It’s hard to be such a big store and still maintain an independent feel but Amoeba has endured through the years and is still able to keep some semblance of it (despite the obvious need to also push commercial fare). It has the kind of things you’d expect from indie stores: merchandise for true fans (massive selection of t-shirts and posters included), section with staff recommendations, subgenre within subgenre for music and film... Yes, not only does it have an absurd collection of music in several formats, it also has a whole floor dedicated to movies, with rare foreign films and an outstanding Criterion catalog to boost.
My two favorite things about Amoeba though are their free live shows (I will never forget my first one here) and their clearance section, which I make sure to check out on every visit. Mind you, this is not to find hidden bargains, it’s more about finding hidden gems (like this one or this one). Every CD is only about $3 and if you buy four, the cheapest one is free. It’s been my unorthodox way of finding new music for a few years now. The satisfaction you get from discovering a band completely on your own is pretty special.
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"New Beverly Cinema" Los Angeles is a 35mm only theatre. Q. Tarantino is head programmer and it only plays double features, the true way to enjoy films!
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The "Santa Monica Stairs" in Los Angeles is one of my favorite stairways for some outdoor activity. I find is inspiring because the the fittest go there!
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"Venice Beach Skatepark" in Los Angeles is the birthplace of skateboarding. This skatepark has two giant pools, a spot for tricks and even a live webcam!
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"Pacific Wheel" is a ferris wheel in Los Angeles' Santa Monica Pier. I love the surprising views from it and the fact that it's solar-powered!
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The "405 and 10 Intersection" in Los Angeles is one of the busiest in America. This intersection is so famous, it even has its own facebook page!
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"Los Liones Canyon Trail" one of my favorite hiking trails in Los Angeles. It always makes me feel as if I've escaped city life and gets my heart pumping.
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The "Sunbathing Sea Lions" in Los Angeles' Marina del Rey are huge, playful and charming, but they can also be dangerous. The fishermen know their names!
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"Kippy's" in Los Angeles makes healthy, vegan coconut milk ice cream and it's my #1 favorite local spot. I go there as many as 5 times a week!
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Part of The Big Lebowski was filmed at this otherwise unassuming community in Los Angeles, 'Faircrest Heights'.Please remember this is a private residence.
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"Museum of Flying" in LA's Santa Monica is in the neighborhood's very own private airport. It's quaint, interesting and made me appreciate planes more!
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132 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 132 Insider Tips from our local Spotters