The Vogue Editors’ Guide to Los Angeles 

Like that other famous city, Los Angeles is always a good idea. (After all, that line was popularized by a legendary Hollywood production.) Planning a trip out west, however, can feel quite daunting; there are over 100 neighborhoods—each with their own must-see lists—within the city limits. Not to worry; we polled our staff for the very best of where to stay, eat, shop, and visit to get you in a La La Land state of mind. 

Here, the Vogue editors’ guide to Los Angeles.

Where to Stay

The Prospect Hollywood

Old-world glamour abounds at The Prospect Hollywood. This charming boutique hotel, which is just a stone's throw from the Hollywood Boulevard, briefly made its debut in February 2020 before reopening its fire-engine red door in July. Each suite is inspired by legends of the silver screen. I stayed in Garbo’s room, which was done up with languid black-and-white portraits set against poppy floral wallpaper. With its luxurious appointments—a lucite four-post bed, classic rotary telephone, an oversized clawfoot tub (complete with the full line of Diptyque bath products)—I found myself easily slipping into the screen siren role. The bygone appeal may even inspire you to go out and stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame—or just stay in the palm-shaded courtyard and enjoy a coffee and the hotel's freshly baked croissants. Either way: Chic! — Jessie Heyman, Executive Editor, Vogue.com

Santa Monica Proper 

I'm from Los Angeles, so when I'm visiting family, I don't normally stay at hotels, but over the holidays last year I decided to extend my trip a little longer for a mini staycation. I chose to stay at the newly opened Santa Monica Proper. It was an absolute delight, from the tasteful decor curated by Kelly Wearstler to the sleek rooftop pool set up and buzzy lounge area, brimming with locals on Friday night, it was the spot to be. During my stay, I treated myself to a massage at Surya Spa, which currently has a partnership with the hotel. Not only was I immediately greeted with a slice of warm homemade walnut bread and a soothing hot tea too—all before my actual session started. Needless to say, I can't wait until I'm back. — Julie Tong, Senior Commerce Editor   

The Surfrider

The Surfrider delivers all that you could want from a Malibu stay: access to the beach (it’s literally across the street!), a view (head to the roof to watch the sunset), and great food (its on-site restaurant sources ingredients from some of the best nearby farms). The rooms are done up in a beachy beige perfection with linen-upholstered seatings and rattan accents. Spend your days surfing and your nights on the hotel's roof drinking a cocktail by the fire. You’ll feel miles away from the buzz of L.A. — Lilah Ramzi, Commerce Editor

1 Hotel West Hollywood

It might be in a prime location right at the heart of the Sunset Strip, but once you’ve passed through the front doors of the 1 Hotel’s expansive lobby—filled to the rafters with lush indoor foliage and relaxed, cream-colored sofas—it’s another, altogether more laid-back, world entirely. The emphasis on both comfort and sustainability here extends through to every detail: the bathrooms are fully stocked with organic products from Bamford, the health-focused menu includes an impressive array of juices and smoothies, and there are complimentary yoga and fitness classes along with a FaceGym outpost to achieve that L.A. glow. Bonus points for the small but perfectly-formed outdoor pool, where you can cool off and then lay back on a sunlounger to take in those views. —Liam Hess, Living Editor

tommie Hollywood 

A newcomer to L.A.'s lifestyle hotel scene, tommie perfectly balances style and function in an understated atmosphere. Look no further than the house restaurant, Ka'teen, for some of the city's best tacos, and plan to stay late for a vibey night out in the lush Tulum-inspired lounge. For a trip to Joshua Tree without the traffic, check out the rooftop bar dubbed Desert 5 Spot for a frozen margarita and some honky tonk music.  —Eliseé Browchuk, Experiences Production and Marketing Manager

West Hollywood Edition

The Los Angeles fantasy manifests differently person to person. For some, it's the Beach Boys “California Girl” energy of Santa Monica, others, the Beverly Hills lifestyle of Clueless. For those who view L.A. as synonymous with fame— a la “All right, Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up!”—the West Hollywood Edition will indulge you. Perched right on Sunset Boulevard with its towering “For Your Consideration" billboards, it's surrounded by the buzzy restaurants, bars, and clubs that are staples on Deuxmoi. (Soho House is around the corner,  while Tower Bar and San Vicente Bungalows—if you're lucky enough to know a member—are two-to-three-minute Uber drives away. Remember, this is L.A. Everyone drives.)

