Try to find a magician when visiting Los Angeles. The Magic Castle is an exclusive private club that is only known to few. You need to know a magician member or be a guest at the Magic Castle.
A part of the Academy of Magic Arts, Magic Castle was renovated from a 1909 mansion. Opening its doors in 1963, the Magic Castle has over 5,000 members. You can apply for several types of membership online to gain access to the castle.
The Castle is only open for dinner. Fancy dress required. A secret door at the entrance lets visitors into the lobby. After you eat, guests are treated with the best magic shows in the West. Magicians perform in auditoriums, small rooms, and in front of you at a table in the castle. There are various shows throughout the night, so one can visit each section in sequence. Try to come early.
You can also take magic classes at the Magic Castle. Classes are usually held one night per week for six weeks, from 19:45 - 21:45. Classes usually full all year!
I visited the Magic Castle a few times. Finding someone who can give you a guest pass was the hardest part of getting into the Castle. The best is the Close-Up Gallery where the magician performs the right in front of you.
There was a fire at the Magic Castle a few years ago.
Check the website for membership info for a visit or stay at http://magiccastlehotel.com
"Stalking Horse Brewery" in LA has great craft beer and great food. My personal favorite is their Cottage Pie -- the best I've ever had. Nice garden, too.
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
"Simply Wholesome" in LA makes the best Caribbean soul food. It's a legendary hotspot for anyone who wants to feel good about what they put in their body.
By
Craving dumplings? This spot near Elbow Room sports bar serves unique square dumplings and noodles. It's busy, so grab a beer at the bar while you wait!
By
"Randy's Donuts" in LA is the iconic donut shop from the movies with the huge one-story donut on top. Generous proportions, generous customer service!
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
"The Ivy" in Los Angeles has been around for more than a decade - that's how you know it's good! Its décor and dish selection make it a local favorite...
By
"Ana Maria" in Grand Central Market in Los Angeles has some of the best Mexican food ANYWHERE! The prices have, amazingly, not changed much, either...
By
I love thrift shopping! Like treasure hunting, you never know what you're going to find. There's joy in seeing new value in old things. Breathing fresh life into something recycled.
By
The "Culver Hotel Bar" in Los Angeles has quite a story behind it -- mostly connected to and now themed after the Wizard of Oz. Great for meeting friends!
By
"Han Bat Sul Lung Tang" makes probably what's the best beef soup in Korea Town in Los Angeles. I love the simple menu and fast service on top of that!
By
Our Spotters' Local Favorites Only. Skip the Tourist Traps.
Find Nearby Spots and Navigate with Ease
Save Your Favorites and See Them on the Map