by Marc Jacobs, Kim Jones, Nicolas Ghesquière, and Virgil Abloh. The Louis Vuitton X pop-up will be running until September 15th.

Location: 6751 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028

The Museum of Illusions has just announced their newest addition to their line-up of interactive installations, The Upside Down House. These exhibits feature fun rooms to explore and snap cool pictures.

Location: 8500 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048

Intended to break limitation of physical media, Museum of Dream Space provides the freedom to explore art inspired by designer, Yayoi Kusama. This immersive art experience is one of the first to display digital art in the United States.

Location: 400 S. Baldwin, Arcadia, CA 91007

This walk-through toyland will have families and young adults feel like they’re a kid again. Get lost in this instagrammable, emporium that contains over 24 large art installations weaved into a giant maze.

Location: 708 N. Croft Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90069

Founder Biubiu Xu created a shareable, multi-sensory experience for friends and family. This egg-themed pop-up is filled with multiple rooms of interactive experiences and immersive installations.

Location: 2020 E. 7th, Los Angeles, CA 90021

This pet-themed interactive aims to drive awareness for animal homelessness and empower pet adoption agencies. In addition to the photo-worthy art installations and immersive exhibits, PetPOP has partnered with animal organizations to host on-site adoptions for puppies in need.

LA Eats: Best Brunch Spots

The best part of summer on the weekend is finding the perfect brunch spot. With so many options in L.A, we decided to cut the culinary clutter. Read below for our pick of the best brunch spots to try throughout the city and treat yourself to a Mimosa…or two!

  1. Hippo – 5916 ½ N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90042

For those with gluten-free diets, Hippo is the place to be! Enjoy meals from buttermilk hotcakes to pasta and fresh spaghetti, you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.

https://www.hipporestaurant.com/

  1. Otoño – 5715 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90042

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can indulge in tapas for brunch Saturdays and Sundays at Otoño. The Catalonia-inspired menu contains savory dishes like scrambled eggs with tetilla cheese and chives, pan de la casa and more!

https://www.otonorestaurant.com/

  1. Audrey at the Hammer – 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90024

This brunch menu contains a nice balance of light and hearty dishes created by Chef Lisa Giffen. Meals include braised pork with beans for meat lovers and coconut chia bowls with passionfruit for non-meat lovers.

https://www.audreyatthehammer.com/

  1. Golden Bull Restaurant – 170 W. Channel Rd, Santa Monica, CA 90402

If you are looking for an ideal beach day in Malibu, then Golden Bull’s classic steakhouse is the perfect place for brunch! Their menu serves everything from buttermilk pancakes and ribeye steak hash to bottomless bright orange mimosas that go perfectly with each meal.

https://goldenbullsantamonica.com/

  1. Comfort LA Inglewood – 902 N. La Brea Ave., Inglewood, CA 90302

With just one item on the menu, Comfort LA makes it easy for you to select your meal. Their Brunch Special includes two waffles and five wings with the option to add additional syrup and waffles for a nominal fee.

https://www.eatcomfortla.com/

  1. Alta – 5359 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016

Chef Keith Corbin has something for everyone on his California-soul menu. Pair dishes like steak and eggs, cornmeal pancakes and avocado toast with bottomless mimosas for $20.

https://www.altaadams.com/

  1. Petty Cash Taqueria & Bar – 7360 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

On Saturdays and Sundays, expect a Mexican-inflected fare from chefs Margarita and Walter Manke from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy some champurrado with chocolate and hazelnut with chilaquiles and black beans, a Mexican breakfast sandwich or several taco variations from their menu.

https://pettycashtaqueria.com/

  1. Alimento – 1710 Silver Lake Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026

After only serving dinner for five years, Alimento has expanded their menu to serve brunch! Try some of their crowd-pleasing sweets such as ricotta doughnut holes, breakfast sandwiches and French toast. You won’t be disappointed!

http://www.alimentola.com/

  1. Los Balcones Studio City – 11334 Moorpark St., Studio City, CA 91602

The Los Balcones team and chef Ricardo Zarate add an artful mash-up of traditional brunch classics with Peruvian flavors. Choose between Tiger prawns with scrambled eggs and a Chile relleno-stuffed breakfast burrito from their brunch menu.

