luxuryamenities Archives - Page 7 of 7

Food, Festivals & Fun Frolics: What to Do in LA Now

Los Angeles is full of surprises – and this month is no exception! It’s time to branch out and discover some new neighborhoods, venues and experiences. Fun and frolics abound if you just know where to look. From delicious dining to immersive entertainment, craft workshops, art & cinema, and even a luscious rosé wine festival, here’s your curated guide to what’s happening in LA now. Circa residents, please check websites for reservations and hours.

Redbird LA near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Dine LA Restaurant Week Various Locations

April 1 -15 Dine LA Restaurant Week showcases Los Angeles as a premier dining destination while highlighting the diversity of culinary experiences L.A. has to offer. Enjoy special lunch and dinner menus at hundreds of local restaurants. During the Spring 2022 event, in addition to dine-in, there are also menu options for take-out. No tickets or passes required for Dine LA Restaurant Week. Simply dine out at a participating restaurant, ask for the Dine LA Restaurant Week menu, and try a new dish or enjoy an old favorite. Advance reservations and ordering are strongly recommended. Pictured: Redbird

Brewery Artwalk near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Brewery Artwalk 2100 N Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90031

April 9 & 10 The Brewery Artwalk is a twice annual open studio weekend at the worlds largest art complex. With over 100 participating resident artists, you will have the opportunity to see new works, discover new favorites, speak with the artists, and purchase artwork directly from the artists’ studios. Admission and parking are free.

Daft Punk Dome Experience Wisdome 1147 Palmetto St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

April 8 & 9 Daft Punk Pyramid Dome Experience takes you to a multi-sensory dance party meets immersive space opera inspired by the legendary duo. Under a 12,000 sq. ft. domed screen, take in the state of the art LED Pyramid stage, stunning 360 projection mapping, and transportive musical production featuring live sets from ONE MORE TIME. Wisdome is LA’s first and largest immersive art and music dome park with five domes, including three with 360-degree projection mapping technology.

Rose Wine Festival near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Rosé Wine Festival Rose Bowl Stadium 1001 Rose Bowl Dr. Pasadena, CA. 91103

April 9 Embrace the much-loved European culture of rosé. The greatest rosé wine event in Los Angeles arrives at the Rose Bowl this April. Uncork and unwind with over +30 samples of delicious rosé wines. gourmet food, and live music. Purchase includes a branded wine glass and pours of your favorite rosé. Food is available for purchase.

Rooftop Cinema Club near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Rooftop Cinema Club 888 South Olive St. 4th floor at Level Los Angeles, CA 90014

Come early to take in the views and play table games with the city as your backdrop. Select your seats, grab a drink and snack on classic cinema concessions, available with contactless order and pickup. When the movie starts, you’ll be able to live completely in those movie moments with state-of-the-art wireless headphones and an amazing view of the big screen. Concession stands offer popcorn, hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, candy, movie snacks and soft drinks. Bar partner Hi-Lo brings the best of the local LA craft beer scene, along with regional wines, and fresh spritz and mocktail concoctions.

Bridgerton Experience near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Bridgerton Experience Millennium Biltmore Hotel 506 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Amidst such sophistication, who shall rise as the diamond of the season? Find out at The Queen’s Ball, an immersive Bridgerton experience transporting you to the Regency era. Prepare to mingle with other members of the Ton, and partake in an evening of music and dance featuring acrobatic performances, interactive experiences, a stunning dance show, delicious cocktails, and much more, all accompanied by the iconic Bridgerton soundtrack. Get tickets HERE

Legally Blond The Musical near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Legally Blond: The Musical The Hollywood Majestic 671 N Berendo St. Los Angeles, CA 90004

Get ready to Bend and Snap to Cupcake Theater company’s Legally Blonde, the hit Broadway musical. This star-studded spectacle features a huge cast of Los Angeles theater veterans performing the story of a sorority girl at Harvard Law. But wait, there’s more! American Idol’s fan favorite, Margie Mays, will be starring as Elle Woods. After her phenomenal two-season run on the show, it will be Margie’s first time performing such an iconic role.

Two Bit Circus near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Two Bit Circus 634 Mateo St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Billing itself as he world’s first Micro-Amusement Park™, Two Bit Circus is an experiential entertainment playspace where fun-seekers of all ages can gather and play. The park promises an ever-changing landscape of immersive entertainment; including multi-person virtual reality, narrative-based escape/story rooms, indie arcades, and liberal use of lasers and robots. As a social playspace, the venues are also a launchpad for new technologies and aim to bring ideas from designers, inventors, makers, engineers, storytellers and more from concept to reality.

