Discover Family-Friendly Gems in West Hollywood
Secret Los Angeles
This Dark Cirque Show Full Of Vampires Is Coming To LA! Vampire Circus blends circus artistry with theatrical flair, delivering a ghoulish twist that’s perfect for all ages. Set in an abandoned cemetery where spirits come to life, the show promises a mix of chills, thrills, and laughs. Expect to be dazzled by dancers, gymnasts, contortionists, jugglers, acrobats, comedians, and the dreaded “Graveyard Clown.” The Montalban Theater will host the thrilling and eerie Vampire Circus, a fresh take on the classic cirque show just in time for the Halloween season. Tickets are now available, so don’t wait—grab yours today for this spine-tingling experience!
Secret Los Angeles
HI TOPS As one of L.A.’s busiest gay sports bars, this outpost not only offers the neighborhood another LGBTQ+ venue but also serves as a great spot to catch a game. While it’s not primarily known for sports viewing, the numerous flat-screen TVs on the walls provide the option. Additionally, they host weekday Happy Hour from 4-7 pm, featuring discounted wine, beer, and well drinks. For those seeking mental stimulation, Monday trivia nights are quite popular.
Secret Los Angeles
The Stalking Horse Brewery & Freehouse This venue exudes the quintessential charm of a British-inspired sports bar. With its inviting atmosphere and a wide array of craft beers brewed on-site, it offers a delightful haven for sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to catch the latest game or simply unwind with friends over traditional British fare, such as fish and chips or meat pies, this establishment delivers on both fronts.
Secret Los Angeles
Blipsy This K-town gem is the OG arcade bar in Los Angeles, seamlessly blending childhood nostalgia with adult entertainment in a dimly lit setting, focused on ’80s classics. If gaming isn’t your scene, groove to nightly tunes from live DJs spanning ’70s rock to hip-hop. Enjoy a variety of libations, but remember to bring cash—it’s cash only at this arcade hotspot.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Jiro Style Ramen, right here in Los Angie. At Tsujita Annex in West LA, Jiro-style ramen is a specialty that aligns with the authentic features of this style. Tsujita Annex is known for its rich, flavorful ramen and adheres closely to the traditional Jiro-style with its robust broth, substantial portions of toppings, and emphasis on a hearty, satisfying meal. The restaurant’s approach to Jiro-style ramen aims to capture the essence of the original while catering to the local palate. — Jiro-style ramen is a distinct type of ramen that originates from Ramen Jiro, a famous ramen shop in Tokyo, Japan. It’s characterized by its hearty, rich, and indulgent style. The key features of Jiro-style ramen include a thick, flavorful broth, a heavy dose of garlic, a significant amount of bean sprouts, and a generous portion of fatty pork. The noodles are usually thick and chewy, and the dish is often topped with extra slices of pork and sometimes a raw egg.
Ally Grammin
TARTINE If you are looking for a solid cafe for meetups with friends, brunch with the parents or a spot to work for a few hours - this is the all purpose place. 🥐 All of the pastries are excellent but I have a particular fondness for the seasonal cornmeal tea cake. 🍞 Whatever you order, do NOT skip their bread. Tartine’s country loaf is in regular rotation in my house.
Ally Grammin
CAFE SPOTLIGHT | Neighborhood 📍La Brea One of my favorite cafes in the city, for the obviously cute courtyard, but also the expertly made cappuccinos and delicious pastries. ☕️ iced vanilla latte and iced cinnamon latte 9/10 💻 catch up with friends & good space to get work done, limited outlets 💵 typical LA pricing 📷 aesthetic location ☀️ indoor and mostly outdoor seating 🚗 street parking available in front
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Top Anonymous Recommendations in Fairfax - Discover Trending Suggestions & Local Reviews Near LA
Ally Grammin
OBET AND DEL’S | Thai Town One of my favorites, OBET & DEL’S COFFEE always makes me instantly happy with their colorful wall decor, friendly staff and the creamiest capp in town. Bonus: they have bottomless drip on the menu for the laptop-inclined.
