Fly straight to the heart of Los Angeles with insider tips from the Virgin Crew. They know all the city's best-kept secrets, from hidden dining gems to off-the-beaten-path attractions. Experience LA through the eyes of those who know it best.
Los Angeles, a city where dreams take flight, offers more than just its glittering façade of Hollywood glamour and sun-drenched beaches. Thanks to insider tips from the Virgin Crew who've made the City of Angels a second home, we’ve peeled back the layers to uncover the authentic LA experience. Here's how to live, dine, and explore LA like a local.
Skip the big-name coffee chains and head to a local café to start your day like a true Angeleno. Go Get Em Tiger, with several locations across the city, is a favourite for its excellent coffee and innovative breakfast menu. It's the perfect spot to soak in the local vibe and strike up a conversation with a fellow coffee lover.
Escape the city's hustle and bustle by finding solace in one of LA's serene nature spots. Franklin Canyon Park, nestled in the heart of Beverly Hills, is a hidden oasis perfect for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting. It's a peaceful retreat that many locals treasure for a quick nature fix.
For an authentic dining experience, venture beyond the tourist traps to where the locals like to eat. Sqirl in East Hollywood serves up inventive brunch dishes that have locals lining up around the block, while Night + Market Song in Silver Lake offers bold Thai flavours in a laid-back setting. Munch your way through the many layers of LA's eclectic food scene.
Los Angeles is blessed with an abundance of farmers markets, offering fresh, local produce and artisanal treats. The Hollywood Farmers' Market on Sunday mornings is a hit among locals for organic produce, street food, and live music. It's a great way to support local farmers and discover new flavours.
Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, and its numerous festivals reflect this diversity. Join the locals in celebrating everything from LA Pride in West Hollywood to the Nisei Week Japanese Festival in Little Tokyo. These events offer a glimpse into the city's colourful roots and are a great way to connect with the community.
LA's music scene thrives in its smaller, intimate venues where you can catch live performances by up-and-coming artists. The Hotel Café in Hollywood is renowned for its singer-songwriter showcases, offering a cosy atmosphere that's much loved by locals. It's where you can feel the heartbeat of the city's music scene.
For a unique shopping experience, Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice is lined with one-of-a-kind shops offering everything from handmade jewellery to curated vintage clothing. It's a great way to find unique souvenirs and support local businesses.
Los Angeles' film legacy is alive and well in its historic theatres. For a movie experience like no other, catch a screening at the El Capitan Theatre or the New Beverly Cinema, both of which offer a glimpse into Hollywood's golden age and are favoured by locals for their unique programming and nostalgic charm.
There's no better way to end a day in LA than with a sunset hike, offering breathtaking views of the city against a backdrop of fiery skies. Griffith Park offers various trails that lead to stunning vantage points, a favourite local pastime that captures the city's natural beauty.
With these top tips from the Virgin Crew, you'll discover the Los Angeles that Angelenos love—a city of hidden gems, cultural richness and natural beauty. It's an invitation to step off the beaten path and experience LA like a local, creating memories that go beyond the typical tourist experience.