Inside is a warm, modern property. Guest room rooms are appointed with oak woods, crisp cream walls, and plenty of Le Labo products. A rooftop pool has sprawling views of La La Land's twinkling urban sprawl, and in the lobby, a lime green pool table is a playful accent against a neat green hedge wall that beckons you to an outdoor patio. An added bonus? They serve a mean avocado toast at their in-house restaurant, Ardor. — Elise Taylor, Living Writer

Pendry West Hollywood

Don’t have a house in the Hollywood Hills? Well you can find the same views from Pendry West Hollywood. Smack dab in the middle of the Sunset Strip, it’s an easy stumble from my favorite shops, restaurants, bars and clubs. However, you don’t need to leave the hotel for a scene. I’ve had plenty of fun on the rooftop! — Molly Barstein, Content Operations Associate

Cara

Here's my review of Cara, which I wrote when it opened in 2020: “While first-time visitors to a city might seek out its marquee hotel—the one frequented by movie stars, politicians, and princesses since, like, forever; the one located smack dab in the middle of the metropolis; the one with 200 rooms and an overflowing lobby—those who return for their third or fourth visit are looking for something different. When you go from tourist to seasoned traveler (or are a local already), you know which neighborhoods you like, dislike, and love. You want something smaller, where you can feel immersed in the city rather than an interloper.” Two years later, that still stands. Located on the cusp of Los Felix, Cara is where I frequently find myself staying because of its local feel. My favorite activity? Going for a hike in Griffith Park followed by coffee at Maru afterwards. — Elise Taylor

Downtown L.A. Proper

Looking for more of an urban retreat? The Proper has now opened a breezy outpost in the historic Broadway Corridor to give out of towners the best of both coasts. With its art deco design and sumptuous mix of Mexican and Moroccan style influences, Downtown L.A. Proper is California-cool at its most aspirational. (Not that we'd e expect anything less from interior design wizard Kelly Wearstler.) The 147-room hotel pays tribute to its sporting club roots (it was a private club in the '20s and a YWCA in the '60s) with a unique set of suits fashioned out of a former swimming pool and basketball court. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the light-filled Caldo Verde (order the Diosa Verde smoothie) before heading to the hotel's crown jewel: a gorgeous rooftop pool, restaurant, and lounge area that's just perfect for contemplating a move out west. — Jessie Heyman

The Thompson Hollywood 

Located on Wilcox Avenue, The Thompson's spacious suites are outfitted in mid-century modern accents and finished with an elegantly retro touch. The floor-to-ceiling windows in every room offer sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills and downtown Los Angeles from dawn to dusk. — Eliseé Browchuk

The Georgian

One of this year’s buzziest entries to L.A.’s hotel scene, The Georgian comes with an ambitious dual mandate. First, to shake up Santa Monica, which has earned a (possibly unfair) reputation as oversaturated with tourists, but is set to enter a new—and more design-forward—phase thanks to a whole spate of new hospitality openings this year. Second, and perhaps most importantly, to preserve a slice of L.A. history: The Georgian’s classic Art Deco, pastel blue facade has seen the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable step through its doors over the decades, and is set to welcome a new generation of Tinseltown hedonists. The rooms pay homage to the seaside location in a breezy palette of crisp white and sky blue, while the lavishly-appointed ground floor restaurant—all striped awnings and flamingo pink—is now joined by the subterranean The Georgian Room, which, with its red velvet banquettes and gilded details offers a slice of old Hollywood right by the sea. — Liam Hess

