Category: fun

Posted on

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.

Posted on

Out and About: GLAMPING

Glamping short for “glamour camping” gives you the best of both worlds of being out in nature but within the comfort for everyday life. It’s where stunning nature meets modern luxury. A new way to experience the untamed and completely unique parts of the world, without having to go through the hassle of hauling loads of gear into the backcountry. You get the starry nights, being around the crackling campfire, a cozy sleeping bag, and all the best parts of camping in some of California’s most beautiful settings.

Sky Valley Camp

74711 Dillon Rd,  Sky Valley,CA 92241

https://www.skyvalleyresort.com/joshua-tree

Sky Valley Camp the paradise for the strange and exotic. This spot is centrally located to hiking trails in Coachella Valley and local hot springs. At the end of your desert adventure, chill outside your airstream or in the outdoor clawfoot bathtub. Family owned since 1986. The Ranch is located in Sky Valley. An unincorporated rural community in Southern California’s low desert. Along with the communities of Desert Edge and Indio Hills, Sky Valley occupies the valley between the Indio Hills and Joshua Tree National Park. This place has unobstructed views of the mountains and surrounding skyline make this place magical during the twilight hours and early mornings.

The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens

47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260 

https://www.livingdesert.org/

Go Glamping at the zoo, with Starry Safari at the The Living Desert, a nature preserve of more than 1,000 acres of Sonoran Desert showcases animals of the world’s deserts. The collection of exhibits ranges from a tour of terrains representing and hosting North American and African desert wildlife, an authentic replica of a northeast African village, to Eagle Canyon, where golden eagles, mountain lions, bobcats, and badgers thrive.  After your exclusive night tour of the park, slumber under the stars in a roomy tent with all your gear provided.  Explore a network of paths that skirt the adjacent Santa Rosa Mountains before returning to check out the Discovery Center with its many exhibits on display.

 Sequoia High Sierra Camp

65745 Big Meadows Dr, Sequoia Natl Pk, CA 93262

https://www.sequoiahighsierracamp.com/

A wilderness site within Kings Canyon National Park where guests snuggle up in off-the-grid tent-cabins. It’s a 1-mile hike from the nearest parking lot, but once you get to the compound of tents (elevation: 8,282 feet), it’s nothing but glamping in truly exceptional California style. Three meals a day are served; dinners are five-course, open-air affairs prepared by a gourmet chef, and guests are served while seated at large communal tables. Canvas tents are outfitted with luxurious rugs and feather duvets and woolen blankets on cozy beds, propane lanterns, and of course, stunning views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada just outside your tent flaps. Hiking trails to mountain meadows, jewel-like alpine lakes, or high summits with commanding views.

Costanoa Lodge

2001 Rossi Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060

https://costanoa.com/

Costanoa Lodge is an eco-friendly glamping destination along the San Mateo Coast in Pescadero, roughly a 1.5 hour drive south from San Francisco. this peaceful retreat is surrounded by 30,000 acres of state parks from Big Basin to Año Nuevo State Reserve and Butano State Park. The grounds are heaven on earth for nature and wildlife lovers. Mountain bike through towering redwoods, horseback ride across coastal meadows, explore beaches and tide pools, then chill out in a fully outfitted safari-tent “bungalow”.

AutoCamp

https://autocamp.com/

Santa Barbara

2717 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

Sleep in a shiny silver bullet Airstream outfitted for you and your family or friends, with a little deck and Adirondack chairs outside, a gadget-filled kitchen, cozy quilts for snuggling, and even toiletries. Each sleek trailer also includes two cruiser bikes—perfect to go explore such attractions in Santa Barbara as Stearns Wharf, the beach, and the bustling Santa Barbara Public Market.

Russian River in Sonoma County

14120 Old Cazadero Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446

The lodging options have expanded with 10 luxury safari tents in addition to 20 Airstreams. Activities include: Walk down to the Russian River to swim or canoe, play lawn games, or lounge by a fire pit inside or outside the mid-century-modern-style clubhouse. The 3,000-square-foot building also offers a store to stock up on snacks and local beer and wine.

Yosemite 

6323 CA-140, Midpines, CA 95345

Opened in 2019, is the largest and most remote site, near the historic mountain town of  Mariposa. Guests can enjoy many of the same amenities, plus a heated pool, mid-century modern clubhouse, and a pond with a paddleboat and canoe. Yosemite National Park is about 40 miles away and accessible via a daily shuttle.

El Capitan Canyon

11560 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, CA 93117

http://www.elcapitancanyon.com/

With a reputation as one of the most enchanting glamping experiences in the state, nestled amidst the rolling coastal hills 30 minutes northwest of Santa Barbara—is a once in a lifetime getaway experience. The leafy compound is so secluded that it’s hard to believe that more than 100 cabins and safari tents occupy the lush hillside landscape, surrounded on three sides by the oceanfront and backcountry of El Capitan State Beach.

