Tag: downtownlosangeles

Circa’s Toast to a Spectacular New Year’s Eve

Making plans for New Year’s Eve?  We’ve rounded up LA’s most spectacular celebrations, from elegant chef-driven dinners, to stylish entertainment, and epic events, many not far from Circa. Experience the glamour of the Roaring Twenties at Biltmore’s LA Noir NYE,  make merry from 34 floors above at La Lo La Rooftop, or spend a musical New Year’s Eve with Pink Martini at Walt Disney Concert Hall. Then count down to 2024 at Grand Park’s NYELA and thrill to the park’s signature 3D light show projected onto LA City Hall. So pop the cork, grab your noise makers, and toast the New Year!

Mastro's Ocean Club New Years Eve at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Mastro’s Ocean Club DTLA 1200 S. Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Mastro’s elegant Downtown L.A. location, conveniently located on the ground floor of Circa, will be open on New Year’s Eve from 4pm to midnight, serving a full dinner menu including their famous American and Japanese Wagyu, delectable seafood and sushi selections, soups, salads, potatoes served a variety of ways, and their award-winning wine and cocktail program.

Le Petit Paris New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Le Petit Paris 418 S Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

A true French brasserie bringing dishes from the South of France to DTLA’s Historic Core, Le Petit Paris is offering two seatings on New Year’s Eve. The first seating, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm, includes a prix fixe menu. The second seating, starting at 8:30pm, features a prix fixe menu, cabaret performances, party favors, dance party with DJ, live music, balloon drop, and countdown.

LA Cha Cha Chá New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Cha Cha Chá 812 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

The sister location of Terraza Cha Cha Chá in Mexico City, LA Cha Cha Chá is throwing a (well-heated) rooftop fiesta with a live DJ, tarot card readings, and passed appetizers such as tacos dorados, tamales, and tres leches cake bites. Each ticket price includes one complimentary drink—a margarita or sparkling wine. Ring in the New Year while enjoying the gorgeous views of DTLA.

Redbird restaurant New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

NYE Dinner at Redbird 114 E Second St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with dinner at Redbird, located in the historic rectory of the former Vibiana cathedral. Chef Neal Fraser and his team will be serving a three-course prix fixe dinner with optional wine pairing by Wine Director Matt Fosket. Menu options include Iced Oysters, Artichoke Soup, Potato Churro, Pumpkin Curry, Raviolo, Liberty Farms Duck, and Beef Tenderloin. Cap off your meal with a choice of Pineapple Upside Down or Cream Puff with milk chocolate cremeux, and mint ice cream.

Pink Martini New Years Eve at Walt Disney Concert Hall near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

New Year’s Eve with Pink Martini Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Pink Martini, featuring China Forbes, returns for another quintessentially eclectic New Year’s program that mixes Brazilian samba, party sounds of 1930s Cuban dance music, and a dash of Parisian café cool. There’s no classier way to ring in 2024!

LA Noir NYE at The Biltmore New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Noir NYE at The Biltmore 506 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

A century of celebration continues at the Biltmore. Step back into the 1920s, when this elegant DTLA hotel was built, and kick off 2024 with Biltmore LA Noir New Year’s Eve. The party includes over 40 performers, swing music, dancers, photo ops, and themed cocktails. You can even take a tour of one of the hotel’s century-old speakeasy tunnels. Period-inspired or formal attire is encouraged, imagination is celebrated.

La Lo La Rooftop New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

La Lo La Rooftop AC Hotel 1260 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Celebrate New Year’s Eve from 34 floors above at La Lo La Rooftop, an ethereal, sophisticated oasis located at the recently debuted AC Hotel Downtown LA. The expansive wraparound rooftop, which spans almost 4,000 square feet, provides an intimate setting for a night of revelry. Guests are invited to enjoy specialty cocktails, Spanish-style tapas, and a live DJ, along with complimentary party favors and a midnight champagne toast.

Level 8 New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Level 8 Moxy and AC Hotels 1254 S Figuera St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Level up your New Year at Level 8, a first of its kind multidimensional showcase of culinary exploration, extravagant entertainment, and immersive discovery. Enjoy an unforgettable night at eight venues, featuring live music & entertainment, special guest DJs, luchadores, and more. Tickets include 4 hour open bar & hors d’oeuvres, midnight countdown, and champagne toast.

EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

Be part of Hollywood’s biggest New Year’s EVE celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood’s EVE event on Dec. 31, where you can party until 2AM. Fill your day with heart-pounding rides, shows and attractions, and then keep the thrills going into the night. Have fun and celebrate with multiple party areas featuring music, dancing, photo ops, drinks available for purchase, and a midnight countdown celebration with fireworks.

Prohibition at Union Station New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Prohibition at Union Station 800 N Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

For its 10th year, Prohibition NYE will return to the iconic Union Station to bring back the excitement and glamour of the Roaring Twenties. Experience theatrical burlesque, live jazz ensembles, a headlining DJ set by renowned duo Chromeo, and a premium open bar featuring champagne and specialty cocktails. Don’t miss Prohibition NYE’s signature 60 foot, midnight ball-drop celebration!

Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA Countdown New Years Eve near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Gloria Molina Grand Park’s NYELA Countdown to 2024 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

The West Coast’s largest free New Year’s Eve event is back! Revelers will welcome 2024 with the park’s signature 3D countdown art show projected onto L.A.’s iconic City Hall, and La Doña and La Verdad Band will be topping off this highly-anticipated New Year’s Eve celebration. Bring your appetite for delicious foods from 30 of LA’s favorite food trucks. Alcohol is not permitted and will not be sold at Gloria Molina Grand Park.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Gloria Molina Grand Park

Photo #2: Mastro’s Ocean Club

Photo #3: Le Petit Paris

Photo #4: LA Cha Cha Chá

Photo #5: Redbird

Photo #6: LA Phil

Photo #7: The Biltmore

Photo #8: La Lo La Rooftop

Photo #9: Level 8

Photo #10: Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo #11: Prohibition at Union Station

Photo #12: Gloria Molina Grand Park

Let it Glow: LA’s Brightest Holiday Celebrations

’Tis the season to sparkle and shine, and no one does razzle-dazzle quite like LA! Descanso Gardens, LA Arboretum, and South Coast Botanic Garden are lighting the night with brilliant illuminations and interactive displays. You’ll find seasonal entertainment galore, including holiday concerts, a live production of Love Actually, and a mesmerizing ballet performance of the beloved Nutcracker Suite. Ice skating enthusiasts can show off their glides and spins at LA Kings Holiday Ice, and if you prefer to do some shopping while soaking up the holiday vibe, Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc is presenting one of LA’s largest multi-colored immersive experiences. Check websites for tickets and other details.

Circa Holiday Celebration at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Circa residents are invited to join us for The Great Holiday Celebration on December 13 from 7PM to 10PM in the 8th Floor Lounge. Revel in a Great Gatsby themed evening, and be sure to dress to impress! Enjoy live music, hors d’oeuvres, and specialty cocktails. If you would like to give back, please bring an unwrapped toy for our holiday toy drive.

Astra Lumina holidays near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Astra Lumina South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90274

We’ve always been told to reach for the stars, but what if the stars could reach for us? Embark on an enchanted night walk across mysterious grounds to discover a celestial pathway of lustrous light, cosmic visions, and astral song. Immerse yourself in illuminating encounters of lighting, projection and sound, and connect with the stars before they return to the sky above. Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanic Garden is the 17th experience in the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series.

Sparkle DTLA holidays near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Sparkle DTLA The Bloc 700 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Experience the season of joy with a magical holiday light show as 18 million hues of lights illuminate the night and synchronize to festive tunes. Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc will take you through an unforgettable nighttime journey that includes one of LA’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays. Capture your perfect photo-op moments at this ultimate holiday experience. Sparkle DTLA is free to attend and is open to all ages. Furry friends are also welcome!

Descanso Gardens holidays near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Enchanted Forest of Light Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Enchanted Forest of Light is an interactive, nighttime experience unlike anything else in Los Angeles, featuring a one-mile walk through spectacular lighting displays in some of the most beloved areas of Descanso Gardens. Don’t miss popular returning illuminated favorites, including an entire town of magical “stained glass” creations on the Main Lawn by contemporary sculptor Tom Fruin; sparkling geometric installations from HYBYCOZO in the Rose Garden; Flower Power on the Promenade; and exquisite lighting effects in the Ancient Forest.