Smorgasburg near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Smorgasburg ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Smorgasburg LA is the largest weekly open-air food market in Los Angeles, open each Sunday from 10AM – 4PM. Discover dozens of exciting food vendors, plus sophisticated shopping from the realms of design, craft, style, vintage, wellness, and more. A parking garage for more than 4,000 cars is available at ROW DTLA with one hour free parking. Sorry, no pets allowed.

The Pickwick Vintage Show near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The Pickwick Vintage Show ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

The Pickwick Vintage Show is back at ROW DTLA. Presenting the best In vintage from all eras, they will be featuring a great assortment of vintage clothing, jewelry, accessories, and inspiration from over 45 local vendors, They open at 10AM for early buyers, 12 noon for general admission, and will be open through 4PM. Tickets are available for purchase at the door. See show dates HERE

Makers Mess near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Makers Mess Workshops ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Grab a friend and come get crafty. Makers Mess is a creative art studio that offers art and design classes for kids and adults. They support artists by cultivating opportunities for them to share their knowledge with individuals, groups and companies. They not only deliver workshops, but also host events, parties, and anything that needs some added creativity. Workshops include dried floral wreath kits, wood burning kits, candle kits, and so much more.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Dine LA/LA Parent

Photo #2: Redbird LA

Photo #3: Brewery Artwalk

Photo #4: Wisdome LA

Photo #5: Rose Wine Festival

Photo #6: Rooftop Cinema Club

Photo #7: Bridgerton Experience

Photo #8: Legally Blond: The Musical

Photo #9: Two Bit Circus

Photo #10: Smorgasburg LA

Photo #11: The Pickwick Vintage Show

Photo #12: Makers Mess

Spring Forward: Explore LA’s Scenic Trails & Urban Oases

Spring is in the air! Now is the perfect time to get out and commune with nature. According to recent research, experiencing the natural world has a powerful effect on our emotional well-being, including less stress in our daily lives and boosting healthy feelings of compassion and gratitude. You don’t have to travel far to experience the great outdoors. LA is home to a wealth of scenic trails and urban oases that are easily accessible from Circa, where you’ll discover everything from lush flower blooms to rugged woodlands, refreshing waterfalls, and a wide variety of wildlife. We even found some apps to enhance your experience of nature. Before you go, check websites for health & safety guidelines.

Descanso Gardens near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Descanso Gardens Bloom Boom 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

It just wouldn’t be spring without cherry blossoms! Descanso Gardens celebrates all that nature has to offer this season, with guided walking tours, craft demos, and live music. In addition to Descanso’s iconic cherry blossoms, you’ll find camellias, crabapples, daffodils, tulips, California poppies, and lilacs. The birds of Descanso also mark spring by making their homes in the garden. Check out the flowering tree map, which is updated weekly HERE

The Huntington Library near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The Huntington 1151 Oxford Rd. San Marino, CA 91108

Lavender and white wisteria are in full bloom in the Chinese Garden and well on their way to taking over the faux bois arbor in the Japanese Garden. The Huntington is home to 16 spectacular themed gardens spread across 120 acres, including Desert Garden, Camellia & Rose Gardens, Jungle Garden, Herb Garden, Australian Garden, Lily Pond, and more. See what’s blooming at The Huntington on their interactive map HERE

Earnest E. Debs Regional Park near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Earnest E. Debs Regional Park 4235 Monterey Road Los Angeles, CA 90032

Ernest E. Debs Regional Park is 300 acre urban oasis on old ranch land in the Arroyo Seco neighborhood just northeast of downtown L.A. The fourth largest park in Los Angeles, the area is home to walnut-oak woodland, grassland, coastal sage scrub, and over 140 species of birds. A five mile loop meanders through almost every section of this dog-friendly park. Along the way, you’ll discover a pond where you can actually go fishing.

Eaton Canyon Natural Area near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Eaton Canyon Natural Area 1750 N. Altadena Dr. Pasadena, CA 91107

Eaton Canyon Natural Area is a natural preserve located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. This scenic 198 acre natural area was originally called “El Precipicio” by Spanish settlers because of its steep gorges, and was later named after Judge Benjamin Eaton, a progressive pioneer who was the first to use irrigation from Eaton creek to grow grapes on the slopes. Visitors can explore Eaton Canyon’s expansive hiking and equestrian trails, majestic waterfalls, seasonal streams, and abundant native plants.

Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden 270 Arlington Dr. Pasadena, CA 91105

The Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden was created by Kinzuchi Fujii for Charles and Ellamae Storrier Stearns in 1935. Fujii designed and built Japanese landscapes across Southern California in the first half of the 20th century. This pond-style stroll garden features a fifteen-foot waterfall and a formal teahouse on approximately two acres of land. The garden is considered by many to be a masterwork and it demonstrates the adaptability of Japanese culture in modern America.