Silver Lake Pool & Inn

Palisociety's new Silver Lake outpost is the hotel embodiment of good vibes only. It feels like staying in your cool friend’s guest house, complete with Block Shop woodblock prints, monstera plants (and the most comfortable bed I’ve experience in recent memory). Head to the elevated pool deck for a cocktail and take in the views of the Hollywood sign in the distance; even the cool kids won’t blame you for snapping a photo. — Jessie Heyman

Maybourne Beverly Hills

The Maybourne—the hotel group behind the iconic London property Claridge's as well as the stunning new Maybourne Riveria—recently took over a hotel in the heart of Beverly Hills, where Rodeo Drive is just around the corner. Already, their high-design sensibilities are starting to show: rooms are adorned in California neutrals (think whites, creams, taupes, and slight touches of Pacific Ocean blues) while the Andre-Fu lobby bar features a distinctive silver onyx bar and Yves-Klein blue counter seats. As a nod to their roots across the pond, this spring they even had a British-slash-California style afternoon tea in their garden where smoked salmon and cucumber sandwiches were served alongside lobster-topped tortillas. — Elise Taylor

Where to Eat

Great White 

With views of the Venice sign, this all-day eatery is a mecca for surfers, skateboarders, locals, and tourists alike. Great White is a trendy, open-air cafe that serves up no-fuss fare with an Australian twist. For a slightly more sophisticated menu with an equally cool aesthetic, check out their sister restaurant Gran Blanco, which is located across the street.  — Eliseé Browchuk 

Jon and Vinny’s

Jon and Vinny's is a casual spot: food is served upon paper placemats in diner-like booths, waiters wear t-shirts, and outside is a neon green sign loudly announcing its presence on Fairfax. Yet, it's still one of the hardest tables to get in town because the food is just that good. The must-order dish? Their famous spicy fusilli—although you probably already knew that via Instagram. Order that, a pizza, and a glass of skin contact wine from Helen's Wines (the retail shop in the back), and you're in for a wonderfully chill night. — Elise Taylor

Urth Caffé

Anytime I'm in Los Angeles, I always make a visit to Urth Caffé a part of my itinerary, and specifically the one located in the Arts District. It's much larger than the Melrose location so I never have issues finding a table nor feel guilty spending a few hours here. They make the freshest sandwiches, salads, soups and the most delicious coffee. One of my go-to orders is the half tuna sandwich, half salad combo paired with their signature iced green tea boba (minus the boba). It's a short ten minute drive to The Broad as well, so it's a great place to grab lunch before spending the afternoon perusing art. — Julie Tong 

Manuela

The sprawling complex owned by mega-gallery Hauser & Wirth in the heart of the Downtown L.A. Arts District contains enough within its four walls to keep you occupied all morning (make a beeline for the excellent art bookshop, in particular). But if all that wandering through its grand industrial halls has you feeling hungry, there’s a reason to extend your visit through to lunchtime, too. Namely, in order to stop by Manuela, named after one-half of the Swiss couple behind the art powerhouse. There, you’ll find a sharing menu notable for its farm-to-table freshness and the perfectly-judged accents of Southern cuisine that are thrown in the mix. (Think: a lip-smackingly fresh shrimp aguachile, skirt steak grilled to perfection and dressed in a poblano chimichurri, and a kaleidoscopic orange salad that looks like an artwork in and of itself.) Turns out Manuela is just as much of a culinary destination as the gallery surrounding it is a cultural one. — Liam Hess

Elephante 

Shockingly one of the few rooftop restaurants on the West Side, this Mediterranean hotspot offers views as refreshing as their drinks. While plates are meant to share, you might want to order your own whipped ricotta dip–it’s a must. — Molly Barstein

The Ivy

The food is, yes, wonderful at The Ivy. But for me, the decor is the main draw: Provençal in style and kaleidoscopic in hue, it’s a distinct ambience that can't quite be compared to anywhere else: booths are accented with poppy-red striped pillows and tables are topped with crystal candlebras. On the walls are a mix of blue-and-white plates as well as a gallery of expressionist-esque paintings. Meanwhile, beautiful flowers are everywhere. — Elise Taylor