Lightscape at LA Aboretum holidays near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Lightscape at LA County Aboretum 301 N Baldwin Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007

Escape into a world of color, imagination and sound. The internationally acclaimed Lightscape has been reimagined for 2023 with brand new installations from around the world. Wander through captivating illuminations that dazzle the senses and celebrate the holidays with joy and good cheer. Whether with friends, family or a date, enjoy a memorable evening of art and nature.

Love Actually Live holiday performance near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Love Actually Live The Wallis 9390 N Santa Monica Blvd. Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Love Actually Live, the critically acclaimed theatrical experience, makes a triumphant return to commemorate the film’s 20th anniversary. Set within a picturesque London cityscape, iconic scenes from the film are displayed on screens alongside all-star singers and a live orchestra. L.A.’s quintessential holiday tradition brings together friends and loved ones in an awe-inspiring winter wonderland, where film and live action seamlessly intertwine. Love Actually film Director Richard Curtis will donate his royalties from this production of Love Actually Live to Comic Relief, a major charity based in the UK.

Harry Potter Christmas at Universal Studios Hollywood near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

Celebrate the season in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. Join in the fun as Hogwarts™ castle lights up for the holidays and festive decor brightens up the streets of Hogsmeade™ in Universal Studios Hollywood. Enjoy a hot Butterbeer™ while the Frog Choir puts a holiday spin on its performances. Then shop for delightful seasonal merchandise, sure to please everyone on your holiday gift list.

LA Master Chorale holiday concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Master Chorale Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

LA Master Chorale is presenting a festive line-up of holiday concerts including Handel’s Messiah, Carols on the Plaza, and the ever popular Messiah Sing-Along. Founded by the legendary Roger Wagner in 1964, the Los Angeles Master Chorale is “the finest-by-far major chorus in America” (Los Angeles Times) and a vibrant cultural treasure. Hailed for its powerful performances, technical precision, and artistic daring, the Chorale is a founding resident company of The Music Center and choir-in-residence at Walt Disney Concert Hall. 

LA Phil Deck the Hall holiday concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Phil Deck the Hall Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

A treasured L.A. tradition, Deck the Hall offers outstanding holiday programming for a wide variety of tastes at Walt Disney Concert Hall. The program includes Chanticleer, Home Alone in Concert, Arturo Sandoval’s Swinging Holiday, and a Holiday Sing-Along. Make sure to arrive early for drinks and merriment in the fun-filled Winter Wonderland. Snowshoes and mittens not required!

The Nutcracker Suite holiday ballet performance near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Nutcracker Suite Two California Plaza 350 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071 

American Contemporary Ballet presents an immersive experience for all five senses of the Tchaikovsky classic that delights children and adults alike. American Contemporary Ballet was founded by choreographer Lincoln Jones and dancer Theresa Farrell to produce original contemporary classical ballets. The company performs over 60 shows each season, spanning a repertory which includes works by George Balanchine, Fred Astaire, Lincoln Jones, and reconstructions of seminal ballet works. 

LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Kings Holiday Ice L.A. LIVE 800 W Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Skate like a King! The annual LA Kings Holiday Ice brings outdoor ice skating to L.A. LIVE.  Skate your way into the holiday season and enjoy the rink until January 8, 2024. Bring your friends, family, date or enjoy the ice before and after a sports game or concert. Grab a bite to eat or drink when you come to skate at L.A. LIVE. Present your LA Kings Holiday Ice receipt on the day you skate at participating L.A. LIVE restaurants to receive discounts and dinner deals.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Sparkle DTLA

Photo #2: Circa 

Photo #3: Astra Lumina

Photo #4: Sparkle DTLA

Photo #5: Descanso Gardens

Photo #6: LA Arboretum

Photo #7: The Wallis

Photo #8: Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo #9: LA Master Chorale

Photo #10: LA Phil

Photo #11: American Contemporary Ballet 

Photo #12: LA Kings

Circa’s Guide to a Fabulous Thanksgiving Feast

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and we’re dreaming of a fabulous feast with all the trimmings!  If cooking is not on your radar, your favorite DTLA restaurants near Circa are dishing up some delicious options, from elegant dining to Thanksgiving meals to-go, and luscious desserts to cap it all off. Need advice in the kitchen? We’ve gathered some tips and tricks to put on a spectacular spread, including plant-based dishes. You’ll also find many opportunities to give back, such as Turkey Trot LA, which benefits The Midnight Mission, St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, and GivingTuesday, which is coming up on November 28.

Mastro's Ocean ClubThanksgiving at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Mastro’s Ocean Club DTLA 1200 S. Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

For Circa residents, there’s no place like home. Mastro’s elegant Downtown L.A. location on the ground floor our of building will be open on Thanksgiving, serving their full dinner menu including their famous USDA Prime Steaks, Delectable Seafood, and Award-Winning Wine & Cocktails. You can order their specialty Thanksgiving sides to-go, including Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Creamed Corn, Creamed Spinach, and Green Beans with Sliced Almonds for your own table.

The Palm Restaurant near at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Palm Restaurant 1100 S. Flower St. Los Angeles 90015

Located in Downtown LA just steps from L.A. LIVE and Crypto.com Arena, The Palm is serving a three-course Thanksgiving Dinner that starts with Butternut Squash Soup, Lobster Bisque, Buffalo Mozzarella Salad, or The Palm Caesar. The main course is Roasted Turkey with Gravy, Stuffing, Green Beans, Sweet Potatoes and Cranberry Sauce. For dessert, choose from Chocolate Pecan Pie or Junior’s Cheesecake. The Palm’s full dinner menu will also be available.

San Laurel at Conrad Thanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

San Laurel at Conrad Los Angeles 100 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

San Laurel, a Michelin-rated dining experience from Chef José Andrés, offers the flavors of Spain as seen through a California lens, highlighting the beautiful ingredients of the abundant Golden State. The restaurant is offering a beautiful Thanksgiving feast with a Spanish twist. Start with the Jamón Ibérico de Bellota and follow it up with Mary’s Farm Turkey served with all the fixings. Heralded by the vision of legendary architect Frank Gehry, Conrad Hotel is an elegant oasis framed by dramatic views of the Walt Disney Concert Hall and downtown LA. 

71Above Thanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

71 Above 633 W 5th St. Los Angeles 90071

Elevate your Thanksgiving celebration with a three-course dinner that starts with Farm Salad, Hiramasa Crudo, Golden Beets, Grilled Octopus or Nori Bucatini Pasta. The entree is roasted Mary’s Turkey Breast, and sides for the table include Black Truffle Mac ‘n Cheese, Grilled Broccolini, Mushroom Stuffing and Pomme Purée. For dessert, choose from Sweet Corn & Blueberries, Horchata Rice Pudding or Stone Fruit Granita. 71Above is the highest restaurant west of the Mississippi and boasts spectacular ocean views from Malibu to Laguna Hills, along with the Los Angeles basin and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Manuela restaurant Thanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Manuela 907 E 3rd St. Los Angeles 90013

Located at the Hauser & Wirth art complex in the Downtown LA Arts District, Manuela is serving a prix fixe Family Style Thanksgiving Feast. First course is a Ham Hock & Potato Soup per person, with Cream Biscuits and Baby Market Lettuces served family style. For mains, choose from Smoked Turkey Breast & Dark Meat Confit, Col. Newsom’s Preacher Ham, Liberty Farms Duck Breast, Diver Scallops, or Oyster & Trumpet Mushroom Popover. Family-style sides include Mashed Yukon Potatoes & Gravy, Calvados Cranberry Relish, Chicken Sausage Stuffing, Sweet Potato & Delicata, and Braised Green Beans. Dessert options include Pumpkin Pie, Miso Sweet Potato Pie, Chocolate Lava Cake, and vegan/gluten-free Iced Pumpkin Cake.

Majordomo restaurant Thanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Majordomo 1725 Naud St. Los Angeles 90012

Chef David Chang’s Majordomo is offering two Thanksgiving Bo Ssäm Meals to-go. The Bo Ssäm Meal, which feeds up to eight people, features whole bone-in smoked & glazed pork butt; ssäm (bibb lettuces, perilla leaf) and condiments: ssamjang, ginger scallion, escabeche, hoisin and kimchi. The Bo Ssäm Feast, which feeds 8-12 people, includes the whole bone-in pork butt, ssäm and condiments. The spread includes kimchi apple salad, grilled greens with xo dressing, bing buns with hot honey butter, potato mash with raclette cheese sauce, and white rice. Save room for pandan pie with coconut whip.  Reheating and serving instructions are included.

