Making the Most of a SoCal Sunday: MC Lyte's Guide to L.A.'s Hotspots

Making the Most of a SoCal Sunday: MC Lyte's Guide to L.A.'s Hotspots - Hit the Beach in Santa Monica

When it comes to soaking up the SoCal sun, Santa Monica beach is a prime spot to spend a Sunday afternoon. With its iconic pier, bustling boardwalk, and miles of golden sand, this beach has everything you need for a quintessential California beach day.

Start your day by claiming a spot on the sand and settling in for some premium people watching. Given its proximity to LA, you'll see quite the eclectic mix of beachgoers, from spandex-clad workout crews to bohemian musicians jamming out with their guitars. Don't forget to slather on sunscreen and stay hydrated - that California sun is no joke!

Once you've gotten your fill of lounging and you're ready to explore, take a stroll down the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Dating back to 1909, this pier is full of kitschy shops, carnival rides, arcades, and eateries. Be sure to snap the classic photo of the entrance sign as you walk onto the pier. Grab some salt water taffy as you explore the various kiosks and rides. The iconic Pacific Park at the very end of the pier features a solar-powered Ferris wheel and twelve other rides, including a rollercoaster that sends you whipping over the ocean.

After exploring the pier, continue your adventure by walking down the bustling Ocean Front Boardwalk. Extending 1.5 miles from Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach, this scenic walkway passes tons of street performers, local artists, restaurants, and stunning ocean views. Pick up a chilled coconut water or acai bowl to enjoy as you take in the action. There's no better place for people watching than the Ocean Front Boardwalk on a sunny Sunday.

Before leaving the beach, be sure to stop at the Annenberg Community Beach House located on Santa Monica State Beach. This beach house features a historic pool house that's perfect for relaxing after a long day of beachgoing. Enjoy the ocean breezes as you lounge poolside or play a game of beach volleyball on one of the courts.

Making the Most of a SoCal Sunday: MC Lyte's Guide to L.A.'s Hotspots - Explore the Outdoors at Runyon Canyon

Trading in beach towels for hiking boots, head to Runyon Canyon for your Sunday afternoon nature fix. One of LA’s most popular outdoor spots, this 160-acre park offers panoramic views of the city along with a variety of scenic hiking trails.

Located in the Hollywood Hills just off Mulholland Drive, Runyon Canyon is a quintessential LA experience. As you make your way along the dusty canyon trails, you’re likely to spot spandex-clad locals trekking with their dogs, yoga practitioners striking warrior poses on rocky outcroppings, and the occasional celebrity trying to go incognito in a baseball cap and sunglasses. Don’t be fooled by their athletic wear and mats - this isn’t just a place for exercise. Runyon Canyon is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature without leaving LA.

The most popular hike is the roughly 2.5-mile Loop Trail. Offering spectacular views of the downtown LA skyline, this intermediate hike takes you up to the ruins of the Runyon estate. Built in the 1920s, remnants of the estate’s foundation and stairs still exist today. Be sure to pause and take in the panoramas at one of the many vista points along the trail.

For those looking for an extra workout, tack on the steep 1-mile Inspiration Point Spur Trail, which culminates at the highest point in the park. Here you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views spanning from Catalina Island to Palos Verdes to the San Gabriel Mountains. After taking the obligatory Instagram selfie at the peak, double back to complete the loop and return to the canyon floor.

Making the Most of a SoCal Sunday: MC Lyte's Guide to L.A.'s Hotspots - Check Out the Views from Griffith Observatory

After hiking Runyon Canyon, head over to Griffith Observatory to take in the views from one of LA’s most iconic landmarks. Perched 1,134 feet above sea level on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory offers commanding vistas of Los Angeles that shouldn’t be missed.

Constructed in the 1930s, this stunning Art Deco building was intended to make astronomy accessible to the public. And while the observatory’s planetarium and exhibits continue to foster a greater understanding of the cosmos, it’s the panoramic views of LA that truly steal the show. The evening hours offer some of the best views, especially at sunset when the sky ignites in brilliant hues of orange and pink. But day or night, visitors rave about the exceptional vantage point the Griffith Observatory provides.

Don’t expect to have the observation deck to yourself - Griffith Observatory is one of the most popular (and free!) attractions in LA. In fact, it welcomes over 2 million visitors per year. The views are so spectacular here that you’re guaranteed to be jostling for photo ops with selfie sticks alongside throngs of camera-wielding tourists. If crowds aren’t your thing, aim for early morning or twilight hours when visitor numbers tend to be lower.