Nobu Malibu

Yes, you’ve properly heard of it. If you haven’t heard of it, the countless paparazzi photographs of celebrities render it familiar. But even if dining with the famous and infamous holds little appeal, the delicious cuisine and arresting views make Nobu worth a trip to the beach. — Ian Malone, Experiences Manager

Tower Bar

Tower Bar—or, the bar at Art-Deco landmark Sunset Tower Hotel—has been the ultimate L.A. see-and-be-seen place since opening in 2006 (although details about who is in the room never really leave it, thanks to the strict no photo policy). The feel is retro Hollywood. The martinis are strong. And, most importantly, the vibe is always impeccable. Although word to the wise—make a reservation. — Elise Taylor 

Cobi's 

A night out at this Santa Monica gem feels like a family meal at your hip grandmother's house (floral wallpaper included). And that's exactly what co-owner Cobi March envisioned for her Indonesian-inspired eatery. Every dish is a must, especially when paired with a bottle of natural wine. — Eliseé Browchuk

Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles

I can’t remember a time I’ve visited L.A. and didn’t pencil in a brunch at Roscoe’s. The delectable waffle eatery is the absolute perfect guilty pleasure when açaí isn’t enough. (If you’re lucky you can sit next to the Obamas on the wall of celebrities.) — Cassandra Pintro, Associate Production Manager

Mr. T

A new entry to the Hollywood restaurant scene, Mr. T is already attracting a starry clientele since it opened last fall just down the road from the buzzy dining spot Gigi’s. There’s a reason celebrities are flocking to the restaurant, however, and it isn’t just to be and be seen—the vibe here is deliberately low-key, taking its cues from the restaurant’s original location in the Marais district of Paris. Instead, the emphasis is on the food, which takes its cues from French bistro cooking—then adds a more omnivorous Californian twist, with subtle nods across the menu to everything from Korean to Japanese cooking. Don’t miss the gorgeously decadent uni dish featuring confit egg yolk over koshihikari rice, or the world-beating “croquettes monsieur” stuffed with mushroom and crème fraiche. — Liam Hess

Dan Tana's 

Enjoying a traditional Italian meal at this WeHo landmark is practically a rite of passage for anyone visiting L.A. I can only imagine the secrets swapped between Hollywood stars in the iconic red leather booths over a delicious plate of pasta or my personal favorite: chicken parmesan. — Eliseé Browchuk

Intelligentsia

Beginning my day with a leisurely iced coffee is a non-negotiable and my go-to spot to do so is, yes, the Intelligentsia in Silver Lake. The cold brew is always smooth and delicious, and I love the airiness of the outdoor patio, which is tiled in a beautiful blue-and-white geometric print. For a voyeuristic New Yorker at least, it’s a great place for people-watching the admittedly very sceney, very Silver Lake crowd. — Lauren Valenti

Mother Wolf 

Since its New Year's Eve opening, Mother Wolf has quickly risen to the top of L.A.'s restaurant scene. Of course, chef Evan Funke (the man behind Venice's Felix) could effortlessly curate a buzzy brassiere-like ambiance with a mouthwatering menu in the heart of Hollywood.  — Eliseé Browchuk

Casablanca 

If you’re out in Venice, plan a cozy date or group meal at Casablanca. The old-school ambiance (it’s tribute to Bogie’s Casablanca from top to bottom, need I say more?), delicious Cali-Mexican food, and relaxed atmosphere inviting you to while away the hours…it encompasses so much of what I love about dinners out in L.A. My go-to order is their signature seafood brasero, which is brought out in a grand hot clay pot, along with one-too-many margaritas served from their well-stocked roving cart. — Lauren Valenti

Bavel 

It's notably tricky to get a reservation here, but it's worth the wait. Nestled in the Arts District, Bavel pays tribute to its owners' Middle Eastern roots in an earthy multi-room space. From the first course spreads to the nightcap cocktails, you can't go wrong here—if you can get in. — Eliseé Browchuk

Honey Hi

Come lunchtime, I often head to Honey Hi (like the Fleetwood Mac song), a tiny sidewalk café in Echo Park with health-minded, yet hearty and flavorful offerings to explore across the board. I usually go for the fig jam and sourdough toast or miso bowl with its addictive ginger dressing and pair it with one of their uniquely-spiced drinks, like the dragonfruit lemonade. — Lauren Valenti