Wexler’s Deli Thanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Wexler’s Deli 317 S. Broadway, Los Angeles 90013

Located in the Grand Central Market, Wexler’s Deli is offering a Smoked Bird Thanksgiving Dinner to-go, featuring a whole smoked turkey that serves 4-6. The dinner includes all the fixin’s including Drippings Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Green Beans with shallots & thyme, Challah Stuffing, Santa Monica Farmers Market Big Salad with champagne dill vinaigrette, Autumn Squash Soup, and Sourdough Rolls. Every Smoked Bird Dinner includes a free Thanksgiving Leftover Kit to make Turkey Reubens, including Rye Bread, Russian Dressing, Sauerkraut and Swiss Cheese. There’s also a Pumpkin or Pecan Pie from Cake Monkey and Wexler’s Caviar from Poland.

Fat & Flour pie shop Thanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Fat & Flour 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

While you’re shopping at the Grand Central Market, make sure you visit Fat & Flour, a tiny pie shop from Los Angeles chef and author Nicole Rucker. Rucker is known internationally for her rustic desserts and has won several awards for her homespun pies, including the 2012 National Pie Championship, KCRW Good Food Pie contest, and a Star Chef award for baking. Her first cookbook, Dappled: Baking Recipes for Fruit Lovers, was recently nominated for a James Beard Award for baking.

Otium restaurant pies for hanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Otium 222 S Hope St. Los Angeles 90012

Otium is offering a limited number of Thanksgiving Pies from pastry chef Courtney Park including Pumpkin with Toasted Marshmallow⁠, Apple Cranberry Crumble with Vanilla Chantilly Cream⁠, and Pecan with Salted Caramel Sauce⁠. Place your order at Toast by Sunday, November 19 for pick-up on Wednesday, November 22 from 11am to 6pm.

Butterball Turkey Thanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Butterball Amazon Alexa Skill

Ready to talk turkey? Ask Alexa. With the Butterball Skill for Amazon Alexa, Butterball Turkey Talk-Line experts will help you host like a boss with turkey preparation how-tos, tips, and recipe inspiration. Butterball Turkey Talk-Line experts are poultry pros that have been giving sage advice for years, and they’re here to help you put a little swagger in your stuffing. If you own an Echo Show, the Butterball skill will also cue up short how-to videos that make it easy to choose, thaw, roast, stuff and carve a turkey. They’ll even show you where to place a meat thermometer, and give you a pep talk to boot!

Inhabitat plant-based recepies for Thanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Plant-based recipes for Thanksgiving

For most of us, Thanksgiving dinner is not complete without a turkey on the table. But if you trend toward vegetarianism, veganism or flexitarianism, luckily there are amazing plant-based dishes that you can prepare for a mouth-watering Thanksgiving feast, making it easier than ever to skip the turkey. Inhabitat, an online guide to green design ideas and innovations, offers some fresh ideas for main dishes that will replace the turkey on your table, plus some side dish and dessert ideas that will keep the food at your celebration completely plant-based.

Turkey Trot LA Thanksgiving benefit near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Turkey Trot LA

Trot before you feast, and help fundraise for The Midnight Mission. Run/Walk a 5k or 10k course and enjoy a scenic route without traffic that will take you around Grand Park, past the world-famous Disney Concert Hall, the Broad Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and down historic Spring Street, one of the oldest streets in Los Angeles. Thanksgiving morning. Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023. Packet pick up opens at 6:30 AM. The race starts and finishes in front of City Hall at 200 N Spring St.

St. Vincents Meals on Wheels charity for Thanksgiving near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

St. Vincent Meals on Wheels

St. Vincent Meals on Wheels prepares and delivers nutritious meals to homebound seniors and other vulnerable residents across Los Angeles, regardless of age, illness, disability, race, religion or ability to pay. Every meal meets or exceeds all federal and local nutritional standards, and is high in fiber and low in sugar. Clients receive special meals tailored to their medical protocols including low sodium, renal for kidney patients and low vitamin K for heart patients. They also cater to clients’ personal preferences, including vegetarian meals. 

GivingTuesday global movement to promote generosity

GivingTuesday

Nov 28 GivingTuesday is a global movement unleashing the power of radical generosity. GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Since then, it has grown into a year-round global phenomenon that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help, every act of generosity counts, and everyone has something to contribute toward building a better world.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Butterball

Photo #2: Mastro’s 

Photo #3: The Palm Restaurant

Photo #4: San Laurel at Conrad

Photo #5: 71 Above

Photo #6: Manuela

Photo #7: Majordomo

Photo #8: Wexler’s Deli

Photo #9: Fat & Flour

Photo #10: Otium

Photo #11: Butterball

Photo #12: Inhabitat

Photo #13: Turkey Trot LA

Photo #14: St. Vincent Meals on Wheels

Photo #15: GivingTuesday

Giddy Up: Discover LA’s Exciting Equestrian Scene

Did you know that Los Angeles has a fascinating history of urban equestrian communities dating back to the early 19th century? Much of that open space has been paved over, but a small, passionate horse community has survived and thrived, and today, horseback riding is more popular than ever. Not far from Circa, Atwater Village harbors a hidden equestrian neighborhood, which has been designated the Atwater Village Equestrian District. And the Santa Monica mountains abound in secret trails and spectacular views, many of which can only be accessed by horseback. If you’re new to the horsey set, or want to take your riding skills to the next level, many facilities offer lessons, apparel, and gear. Check websites for details.

Sunset Ranch Hollywood equestrian center near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Sunset Ranch Hollywood 3400 N Beachwood Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90068

Just minutes from Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Ranch Hollywood boasts the best views in town. Trail rides include an inspiring two hour evening tour with unbeatable views of all of Los Angeles; a one hour ride up in the Hollywood Hills, where you’ll see the Hollywood Sign and views of the LA Basin; and a two hour tour, where you’ll ride to the top of Mount Hollywood for a 360 degree view of Los Angeles, including the Hollywood Sign, the ocean, and the valleys.

Los Angeles Horseback Riding equestrian center not far from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Horseback Riding 2623 Old Topanga Canyon Rd. Topanga, CA 90290

Established in 1996, Los Angeles Horseback Riding ranch is beautifully situated at the top ridge of the Santa Monica Mountains which connects Topanga and Malibu. Located just minutes from Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades and Malibu, you’ll be able to see 80 miles out from the top of the trails, with breathtaking views in every direction. Packages include Sunset Rides, Moonlight Rides, Ocean Views, Morning Rides, and Romantic Rides. The ranch is known for its celebrity clientele and film location shoots.

Los Angeles Horseback Riding equestrian center about an hour from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

High Horse Malibu 2142 Latigo Canyon Rd. Malibu, CA 90265

High Horse Malibu offers private guided horseback rides, natural horsemanship lessons, and equine assisted therapy in scenic Malibu. Uniquely situated at the crest of Latigo Canyon, the trails traverse rolling hills, wooded canyons, and striking rock formations, with sweeping ocean vistas around every corner. Exceptional horses, combined with the uniquely beautiful coastal Mediterranean habitat of the Santa Monica Mountains, provide guests with an opportunity to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature and self. Whether you’re yearning for an epic trail ride, looking to build a foundation of horsemanship and riding skills, or seeking to connect and engage with horses to foster wellness, High Horse Malibu will assist you on your journey.

Malibu Riders equestrian center about an hour from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Malibu Riders Malibu and Agoura Hills

Malibu Riders offers guided trail rides for beginner and advanced riders through Malibu or Paramount Ranch, where movies are filmed. Trails include Zuma Canyon, with breathtaking ocean views; Paramount Ranch, with amazing scenery, beautiful forests and an abundance of wild life; and Malibu Creek State Park, also known as 20th Century Fox Ranch, the filming location of countless hit TV shows and movies. Call (818) 510-2245 to book your reservation.

LA Horse Rentals equestrian center not far from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Horse Rentals 1850 W Riverside Dr. Glendale, CA 91201

Take an adventurous horseback ride through the beautiful chaparral covered terrain of iconic Griffith Park, and explore over 50 miles of trails, with panoramic views from the Pacific Ocean to the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Choose from tours ranging in length, with options overlooking downtown LA, scenic Amir’s Gardens, the LA Zoo, and the Hollywood Sign. LA Horse Rentals offers horse rides for all experience levels, and trained guides will walk you through your trail ride all the way.