Ventura Ranch KOA

7400 Pine Grove Road Santa Paula, CA 93060

https://koa.com/campgrounds/ventura-ranch/

Located below Ventura County’s Topatopa mountain range just outside of Santa Paula, this delightful family retreat offers guests an outdoor experience with an activity-filled twist. Cozy rustic accommodations for glampers include tepees, glamour tents, and deluxe cabins which include a partial kitchen, private bedroom, and bath. Traditional KOA campsites are also available.

Mendocino Grove

9601 CA-1 Mendocino, California 95460

https://mendocinogrove.com/

Mendocino Grove goes above and beyond to provide glampers and their families the comforts of a truly delightful, pleasure-filled camping trip. Tents come with comfortable beds and warm, comfy bedding, rustic redwood decks boast relaxing, leather butterfly-chairs to cradle you as you witness the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the area and the mammoth trees surrounding your campsite. A quarter of a mile from your campsite is the Big River Beach and trail, and a two-minute drive will get you to the quaint village of Mendocino where you’ll find fantastic food options and shopping.

Posted on

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/

Posted on

Out and About: The Best Public Beaches

What could be a better way to spend your weekend than seaside? Thats a no-brainer here in L.A. With the beach a short drive away, why not hit the coast this summer. And don’t worry, we’re sparing you the trouble of searching for the best spots. We’ve rounded up the best public beaches around SoCal so you can have a proper oceanic reprieve. Read below for an Out and About edition of your next seaside escape!

  1. Paradise Cove Beach

Malibu, CA – 10am-Sunset

This beach was made famous by the local café that attracts all types of visitors due to its unique and popular location. Find yourself near clean sand, sandstone cliffs and majestic palm trees at Paradise Cove.

https://www.paradisecovemalibu.com/contact-us/

  1. Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach, CA – 8am-9pm

The Pier is a state historical landmark and is the oldest of its kind! A popular spot for fishing, swimming, volleyball and sunset viewings.

https://www.citymb.info/visitors/maps-and-directions

  1. Zuma Beach Country Park30000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 6am-10pm

This beach area is famous for its onsite surf lessons, swing sets, dolphin and whale spotting and massive parking area. During the summer, Zuma Beach is filled with crowds of visitors catches some waves and soaking up the sun!

https://www.zuma-beach.com/opening-hours.html

  1. El Matador State Beach32215 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 8:00 am-8:00 pm

This beach is popular for photographers and wedding planners because of the secret sea caves to explore. Situated on a bluff, El Matador provides a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean you can enjoy!

https://www.californiabeaches.com/beach/el-matador-state-beach/

  1. Malibu Lagoon State BeachCross Creek Rd., off Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 8:00 am-Sunset

This beach offers guided tours around the area as well as the Malibu Lagoon Museum for visitors interested in history. Birdwatchers can study over 200 species of birds in their natural habitat on dirt pathways along the wetlands.

https://www.californiasbestbeaches.com/malibu_lagoon/malibu_lagoon_beach_mob.html

  1. Abalone Cove Shoreline5970 Palos Verdes Dr. S, Rancho Palos Verdes – 9:00 am-4:00 pm

Well-known for its outstanding views, Abalone Cove is located along the rugged Palos Verde coastline. This rare gem is best visited during low tide where seas creatures like hermit crabs, small octopi and sea hares reside.

https://www.rpvca.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Abalone-Cove-Shoreline-Park-1

  1. Leo Carrillo State Beach
35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 8:00 am-3:00 pm

Also known as the “movie beach” among filmmakers, Leo Carrillo State Beach boasts a wide range of caves, reefs and tide pools. Windsurfing, surfing, sunbathing and swimming are a few common enjoyed activities.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g32676-d129305-Reviews-Leo_Carrillo_State_Park_and_Beach-Malibu_California.html

  1. Annenberg Community Beach House
415 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica, CA, 90402– 8:30am-8:30pm

The Beach House combines elements of the historic Marion Davies Estate with new amenities to create a truly unique community destination that’s open to all – no membership required. With spectacular views, splash pad, children’s play area, gallery, historic pool, and Marion Davies Guest House there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Beach House!

https://www.annenbergbeachhouse.com/

  1. Topanga State Beach18700 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA – 8:00 am-Sunset

One of the most significant locations for beach enthusiasts is Topanga State Beach. A great spot for picnics or dining at Malibu Chart House to enjoy a meal by the beach.

https://beaches.lacounty.gov/topanga-beach/

  1. Nicholas Canyon County Beach33850 CA-1, Malibu, CA – 6:30am-8:00 pm

Many windsurfers, divers and swimmers enjoy the beautiful waters at this beach’s point break. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Nicholas Canyon County Beach this summer or indulge in foods from the food trucks along the beach.

https://beaches.lacounty.gov/nicholas-canyon-beach/

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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.

Proudly powered by WordPress