The Secret Staircases of Los Angeles
In the heart of Los Angeles, a network of concealed staircases gracefully weaves through neighborhoods and residences, adorned with captivating murals and artwork. These staircases not only function as an open-air art gallery but also stand as poignant reminders of Los Angeles' rich historical tapestry, harkening back to an era predating the dominance of mass transit, automobiles, and the bustling influx of tourists.
Micheltorena Silver Lake Stairs (Or heart stairs)
Location: Micheltorena St. & amp Sunset blvd., Los Angeles CA
Micheltorena Street
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Featuring a total of 177 steps, the charming Silver Lake staircase beckons with its photogenic allure, situated just across Sunset Boulevard from Micheltorena Elementary School. Adorned with vibrant hearts and rainbow hues, the bottom steps exude a delightful charm reminiscent of a rainbow staircase. Ascend a plant-lined pathway adorned with palm trees and flowers, encompassing 40 steps leading to Larissa Drive. Cross the street to discover a second segment comprising 59 steps, and traverse once more to encounter the final stretch—a shaded, fence-framed ascent of 78 steps. Along the way, whimsical cartoons, including the iconic Space Ghost, grace the pavement and fences, creating a visually engaging journey that culminates at Winslow Drive.
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Murray Stairway (Piano Stairs)
Location: 3229 Sunset Blvd
Piano Stairs
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Conveniently situated just across from the Micheltorena stairs, the next enchanting stairway awaits—introducing the Murray Stairs, affectionately known as the Piano stairs. Named for the distinctive piano keys artfully painted among them, this staircase offers a visual symphony for passersby. Ascend the 90 steps with a rhythmic stride, though the only melody accompanying your journey will be the uplifting rhythm of your own footsteps, creating a harmonious experience in the heart of the city.
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Hoover Walk Stairs
Location: 1652 Hoover St
Hoover Walk Stairs
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Nestled in the Los Feliz area of Los Angeles, the Historic Hoover steps offer a captivating experience. Renowned L.A. artist Ricardo Mendoza has graced these steps with his masterpiece, the "Fluid City Rising" mural. This striking artwork showcases a pair of Phoenix wings enveloping a cascading blue stream, harmoniously framed by figures engaged in the art of harvesting. The result is a visually stunning tableau—an incredible sight that truly deserves your attention and appreciation. Don't miss the opportunity to witness this remarkable blend of art and history.
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Echo Park Lake
Echo Park Lake
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During your visit, indulge in a delightful pedal boat ride, marvel at the iconic Lady of the Lake statue, and explore the meticulously restored Boathouse. Enhance your experience by paying a visit to the Time Travel Mart—an enticing destination for shopping and perusing an array of unique and cool souvenirs. There's a plethora of activities to enjoy and treasures to discover, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling outing.
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Old Zoo in Griffith Park
Location: 4801 Griffith Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
Hours: Daily from 5.30 am to 10 pm
Old Zoo in Griffith Park
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Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure at the Old Los Angeles Zoo in Griffith Park, where you can explore the fascinating behind-the-scenes areas of a once-vibrant, now uninhabited zoo. As you stroll through the cages and exhibit spaces, vibrant graffiti adds a colorful backdrop, providing ample opportunities for capturing truly Instagram-worthy photos. The zoo seamlessly integrates with the park, ensuring a worry-free exploration of its diverse areas—a delightful experience for both children and adults. Uncover the charm of now-accessible cages and previously restricted zones, complemented by convenient picnic areas and scenic hiking trails, making it an engaging outing for all.
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Angels Flight
Angels Flight Railway
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Experience the charm of a historic funicular nestled in downtown Los Angeles.
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La Brea Tar Pits
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Venice Canals
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Venice Beach, the Declaration Sculpture & Graffiti Walls
Located at the end of Windward Ave on the Boardwalk
TALL, STEEL “ARMS” REACHING FOR the sky, the sculpture “Declaration” by artist Mark di Suvero is a graceful beach giant.