Life by Vivien
Pink Pepper Thai My favorite Thai restaurant in LA is such a vibe - whether you’re dining indoors with lovely floral decor or on the outdoor patio with a breeze and plenty of natural lighting, this spot is perfect for delicious authentic classic Thai dishes. Every dish had incredible flavors and textures and the portions were generous! Here’s everything we tried: Appetizers : Kan Tok - Thai Platter** (you HAVE to try this, it’s incredible, their fried coconut shrimp is made in house!) : Chicken Satay* Soup :Tom Kha soup with Chicken *the broth is so tasty Main : Khao soi Beef Short Rib *noodles are so flavorful : Curry Salmon **salmon is so tender! : Pad Thai with Shrimp *so flavorful! Dessert : Mango Sticky Rice **perfect melt in your mouth flavors : Fried Banana *so tasty, perfect complementary textures I enjoyed every single dish I tried and happily enjoyed all the leftovers for days - it was still so good!
Secret Los Angeles
Catalina Jazz Club This spot stands as a cornerstone among the best jazz clubs in Los Angeles. Nestled beneath a nondescript office building on Sunset Blvd., this Hollywood gem boasts exceptional acoustics and an intimate atmosphere, with 275 seats arranged in an L-shaped room. Hosting top-tier jazz musicians nightly, it’s a hotspot for unforgettable live performances. Perfect for a sophisticated date night, reservations are recommended to secure a spot in this renowned supper club.
Secret Los Angeles
The World Stage Located in Leimert Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, The World Stage is not a bar, but a nonprofit performance and education space. This spot has been a cultural hub for jazz and other forms of African-American music and art since its founding in 1989 by drummer Billy Higgins and poet Kamau Daáood. With its intimate atmosphere and commitment to artistic excellence, it regularly hosts live jazz performances, jam sessions, poetry readings, and educational events, making it a cherished institution in Los Angeles.
Ally Grammin
Think of the quintessential LA cafe and the usual suspects come to mind… Instagrammable avocado toast, pancakes, quiche, maybe a snazzy breakfast sandwich. Yes, these things are on the menu at Sqirl but the reason you’re coming here is for the acclaimed Ricotta Toast: a raft of brioche coated with a generous smear of house-made ricotta and a pool of jam made with seasonal fruits. While The Toast is simultaneously gorgeous and delicious, my favorite order is the Crispy Rice Salad. A deep bowl filled with crisped brown rice, mint, cilantro, cucumber, scallion, hot sauce, and topped with a fried egg. An amalgamation of the perfect textures and flavors: crispy rice, crunchy bits, salty and sour mixing with the rich egg yolk… incredible and totally guilt free because it has salad in the name.
Secret Los Angeles
Have a martini at Musso & Frank Cinephiles, this one’s for you. Pretend it’s the 1920s and take your date out for a romantic night of Old Hollywood charm at the legendary Musso & Frank. Known as the oldest restaurant in Hollywood and often referred to as the “genesis of Hollywood,” this iconic steakhouse in LA, feels like you’ve stepped back into a bygone era. The restaurant was known as the go-to spot for the Hollywood elite, even boasting a secret back room for industry insiders. It’s been memorialized in countless films, most notably Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Cozy up in one of the old-school wooden booths and order their world-famous martini for a night to remember.