Salt & Straw 

Admittedly I have a really bad sweet tooth, so my first trip to Salt & Straw doubled in a single day. The handmade yogurt never fails to be the perfect cool down before heading back to the beach. — Cassandra Pintro

Gjelina 

Gjelina is the reason people changed their minds about ordering pizza in Los Angeles. Naturally, this Abbot Kinney staple ferments its dough in true Californian fashion. Don't forget to order a dozen oysters and a side of grilled veggies with your za. Trust me, it's the norm. — Eliseé Browchuk

Chifa

Humberto Leon's family restaurant in Eagle Rock is one of my favorite meals in Los Angeles. The Dan Dan Mian is so good I wish it delivered to New York! — Steff Yotka

Craig's 

What do Judge Judy, Ellen DeGeneres, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen have in common? They all ate dinner on the same night as me at Craig’s–a restaurant embraced by Hollywood’s A-list. Can’t get a reservation? You’ll probably have luck finding a seat at the bar. Though I can’t guarantee Judge Judy will be there. — Molly Barstein

Where to Shop

Flowerboy Project 

On Lincoln Boulevard, bouquets of dried florals and fresh blooms greet you at the doors of Flowerboy Project. Order a specialty latte and a donut before exploring their eclectic selection of local and imported goods. There's something for everyone at this one-of-a-kind boutique from home decor to fine jewelry.  — Eliseé Browchuk

Dries Van Noten

Dries Van Noten's Los Angeles store is always my first stop after landing in L.A. He's created a gorgeous environment complete with archive rooms that sell vintage pieces from past collections. It's impossible to visit and not buy something. — Steff Yotka, Global Director of Social Media

Brentwood Country Market 

Part gourmet grocery store, part bookstore, part post office, part interior design destination, part high jewelry home, this multi-boutique complex is not your average country market. With retailers like Christian Louboutin, goop, and Doen, the Brentwood Country Market offers a little taste of elevated everything in a casual setting where you're likely to spot a celeb mom or model off duty. — Eliseé Browchuk

Happy Isles

As a vintage-obsessed, few vintage stores go as far back with their objects as I would like them to. Call me old-fashioned but the Aughts don’t classify as vintage. Thankfully L.A. (and its old Hollywood roots) understands this and this city’s vintage shops, vintage means vintage! Top of my shopping list is Happy Isles. Location in Beverly Hills, it’s a well-curated spot where 1950s prom dresses intermingle with 1980s sharp-shouldered blazers and where I’m in heaven. — Lilah Ramzi

The Way We Wore 

Looking for a Mugler mini dress from the 80s? A Halston gown from the 70s? A Christian Dior suit from the 60s? Look no further than The Way We Wore, one of the best vintage experiences in the United States. The incredible selection allows for sartorial time travel.  — Ian Malone

Goodies

Goodies has a marble, ceramic, or wood solution for all of your homeware needs. This specialty store on Santa Monica's Montana Avenue makes shopping for your kitchen needs actually enjoyable. Did I mention that everything is under $25? — Eliseé Browchuk

Bode Store

Despite Emily Bode’s Brooklyn base, the brand feels right at home in California. The patterned, patch-work, and hand embroidered pieces are perfect for the city of angels. The recently opened West Coast flagship offers the entire current collection, as well as exclusive pieces. Bode is a closet necessity for any cool boy (or girl). — Ian Malone

The Webster

The department store elevates retail to experimental heights with its L.A. location. The 11,000 square-foot building, designed by Sir David Adjaye, is encased in signature pink concrete. The spectacular curation of clothes in the futuristic setting will satisfy the most discerning customer and inspire the most jaded sophisticate. — Ian Malone

Bodega 

Disguised as your everyday quick-mart, this concept store showcases some of the most sought-after streetwear brands. Amongst off-brand cleaning supplies and produce staged as props, you'll find pieces from CVFF finalist Reese Cooper, Junya Watanabe, Engineered Garments, and Comme des Garçons. — Eliseé Browchuk