https://losbalconesstudiocity.com/

  1. Here’s Looking At You – 3901 W. 6th, Los Angeles, CA 90020

This Koreatown hotspot has become one of the most innovative brunch spots in town. Chef Jonathan Whitener’s menu ranges from smoked salmon roe and herbs to cocktail offerings that are worth trying!

https://www.hereslookingatyoula.com/

Weekend Events: July 12-14

The weekend is upon us and there is no better time to venture out into the yonder of LA. We’re not talking about taking a hike through Malibu Creek…although that’s an option. We have a weekend round-up to get you out into the city and enjoying the best moments of summer. So skip the regular routine and discover your inner Angeleno!

Friday, July 12

Summer Movie Nights: The Karate Kid

Location: Brand Park, Mission Hills

Mark your calendars: summer movie nights are back in the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Bring your family, friends, and pack a picnic for a movie night under the stars. All movie screenings begin at 7:30 PM. Popcorn will be provided.

Click here for more info.

Musical Theatre West presents DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID

Location: Carpenter Performing Arts Center, Long Beach

Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages.  With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken this fishy fable will capture your heart. Moreover, enjoy hit songs like “Under the Sea”, “Kiss the Girl” and “Part of Your World”.  Certainly it will be entertainment for the whole family!

Click here for more info.

Cyndi Lauper

Location: The Hollywood Bowl

Her iconic voice, punk glamour, and infectious female strength catapulted her to stardom. Groundbreaking Grammy®, Emmy®, and Tony® Award–winning songwriter and performing artist Cyndi Lauper rocks the stage joined by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and conductor Thomas Wilkins.

Click here for more info.

Saturday, July 13

Hip Hop Fundamentals

Location: Skirball Cultural Center

Get down with Hip Hop Fundamentals, an award-winning team of diverse professional breakdancers dedicated to hip-hop education. As a result through their drive to inspire audiences and participants of all ages, they will present their The Principles of Hip Hop show. Don’t miss this exploration of hip-hop’s rich cultural history and how underserved inner-city youth have changed the world!

Click here for more info.

Queen Mary’s Rock the Queen

Location: The Queen Mary, Long Beach

Take to the Queen Mary this Saturday for an unforgettable flash back evening to the British Invasion of the 1960’s and 1980’s. Hope aboard aboard as some of SoCal’s best British tribute bands rock the night away. Most importantly, revel in performances from The Who Generation, Britain’s Finest, Arena, These Handsome Devils, and The Cured.

Click here for more info.

Paul McCartney: Freshen Up U.S. Tour

Location: Dodger Stadium

Needing no introduction, don’t miss Sir Paul McCartney at the home of the boys in blue this weekend only! Debuting a brand new production, is an unforgettable experience from every seat in the house. The Beatles frontman will showcase a selection of the best songs ever written or performed Paul McCartney. Moreover is a show that promises a once in a lifetime evening transcending and elevating the potential of live music.

Click here for more info.

Sunday, July 14

California Philharmonic Presents ‘Bastille Day’

Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall

Francophiles will cheer “Vive la France” when the California Philharmonic Orchestra presents its “Bastille Day”. A symphony of french sound, the Bastille Day concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall is sure to be magnifique!

Click here for more info.

Kids Summer Movie Series: Charlie & The Chocolate Factory

Location: The Wiltern, Los Angeles

Enjoy a special screening of the Tim Burton reimagined Roald Dahl tale, Charlie & The Chocolate Factory! Watch the story of young Charlie Bucket as he wins a fantastical opportunity to enter the magical but mysterious factory of candy maker Willy Wonka. Come early and upgrade to our *Kid Party prior to screening! There will be photo opps, face painting, bounce house, carnival games & more fun surprises!

Click here for more info.

Festival of Arts Family Art Day

Location: Festival of Arts Grounds

“Family Art Day” at the Festival of Arts is the most fun-filled, art-filled and enchantment-filled day of the entire summer for families! Enjoy a special performance by the award-winning Le PeTiT CiRqUe, America’s only all-kid cirque company. Limited space available. Children 5 and under receive free admission all summer long to the Festival of Arts.