Rachael Brandon
Influenced to try Community Goods while in LA and so glad I did. Hopefully we’ll see them back in Miami for another pop-up soon 👀 Hands down one of the best iced matcha lattes - added their vanilla syrup + oat milk. The sliders were so pillowy and much lighter than I expected (thankfully) and the sauces!!! Herb Aioli and a sweet and sour hot sauce. The pistachio toast though, was just the cherry on top! Think Nutella but pistachio no chocolate, fresh nuts and honey on a rustic bread. Chefs kiss ✨ I got there super early on a weekday just after opening to avoid any famed hour long lines and had a lovely #slowmorning on their patio 🍵
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Rachael Brandon
The most eye-catching and unique #icecream spot I’ve ever seen: AWAN Awan serves up non-dairy ice creams made from a coconut base and uses Indonesian ingredients. This was one of the creamiest non-dairy ice creams I’ve ever tried and you’re truly transported to another world with the aesthetic cavernous ambiance! I couldn’t resist a saffron pistachio date rose water and the Gula Jawa with unrefined Indonesian coconut palm sugar, both of which were delicious! 🥥
Secret Los Angeles
Hike your way up to the Hollywood Sign Whether you’re looking for a way to work out, explore nature, or simply enjoy stunning sunset views over the city, a quick hike to the Hollywood Sign is always a great idea. If you’re already familiar with the area or prefer to make plans on your own, just lace up your sneakers and head up there, which is free. If you enjoy socializing with others and you’re new in town, you might want to book a ticket to join a group hike.
Kathy
Ramen Akira is a newly opened modern ramen spot in Koreatown that brings amazing flavors in a bowl 🍜 ✔️The server recommended the yuzu ramen, and I decided to be adventurous and try it. I was a bit worried it would be too citrusy, but the broth was super creamy with a subtle hint of yuzu 🍊 I definitely recommend trying it if you want to experience something different! :) ✔️I wanted to eat outside cause of their super cute patio, but it was way too hot 😭 I’ll be definitely back to enjoy the patio 👀🌸
Kathy
YUME is a hidden gem that offers Japanese dishes with a modern twist 🍣✨ ✔️ Perfect for a date night spot with its cozy minimalist interiors that makes you feel as if you’re in Japan 🇯🇵 ✔️Had an AMAZING meal here and everything was packed with flavors 🫶 You can tell that they only serve fresh fish for sushi and sashimi, so you won’t be disappointed✨
Los Angeles Fun Events
The Singles Party @ Mama Shelter Date: Wednesday, September 18th Time: 7 PM - 10 PM Age: 21+ Join us for a relaxed and fun evening at Mama Shelter, a vibrant and eclectic spot in the heart of Hollywood, where over 100 local singles are gathering to mingle, laugh, and connect. It's the perfect opportunity to meet new people in a laid-back, friendly setting. Highlights of the Evening: Meet Local Singles: A great chance to mix and chat with a diverse group of singles from around Los Angeles. Unique Venue: Enjoy the unique atmosphere of Mama Shelter, renowned for its lively decor, rooftop views, and fantastic drinks. Easy-going Fun: No pressure, just a night of casual conversations and the chance to make new friends or find a potential date. Tasty Drinks: Savor delicious cocktails crafted by expert bartenders. Good Music: Background tunes to set the mood for a pleasant evening. Dress Code: Smart casual - come as you are, but feel free to dress to impress! Tickets: Grab your ticket soon – space is limited.
Time Out LA
Nossa Caipirinha Bar What: $10–11 cocktails and wines, $5–8 beers, discounted food items When: Daily 4–6pm Why we love it: After a short stint as a sit-down restaurant, this Brazilian eatery in Los Feliz flipped into a neighborhood watering hole inspired by the country’s botecos. Now, Nossa Caipirinha Bar offers five well-balanced renditions of its namesake drink—Brazil’s national cocktail—as well as a host of traditional bar snacks like cheese bread and coxinhas (chicken and paprika croquettes). At happy hour, snack on discounted bites like $9 chicken heart skewers, $14 fried calamari and $13 coxinhas.