Santa Monica Pier
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Joshua Tree
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Big Bear
Big Bear Lake's Village
Big Bear Lake's Village
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Discover the vibrant heart of Big Bear at The Village, a central hub boasting an array of over 120 local vendors. Whether you visit during the winter for festive holiday celebrations, the spring and summer for colorful blossoms, or the fall for breathtaking warm autumn hues, The Village promises a delightful experience with each changing season. Take a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the diverse charm of this lively destination.
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Snow Tubing
Address: 42825 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Perfect for snow enthusiasts of all ages, the Grizzly Ridge Tube Park guarantees a thrilling experience for everyone. Say goodbye to uphill hikes as you effortlessly ascend to the pinnacle of the Tube Park on our magic carpet, ready to slide down at exhilarating speeds in our high-performance snow tubes.
42825 Big Bear Blvd
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Situated on a former ski hill, Big Bear Snow Play boasts the longest tube runs in Southern California, offering both daytime and nighttime tubing adventures during the winter. With a covered lift to spare you from uphill toil, the hill comes alive with illumination after dark. In warmer seasons, challenge yourself on the self-guided ropes course, navigating 37 different obstacles suspended between 12 and 35 feet above the ground. Explore the Big Bear Speedway with its entertaining mini-race cars for an added thrill.
Once you've indulged in the outdoor activities, retreat to the lodge for a dose of indoor fun. Arcade games, a cotton candy machine, restrooms, and a snack bar await your enjoyment. Keep in mind that popularity can lead to crowds, so plan accordingly for a more rewarding and extended visit.
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Murphey's Ranch (Abandoned Nazi Camp Hike)
Location: 1562 Casale Rd., Pacific Palisades 90272
Total Steps: 529
Murphy Ranch
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At the end of ritzy Capri Drive, take a left on Casale Road. Wrap around and reach a yellow gate. Pass through the gate and continue on a graffiti lined road lined with the occasional hollyhock. A green ridge is visible in the distance to your left, a rock face to your right. Take the stairs through a hole in the fence. Descend 529 steps and be rewarded with a dirt path lined with pines. Continue down the trail to reach Murphy Ranch, the graffiti-covered, fenced-off remains of an encampment that Nazi sympathizers constructed during World War II.
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Smorgasburg
Location: ROW DTLA • 777 S. ALAMEDA ST, LOS ANGELES, CA 90021
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El Bordello Alexandra Apartments
Location: 20 Westminster AveLos Angeles, California, 90291United States
El Bordello Alexandra, once shrouded in rumors of a bordello and heroin den under neglectful ownership, underwent a remarkable transformation when Tony and Brittany acquired the property over a decade ago. Commencing with a comprehensive overhaul of the historic 2-story building, they breathed new life into its potential. Beyond initial repairs, the duo enlisted the talents of local artists to shape the space into a truly unique haven, befitting the label "bizarre" in a city renowned for flying its freak flag high—almost to the point of obscurity.
The result is truly noteworthy. El Bordello Alexandra captivates with its eclectic mix of contrasting themes, brought to life through bold-colored murals, life-sized statues, and an abundance of intricate details that make it a standout destination in a city where grabbing a double-take is nearly impossible. The dedication of Tony and Brittany has transformed this space into a visual masterpiece, earning its place among the distinctive and vibrant landmarks of the city.
Stone Gates of Hollywood
Location: 2695 N Beachwood Dr. Los Angeles, California
Two Stone Gates
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At the entrance of the esteemed 500-acre "Hollywoodland" real estate development stands a pair of stone gates, erected in 1923, serving as a poignant reminder of its humble origins.
Designed in the French Norman style by architect John DeLario, these towers were crafted by skilled Italian immigrant masons. Originally intended to be guarded and sealed, separating Hollywoodland from the broader Los Angeles area, the gates tell a tale of a bygone plan thankfully left unrealized.
The western gate features a unique belfry (regrettably not open to visitors), a non-functional chimney, a robust (and locked) oak door, a functional gilded clock face, and a bronze plaque from 1923 extending a warm welcome to "Hollywoodland" visitors. Notable details include wrought iron-barred windows and stone planters adorned with intricate goat head motifs. Within the eastern gate lies a charming community library, adding an unexpected touch of literary charm to this historical landmark.
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Artists Palette in Death Valley
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