Head straight for the observatory’s roof terrace for those iconic panoramas. From here, the entirety of Los Angeles unfurls below you, from the skyscrapers of downtown to the sapphire blue Pacific. On clear days, you can see all the way to Catalina Island and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. To the north lies the sprawling San Fernando Valley, the Hollywood Sign, and the crest of the Santa Monica Mountains.

Don’t neglect the views to the east where the San Gabriel Mountains provide a rugged natural backdrop. Nearby Mount Hollywood feels close enough to touch. Scan the surrounding hillsides to spot the clusters of homes that make up Los Angeles’ distinctive neighborhoods - Eagle Rock, Silver Lake, Los Feliz, and Hollywood.

Griffith Observatory also offers stellar night viewing opportunities to complement the daytime vistas. Twice a month, the observatory stays open late and visitors can peer through telescopes at Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s moons, nebulae lightyears away, and other celestial wonders. Check the website for upcoming dates. Even without access to the telescopes after normal hours, you can still take in the dazzling canopy of stars that emerge over LA when the sun goes down. Just be sure to stick around until twilight fades away.

Making the Most of a SoCal Sunday: MC Lyte's Guide to L.A.'s Hotspots - Go Shopping on Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive is synonymous with lavish spending and haute couture. This renowned three-block strip in Beverly Hills serves as a pilgrimage site for fashionistas and label lovers from around the world. With its palm-lined sidewalks and designer boutiques, Rodeo Drive embodies the opulent side of Los Angeles. Even those with modest budgets enjoy a stroll down this iconic street to window shop and revel in the glitz.

What makes Rodeo Drive so special is its concentration of high-end retailers. Within just a few steps you can browse world-class brands like Gucci, Prada, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton. The meticulously styled window displays give you a glimpse of next season’s collections. Watching shoppers emerge with bags from Tiffany & Co. and Agent Provocateur, you can’t help but wonder how deep their pockets are. This is a place where spending $10,000 on a handbag seems commonplace.

While Rodeo Drive overwhelmingly caters to the ultra-rich, visitors say even those without plans to splurge enjoy experiencing the sheer lavishness. “You don’t need to buy anything to have fun,” says Sofia, a Miami fashion blogger. “Just seeing the jaw-dropping interiors and one-of-a-kind items makes it worth visiting. I loved peering in the windows even though I knew I could never afford those five-figure price tags.”

Visitors recommend coming hungry - there are plenty of opportunities for fine dining along Rodeo Drive when you need a shopping break. Lunch at The Ivy is a favorite for A-list spotting. Cipriani and Nobu Malibu also draw refined crowds. Of course, you can always refuel with a coffee and macaron at Ladurée.

Although many visit Rodeo Drive to simply admire the displays, serious shoppers fly in from across the globe to rack up charges on their black cards. Rodeo Drive is famed for hosting the well-heeled travelers who arrive by private jet. “I loved watching the stream of Rolls Royces and Bentleys pulling up. You definitely feel like a kid pressing their nose up to a candy store window,” says Amanda, who splurged on a Chanel bag during her visit.

For the ultimate Rodeo Drive experience, visitors recommend calling ahead to arrange styling appointments at boutiques like Dior and Harry Winston. “Having my own personal shopper at Prada was incredible,” raves Gemma. “They brought me anything I wanted to try on while serving champagne and snacks. I felt like a celebrity.”

Making the Most of a SoCal Sunday: MC Lyte's Guide to L.A.'s Hotspots - Grab a Bite at Grand Central Market

After maxing out your credit cards on Rodeo Drive, make your way to Grand Central Market in downtown LA for a delicious and affordable foodie experience. This lively indoor market first opened in 1917 and today houses over 40 vendors purveying everything from tacos and barbecue to gourmet ice cream. Budget-conscious visitors rave about the quality and diversity of the food options here.

Grand Central Market provides a stark contrast to Rodeo Drive with its casual vibe and mouthwatering aromas wafting through the air. “It felt so welcoming and communal after being on hoity-toity Rodeo Drive,” explains Nate, a travel blogger from Seattle. “Vendors were cooking up sizzling meats, people were chatting over craft beers at communal tables, mariachi music was playing. Just a totally different scene.”

While the market features plenty of grab-and-go options, visitors recommend taking your time to meander the stalls before deciding. “There was just so much variety that I wanted to take it all in before committing to anything,” says Amanda, an avid foodie. “From giant melty cheeseburgers to colorful mole dishes, it was tough to choose.”

