DK Travel : Los Angeles

The myth, the velocity, the edginess in creative and technological fields – this is Los Angeles, where the multicultural future that awaits the rest of the country is already a firm reality. In little more than 200 years, LA has grown from a dusty Spanish outpost into one of the world’s largest and most complex cities offering top venues for everything from archaeology and the arts to food. The birthplace of Mickey Mouse and Hollywood, LA has shaped the imaginations of millions.

Audiences Unlimited

A great way to see stars live is to be part of a studio audience. This organization handles the distribution of free tickets to live tapings, primarily of game shows and sitcoms. Book early for the best selection.
Avalon

This cool Beverly Hills hot spot has intimately lit cabanas that fringe the curvaceous pool. Rooms feature George Nelson lamps and Eames-style chairs. And don’t forget – Marilyn Monroe once lived here.
Avenues of Art & Design

The streets surrounding the PDC are flanked with design stores where you can actually buy – and not just look at (as in the PDC) – that chintz sofa or Eames chair. Best explored on foot, the district is filled with cutting-edge art galleries, trendy restaurants, and cafés where you can relax over latte.
Babe & Ricky’s Inn

If this club is the heart of the LA blues scene, Laura Mae Gross is its soul. Since 1964, she has nurtured new talent and hosted greats such as B.B. King. Monday’s jam nights (with free fried chicken) are legendary.
Banana Museum

Ken Bannister is so bananas over the yellow fruit that he has collected 17,000 banana-themed items and even earned an entry in the Guinness Book of Records . Arranged in a rather haphazard fashion in his tiny storefront “museum” are bananas made of plastic, glass, plus toys, T-shirts, tobacco, and even a petrified banana!
Bang Improv Studios

Veteran improv actors perform low-cost, high-energy shows in a tiny space with campy decor.
Banning Residence Museum

The Greek Revival style home of Phineas Banning (1830–85), the “Father of Los Angeles Harbor,” offers a glimpse into the life of one of the most influential of the city’s pioneers. Tours take in the office, parlor, family and dining rooms, kitchen, and nursery, all filled with late 19th-century period furniture.
Bar at The Argyle

Order martinis at this Sunset Strip haven with a decor reminiscent of Hollywood’s Golden Era (see The Argyle).
Bar Marmont

Super-trendy lounge next to the Chateau Marmont hotel with lots of beautiful people to gawk at. To increase your chances of getting past the front door arrive early, by about 9 or 10pm.
Barbara’s at the Brewery

This self-service bistro in the Brewery Arts Complex doubles as an art gallery, with changing displays of work.

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Hotel price categories

For the cheapest standard double room per night (without breakfast), taxes, and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100–$150
- $150–$250
- $250–$350
- over $350
Restaurant price categories

Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
- under $25
- $25–$50
- $50–$80
- over $80