Since moving back to Los Angeles, I have been exploring the city once again and getting reacquainted with the city I once knew (the days of running into Lauren Conrad and the rest of The Hills gang at the hot club Area are no longer but I do see Fabio at my gym all the time!).   

If you’re a first timer to LA or just visiting again after a long break, take a look at the first part of 10 things to do in Los Angeles.

Eat at Republique and Larchmont Wine and Cheese

I have been trying a lot of new restaurants in LA — based on word of mouth and of course some nifty Instagram searching.  I finally tried Republique, which had been recommend by several people and it did not disappoint — just look at that mushroom toast…

Larchmont Cheese and Wine is a local hot spot — get their early, otherwise they will run out of bread! This delicious spot is the perfect place to enjoy salami, prosciutto and more on a fresh baked baguette.

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Visit Venice Beach and Abbot Kinney

There is so much to do in Venice — its main drag, Abbot Kinney, has shops, food, and fun places to take photos in front of like the one below.  Plus the pier is stunning and you can walk down on the beach and get your feet wet if you so desire!

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Take photos at the Urban Lights and the Pink Wall.

The Urban Lights at LACMA are really fun and cool to see in person. 

If you go early in the day you won’t have any trouble taking photos — no photo bombers!  Later in the day, it will get a bit packed but it is a totally different scene and view if you decide to go at night — when the lights are lit up.  It’s like a little piece of NYC in LA.

And by “pink wall” I do mean that pink wall — the one you’ve seen on my IG and more recently on HBO’s Fake Famous. (It’s actually the facade of the Paul Smith store on Melrose — you can’t miss it!) Although, take note: get there early in the day as it gets super crowded otherwise and there are cars parked in front of parts of it.

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Melrose and Rose Bowl Flea Market

I went to both of these flea markets back in February and it was really fun and a great activity (especially if you like shopping as I do!).  The Rose Bowl Flea only happens every second Sunday of each month and it’s massive.  There are food stands and lots of vendors — so be prepared for a full day of bargain hunting.   If you’re looking for a much wider selection of items, this will be your flea market of choice.

The Melrose Flea is much smaller and more curated and has an excellent selection of trendy items for a younger crowd. 

I purchased a 1970’s Levi jean jacket, a full length mirror, and some great pieces of jewelry from there.  They also have a dedicated section for food vendors, music, and grass to hang out and sit on — it’s a much more relaxing experience than the Rose Bowl flea, so it depends on what mood you’re in.  Also, it takes place every Sunday — so you’re not as restricted on timing as the Rose Bowl Flea.

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Shop and Eat at The Grove

The Grove is a shopper’s paradise. 

With nearly every store you can think of — there’s something for everyone.  They also have several restaurants and a movie theatre!  You can do a dinner and a movie or just go for a stroll, enjoy the fountain and grab a bite!

Check out part 2 of 10 Things to Do in LA!

Shop Outfits for LA: