Victoria & Parker
Things to do and Places to Eat
The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Garden
The Huntington is one of the beautiful attractions in the Los Angeles area. The Huntington was built and owned by Henry Edwards Huntington in 1903. He came from a family history of railroad developers that spanned from New York to San Francisco. Together with his wife, Arabella, they amassed an extensive library of rare and first edition books, art work, and botanical collections that continue to evolve. In 1919 they created a land trust that converted the private estate into a public institution so researchers and scholars worldwide could enjoy the enormous wealth of information the estate could share.
Norton Simon Museum
The Norton Simon is Victoria's favorite museum in southern California. Albeit small, the museum houses one of the world's most remarkable private art collections ever assembled. A large portion of the collection is dedicated to impressionist works by the likes of Edgar Degas, Manet, Monet, and Van Gogh. The outside areas of the museum also host impressive original bronze sculptures from the likes of Rodin, Henry Moore and Giacometti.
Historic Old Pasadena
Pasadena's more cosmopolitan attraction is this strip of Colorado Blvd called Old Town Pasadena. Here you can find dozens of great restaurants, beautiful boutique and brand-name stores, and lovely turn of the century architecture.
Pie'n Burger
Nope, it's not In N Out, although we do think you should go to In N Out for breakfast lunch and dinner. If you're looking for something different where you can also get a tasty dessert, check out Pie N' Burger in South Pasadena. This place is a classic 1960s local favorite.
Russell's
Save your liver the day after the wedding with some classics at this classic 1930s greasy spoon diner.
Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles - Pasadena
If you know, you know.
King Taco- Pasadena
It wouldn't be a trip to southern California without a recommendation to everyone's favorite taco shop. King Taco started operating out of an ice cream truck in 1974 and have since opened 22 locations across Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. Anyone worth their salt knows that King Taco is where it's at.
The Broad
Eli Broad's collection is housed here as well as the famous Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room. General Admission is free but I recommend you make a reservation in advance on their website.
Bottega Louie
Bottega Louie is a wonderful gourmet market, restaurant and patisserie that serves up the classic french macarons in all their colorful glory. Pick up a cappuccino and treat here if you're feeling peckish.
Grand Central Market
Come here for some cheap eats and farmer's market vibes. Eggslut is famous for their breakfast sandwiches but I like to head to Belcampo Meats for their amazing burger or Tacos Tumbras a Tomas for some of the best LA mexican. Wash it down with a craft beer from Los Angeles based brewery Golden Road.
The Last Bookstore
Get lost in the sea of new and used books at this iconic LA Bookshop housed in an abandoned bank.
Bradbury Building
Opened in 1893, this Los Angeles Victorian building interior is the set of many films including 500 Days of Summer, BladeRunner and The Artist. You can feel free to walk inside and admire the beautiful architecture.
Angels Flight
For those wanting some LaLaLand vibes, head to Angel's Flight where for a dollar you can take a 120 year old funicular rail way up to bunker hill instead of walking the stairs.
Melrose Avenue
Melrose Ave is an iconic chic yet funky Los Angeles staple for fashion junkies and foodies alike. The street spans a fairly long distance across West Hollywood and is also a great spot for nightlife and great food. You might spot a celebrity at restaurants like Catch or Gracias Madre. As you near La Cienega Blvd it's nice to walk a slight one block detour north and you'll come across high end boutiques such as Monique LHuillier, Isabel Marant, Chloe, Vince, Carolina Herrera, Diane von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs. For a quick bite that still meets the SoCal vibe, head to Urth Caffe or for a nice pick-me-up go to Alfred in the Alley for some Matcha Lattes and instagram worthy photos. For casual dinner and drinks we recommend EP & LP, a beautiful lush rooftop bar with great cocktails.