Click here for more info.

LA Eats: July 4th Recipes

We know what you’re thinking. It’s not quite L.A. Eats if you have to DIY. Here in the city of stars, if you’re not partaking in the usual revelry, an at home fete is the most ideal. We know there are plenty of day parties from The Bungalow to The W. But if you prefer your own Independence Day celebration, we have you covered. Not on your own attempt at bunting (good luck), but as the Chef de Cuisine of your home. So read on for our round-up of what to dish out July 4th, you’ve got a week to prep your red, white, and blue spread.

 

  • Gina’s Orzo Salad

If you are looking for a quick and easy centerpiece for your picnic this summer, you might want to try Gina’s Orzo Salad recipe!

Click here for the recipe.

  • Easy Peach Cobbler

Those who love peach cobbler but don’t know how to make it will fall in love with this simple recipe!

Click here for the recipe.

  • American Flag Caprese Salad

Create an American flag centerpiece using fresh mozzarella, purple potatoes and tomatoes.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Grilled Corn with Lime Butter

If you enjoy corn from places like the LA County Fair or Knott’s Berry Farm, then you’ll love this delicious recipe that is simple to create.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Old Bay Shrimp

You’ll want to try this five-minute flavorful shrimp seasoning recipe that allows you to explore herbs and spices!

Click here for the recipe.

  •  Citrus-Spangled Spritzer

Backyard barbecues just got a star-spangled makeover with this patriotic citrus spritzer. Vibrant red, white and blue hues make it stand out from other 4th of July cocktails. Simply layer ingredients for a striking drink that will please any crowd, even in summer heat.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Red, White and Blue Wine Spritzer

White wine spritzers are a classic summer beverage for a reason. Add some blue and red and you’ve got yourself a killer cocktail for America’s birthday.

Click here for the recipe.

  •  Snow Cone Drinks

This drink is equal parts nostalgia and party-in-a-glass. Slightly on the sweeter side, we wouldn’t have too many or you made need an extra day off on the 5th.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Popsicle Cocktails

Stock up on popsicles and bubbly so you can enjoy this effortless, celebratory drink at a moment’s notice.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Firecracker Jell-O Cups

Who knew patriotism could fit into such a small cup? Add some vodka to each layer to turn the kid-friendly snack into a grown-ups-only shot.

Click here for the recipe.

Out and About: July 4 Fireworks Celebrations

July 4th is almost here! While this years celebration of independence doesn’t fall on a weekend, there’s still plenty of fireworks to see. Per usual we have happily rounded up all the best places in and around L.A. to catch your sparkly show. So read on for a July 4th Edition of Out and About and ditch the at home sparklers and firework set.

Cinespia Presents E.T. + Fireworks

Location: Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90038

Enjoy the Steven Spielberg classic film E.T. with a special showing on the 4th of July at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Families will also be treated to a fireworks show! Pack a picnic or take advantage of the concession stands on-site. Gates open at 7:15 pm. Tickets are available online.

More info.

Grand Park

Location: 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Downtown’s free Fourth of July block party is back for another year, with live music and more than 40 food trucks kicking the day off at 3 p.m. before fireworks begin at 9 p.m.

More info.

Rose Bowl Stadium

Location: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena, CA 91103

For sheer patriotism, try the Rose Bowl’s annual AmericaFest event (somewhat ironically sponsored by Japanese automaker Honda). The all-day event features food, live music, motorcycle stunts, a Michael Jackson tribute, and, of course, fireworks. Ride the Gold Line and take the free shuttle to avoid the parking lot.

More info.

The Hollywood Bowl

Location: 2301 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90068

At the Hollywood Bowl, you’ll get three chances to celebrate Independence Day. The venue is hosting evening performances on July 2, 3, and 4 followed by a fireworks display. This year, the LA Philharmonic will be joined by ’80s girl group The Go-Gos. If you’re not interested in the music, just head to the Hollywood Bowl Overlook for views of the fireworks.

More info.