Secret Los Angeles
Best in Low This new Petersen Museum exhibition takes us through the craft of lowrider culture, including paint, metal finishings, interiors, and hydraulics. Now that cruising bans have been lifted in California, lowriders are rolling into a new era on local streets. Learn all about the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating these immaculate vehicles. 🎟️ Tickets: Best in Low is viewable with general admission tickets to the Petersen Museum 🗓️ Dates: Open now through April 2025
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Secret Los Angeles
The Art of Movie Making: The Godfather The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures presents an array objects and artifacts from The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather Part II (1974), an opportunity for film buffs to learn about the making of one of Hollywood’s most storied film franchises. See costumes, props, scripts, and equipment, many of which have never been presented to the public, and all of which provide valuable insight to the process of filmmaking in the ’70s. 🗓️ Dates: On view now through Jan. 5, 2025
Time Out LA
Founders Ale House What: $6 well drinks, $7 cocktails, $5 wines, $6 beers; $7–10 bar bites; $3.50 sliders, taquitos and meatballs When: Mon–Thu 4–7pm, 10pm–close; Fri 3–7pm, 10pm–close; Sat, Sun 1–7pm, 10pm–close Why we love it: Filled to the brim every weekend, this longtime Pico-Robertson bar offers casual neighborhod pub atmosphere (and prices). Board games, dart boards and arcade fun upstairs keep locals occupied most evenings and weekends, but Founders Ale House turns into a party on game nights, when the bar breaks out a large-scale projector. Founders Ale House’s newer happy hour menu bucks the trend of rising prices with a selection of affordable bites priced by the item, including $3.50 sliders with vegan options, a $10 smashburger and $7 nachos.
Los Angeles magazine
Beyond Fest Horror, Sci-Fi and "genre" film have the ultimate showcase at this popular cinema fest, which this year, includes 82 features and 16 world premieres. This 12th edition presented by Neon, takes place at the Egyptian Theatre, Aero Theatre, Los Feliz 3, and Vista Theatre and features appearances by big names, including Al Pacino during a Scarface screening, Kiyoshi Kurosawa after a 7-film retrospective, plus Sam Raimi, Tarsem Singh, Kyle MacLachlan, Sarah Paulson, Ron Perlman, and Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock for the 30th Anniversary Speed. Other anticipated movies and stars: Gary Dauberman’s take on Stephen King’s Salem's Lot, Brady Corbet's The Brutalist (in 70mm); the 35mm debut of Sean Baker's Anora (with star Mikey Madison); Marielle Heller’s Nightbitch starring starring Amy Adams, Steven Soderbergh’s Presence; Barry Keoghan and Christopher Abbott’s Bring Them Down and Damien Leone’s Terrifier 3 (read our interview with the latter here next week). Sept. 26-Oct. 9
Secret Los Angeles
Eyes on the Road: Art of the Automotive Landscape In the early 20th century, automotive designs and highway systems reached a level of standardization that most drivers take for granted these days. In this exhibition, The Petersen Museum presents a collection of oft-overlooked automobiles designed by visual artists. These weird and wonderful designs include the spaceship-like 1955 Chrysler Ghia Gilda; the three-wheeled 1933 Dymaxion, which looks like a submarine; and the 1956 American Motors Astra-Gnome with a cartoonish clear bubble body. 🎟️ Tickets: Eyes on the Road is viewable with general admission tickets to the Petersen Museum. 🗓️ Dates: On view now through Nov 2024
Kathy
MUN PATIO is my fav K-BBQ spot in Koreatown, and I’m starting to get a little worried that this place is getting way too popular these days😂💞 ✻ Pork Shoulder, Pork Jowl, Pork Belly with Fried Rice ⤷I absolutely love their thick and juicy pork😣👍 They also provide ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce), wine salt, and wasabi for pairing with the meat. We ended the meal with fried rice and added cheese because who doesn’t love cheese?💛 ✻ Cold Radish & Cucumber Buckwheat Noodles ⤷Not in the video, but PLEASE try this and thank me later❤️🔥 Bursting with flavors, it pairs amazingly with the meat. I’m not a huge fan of cold noodles, but this one really hits the spot 🫶 ✔️My two friends and I were so stuffed after the meal that we couldn’t even finish the fried rice😂 ✔️ Every time I recommend this place to my friends, I always receive positive feedback :) So I hope y’all will try it out too when you’re in the area❣️
