In many ways, the central Los Angeles neighborhood of Los Feliz may just have it all. The neighborhood seamlessly blends picturesque greenery from nearby hills and backyard neighbor Griffith Park with a jam-packed urban epicenter.
Where Los Feliz Is Located
The celebrity-filled enclave sits between Hollywood (and its hills) and Silver Lake—meaning it’s not far from any of the city’s action. One minute, you could be enjoying a serene solo hike in the middle of a rugged trail and the next, dining al fresco at one of the many bustling sidewalk cafés such as Little Dom’s or Alcove. (Insider tip: While many tourists are busy hopping on and off the double-decker buses in Hollywood, these are some of the spots where locals mix and mingle with A-listers.)
Things to Do in Los Feliz
The stretches of independent storefronts along Hillhurst and Vermont avenues make up what is known as Los Feliz Village, one of the most walkable commercial districts in the city. The robust offerings include dozens of restaurants (with a wide array of cuisines), boutiques, and a historic single-screen movie theater, The Vista, which has been a prized Los Angeles landmark since 1923.
Other Los Feliz Village must-sees include Skylight Books, one of the city’s most popular independent bookstores, and The Dresden, a lively spot for cocktails made famous by the movie Swingers. The musical duo Marty and Elayne, featured in the film, perform in the lounge there most nights and the spot is perfect for a preshow drink before hitting Griffith Park's lovely open-air amphitheater, the Greek Theatre.
Aside from the shops, bars, and restaurants, Los Feliz is also home to some world-famous architecture, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s Ennis House (calling all Blade Runner fans) and Hollyhock House, located in the Barnsdall Art Park. Self-guided tours are available for the public. Barnsdall is a destination on its own, as it offers stunning city and sunset views, and great picnic spots, not to mention the popular Barnsdale Gallery Theatre, a proscenium stage for live theater, dance, music, film, and lectures. If packing a lunch basket isn’t your thing, opt for a meal at one of the food trucks or walk down the street to HomeState to try some of L.A.’s best breakfast tacos.