The Paddock Riding Club equestrian center not far from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Paddock Riding Club 3919 Rigali Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90039

The Paddock Riding Club is a family-owned and operated equestrian facility nestled in the Atwater Village Equestrian Historic District, one of the last remaining equestrian communities in Los Angeles. Situated on 20-acres of land, The Paddock Riding Club offers horse boarding, a riding school, and personalized training, and gives access to 55 miles of Griffith Park horse trails. With the newly opened North Atwater Bridge, equestrians, cyclists, and pedestrians now have a way to safely cross the Los Angeles River to access Griffith Park. 

Sagebrook Farms Riding School equestrian center not far from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Sagebrook Farms Riding School 3919 Rigali Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90039

Sagebrook Farms offers horseback riding lessons for every level, from newbies to advanced, including Classical English Riding and Hunter/Jumpers. Whether you want to gain strong basic skills, are aiming for the show arena, or are on your way to owning your own horse, they can provide you with the training and knowledge to help you achieve your goals. Sagebrook Farms is conveniently located at The Paddock Riding Club in Los Angeles.

DaMoor's Tack & Feed equestrian center not far from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

DaMoor’s Tack & Feed 1532 Riverside Dr. ​Glendale, CA 91201

DaMoor’s Tack & Feed is a family run business that has been in operation since 1987, and when you shop here, you’re family too. DaMoor’s specializes in English tack, feed, apparel, and lifestyle products for your equestrian, pet, and small farming needs. Their wide selection of quality tack and riding apparel includes multiple quality, brands to fit any budget, and the experienced staff can help you pick out the perfect tack for any equestrian sport. 

Los Angeles Equestrian Center not far from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Equestrian Center 480 Riverside Dr. Burbank, CA 91506

Regarded as the hub of horse activities in LA, the Los Angeles Equestrian Center is a 75-acre world-class horse show complex nestled in the heart of Griffith Park. The property is home to more than 200 horse boarders with over 500 boarding stalls, 17 horse trainers, a tack shop, and equestrian gift shop. The facility has hosted countless film location shoots, with clients including nearly every major film and television studio.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Malibu Riders

Photo #2: Sunset Ranch Hollywood

Photo #3: Los Angeles Horseback Riding

Photo #4: High Horse Malibu

Photo #5: Malibu Riders

Photo #6: LA Horse Rentals

Photo #7: The Paddock Riding Club

Photo #8: Sagebrook Farms Riding School

Photo #9: DaMoor’s Tack & Feed

Photo #10: Los Angeles Equestrian Center

Circa’s Haunted Harvest of Halloween Fun

It’s spooky season, and LA is all aghast with frightful festivities, creepy concerts, and ghoulish adventures. We’ve rounded up a haunted harvest of Halloween fun, guaranteed to put a tingle in your spine and a chill in your bones. Immerse yourself in a multimedia horror show, experience a haunted hayride, or witness a blood-curdling vampire circus. You can also dive into the traditions of Día de los Muertos at Gloria Molina Grand Park, which features 19 altars created by professional artists and local community organizations. Check websites for tickets and other event details.

Circa Halloween Costume Party

Circa residents are invited to join us for an “Out of This World” Halloween costume party on October 27 from 7:30PM to 10:30PM in the 8th floor lounge. We’ll have a DJ, earthly delights + bites, specialty cocktails, futuristic desserts, a themed photo booth and more!

Danny Elfman Nightmare Before Christmas at the Hollywood Bowl Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Tim Burton‘s The Nightmare Before Christmas Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90068

Tim Burton‘s The Nightmare Before Christmas will be performed in concert, starring Danny Elfman, Catherine O’Hara, Halsey, Fred Armisen, Riki Lindhome, and Ken Page. with a live orchestra featuring conductor John Mauceri and violinist Sandy Cameron. Come early for Halloween Fun with a costume contest hosted by Greg Proops (“Who’s Line is it Anyway?”) and explore the Hollywood Bowl transformed into Halloween Town for an incredible trick-or-treat adventure for all ages.

Grand Park Downtown Día de los Muertos Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Downtown Día de los Muertos 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Honoring the people, places and ideas that merit adoration and commemoration, Gloria Molina Grand Park’s 12th annual Downtown Día de los Muertos welcomes parkgoers to pay reverence to 19 altars created by professional artists and local community organizations. Visitors can also contribute to the annual community altar – the 20th altar – which will honor the victims of gun violence in Monterey Park and those who perished in Maui’s wildfires.

The Bride of Frankenstein Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Bride of Frankenstein The Theatre at Ace Hotel 929 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Camp, humor and horror collide in one of the greatest sequels ever! This year, LA Opera’s hugely popular annual celebration of horror and live music, at the breathtaking Theatre at Ace Hotel, presents film director James Whale’s chilling The Bride of Frankenstein, with one of the most iconic “wedding” scenes in cinematic history. As this 1935 horror classic plays out larger than life on the silver screen, the magnificent musicians of the LA Opera Orchestra, conducted by Jenny Wong, perform Franz Waxman’s groundbreaking original soundtrack score live. 

Boney Island at NHM Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Boney Island Natural History Museum 900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007

Just in time for Halloween, the Natural History Museum will transform its Nature Gardens into a hauntingly whimsical interactive light-up experience for all ages. Featuring familiar sights for long-time Boney Island fans – skeletons performing rope tricks, levitating through hoops, shadow puppetry and more – NHM will put its own spin on the event with artistic performances, real fossils, live animal presentations, trick-or-treating, and other ghoulishly glowing installations. Boney Island was created by The Simpsons producer, Rick Polizzi, for his family more than 20 years ago. A play on Brooklyn’s iconic Coney Island, it grew from a front yard display to a huge affair in Griffith Park with a cult-like following of Halloween lovers of all ages. 

Nights of the Jack Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Nights of the Jack King Gillette Ranch 26800 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas, CA 91302

Thirty miles northwest of Hollywood, tucked in the Santa Monica Mountains, there’s a strange and shadowy wonderland that everyone’s been whispering about. This season, Nights of the Jack is back and brighter than ever. You’ll discover Jack o’ lanterns from every mystical sphere and a spook-tacular illuminated light show under the autumn sky. It’s not just an illusion, it’s an experience. Brace yourself with a hot cider or seasonal cocktail from the Spookeasy bar, and fortify yourself  with some festive fall treats. Follow the 3/4 mile trail at King Gillette Ranch, glimmering at every turn with blazing gourds around every corner. Be sure to have your cameras ready and enjoy!

LA Haunted Hayride Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride Griffith Park 730 Crystal Springs Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Experience the world-famous Los Angeles Haunted Hayride – the ultimate halloween event. The Hayride leads to a thrilling adventure of horrors afflicting the town of Midnight Falls, with the Town Square at the epicenter of the festivities. While guests walk around between attractions or hang out to soak in the atmosFEAR, various townsfolk from the Midnight Falls community roam the space interacting with guests and attending to their local business. The Spirit of Halloween comes to life surrounding helpless victims brave enough to board The Hayride.

Carved Descanso Gardens Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Carved Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Come discover a mesmerizing pumpkin wonderland, featuring a new route, and even more pumpkin fun! Discover returning favorites and fresh delights You’ll be amazed by luminous jack-o’-lanterns, hand-carved giant pumpkins, and an expanded “Rhizome” installation by Tom and Lien Dekyvere. Enjoy frightfully good food and drinks, including cocktails, beer & wine, Frito Pie, BBQ pork sandwiches, jumbo pretzels, and Day of the Dead Churros. Rain or shine – Carved shines on.

Strange Science at The Huntington Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Strange Science at The Huntington 1151 Oxford Rd. San Marino, CA 91108

Join The Huntington for an evening of chills and thrills! Witness spirited performances and special displays of rarely seen objects from the vaults. Hear spine-tingling stories, learn weird scholarly facts, and experience twisted fantasies on the dance floor. Enjoy various libation lounges serving festive boozy and alcohol-free beverages. Food and snacks are available for purchase.

Halloween Horror Nights Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Halloween Horror Nights Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608

Legend has it you should never go alone to Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights, Southern California’s scariest Halloween event. Summon your scream squad and you might survive. Enter eight haunted houses inspired by the biggest names in horror. The Terror Tram is back and this time the bugs are taking over. Tour Guide Larry Larva and his bug-headed exterminators are out to get rid of human pests once and for all. You’ll be dropping like flies. Whether you want to scream one night or multiple nights, or get the blood-red carpet treatment on an R.I.P. Tour, there are many nightmares to choose from.