Secret Los Angeles
14. The Art of Movie Making: The Godfather The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures presents an array objects and artifacts from The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather Part II (1974), an opportunity for film buffs to learn about the making of one of Hollywood’s most storied film franchises. See costumes, props, scripts, and equipment, many of which have never been presented to the public, and all of which provide valuable insight to the process of filmmaking in the ’70s. 🎟️ Tickets: Viewable with general admission tickets to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures 🗓️ Dates: On view now through Jan. 5, 2025
Time Out LA
There are pockets of walkable shopping and dining districts scattered across Central L.A., but Los Feliz stands out among them as the neighborhood best experienced on foot. A lot of that comes down to the general vibe along the area’s two main streets: Sidewalk seating at Figaro Bistro turns part of Vermont Avenue into a European facsimile and the brick patio of Alcove and Big Bar makes Hillhurst Avenue feel welcoming at all hours. But Los Feliz also boasts some truly superlative destinations. Just over the East Hollywood edge of town, you can take a tour of the Hollyhock House (Thu–Sat 11am–4pm), the Mayan-inflected Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece. Just down the street from there, you can stock up on indescribable curios at Soap Plant Wacko, or head up Vermont to peruse some novels at the leafy Skylight Books or catch American Cinematheque’s handpicked classics screening at the Los Feliz Theatre. Of course, the neighborhood also makes for the perfect starting point to head up to Griffith Observatory. You could hike there entirely on foot (the entrance along Fern Dell, past the Trails, is ideal for that though a bit to the west), but for just 35 cents you can board a DASH bus that’ll take you right to the top. If you’re looking to make your entire Los Feliz visit completely car-free, you can start at the Vermont/Sunset stop on the B Line; it isn’t quite in the heart of town, but it’ll get you close enough
See alsoExperience Fairfax: Top Local and Trending Insights near LA
Los Angeles magazine
Celebrating 60 Years of the Century City Shopping Center From the debut of the Music Center downtown to the construction of the new LACMA on the Miracle Mile, Los Angeles was on a building boom in 1964. An entire new district came online in Century City, transforming 176 acres on the westside into offices, shops, and a grand hotel. The city was in the midst of creating epic monuments in what some observers have called the era of ‘Imperial Los Angeles.’ At the same time that L.A. art and culture were elevated to new heights, Century City debuted its landmark shopping center, now operated by Westfield, which is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary October 12-13.
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Los Angeles magazine
AIDS Walk L.A. Oct. 13 It’s the 40th anniversary of this important activist event and though life-saving strides have been made in HIV and AIDS treatment (PrEP, PEP, and injectable PrEP), there is still a need to fight for a cure and against enduring stigmas. Starting in West Hollywood Park, this year’s theme "We're Not Walking Back," says it all. APLA Health, formerly AIDS Project Los Angeles and the organizer of AIDS Walk Los Angeles, have provided comprehensive services, including LGBTQ+ empowering healthcare, HIV specialty care, and more. The group needs support to continue its work. Click hyperlink for full walk route.
Local Family-Friendly Spots in West Hollywood: Your Ultimate Guide
Welcome to West Hollywood, LA’s vibrant neighborhood that boasts an array of family-friendly spots perfect for both relaxation and exploration. Whether you are a local resident or just visiting, this guide is packed with local secrets and trending family activities to make your time in West Hollywood unforgettable.
Plummer Park: A Community Hub for Family Fun
Plummer Park is a local gem that provides a plethora of activities perfect for families. Known for its lush greenery and recreational spaces, the park offers tennis courts, a playground, and picnic areas. Kids will love the vast open spaces for running around and playing games. Additionally, the park frequently hosts community events such as farmers' markets and outdoor concerts, making it an excellent spot to immerse your family in local culture and activities.
