The Best Places to Learn Something New in Los Angeles
Updated on January 22, 2015
Whether you want to explore a new hobby, get more physically fit, or turn an interest into a profession, there's always something new to learn. A wide range of classes and schools throughout Los Angeles can make you an expert in no time at all. Here are some of the best places to learn something new in L.A.
Learn to Surf L.A.
In less than two hours, you can learn to catch a wave, thanks to Learn to Surf L.A. With several beach locations from Malibu to Manhattan Beach, Learn to Surf L.A. offers both group classes and private lessons. They provide a board and wetsuit, so all you have to do is show up in a swimsuit for your class. For surf camp, you'll need to pack a swimsuit, a towel, plenty of strong, waterproof sunblock (minimum SPF 15), and lunch. Though Learn to Surf L.A. is known for their surf lessons, they also teach stand up paddleboard. Without a doubt, this is the classic Southern California “endless summer” experience. Book a 3- to 7-lesson package to become a pro at hanging ten. Warning: Surfing can be highly addicting!
www.learntosurfla.com
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TRAPEZE SCHOOL NEW YORK: LOS ANGELES - Santa Monica Pier
No need to run away with the circus when you can experience the circus at Trapeze School New York: Los Angeles. Located on the historic Santa Monica Pier, you can learn to fly and swing while overlooking the ocean. Their open-air facility offers classes in static and flying trapeze, along with silks and trampoline. The school welcomes everyone ages 6 and up, regardless of fitness level. In just one of their two-hour classes, they'll teach you to swing, flip and even catch. Conquer your fear of heights and learn to fly. You'll be amazed at how fun these classes are, and you’re getting in a good workout as well.
370 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
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The Groundlings
Tap into your funny bone and get better at thinking on your feet with The Groundlings. Whether you aspire to be a comedian or you’re just curious about improv, there's no better place to take an improv class than The Groundlings School. After all, Saturday Night Live has cast some of its most famous stars from The Groundlings. Classes are offered for those with improv experience on a professional acting path, as well as professionals in other industries that are just seeking to better themselves. How can you better yourself through improv? Well, let's start with the first rule of improv: “Yes, and...”
7307 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Los Angeles Equestrian Center
Located in Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Equestrian Center offers “Everything Equestrian” and is well-known for their horse shows, riding lessons and trail rides. The L.A. Equestrian Center is home to several riding academies that cover Western Riding, English Riding, Dressage and Jumping for those seeking to become a more advanced rider. For a more casual ride, riders of all experience levels can rent horses by the hour and explore the 55 miles of trails throughout Griffith Park.
480 West Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91506
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Getty Center & Getty Villa
Why just admire the art at a museum when you can learn to create your own masterpieces? There's no better setting for taking an art class than being surrounded by a world-class art collection. The Getty Center and the Getty Villa offer an incredible array of classes and workshops that cover drawing, pen and ink wash, sculpting, and jewelry making. There's even an advanced workshop for the medieval art of gilding. Whatever your skill level or preferred medium, there’s a class for you. Both museums even offer free courses on the first and third Sunday of every month. Explore other art classes at museums across L.A., such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Craft & Folk Art Museum and Natural History Museum.
Getty Center: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Getty Villa: 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
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3rd Street Dance
For over 35 years, 3rd Street Dance has offered classes covering ballet, salsa, tango, hip-hop, and swing. Sign up individually, as a couple, or as a group to attend one of their on-going classes or a 4- or 6-week course. Classes are small, allowing the teachers to personalize the instruction.There are even wedding prep packages for those wanting to add to their special day. Whether you've got the moves or have two left feet, there's no reason to hold back. After a few lessons at Third Street Dance, you'll be dancing like a star in no time.
8558 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA 90048
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Kalmenson & Kalmenson
Ever been told you have a great voice? Cringe when you hear your voicemail greeting? Both are great reasons to enroll in a class at Kalmenson & Kalmenson, where you can learn to hear your voice in all its range and glory. Voice Over classes explore how you sound and teach you to convey emotions just in changing your tone and pitch. This is a perfect way to become a better public speaker. If you've secretly wanted to explore a career in V.O. work, Kalmenson & Kalmenson is regarded as one of the best in the industry.
105 South Sparks St, Burbank, CA 91506
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EATZ
Awaken your inner chef by taking cooking classes at EATZ. Multiple classes are offered every week, covering tasty themes such as “A Moroccan Feast,” “One Night in Bangkok” and “Southern Comforts.” Each class generally costs around $100, are limited in size, and allow for personalized, hands-on lessons in a dinner party setting. You'll make a five-course meal paired with wine or cocktails - no supplies or experience necessary. They also offer one-on-one classes and private parties if you want to take your cooking experience to the next level.
612 North La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
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The Mixology Master Method - The Three Clubs
The Mixology Master Method is the perfect launching pad for a new and exciting career. Classes take place at The Three Clubs, where acclaimed instructors like Joseph Brooke (of “Bar Rescue” fame) will teach you the proper techniques to make classic cocktails and the methods to create your own recipes. Students will also develop their palates and learn to taste spirits. In just 32 hours of classes (four days, over two weekends), you'll understand the fundamentals of mixology and have the skills to bartend at a craft cocktail or upscale restaurant bar.
1123 Vine St Los Angeles, CA 90038//} ?>
Silverlake Conservatory of Music
The Silverlake Conservatory of Music is a non-profit organization dedicated to music education. They offer private classes for any instrument and singing style at reasonable prices. The organization also grants scholarships for lessons and instruments for children in need. You can join a series of ensemble groups and in the summer the conservatory hosts a two-week intensive music camp. Though geared towards music education for kids, they host groups and lessons for adults as well. You're never too old for music!
4652 Hollywood Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90027//} ?>
ALLEN BERG RACING SCHOOLS - Auto Club Speedway
Put the pedal to the metal and learn to drive a race car like an F1 driver at Allen Berg Racing Schools. Founded by former Formula One driver Allen Berg, the namesake school can make your racing dreams come true. Located in Fontana at the Auto Club Speedway (about 45 minutes east of L.A.), the racing school offers a variety of training and sessions, from the One Day Program for rookies to the 20-lap, high-speed Adventure Program. At Allen Berg Racing Schools, even the most inexperienced beginner can learn to become a pro racing driver.
9300 Cherry Ave Los Angeles, CA 92335//} ?>