The Vampire Circus Halloween fun near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Vampire Circus The Montalbán 615 Vine St. Hollywood, CA 90028

Step into The Vampire Circus, a mesmerizing theatrical experience that fuses artistry, technology, and twisted acrobatics. Be captivated by a world that pushes the boundaries of human performance. Witness phenomenal acrobatics performed by international artists with multidisciplinary skills in theater, dance, and gymnastics. Prepare to be amazed and astounded as they take you on an emotional roller-coaster filled with fear, joy, laughter, and wonder. This 90-minute show guarantees an engaging and enjoyable evening of live entertainment for all audiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Hollywood Bowl

Photo #4: Gloria Molina Grand Park

Photo #5: LA Opera 

Photo #6: Natural History Museum

Photo #7: Nights of the Jack

Photo #8: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #9: Descanso Gardens

Photo #10: The Huntington

Photo #11: Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo #12: The Vampire Circus

Brats, Bretzen & Biergartens: Oktoberfest is Here

Did you know the first Oktoberfest was celebrated in Munich on October 12, 1810 in honor of Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The party was such a success that the happy couple decided to make it an annual tradition. Since then, Oktoberfest-mania really took off, and today over 6 million people attend Munich Oktoberfest each year. So what’s on tap for everyone’s favorite sudsy holiday around LA? We’ve rounded up a list of the best Oktoberfest events, taverns, and biergartens where you’ll find all the brats, bretzen, and beer to get your gemütlich going. Prosit!

Wurstküche German restaurant Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Wurstküche 800 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Soak up the Oktoberfest zeitgeist in the Wurstküche Beer Garden. Known as a purveyor of rare and exotic grilled sausages – from rabbit to rattleshake – this popular joint also offers more mainstream meats such as bratwurst, bockwurst, hot Italian sausage, Polish kielbasa, and Louisana hot links. Expect an extensive selection of draft and bottle beers from Belgium, Germany, US, and UK, along with a nice wine list. For special treat, try a palate-cleansing, digestion-promoting Eaux de Vie, such as the German favorite Underberg, or some fruitier fixes such as Blume Marillen Apricot or Kirschwasser (dry cherry brandy).

Berlin Currywurst German restaurant Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Berlin Currywurst Grand Central Market, 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Ich bin ein Berliner! Having grown up in the home country of currywurst, the founders of Berlin Currywurst decided to share this German cultural treasure with the people of LA. Created 60 years ago in Berlin, currywurst has become the number one street food in Germany. Berlin Currywurst does authentic currywurst, the way you’ll find it on Berlin’s urban sidewalks. Their recipe is steeped in German tradition, where you’ll discover an unlimited variety of combinations by experiencing different sausages, heat levels, and flavors. The meat is all-natural, served with 100% organic sauce, fries handcut from organic potatoes, and fresh and crispy German farmer’s bread. 

Craftoberfest in Pasadena Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Craftoberfest Rose Bowl Stadium 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena, CA 91103

Oct 21 CraftoberFest Los Angeles is the premier Oktoberfest celebration of the season. With over 50 carefully-curated craft breweries from the Southern California area, this food and drink festival will provide each guest with a delicious experience influenced by the world’s largest “Volksfest” (beer festival) in Germany. The event will serve traditional and fan-favorite foods influenced by this internationally-loved holiday. You’ll find pretzels, bratwurst, and unlimited pours of local craft beers.

The Red Lion Tavern Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Red Lion Tavern 2366 Glendale Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90039

Every day is Oktoberfest at The Red Lion Tavern! For over 60 years, The Red Lion Tavern has been one of Los Angeles’ most beloved neighborhood taverns. This L.A. landmark continues to serve up traditional German food and a wide selection of German beer in a cozy old world atmosphere. Specialty menu items include German pretzels, fried German pickles, bratwurst on a roll, potato pancakes, a robust selection of German sausages, and hearty favorites such as Schweinebraten and Schnitzel.

Old World Huntington Beach Oktoberfest

Old World Oktoberfest The Biergarten 7561 Center Ave. Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Old World Huntington Beach has been host to Orange County’s biggest Oktoberfest since 1977. Through November 5th, Old World Village will be buzzing with chicken dancing, amazing German food (voted “Best Bratwurst” in California), over 60 beers on tap, oom pah pah bands straight from Germany, an army of Beautiful Shot Girls, competitions, and craft cocktails. Guests can prosit in the 10,000 square foot open air Biergarten and ginormous indoor Fest Hall. 

Dirndl Haus Oktoberfest clothing store in Huntington Beach, CA

CA Dirndl Haus 7561 Center Ave #51A, Huntington Beach, CA 92647

Get ready to level up your Oktoberfest game at CA Dirndl Haus. Founded in 2018 by two best friends, Cyndie and Arpeni, Dirndl Haus sells trendy and traditional dirndl dresses and blouses, lederhosen, mens shirts and vests, and accessories including hats, hat pins, wreaths and jewelry. Dirndl Haus is an extension of the greater Old World Market and Oktoberfest Facility. Co-founder Cyndie’s parents Josef and Dolores Bischof, originally from Germany, founded Orange County’s famous Old World Village in 1975, along with Huntington Beach Oktoberfest, enjoyed by thousands of attendees each year. 

Oktoberfest at Fairplex in Pomona, CA

Oktoberfest at Fairplex 1101 W McKinley Ave. Pomona, CA 91768

Dust off your lederhosen and dirndls because it’s that time of year. Oktoberfest returns to Fairplex with all the bier and brez’n to make this the perfect fest. Now in its 10th year, Fairplex Presents Oktoberfest is celebrating Bavarian music, authentic German food, and Der Ententanz (the Chicken Dance). With the addition of games and prizes, tribute bands, and a live DJ, Oktoberfest is a month-long celebration that brings a taste of Germany to Los Angeles County. 

Long Beach Oktoberfest near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Long Beach Oktoberfest 855 Elm Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813

Long Beach is bringing back the oom pah pah with the 3rd annual Oktoberfest celebration. Enjoy authentic German beer and eats. Local favorites, alongside authentic German beers will be served, such as Paulaner Festbier and Hofbrau Oktoberfestbier. The world famous Festmeister Hans und Die Sauerkrauts will command the stage with music, performances, and games. And don’t forget to don your lederhosen or dirndl, as dressing up for the event is highly encouraged. Official Long Beach Oktoberfest 2023 Steins are available at the event.

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest about an hour from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest 42900 Big Bear Blvd. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Fall is without a doubt the most distinctive season in Big Bear Lake. The air gets a little crisper, leaves begin to change color, and best of all, Oktoberfest takes center stage. The 53rd annual classic Oktoberfest celebration combines Big Bear’s mountain charm with authentic German traditions, charismatic characters dressed in full regalia, German bands rocking oompah-pah tunes, and of course the crowd favorite Chicken dance! Oktoberfest runs every weekend through November 5. 

Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest about an hour from Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest Lake Arrowhead Village 28200 State Hwy.189 Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352

Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest has moved to an all-new venue, Waterfront Park, situated on the waterfront at the Lake Arrowhead Village, a replica waterfront Alpine Village with over 100 shops and restaurants. Since 1981, Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest has offered authentic German beer, food, music and fun. Admission to the event is free and parking is free at Lake Arrowhead Village.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Old World Huntington Beach

Photo #2: Wurstküche

Photo #3: Berlin Currywurst

Photo #4: Craftoberfest

Photo #5: The Red Lion Tavern

Photo #6: Old World Huntington Beach

Photo #7: CA Dirndl Haus

Photo #8: Oktoberfest at Fairplex

Photo #9: Long Beach Oktoberfest 

Photo #10: Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest

Photo #11: Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest

Circa’s Exclusive Guide to LA’s Artisanal Wineries 

The Fall grape harvest is here, and thanks to the cooler, rainy weather this spring, 2023 is expected to be an excellent year for California wines. Did you know that Los Angeles County encompasses six different American Viticultural Areas or AVAs? The AVA on a wine label indicates the specific geographical area a wine comes from and where the grapes are grown. The city of Los Angeles has a storied history of commercial wine-making dating back to the mid-nineteenth century, when Jean-Louis Vignes built his winery around a 400 year old sycamore near what is now Union Station. Today, award-winning artisanal wineries are producing throughout the region, including Malibu, Bel Air, Santa Clarita, Agoura Hills, and even DTLA. Check out websites for tasting rooms, tours and special events.