Exploration at TreePeople: Nature Meets Nurture
Just a short drive from West Hollywood, TreePeople is an environmental organization and park situated in the Santa Monica Mountains. This destination is perfect for families looking to explore the natural beauty of Southern California. With interactive educational programs and guided tours, TreePeople offers children a valuable learning experience about environmental conservation. The serene walking trails provide a peaceful environment for both parents and kids to enjoy, making it a fantastic blend of education and outdoor fun.
The Sunset Strip: Family Friendly During the Day
While the Sunset Strip is famously known for its nightlife, it transforms into a family-friendly area during the day. This iconic stretch is dotted with restaurants that welcome families, including those with outdoor seating for a more relaxed dining experience. Kid-friendly places like Book Soup allow families to discover unique books and enjoy readings and events tailored for younger audiences. The historic attractions and murals along the strip also make for an engaging walk full of photo ops and sightseeing.
West Hollywood Library: More Than Just Books
The West Hollywood Library is an essential stop for family-friendly exploration. Situated near several parks and cultural centers, the library provides a quiet retreat filled with books, games, and interactive activities for children. It regularly hosts storytelling hours and educational workshops that captivate young minds. Parents can also enjoy a peaceful reading session or catch up on work using the library’s free Wi-Fi. The library's modern architecture and art installations make it a visually appealing and calming environment for all.
Melrose Avenue: A Street of Surprises
Melrose Avenue isn't just for the trendy shoppers and foodies; it's also home to several family-friendly venues. The whimsical murals provide a vibrant backdrop for family photos and exploration. The Melrose Trading Post, a weekly open-air market, offers a treasure trove of goods from local artisans, which can be an exciting adventure for kids. Many cafes and ice cream shops along the avenue offer family-friendly dining options. The eclectic mix of shops and eateries makes Melrose Avenue a delightful place for a day out with the family.
Pacifica Park: A Hidden Oasis
Pacifica Park, a lesser-known spot, is a hidden oasis in West Hollywood where families can enjoy a peaceful day. The park features shaded benches, a small playground, and an open lawn perfect for picnics. It’s an ideal location for families seeking a quieter alternative to the more crowded parks. Local parents often bring their kids here for a relaxed afternoon, a secret that tends to stay within the community. The park’s serene atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for unwinding and spending quality family time.
Trending Family Activities: Local Insights
West Hollywood is always buzzing with new activities that cater to families. Locals rave about the monthly storytime sessions at local bookstores and pop-up events in parks. Yoga in the park has become increasingly popular among families looking to blend relaxation with fitness. Moreover, community theaters occasionally offer family-friendly shows and productions, providing cultural enrichment for all ages.
For those interested in culinary exploration, family cooking classes have become a hit. These classes offer hands-on experience with local chefs and provide a fun way for families to bond while learning new skills. The community-based activity ensures that everyone, from young to old, can participate and enjoy.
Another activity making waves is the family scavenger hunt tours around historical sites in West Hollywood. These tours provide educational content in a playful format, making history lessons fun for kids and parents alike.
Relaxation and Recreation: Balancing Both
Balancing relaxation and recreation is key to a successful family outing in West Hollywood. Many local spots offer a blend of both, ensuring that everyone in the family has a good time. Parks like Kings Road Park provide a tranquil setting with benches and fountains, ideal for relaxing, while still offering ample space for recreational activities. Dog-friendly parks are also a plus, allowing families to bring their furry friends along for the fun.
Local cafes and juice bars offer refreshing treats and serene spots to rest and recharge before continuing your exploration. Many of these spots also have children’s menus, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters are satisfied. West Hollywood’s vibrant community effortlessly combines relaxation with recreation, maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for families.
Why Choose Kikihub for Local Insights?
Navigating the multitude of family-friendly spots and activities can be overwhelming, but that’s where Kikihub comes in. As a resource for local anonymous chats, Kikihub helps families gain real opinions and secrets from local residents. Whether you need suggestions for the best playgrounds, family-friendly restaurants, or hidden gems, Kikihub’s platform provides valuable local insights to enhance your family adventures in West Hollywood.