Many visitors suggest embracing Grand Central Market’s street food spirit by mixing and matching items from different vendors. “It’s fun to get say a pupusa from Sarita's, then grab ceviche from Villa Moreliana, and finish with ice cream from McConnell’s,” enthuses James, a repeat customer. “You can basically assemble the ultimate eclectic meal here.”

While the taco selection draws raves, other visitor favorites include the fried chicken sandwich from Horse Thief BBQ, ube pancakes from Sticky Rice, and the myriad gourmet coffee options. “The coffee here restores you after pounding the pavement shopping,” says Gemma. "My favorite is Go Get Em Tiger. Their pour overs are incredible."

Amid the marketplace’s no-frills warehouse ambiance, Eggslut has gained fame for its perfectly crafted breakfast sandwiches and long lines. Visitors say it’s worth the wait to sink your teeth into one of their signature sandwiches layered with cage-free eggs, chives, caramelized onions, and mustard aioli sandwiched inside a fluffy brioche bun.

Another crowd pleaser is Wexler's Deli. L.A. foodies rave about their pastrami sandwiches stacked sky-high on rye and paired with crisp pickles. Visitors also give high marks to the deli’s freshly baked bagels and seasonal rotating flavors of soft serve ice cream.

In addition to the culinary offerings, Grand Central Market’s architecture dazzles visitors with its grand arches, skylights, and ornate brickwork. “There’s such a visual feast between the delicious food and the building’s design that makes it an Instagram favorite,” says Nate.

Making the Most of a SoCal Sunday: MC Lyte's Guide to L.A.'s Hotspots - Catch a Show at the Hollywood Bowl

As the sun begins to set over the Hollywood Hills, make your way to the iconic Hollywood Bowl for an evening of music under the stars. This historic amphitheater is one of the world’s largest natural theatres, with a massive curved shell open to the sky. Since its debut in 1922, it has hosted everyone from The Beatles to Bruno Mars. Seeing a show here promises to be a highlight of any LA trip.

Visitors rave about the Hollywood Bowl’s stunning architecture and its magical ability to make you feel immersed in the performance. The white lattice shell magnifies the audio and keeps it focused on the audience. When the lights dim, an ethereal hush falls over the crowd of 17,500. “I loved how connected I felt to the music and performers,” explains James, a UK tourist. “Even from the back rows, the acoustics make you feel like you’re right down front.”

While the Hollywood Bowl books heavyweight headliners, the venue is also home to the LA Philharmonic. Visiting during orchestra season promises a uniquely Angeleno experience. “Seeing the LA Phil perform against the dusky skyline with the illuminated shell behind them was just jaw-dropping,” enthuses Amanda, a classical music buff. “They got so into the sweeping live orchestrations, it gave me chills.”

Packing picnics is a cherished Hollywood Bowl tradition, thanks to its liberal food and drink policy. Visitors recommend arriving early to soak up the scene. “It was like a huge, classy tailgate party,” laughs Nate, a longtime patron. “Everyone breaks out gourmet cheeses, charcuterie boards, fancy wines. The communal vibe before the concert starts is just awesome.”

If DIY picnicking isn’t your thing, the Hollywood Bowl offers upscale dining options like dinner packages from Patina Catering. Their seasonal three-course prix fixe menus offer fine cuisine alongside primo seats. Pre-show and intermission cocktails are also available. “Being served delicious food and vino without having to leave our box seats was amazing,” says Gemma, who celebrated her birthday at the Bowl. “It felt so luxurious.”

Dressing for the mercurial LA weather is key. Summer nights can go from hot to chilly in the blink of an eye. Most concertgoers come prepared with layers. “I was initially sweating in the 85 degree heat, then shivering in my tank top a few hours later when it was 60 degrees,” laughs Sofia, a first-time visitor. “Bring a cute jacket or wrap just in case.”

While most shows are in the evenings, the Hollywood Bowl also schedules matinee performances. Daytime concerts promise beautiful panoramic views of downtown LA and the San Gabriel Mountains from your seat. “Seeing the hazy LA skyline stretching into the distance during an afternoon show was pretty special,” shares James.

Making the Most of a SoCal Sunday: MC Lyte's Guide to L.A.'s Hotspots - Party at The Roxy on the Sunset Strip

After a memorable evening catching a concert under the stars at the Hollywood Bowl, keep the good times rolling with a night out clubbing on the legendary Sunset Strip. When it comes to iconic nightlife, few spots can compete with The Roxy. Since opening in 1973, this historic venue has hosted everything from cutting-edge punk shows to celebrity-studded parties. Exploring The Roxy offers a quintessential LA nightlife experience.