Kitchen with wine storage at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Wine lovers rejoice! Circa kitchens, in select residences, come equipped with under-counter wine storage to keep your bottles at the optimal temperature.

Kitchen island at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Our stylish kitchen island is the perfect spot for you to conduct your own wine tastings at home. Gather your friends, pop the cork, and toast to Circa’s epic views. 

San Antonio Winery near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

San Antonio Winery 737 Lamar St. Los Angeles, CA 90031

A historical landmark since 1965, San Antonio Winery remains the oldest and largest producing winery in Los Angeles with over 100 years of winemaking, making it an essential component of the city’s cultural and historical landscape. Founded in 1917 by Santo Cambianica, the winery continues to be a family-owned and operated business, with four generations of the Riboli Family. Experience winery tours, tastings & flights, and authentic Italian food at their Maddalena Restaurant, named after the family matriarch, Maddalena Riboli. 

Angeleno Wine Company winery near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Angeleno Wine Company 1646 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

When Jasper Dickson and Amy Luftig Viste founded Angeleno Wine Company in 2019 – the first winery in the city of Los Angeles since Prohibition – they wanted to reconnect with the city’s winemaking tradition, one that many Angelenos know nothing about. With a focus on unique varietals, Angeleno Wine Company aims to push the boundaries of what Southern California wine growing can be, working with small vineyards in the beautiful, remote corners of Los Angeles County. Their wines are naturally made, 100% vegan, and elegantly balanced to express Los Angeles’ unique character: a growing region where the desert meets the sea.

Pali Wine Co winery near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Pali Wine Co. 811 Traction Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Take a seat and have a sip in the open patio at Pali Wine Co. in LA’s buzzing Arts District. Founded in 2005, Pali Wine Co. is a family-run winery that highlights the diversity and nuanced qualities of the California Central Coast wine-growing area. Every Pali wine comprises sustainable, organic or biodynamically sourced grapes, grown with exceptional farming standards that result in ultra-high-quality wines that uniquely express the grape’s variety, vineyard and vintage. While most of the grapes come from their Santa Rita Hills estate, Pali Vineyard, Pali partners with a handful of other family-owned and world-renowned vineyards in the area, such as Fiddlestix, Rancho La Viña, and Bien Nacido Vineyards.

Malibu Family Wines winery near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Malibu Family Wines 28001 Dorothy Dr. Agoura Hills, CA 91301

After a wildfire in 1978, Ron Semler purchased the land that is now Saddlerock Ranch. The current 1100-acre ranch is home to many farm animals, vineyards, ranch hands, and the Semler Family. Perfectly positioned at the crest of the Santa Monica Mountains, in the Saddle-Rock Malibu AVA, the vineyards are quite unique, with rocky terrain and steep south-facing slopes that provide the perfect environment for growing premium wine grapes. Today, the hillside vineyards comprise approximately 70,000 vines on 70 acres with twelve varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, and more. The Semler family warmly welcomes visitors, guiding them through a captivating exploration of their wines.

Cielo Farms Malibu winery near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Cielo Farms Malibu 31424 Mulholland Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265

Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, Cielo Farms has been family owned and operated since 1999. This winery is known for its great wine, as well as the stunning panoramic views you’ll enjoy when you visit. Unique to Cielo is the winery’s gorgeous Tuscan-inspired estate that sits on over 30 acres of land among a grove of olive trees. You’ll feel transported far from Los Angeles, even though the winery is such a short drive away. Reserve a table at “The Barn,” and take in the views of the mountains while you taste a flight of Cielo’s Woodstock and Estate wines. A selection of small plates and pizzas is available on weekends.

Moraga Bel Air winery near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Moraga Bel Air 1070 Moraga Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90049

Moraga Vineyards is one of the most unique wine estates in California. Located at a 550-900 foot elevation in the Santa Monica Mountains in the Los Angeles community of Bel Air, the winery and vineyard is the source of remarkably refined wines that perfectly reflect a union of distinctive terroir and the gentle guidance of focused winemaking. Throughout its history, the wines of Moraga Bel Air have been coveted and highly praised by wine experts such as Robert Parker, Jr. of The Wine Advocate. Since 2013, the winery has been owned by Rupert Murdoch, who has made the property his West Coast home and is committed to carrying on the legacy of producing top quality wine from one of California’s most unique estate wineries. 

Rosenthal Malibu Estate winery near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Rosenthal Malibu Estate Tasting Room 18741 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265

If you enjoy the surf culture of Malibu, you’ll love the Rosenthal Malibu Estate Tasting Room, which is located directly across from the beach in Malibu. The vines at Rosenthal Malibu Estate were first planted in 1987, making it the first vineyard in Malibu. This 28 acre estate is located within four miles of the ocean at 1450 feet above sea level, within a perfect microclimate for growing high-quality grapes. Rosenthal was designated its very own American Viticulture Area: Malibu Newton Canyon A.V.A. No other wines in the world include grapes grown within the mini-microclimates of Malibu-Newton Canyon. Rosenthal also created the Surfrider label, with a portion of proceeds supporting organizations that help preserve the beauty of our oceans.

The Stonehaus winery near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Stonehaus 32039 Agoura Rd. Westlake Village, CA 91361

The Stonehaus is a vineyard, restaurant and boutique enoteca reminiscent of a charming gem you’d find in the Italian countryside. They offer a selection of wines from around the world, including their own private label wines. The restaurant offers a variety of European-inspired small plates, and their signature wine and pizza pairing. All pizzas are made to order in their outdoor pizza oven, with a thin crust and using only the finest ingredients. 

Agua Dulce Winery near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Agua Dulce Winery 9640 Sierra Hwy. Santa Clarita, CA 91390

If you want to take a fun day trip, Agua Dulce Winery is a 90 acre, family owned and operated winery and vineyard located just 45 minutes north of downtown Los Angeles. Wines from Agua Dulce Winery have won multiple medals in several national wine competitions, recognized for their hand-crafted approach to wine making, along with a vineyard blessed with natural soils, and climatic and geographic advantages unique to the Sierra Pelona Valley.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Moraga Bel Air

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Circa

Photo #4: San Antonio Winery

Photo #5: Angeleno Wine Company

Photo #6: Pali Wine Co.

Photo #7: Malibu Family Wines

Photo #8: Cielo Farms Malibu

Photo #9: Moraga Bel Air 

Photo #10: Rosenthal Malibu Estate

Photo #11: Agua Dulce Winery

Explore DTLA on a Cultural Walking Tour 

Immerse yourself in LA’s fascinating heritage on a cultural walking tour. With the relaxed pace and street-level view, you’ll get a different feel for the city’s vibe, discover hidden neighborhood gems, and clock some great exercise. LA Conservancy offers a slew of walking tours revealing the social, cultural, and architectural history of Los Angeles, many just a short distance from Circa. Or take an insider’s tour of “Undiscovered Chinatown” with the Chinatown BID, check out LA filming locations with LA Walking tours, and indulge in a delicious food tour with Sidewalk Food Tours. With all these options, you’ll gain a whole new perspective when you explore LA by foot.

LA Conservancy walking tours near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

L.A. Conservancy Member September

If you’ve ever considered joining the Los Angeles Conservancy, the time is now. The Conservancy is celebrating their members with $5 walking tours of Union Station and Historic Downtown. Registrations must be made by September 30. This special rate is good for up to two tickets at $5 each and membership starts at only $40 a month. Members provide essential support to the Conservancy’s advocacy and education efforts to preserve, revitalize, and promote culturally and architecturally significant historic places in Los Angeles County.

Union Station LA Conservancy walking tours near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

L.A. Conservancy:  Union Station Walking Tour 

See this beloved L.A. landmark up close, and learn how Union Station continues to evolve. Union Station was the last great railway station built during the golden age of rail travel – an exciting site of colliding community histories. On this tour, you’ll visit the stunning former Fred Harvey Restaurant site and hear about the women who worked there in the 1940s, and the Ticketing Concourse and Waiting Room, where passengers purchased tickets alongside soldiers headed to war. You’ll learn about the Japanese families who were deported from Union Station during the same period and how L.A.’s current Chinatown was formed in relation to Union Station’s construction. Along the way, you’ll see newly restored architectural details as well as famous interiors recognizable from decades of film and television spots.