The Queen Mary

Location: 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, CA 90802

An English ocean liner might seem like an odd place to celebrate American independence, but those looking for an up-close view of a great fireworks show could do far worse than the Queen Mary’s Fourth of July festivities. Tickets start at $44. If that’s too much, the fireworks can be easily seen from nearby Alamitos Beach.

More info.

Griffith Observatory

Location: 2800 E Observatory Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027

Will it be a crowded mess? Of course! But the views are worth it. The DASH shuttle runs until 10 p.m., and parking is otherwise $4 per hour, but you could always ditch the car and hike there, too.

More info.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

Universal Studios Hollywood lights up the night sky with its first-ever July 4th fireworks celebration, inviting guests to enjoy a spectacular aerial display that will take place in multiple locations within the theme park. As the spirit of Independence Day sweeps across the theme park, guests can toast the day by enjoying the theme park’s many popular rides and attractions, before the festive pyrotechnics extravaganza, synchronized to a score of Universal-themed music and patriotic favorites, beginning at 9:30pm.

More info.

ExpositionPark

Location: 700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles, CA

Exposition Park hosts a day of free family fun in honor of our country’s birthday. The fun begins at 11:00 am and features “live music, delectable food and activities for the entire family at this picnic style event.” Fireworks begin at dusk (about 9:00 pm). Parking information is available online; however, since parking is so limited families are encouraged to Go Metro.

More info.

Starlight Bowl

Location: 1249 Lockheed View Dr., Burbank, CA 91501

Enjoy a performance by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy at the Starlight Bowl. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has been making music for over 25 years and is ready to get you up and dancing on the 4th of July! Parking opens at 4:30 pm, gates open at 5:30 pm, and the concert begins at 6:30 pm. Buy your tickets early to ensure good seats for the musical show as well as the fireworks! Tickets are available online.

More info.

Warner Ranch Park

Location: 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Councilman Bob Blumenfield’s July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza is happening from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Enjoy a free concert and 15-minute fireworks display. Local restaurants and arts and crafts vendors will be selling their goods as well. The event is free, and parking fees serve as a donation to the Valley Cultural Foundation.

More info.

Weekend Events: June 28-June 30

The weekend is here and so is your list of fun things to do! With so many activities to chose from in and around L.A., there’s no excuse to not venture out. Ditch your mundane routine and check out all that the city of stars has to offer this weekend!

Discover Your Inner Angeleno!

Friday, June 28

Game Changers Outdoor Theatre 

Location: Ford Theatre, Hollywood

 The Game Changers Outdoor Movie Screening Series will showcase four-nights of groundbreaking cinema and television underneath the stars. Presented by the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, the goal of the series is to showcase media that has impacted diversity and narrative storytelling in monumental ways. The weekend will open with Boyz N The Hood, followed by Toy Story, Stranger Things 3 and Thelma and Louise.

Click here for more info.

Dance DTLA

Location: The Music Center, DTLA

Featuring live music and/or DJs, Dance DTLA is paired alongside expert dance instructors who will be providing beginner group dance lessons for attendees. Each night has a different dance theme. The series continues with a Bachata theme on the Grand Park Performance Lawn. Dance DTLA continues on select Fridays through August 30.

Click here for more info.

Louis Vuitton X

Location: Louis Vuitton, Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills

Louis Vuitton’s latest art exhibition titled “Louis Vuitton X” will have the fashion house digging into their archives to reveal the brand’s most notable collaborations throughout the years. From Karl Lagerfeld, Rei Kawakubo, Yayoi Kusama to Richard Prince, fans of Louis Vuitton will have a chance to view over 180 items including creations dating back to the early twentieth-century. “Louis Vuitton X” will be on view from June 28 to September 15.

Click here for more info.

Saturday, June 29

Stranger Things Carnival

Location: Pacific Park, Santa Monica Pier

A Stranger Things-themed Carnival lands at Santa Monica Pier June 29-30 where Pacific Park will be made over as the fictional town Hawkins where the show is based. Highlights at this free carnival include games, 80s cover bands, eating contests, magicians, a Scoops Ahoy ice cream truck and a green-n-gooey dunking booth.

Click here for more info.