“I loved that old-school rock and roll vibe at The Roxy,” explains James, who recently visited from Melbourne. “With its walls plastered in vintage band posters and itsAnything goes here. One night might feature crowd-surfing during a blistering punk set, the next could see Hollywood starlets sipping cocktails in the VIP section. You never know what scene you’ll discover when you venture through those graffitied doors.”

While The Roxy’s gritty, divey atmosphere transports you back to the Sunset Strip’s heyday, the crowds remain diverse and eclectic. “One thing I loved was the crazy mix of people,” says Amanda, a Miami graphic designer. “You’d see goth kids, middle-aged couples, hip hop heads, drag queens, tourists, and celebs all hanging out together. It was really fun people watching.”

If you’re hoping to make some A-list sightings, visitors recommend getting there early. “We got to chat with the drummer from Maroon 5, who was just casually chilling at the bar pre-show,” enthuses Gemma. “Later Mark Wahlberg’s crew rolled through. You never know who you’ll rub elbows with at The Roxy.”

Of course, the music remains the main attraction. With acts ranging from up-and-coming indie bands to Grammy winners, visitors rave about the intimate live shows. “The small room gets so intense and high energy when the bands play,” explains Nate. “You’re right on top of the musicians. I ended up crowdsurfing during one song.”

While the stripped-down space exudes that no-frills rock club atmosphere, the sound quality earns high marks. “The acoustics were killer,” says James. “Everything from the guitars to the drums just really popped. Who needs fancy light shows when you’ve got great music?”

When your ears need a break, step out to the smoking patio for a breather. “It was nice to get some fresh air in the courtyard,” explains Sofia. “We ended up chatting with some really cool people out there between sets.”

Late night munchies? The Roxy’s small menu offers greasy, gratifying options like chili fries and cheeseburgers. “We ordered some loaded nachos and beers around midnight to keep the party going,” says James. “The food definitely hit the spot after dancing all night.”

Making the Most of a SoCal Sunday: MC Lyte's Guide to L.A.'s Hotspots - End the Night Dancing in WeHo

After rocking out at the Roxy, keep the party going by heading over to West Hollywood (WeHo) to finish off your epic SoCal Sunday. This buzzing neighborhood boasts some of the best LGBTQ+ nightclubs and dance venues in LA, promising an unforgettable evening. With its vibrant nightlife scene and colorful crowds, WeHo offers the perfect high-energy finale.

“I had an absolute blast bar hopping and dancing ‘til dawn in WeHo,” says Sofia, who recently celebrated a bachelorette party there. “The DJs were amazing - they kept the dance floors packed. And the eye candy was top-notch!”

Visitors recommend starting your WeHo evening off at one of the neighborhood’s lively bars or lounges. Scandals, Micky's, and The Abbey are all popular pre-club spots for drinks and mingling. “We did a pub crawl up and down Santa Monica Boulevard, which was the best way to get a feel for the different venues,” explains Amanda. “It set us up for a really fun night ahead.”

When it comes to dancing, Pump and Rage are repeat favorites thanks to their pulsating beats and elaborate themed events. “We went to Rage on Latin night - the music was on point and got everyone moving,” says James. “I loved the energetic vibe.” These clubs tend to attract big crowds on weekends, so insiders suggest arriving before 11 PM to beat the lines.

For a more intimate experience, check out crowd-pleasers like Revolver and Factory. “Factory became our favorite - the two dance floors were going off with amazing drag shows and go-go dancers,” raves Sofia. “We closed down the place at like 3 AM!”

West Hollywood offers plenty of opportunities for star sightings while club hopping. “My friend almost bumped into Katy Perry at the bar,” laughs Gemma. “You never know who you’ll see out and about.” Visitors also recommend keeping an eye out for pop-up events, secret parties, and celeb guest DJs. “Paris Hilton was randomly spinning at one club. It gave the night an exclusive feel,” explains Amanda.

When hunger strikes in the midst of your club crawl, late night food options abound. “We stopped for delicious 4 AM burgers and milkshakes at The Griddle Cafe - it really hit the spot after burning up the dance floor,” says Nate. Night owls also recommend classics like Denny’s, Canter’s Deli, and Fred 62 for satisfying post-party bites.

Or keep the whole crew fueled at one of WeHo’s buzzing late night eateries like Rock & Reilly’s or Flaming Saddles Saloon. “We rolled into Flaming Saddles around 1 AM - they had an amazing drag revue and Dick’s Last Resort-style service,” explains James. “Our whole group was cracking up. It was the perfect way to end the night.”