Burro on Abbot Kinney in Venice

The Guide to Shopping Abbot Kinney in Venice

05/24/2016

Stephanie Wenger

If you are searching for a truly eclectic shopping experience, look no further than Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice. This bustling district, which stretches from Venice Boulevard to Pacific Avenue, is a popular destination for Boho chic shoppers. Dubbed "the coolest block in America" by GQ, Abbot Kinney is home to one-of-kind local goods as well as internationally recognized brands. Shoppers in the know come to Abbot Kinney on the first Friday night of each month for a unique shopping experience. During Abbot Kinney First Fridays, the boulevard becomes a street festival filled with live music, food trucks and more. But you can visit Abbot Kinney any day for a memorable shopping experience.

Downtown L.A. viewed from the Arts District

A Visual Walking Tour of the Arts District in Downtown L.A.

11/04/2015

Esther Tseng

Not sure what to do in downtown Los Angeles?  Stop by The Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles, one of the hottest neighborhoods in the DTLA area. From the area’s beginnings as Jean-Louis Vigne’s vineyard to an orchard growing mostly oranges and grapefruit, by the late 1800s it became an industrial center for railroads and manufacturing. Eventually, the railroads gave way to the trucking industry and industry moved to other L.A. County areas like Commerce in order to build larger buildings to accommodate their growing businesses.

In the 1970s, artists braved dangerous conditions and began to occupy the area’s dilapidated buildings, having been priced out of areas such as Venice and Hollywood. Eventually, they opened art galleries and began to develop these buildings themselves, thereby preserving a big part of L.A.’s industrial history.

The area again underwent another downturn in the 1990s before being saved by Joel Bloom and his supporters, who officially renamed the area the “Arts District.” Today, it is home to many creatives, including those in green technology, architecture and entertainment. Read on for a visual walking tour of this burgeoning urban oasis.

Wild Style on Melrose Avenue

The Guide to Melrose Avenue East

06/26/2015

Elina Shatkin

Designer boutiques and high-end housewares stores dominate the western end of Melrose Avenue. As you continue exploring Melrose from Fairfax Avenue, the glossy boutiques give way to a funkier vibe.

Melrose Avenue

The Guide to Melrose Avenue West

06/25/2015

Elina Shatkin

Along its western end, Melrose Avenue is all about strolling and shopping, so bring dough and plenty of it. The street begins where the cities of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood meet, otherwise known as the intersection of posh and funky.

Blue Plate on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica

The Guide to Montana Avenue in Santa Monica

06/15/2015

Stephanie Wenger

Just up the road from the scenic Santa Monica coastline, Montana Avenue provides a relaxed atmosphere for a fun day of shopping and dining. The area that stretches from 7th to 17th Street is home to more than 150 stores and restaurants. From unique home boutiques to high-end cosmetic stores, there is bound to be something that you will love on Montana Avenue. This is a one-stop destination for everyone in the family from babies on up. Before leaving, don’t forget to stop at one of the delicious restaurants in the area, serving everything from tasty burgers to unforgettable treats.

Alchemy Works in the Arts District

The Guide to Shopping in Downtown Los Angeles

05/05/2015

Caroline Juen

Downtown Los Angeles is quickly becoming the hottest shopping and dining district in Los Angeles. In less than a decade the streets surrounding the skyscrapers have come back to life, thanks to a variety of restaurant concepts, creatives and retailers moving in to set up shop. These days, shopping in areas like the Arts District and the Historic Core around Spring Street is delightful for locals and travelers alike. Exploring the area’s best spots for shopping can be intimidating, but in such a thriving metropolitan area with unique, one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques, all it takes is knowing where to start. Whether you’re buying something for yourself or getting a gift, here are 9 of Downtown L.A.’s coolest neighborhood shopping spots.

Maison Midi

The Guide to Shopping on La Brea Avenue

04/24/2015

Stephanie Wenger

The redevelopment of La Brea Avenue between Beverly Boulevard and West 6th Street has brought an eclectic mix of stores to the area. While strolling down the street, you can find everything from one-of-kind vintage items to the latest gear from designer brands and almost anything in between. Interior design enthusiasts consider the area to be a must-visit as well because many boutiques in the area feature unique takes on home décor. La Brea Avenue has items at all price points, making it a great spot for shopping for any budget. Whether you’re looking to bring home a small souvenir or a larger purchase, you’re sure to find it in the La Brea Avenue shopping district.

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