What to Do

Cinespia

Among the most memorable experiences I’ve had in L.A. are my trips to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for Cinespia’s impeccably curated outdoor film screenings, which run the gamut from classics to delightful deep cuts. From trekking out with your picnic supplies (always bring more wine and blankets than you think you’ll need) to finding a spot on the open field, it’s a very communal, very L.A.-feeling experience. Be sure to get there in time to watch the full sublime sunset! — Lauren Valenti

Griffith Observatory 

It wouldn't be a trip to L.A. without a visit to the Griffith Observatory. Not only was it the site of Adele's “One Night Only” performance last year, but it offers one of the best views in L.A. It's a romantic spot, too; if you're traveling with a special someone, it can be a great place to bring them for a picture-perfect moment. — Julie Tong 

The Comedy Store 

This three-room institution is the first-ever stand-up-only comedy club. It's seen all of the greats like Robin Williams, Jay Leno, David Letterman, and Bob Saget before their glory and continues to stage some of the best comics from across the country. If you're lucky, an industry legend might pop in for a surprise set. — Eliseé Browchuk

Los Angeles County Museum of Art 

If you’re looking for an immersive art fix look no further; LACMA holds some of the most experiential modern art the sunny state has to offer. But if you don’t arrive early, your only experience may be a long line of impatient onlookers. — Cassandra Pintro

The Spa at The West Hollywood EDITION

Unbeknownst to me at the time, The Spa at The West Hollywood EDITION was where I enjoyed my last massage before the pandemic shut-down. Luckily, it also happened to be one of the best spa treatments I've ever had, which went some way to tiding me over for the next 18 months. The CBD+ Sticks and Stones massage was indulgent, included a hydrating lip and eye mask and felt suitably “LA wellness” in its vibe. The spa itself is a tranquil, calming cream stone oasis tucked away from the buzz on Sunset Boulevard. When I visit during awards season, I plan to book in for the EDITION Custom Facial which promises a red carpet ready complexion and is the longest treatment I could find on the menu. Any excuse to linger! - Laura Patterson, Senior Director of Experiences  

Union Station

Several times I’ve commuted to Los Angeles from San Diego via train. It’s a delightful 2ish-hour trip along the coast and it ends at Union Station, which was built in 1939 and looks more like a Mediterranean villa than a travel hub. Inside, the space is populated with incredibly chic leather seating and gleaming tile work. Perhaps you won’t go out of your way to see the station but I’d recommend a trip at some point during your L.A. stay. — Lilah Ramzi

Hiking

I know, I know—I'm one of those people who goes to L.A. and fully embraces the green-juice-and-hiking life. (Feel free to roll your eyes.) But, here are my recommendations for the latter: the Hollyridge Trail, which leads you to the Hollywood sign, as well as anything in Will Rogers State Park. — Elise Taylor

Kenneth Hahn Park

Kenneth Hahn Park is the perfect outdoor space for any non-athlete looking to break a simple sweat. If you keep pushing to the very top you’ll be rewarded with exceptional panoramic views. — Cassandra Pintro

Turo

My top tip for having a smooth entry to L.A.? Do whatever you can to avoid the seventh circle of hell that is getting out of LAX. My new go-to is the car-sharing app Turo, where most renters will come and pick you up kerbside before whisking you away to the short-stay car park where you can exchange keys and sign off on all the digital paperwork. Plus, you get to pick exactly the model you want, meaning you can find yourself whizzing down the Pacific Coast Highway in a soft-top quicker than you can say “contactless check-in.” —Liam Hess

Stahl House

You know those iconic photos of a rooftop pool with a scrumptious L.A. view? You’re likely thinking of Julius Shulman’s photographs of Stahl House. The Stahl House (also known as Case Study House #22) is a modernist marvel built in 1959 by architect Pierre Koenig. Though still owned by the Stahl family, the home is available for tour. Book a visit to be transported back to mid-century L.A. — Lilah Ramzi