07.25.2017

Do It for the ‘Gram: Top 10 Photo Opps in Los Angeles

Summer in LA is the best, so why not hit the town and get your Instagram game on? From downtown to the beach, we’ve got you covered with the top 10 spots to visit and snap a pic of this summer:

 

#1   Griffith Observatory (Los Feliz)
Featured in a number of films and TV shows including Rebel Without a CauseJurassic Park, and most recently, La La Land, the Griffith Observatory is a staple of Los Angeles. Hike or drive to the top of the hill and soak in some amazing panoramic views of the city. Be sure to catch a show inside the planetarium and take a peek through the amazing telescope (it’s on the roof).
Fun Fact: elaborate renovations and subterranean expansions completed in 2006 rendered the Observatory one of the safest places to be found during an earthquake in LA.

 

#2   Museum of Ice Cream (DTLA)
You’ve probably seen at least five posts on your IG feed of pretty people swimming in a sea of pink sprinkles or tasting ice cream flavors at the Museum of Ice Cream. Here for only a few months, the exhibit is one that’s not to be missed, which probably explains why 2017 tickets are completely sold out. Check StubHub or badger your golden-ticket-holding friends to snap the perfect pic of millennial pink sprinkles.

 

#3   Getty Villa (Malibu)
Always stunning, the Getty Villa is a peaceful oasis by the beach. Reserve a ticket in advance and take a stroll through the grounds, while pretending to be a part of Roman aristocracy. Be sure to scope out their summer series for a modern take on some good Greco-Roman classic plays. For dinner, Malibu Seafood never disappoints.

 

#4   Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica)
Another common film location, the Santa Monica Pier is a landmark feature of Los Angeles. Full of whimsy, the pier is equally instagrammable and perfect for a first date. Check out the summer Twilight Concert Series. And make sure to arrive early or rain check your plans to avoid hoards of Angelenos vying for limited parking spots.

 

#5   Venice Boardwalk (Venice)
Muscle Beach, ice cream, skate parks, many different murals, and of course, sunshine and waves make the Venice Boardwalk a Los Angeles cultural icon. Palm trees, street performances, and funky vendors provide ample photo ops for a great day by the beach.

 

#6   Walt Disney Concert Hall (Downtown LA)
An architectural and sonic masterpiece, the Disney Concert Hall is a stunning backdrop for the ‘Gram. But it’s more than just for looks. The hall was strategically designed to perfectly amplify sound for acoustic musical performance, and it surely does not disappoint. A ticket to an LA Philharmonic performance at the Disney Hall might just be life changing.

 

#7   Watts Towers (South LA)
A monument of the area, the Watts Towers are a long-standing art piece, named “Nuestro Pueblo” by the artist, Simon Rodila. Adorned with shells, colored glass, and knick-knacks, the towers were made by hand, without any contemporary machinery. Quite impressive. A unique photo and art experience indeed!

 

#8   Micheltorena Stairs (Downtown LA)
Perfectly painted, these stairs are sure to inspire you while delivering a killer workout for your glutes. Many a ‘Gram have featured the perky hearts and fun colors of this hidden gem, one of many historic stairs in downtown LA. Originally installed by city planners in the 1920s, the stairs have been helping pedestrians get places faster for over 90 years!

 

#9   Baldwin Hills Scenic Overview (Culver City)
Take in a breath of fresh air in the heart of Culver City. With more epic stairs, you’ll join other Angelenos at the Scenic Overlook for a great workout and some stunning city views that make for a great adventure on IG stories. If you head out during mid-day, bring lots of water and sunscreen!

 

#10   Hollywood Bowl (Hollywood)
One of the largest natural amphitheaters, the Hollywood Bowl seats over 17,000 and has played host to many of the world’s greatest musicians. During the day (before showtime preparations begin) it is open to the public and offers great photo ops of the majestic stage and epic audience view. Fit in a workout by running up the stairs to the top of section Q1.

 

 

By #teamXOMAD member, Darby Barton

Categories: Features
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