Historic Downtown LA Conservancy walking tours near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

L.A. Conservancy: Historic Downtown Walking Tour

The Historic Downtown walking tour offers a great overview of downtown L.A. history and architecture, from the eighteenth century to the present. Learn about the founding of this great city, and the story of its growth, as told through its magnificent architecture. Explore some of L.A.’s most beloved landmarks, such as the Central Library, the U.S. Bank Tower, and the Bradbury Building. Discover—or rediscover—the area’s unique character as you visit the areas surrounding Pershing Square, the heart of downtown.

Eastern Columbia Building LA Conservancy walking tours near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

L.A. Conservancy: Art Deco

Everyone knows that L.A. is a glamorous city. But few know that true Old Hollywood glamour lies in the streets of downtown L.A. Nothing evokes Jazz Age elegance like Art Deco. Learn how it made its way to L.A., why it became such a defining architectural style, and about the craftspeople who created these soaring structures and their iconic details. Clean lines and geometric patterns proved a perfect style for L.A. in the ‘20s and ‘30s, and an extraordinary collection of these masterpieces still stands in the heart of the city. You’ll step inside the entryway to the Cicada Club or the jaw-dropping lobby of CalEdison, and see many more gorgeous buildings as you experience first-hand the glamour of Old Hollywood.

Arcade Building LA Conservancy walking tours near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

L.A. Conservancy: Past Meets Present

Stroll the streets of Spring Street and see firsthand how architectural treasures of the past have become unique, creative spaces for today. Once dubbed the “Wall Street of the West,” Spring Street’s Beaux Art-lined corridor has transformed through the years—but its historic buildings continue to serve the community through new uses. You’ll see how a former bank became the world-famous Last Bookstore, how an abandoned streetcar terminal was transformed into an elegant apartment complex, and how other pre-1930s office buildings have morphed into popular bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Los Angeles Theatre LA Conservancy walking tours near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

L.A. Conservancy: Broadway Historic Theatre and Commercial District Walking Tour

Before there was Hollywood, there was Broadway. This central street in Los Angeles was the original epicenter for film premiers and boasts the country’s largest collection of intact historic movie palaces. On this tour, you’ll visit one of these lavish architectural wonders up close and learn about the street where Hollywood history first began. You’ll also hear how these theaters have continued to play a role in the changing identity of downtown L.A. and become a touchstone for a diverse array of communities and organizations.

LA Walking Tours near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Walking Tours: Filming Locations

Ranked among the “Best Architecture Tours In Los Angeles To Check Out In 2023” by NOMS Magazine, LA Walking Tours offers a variety of tours covering LA’s vibrant neighborhoods. The Filming Locations tour is an exploration of Hollywood history in LA and actual filming locations for many popular movies. You will tour the largest backlot in the world and watch the scenes of your favorite movie clips. Scenes including, but not limited to, La La Land, 500 Days of Summer, Blade Runner, Bosch, The Artist, The Soloist, Bridesmaids, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Independence Day, Inception, and more.

Chinatown walking tours near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Undiscovered Chinatown Walking Tour

Visit a temple, an herbal shop, art galleries, antique stores, and more when guided to the unique treasures–not to mention great bargains–to be found in Chinatown. The walking tour will take visitors to a number of off-the-beaten-track points of interest, and will guide those interested in shopping to some of Chinatown’s best bargains and its trendiest shops. See why Chinatown is touted by Sunset and Los Angeles magazines as one of the hottest destinations for urban adventurers! Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to wind your way through a myriad of alleyways, plaza stalls, and classical courtyards to discover the charm of L.A.’s Chinatown.

Sidewalk Food Tours walking tours near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Sidewalk Food Tours: Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

Ranked among the “11 Best Los Angeles City Tours To Get Introduced To The City of Angels” by NOMS Magazine, this guided Downtown LA Food Tour includes six unique stops showcasing the best of the growing, diverse DTLA food scene. Sidewalk Food Tours’ expert foodies have done extensive and delicious research to offer you the ultimate best-of food tour of DTLA. Highlights include sampling a variety of delicious foods from the best specialty food stores, buzz-worthy spots, and ethnic eateries, and a stroll through the historic Grand Central Market with tastings from some of its most well-known vendors. Sidewalk Food Tours was inspired by a deep love of food, history, and the unique stories of city neighborhoods.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: L.A. Conservancy 

Photo #2: L.A. Conservancy

Photo #3: L.A. Conservancy

Photo #4: L.A. Conservancy

Photo #5: L.A. Conservancy

Photo #6: L.A. Conservancy

Photo #7: L.A. Conservancy

Photo #8: LA Walking Tours

Photo #9: Chinatown Business Improvement District

Photo #10: Sidewalk Food Tours

Circa’s Favorite DTLA Bookstores

Summer days are made for lazy lounging, perfect for cracking open a good book. There’s nothing like the latest bestseller, an addictive mystery novel, or a literary classic to while away a relaxing afternoon. Our city is a bibliophile’s paradise, from local treasures like The Last Bookstore to collectible destinations, museum bookstores, and interesting specialty shops, many just a short distance from Circa. Patronizing a bookstore is also a great way to support local businesses and connect with other book lovers. So untether your digital devices, find a nook, grab a book, and let your imagination soar!

The Last Bookstore near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Last Bookstore 453 S Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Not really the last bookstore – thank goodness – but the largest new and used bookstore in California. Plus, The Last Bookstore is the only one encompassing 22,000 square feet, with a record store, comic book store, five art studios, a famous book tunnel, a mammoth head, and unexpected nooks of funkiness. Also, they are housed in a one hundred year old bank building, complete with vaults and ghosts. Oh, and they also have tons of books.

Hennessey + Ingalls bookstore near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Hennessey + Ingalls 300 S. Santa Fe Ave. Suite M, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Since its founding in 1963, Hennessey + Ingalls has grown to become the largest art, architecture and design bookstore in the Western United States. In 2016, the store moved to its current location in DTLA’s booming Arts District. A landmark in the visual arts community, Hennessey + Ingalls counts many of the country’s leading architectural firms as clients, along with museums, collectors, art galleries, students, interior designers, graphic design firms, and schools. Even if you’re not an industry professional, it’s fun to browse the store’s in-depth selection of books, including art, architecture, photography, interior design, graphic design, landscaping, and more.

Artbook @ Hauser & Wirth LA bookstore near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Artbook @Hauser & Wirth LA 917 E 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Artbook @Hauser & Wirth is an arts and culture bookstore located inside the Hauser Wirth & Schimmel gallery in the DTLA Arts District. The bookstore offers a wide range of topics including art, photography, architecture & design, film, music, fashion and more. Hauser & Wirth opened its Los Angeles location in 2016 in a former flour mill. In addition to supporting and collaborating with many local and international cultural organizations, nonprofits, and universities, the Los Angeles gallery fosters public dialogue with the arts through a range of activities that engage the city’s diverse population.

The Library Store bookstore near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Library Store 630 W 5th St. Los Angeles, CA 90071

The Library Store is operated by the Library Foundation of Los Angeles, which provides critical support to the Los Angeles Public Library resulting in free programs, resources, and services available to the millions of adults, children, and youth in Los Angeles. Through fundraising, advocacy, and innovative programs, the Library Foundation strengthens the Los Angeles Public Library and promotes greater awareness of its valuable resources. Shop the carefully curated collection of books, tees, totes, stationery and much more. All sales benefit the Los Angeles Public Library.

Now Serving bookstore near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Now Serving Far East Plaza 727 N. Broadway, Unit 133, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Founded by Ken Concepcion, former chef de cuisine at Wolfgang Puck’s CUT, and his wife Michelle Mungcal, Now Serving carries a melange of new and used cookbooks, including out of print editions. The cookbooks are organized in geographical departments such as the Americas, Asia, the Middle East, Mediterranean, and Europe, and categories like pastries and baking, beverages, general food writing, and reference books. Now Serving also offers gourmet kitchen tools like Japanese knives, new and vintage cast iron pans, and chef’s apparel. Check their schedule for in-store author events and book signings.

These Days bookstore near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

These Days 118 Winston St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Owned and operated by longtime DTLA residents Stephen and Jodi Zeigler, These Days is a gallery, store, and publisher located in downtown Los Angeles. Since its first exhibition in 2014, the gallery has exhibited a diverse range of work including abstract paintings by photographer Nick Waplington, photography by Gusmano Cesaretti, Lookout & Wonderland’s collaborative fiber art project, and Ian Reid’s photographs of New York’s BDSM community. Though their interests are varied, These Days’ embrace of creative rebellion and nonconformist culture, communities, and artists is apparent in everything they curate. In 2016, These Days began publishing with work by Gusmano Cesaretti, Ian Reid, Sean Maung, and Estevan Oriol. The store features collectible and out-of-print photography books, zines, as well as art and design objects.

