As a Location Scout, I'm always looking for adventures that bring out the best in my city: LA. I'm currently making what I call, "The Greatest Map of Hollywood" and in the process of verifying my locations on Google Maps, I spotted a place called the Garden of Oz. With a name like that, I had to investigate.
The Garden of Oz is in the Hollywoodland/Beachwood neighborhood. This is where Hollywood began. I drove up Gower Street (which has one of the best views of the famous Hollywood sign), and found another historic sign that reads "Welcome to Hollywoodland", another famous place in Hollywood History.
In this historic neighborhood, there are celebrity houses, castles, cafes and cute little shops! Drive up the road and find the Garden of Oz. It's easy to miss and a U-turn may be necessary. It's located on private property, but like most celebrities, still wishes to be seen. (It's on Google Maps).
The garden is a mosaic masterpiece of art, eclectic objects, and inspiring quotes. My favorite quotes here are "I paint so I can buy plants." Claude Monet. "Sit on your own throne" and "look with your heart and not your camera". *Pardon! I did have to take a photo for this article. It's a bright, creative place that asks one to pause and gaze in from the outside. I spent 10 minutes looking at the garden, and the rest of my time absorbing the incredible history and architecture of this neighborhood.
Find your way with 135 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
My favorite bowl is the “Ritual of Champions”. It has acai, hemp seeds, strawberries, bananas, cacao, and peanut butter drizzled on top.
by
If you ask some bartenders around the block in LA where they go on their days off or when they get off work, "Elbow Room" is the place...
by
"Figaro Bistrot" Los Angeles: the quintessential cafe and a magical spot that will allow you for a quick trip to Paris! I go for their Omelette for brunch.
by
"The Cat and Fiddle" in Los Angeles is a British bar with great Monday pie and pint. I love the happy hour, and I love the atmosphere to read here!
by
"Scum and Villainy Cantina" in Hollywood, Los Angeles has its own Star Wars and other sci-fi themed bar. You can even dress up here, I'm usually a Pilot...
by
"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!
by
Cafe Grano in Burbank blends cozy vibes, brain-fueling smoothies, and creative buzz — perfect for working, chilling, and soaking in the local film culture.
by
"Tao Comedy Club" in Los Angeles is a hidden gem of a comedy club. It's also a school of comedy, where you can follow Bobbi Oliver's different approach...
by
"HD Buttercup" is a furniture and home decor store in a historic Los Angeles building that also hosts a bread museum - the original site of Helms Bakery...
by
"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!
by
"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!
by
135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 135 Insider Tips