Garden Party at the Norton Museum

Location: Norton Simon Museum

The Norton Simon Museum will host a summer garden party soirée during magic hour on June 29. There will be sounds and sights in the Sculpture Garden inspired by Monet’s Giverny plus live music, refreshments and art-making activities for all ages. The event is free with the cost of museum admission. Museum admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and free for children under 18, students with I.D., and museum members.

Click here for more info.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Concert

Location: The Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl presents Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Concert. Watch as Harry and his friends battle the Dark Lords forces right under the stars with a live performance of the original score by the orchestra will sitting in one of the best amphitheaters in the United States.

Click here for more info.

Sunday, June 30

One City One Pride LGBTQ Arts Festival

Location: West Hollywood City Council Chambers, Weho

One City One Pride LGBTQ Arts Festival is a 40-day celebration through mostly free art events and exhibits between May 22 through June 30. This Sunday will be centered around a day of art with poetry pop-ups, readings, performances, panels.

Click here for more info.

SAMJAM Block Party

Location: Venice

SAMJAM Venice Block Party is one of the largest music events on the Westside of Los Angeles, focused on music, art, community, and charity. Food trucks, drinks, live art, and fun games round out this popular annual event.

Click here for more info.

St. Andrews Community Music Festival

Location: St. Andrews Park

The Annual Jazz At St. Andrews Park is a free event with live musical performances, a children’s village, dancing, food trucks and a vendor village.

Click here for more info.

Out & About: Summer Family Fun

Summer is finally here! To kick things off right, why not opt for LA’s essential summer fun? Whether it’s a family affair or a few friends, we have rounded up the city’s best that are fit for all to enjoy! Read on for the top ten activities throughout L.A. to add to your bucket list this summer!! Spend some time Out and About!

 

  1. OC Fair & Event Center: 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

July 12 – Aug 11, 2019

The annual fair is coming back to town! Don’t miss the food, entertainment, rides and more this summer at the OC Fair.

https://ocfair.com/

 

  1. Kidspace Children’s Museum: 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena 91103

Bring your kids to this museum where they can explore their creativity through fun activities and workshops! You’ll leave Kidspace with new knowledge and a fresh perspective on nature.

https://www.kidspacemuseum.org/

 

  1. Roxbury Park: 471 S. Roxbury Dr., Beverly Hills 90212

Plan a fun, family picnic day at the park this summer. Visit their website to check out classes offered during summer!

http://www.beverlyhills.org/departments/communityservices/cityparks/roxburycommunitycentermemorialpark/

 

  1. Santa Monica Pier: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica 90401

Catch some waves, ride some rides, play some games or soak up some sun at the Santa Monica Pier this summer. Don’t miss out on Pier 360, one of their major events, this Saturday and Sunday!

https://santamonicapier.org/

 

  1. Getty Villa: 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Los Angeles 90272

Experience the beautiful gardens, courtyards and Mediterranean antiquities at the J. Paul Getty museum. Make your free reservation to enjoy the views from this faux villa located on a Malibu clifftop.

https://www.getty.edu/visit/villa/

 

  1. Pyramid Lake: Pyramid Lake, Los Angeles County

Pyramid Lake is the perfect place to getaway! This lake offers spaces for picnics, fishing, boating, jet skiing and more.

https://pyramidlake.us/

 

  1. Catalina Island: Santa Catalina Island, California 90704

Escape to this private island this summer if you’re looking to getaway! Travel by ferries from Long Beach or San Pedro to participate in water-related activities on this island.

https://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/

 

 

  1. Watts Towers:

This historical landmark displays hand-crafted architecture by Italian tilesetter, Simon Rodia. Experience the unique details and vivid imagery found throughout the exhibit.

http://www.wattstowers.us/

 

  1. Skyspace LA: 1727 E. 107th, Los Angeles

Purchase tickets to enjoy LA’s unparalleled 360 degree views from the tallest open-air observation terrace in California. These views extend as far south as Catalina Island!

https://oue-skyspace.com/

 

  1. LA Zoo: 5333 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles 90027

Bring the family to the zoo this summer to learn more about animals and nature. Shows and activities provide an intimate experience with these creatures.

https://www.lazoo.org/