Los Feliz and the Eastside Neighborhood Snapshot

Top Reasons to Go

• Hike at Griffith Park: This is without a doubt the best place to partake in L.A.’s favorite pastime—exercising. With over 4,210 acres, it’s one of the largest urban parks in the country and happens to have one of the most glorious views of the city.
• Stargaze at the Griffith Observatory: Most visitors may flock to this observatory for its mesmerizing panoramas, but the more discerning travelers come for its night sky viewings and star parties.
• Get some culture at Barnsdall Art Park: Architecture, art, drama, and wine all come together in one of L.A.’s best-kept secrets, where a day can be spent taking an art class, touring the appealing Frank Lloyd Wright–designed Hollyhock House, and sipping wine.
• See a new movie at the old-school Los Feliz 3: An L.A. trip isn't complete without seeing a movie at one of the city's oldest cinemas. If you aren't a fan of the classics, this quaint 1920s movie theater in the heart of Los Feliz plays newly released titles as well.
• Eat your way around the neighborhood: Los Feliz is home to a host of fantastic restaurants. Indulge in Middle Eastern at Kismet, Italian at Little Dom’s, and tacos at the Best Fish Taco in Ensenada.

Quick Bites

Best Fish Taco in Ensenada. A simple, cheap, unceremonious taco stand with a selection of spicy house-made salsas—a little local treasure. 1650 Hillhurst Ave. bestfishtacoinensenada.com

Guisados. The tacos, with handmade tortillas and braised meats, are some of the best in the city–-plus each one only costs a few bucks. But you'll have to endure long lines. 1261 Sunset Blvd. www.guisados.la

LaMill Coffee. Order up your coffee however you want it (French press, Clover, you name it) and choose from an inventive list of espresso-based drinks. 1636 Silver Lake Blvd. www.lamillcoffee.com

Getting Here

When driving from the east, take either I–10 to I–5 heading north or State Route 134 to I–5 heading south; from the west, take I–10 to I–5 heading north or brave the U.S. 101 traffic, getting off in Hollywood then heading east. The closest Metro station is Vermont and Sunset, which puts you within walking distance of Los Feliz’s most bustling streets, Vermont and Hillhurst. Metered street parking is available along Vermont and Hillhurst, while some free parking can be found on residential side streets—though pay attention to posted signs.

Planning Your Time

Los Feliz is a delightfully intimate neighborhood, and it won’t take long to tick off its most important highlights. However, a decent, get-your-heart-pumping hike at Griffith Park may take a couple of hours or more, and it’s definitely worth spending a few more strolling around to experience all of its offerings, including Griffith Observatory. Silver Lake and Echo Park can easily take up a whole lazy day of eating, drinking, and shopping but can also be done in an afternoon.