Skylight Books bookstore near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Skylight Books 1818 N Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Skylight Books is a general bookstore serving the historic Los Angeles neighborhoods of Hollywood, Los Feliz, Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Downtown. Their curated selection features the best of literary fiction; graphic novels; children’s books; California history and culture; political and social sciences; essays and nonfiction; and books on art, photography, film, and music. They also feature hand-picked magazines and zines, along with a selection of stationery and gifts. Skylight Books’ events program is nationally recognized, and features major touring authors, local favorites, and debuts.

Kinokuniya Los Angeles bookstore near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Kinokuniya Los Angeles 123 Astronaut Ellison S Onizuka Street #205, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Founded in 1927 in Tokyo, the Kinokuniya chain spans 80 stores and 35 sales office locations worldwide,  including the popular location in Little Tokyo’s Weller Court. Kinokuniya offers an extensive selection of manga, graphic novels, art and design books, cookbooks, travel books, and children’s books. Calling all fans of animation director Hayao Miyazaki! Kinokuniya is the official retail partner of Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli and carries merchandise shipped directly from Japan, including DVDs, books, stationery, puzzles, pins, stuffed animals, and more.

Museum of Contemporary Art MOCA Bookstore bookstore near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

MOCA Store 250 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Located at The Museum of Contemporary Art on Grand, MOCA Store presents an array of eclectic offerings including art monographs, exhibition catalogs, posters, rare and out of print art books, and an interesting collection of cookbooks. You can also find apparel, creative office accessories, art supplies, kids’ toys and gifts, and more. Every purchase you make supports MOCA. MOCA Members receive 10% off any purchase every day.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: The Last Bookstore 

Photo #2: The Last Bookstore 

Photo #3: Hennessey + Ingalls

Photo #4: Artbook @ Hauser & Wirth LA

Photo #5: The Library Store

Photo #6: Now Serving

Photo #7: These Days

Photo #8: Skylight Books

Photo #9: Kinokuniya Los Angeles

Photo #10: MOCA Store

10 Cool Ways to Beat the Heat in LA

The heat is on, with no end in sight. Temperatures may be soaring, but if you resist the temptation to hunker down in your air conditioned cocoon, you’ll find a multitude of refreshing opportunities to survive the summer sizzle. From immersive exhibitions and twilight garden strolls to rafting on the LA River, and even an indoor ice skating rink, we’ve rounded up 10 cool ways to beat the heat in LA!

Circa elliptical pool & cabanas at Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Happiness begins at home! Luxuriate in the resort-like ambiance of Circa’s two-acre rooftop park and amenity collection. Our 75-foot lap pool provides a revitalizing respite from sultry summer weather. Enjoy a dip in the elliptical pool and take a relaxing break in our private cabanas.

LA Underwater - exhibition at NHM near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

L.A. Underwater Natural History Museum 900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007

Before it was the vibrant city we know, Los Angeles was underwater for over 90 million years. Dive into NHM’s newest multimedia-rich, immersive exhibition L.A. Underwater and discover L.A.’s prehistoric past through the stories of nearly 40 fossils that are uncovering the secrets of our submerged prehistory. Many of these fossils were found by everyday Angelenos, from construction workers unearthing over 2,000 fish fossils while working on the Metro line to Museum neighbors discovering a whale skull while digging an irrigation ditch in Lincoln Heights. These locally-discovered fossils are helping scientists understand the topography of the city’s past and present.

The Huntington Botanical Gardens near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Twilight Garden Strolls at The Huntington 1151 Oxford Rd. San Marino, CA 91108

Get ready for relaxation and exploration as you wander the gardens with friends and family after hours. The Red Car coffee shop will be open until 5:30PM and the 1919 Cafe will be open serving a selection of grilled items, house-made soups, hand-crafted sandwiches, salads, and grab-and-go fare from 5:30 to 7:30PM. Food and drink are not permitted while strolling, but you may bring bottled water and a blanket to sit on the lawn. Most gardens will be open for your enjoyment. However, the library, art galleries, The Rose Hills Conservatory, and the Helen and Peter Bing Children’s Garden will be closed.

LA Kings Valley Ice Center indoor ice skating near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Kings Valley Ice Center 8750 Van Nuys Blvd. Panorama City, CA 91402

The Los Angeles Kings Valley Ice Center, home of the 2012 Stanley Cup Champions, is a two ice surface facility located in the heart of the San Fernando Valley.  The rink offers everything in relation to the ice including hockey, ice skating, curling, broomball, public sessions, sticktime, learn to skate classes, group lessons, private lessons, filming, and special events.

Lucky Strike LA Live bowling near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Lucky Strike LA Live 800 W Olympic Blvd. Ste. 250, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Nestled just steps away from the Crypto.com Arena, Lucky Strike LA Live is the perfect place to roll a few frames, shoot some pool, and enjoy delicious cocktails and tasty bites. Featuring 18 premium lanes, tons of screens to catch all the big games, and plenty of tasty cuisine to fuel your fun, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. Check out the luxury suite that offers a private setting with four lanes, two billiards tables, and a private bar.

Keith Haring at The Broad art museum near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Keith Haring: Art is for Everybody The Broad  221 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Broad presents the first-ever museum exhibition in Los Angeles of Keith Haring’s expansive body of work and features over 120 artworks and archival materials. Known for his use of vibrant color, energetic line work, and iconic characters, like the barking dog and the radiant baby, Haring’s work continues to dissolve barriers between art and life, and spread joy, all while being rooted in the creative spirit and mission of his subway drawings and renowned public murals.

Grand Park near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Gloria Molina Grand Park 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

With its majestic views extending from the Music Center to City Hall, Grand Park provides Angelenos a place where they can come together to celebrate, reflect, and and play. Throughout Grand Park, open spaces are available for casual sitting, leisurely strolling, and dining al fresco. Grand Park has four distinct areas featuring amenities ranging from a restored historic Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain with a new wade-able membrane pool, a small intimate performance lawn, a community terrace planted with drought-tolerant specimen plants, and a grand event lawn. 

McConnells's Fine Ice Cream near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

McConnell’s Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

For 70 years, McConnell’s has been making dense and pure-flavored ice creams, with smooth, consistent texture and a rich, velvety mouth feel – all made from scratch with a few, simple ingredients. McConnell’s mission is to produce the finest ice creams in the world, in the most responsible and sustainable way possible. In the process, they aim to enrich and enliven the communities in which they operate, and leave the world just a little bit “sweeter” than they found it.

Playa Vista Farmers' Market - Farm Habit near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

South Park Farmers’ Market 11th & Grand, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Downtown LA has just booked another farmer’s market, this time in the South Park neighborhood. The South Park Farmers’ Market takes place each Saturday, from 9AM to 2PM on Grand Ave and 11th St. A diverse bunch of farmers, foodies, and artisans will be accompanied by live music. Market offerings include locally grown fruit, vegetables, fresh fish, French pastries, Southern gumbo, tamales, and free-range meat from a local rancher who practices regenerative agriculture. So come out, stock up for the week, and enjoy the community.

L.A River Expeditions near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA River Expeditions

Start your urban adventure! LA River Expeditions is the original boating organization on the Los Angeles River. The founders 2008 expedition down the river’s 51 miles (from the San Fernando Valley to the Pacific Ocean) launched their involvement with the LA River revitalization as a nonprofit organization, committed to improving the quality of life in our community. This groundbreaking activism was a key factor in changing Federal environmental policy by winning Clean Water Act protections in 2010 for the Los Angeles River and waterways across the country. LA River enthusiasts can book kayak tours in both Los Angeles River recreational zones: Sepulveda Basin Recreation Zone and Elysian Valley Recreation Zone.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Circa LA

Photo #2: Circa LA

Photo #3: Natural History Museum

Photo #4: The Huntington

Photo #5: LA Kings Valley Ice Center

Photo #6: Lucky Strike LA Live

Photo #7: The Broad

Photo #8: Gloria Molina Grand Park

Photo #9: McConnell’s

Photo #10: Playa Vista Farmers’ Market

Photo #11: LA River Expeditions