Arlington Garden near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Arlington Garden 275 Arlington Dr. Pasadena, CA 91105

Another hidden gem is Arlington Garden, Pasadena’s only dedicated free public garden. This three acre community-built mediterranean garden is located in the heart of Pasadena on Caltrans-owned land. The garden includes thousands of California-native plants such as poppies, sunflowers, cactus and succulents, and orchards of orange and olive trees. Arlington Garden is not only friendly to people and pets, but also exists as a refuge for Pasadena’s native fauna. Birds, bees and butterflies are particularly abundant and can be seen throughout the year.

Will Rogers State Historic Park near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Will Rogers State Historic Park 1501 Will Rogers State Park Rd. Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Will Rogers was one of the most popular and highest paid actors in Hollywood and “America’s most beloved citizen.” During the 1920s, he bought land in Santa Monica, where he developed a ranch. Eventually, Rogers owned about 359 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in what is now Pacific Palisades. After Rogers passed away, his widow Betty donated the ranch to California State Parks in 1944. Casual hikers can enjoy a moderate 2-mile loop to and from Inspiration Point, and more adventurous hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians can tackle the Backbone Trail National Trail into the Santa Monica Mountains, which can take you all the way to Point Mugu.

Point Mugu State Park near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Point Mugu State Park 9000 West Pacific Coast Highway Malibu, CA 90265

Point Mugu State Park, located in the Santa Monica Mountains, features five miles of ocean shoreline with rocky bluffs, sandy beaches, sand dunes, rugged hills and uplands, two major river canyons and wide grassy valleys dotted with sycamores, oaks and a few native walnuts. In all, there are more than 70 miles of hiking trails. The beach also features swimming, body surfing and surf fishing. The park includes the jagged pinnacles of the Boney Mountains State Wilderness Area.

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden 707 Tiverton Drive Los Angeles, CA 90095

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden is a living museum that maintains one of the most important living botanical collections in the U.S. Over 3,000 types of plants grow in the garden and a wide range of environments are found within its borders, from the dry desert and Mediterranean sections on the eastern end to the shaded, lush interior. A stream and series of ponds run through the center of the garden, which is home to koi and turtles.

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens 3500 W Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018

Need to unwind your mind? Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens was established by the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness as a non-profit center dedicated to peace and spirituality. Called a “Spiritual Oasis in the City,” its purpose is to provide a place for people to take time out of their busy lives to visit, reflect, and be rejuvenated by the peace and solace of nature. The centerpiece of the property is an outdoor stone labyrinth, using the same design as the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth. The spectacular Asian-themed meditation garden presents sixteen water features, a koi pond, and intimate seating areas tucked away to reflect, repose, meditate.

iNaturalist App

Do you want to contribute to science? The iNaturalist app allows you to connect with nature and record your observations of the natural world, such as birds, plants, forests, butterflies, marine life, and wild bees. You can share your observations with fellow naturalists, discuss your findings, and create your own projects. Every observation can contribute to biodiversity science, from the rarest butterfly to the most common backyard weed. iNaturalist shares your findings with scientific data repositories like the Global Biodiversity Information Facility to help scientists find and use your data. All you have to do is observe. iNaturalist is a joint initiative of the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society.

Picture This – Plant Identifier App

Have you ever encountered a beautiful, unknown flower during your walk and wondered what it was? Or do you need advice on how to care for your plants? Simply take a photo of the plant and PictureThis answers all the questions for you. PictureThis® identifies 1,000,000+ plants every day with 98% accuracy – better than most human experts. The app’s revolutionary artificial intelligence engine is constantly learning from experts and specialists – and now it’s all at your fingertips. Picture this plant, and discover a new appreciation for nature.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Descanso Gardens

Photo #2: Descanso Gardens

Photo #3: The Huntington

Photo #4: Earnest E. Debs Regional Park

Photo #5: Eaton Canyon/Wikipedia/Scott Medling

Photo #6: Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden

Photo #7: The Arlington

Photo #8: Will Rogers State Historic Park

Photo #9: Point Mugu State Park/California Dept. of Parks & Recreation

Photo #10: Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden

Photo #11: Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens

Photo #12: iNaturalist App

Photo #13: Picture This – Plant Identifier App

March is National Noodle Month: Taste DTLA’s Best Bowls

March is National Noodle Month, a celebration of one of the world’s most popular foods. And if you crave these delectable dishes as much as we do, there’s no question that DTLA is a noodle lovers paradise. While Little Tokyo is the obvious downtown destination for authentic Japanese ramen, don’t overlook Chinatown, Grand Central Market, or other local neighborhoods, many conveniently close to Circa. And catering to the health-conscious crowd, a number of restaurants offer vegan, gluten-free and macrobiotic options. If you want to dive deeper into the world of ramen, Japan House is presenting an immersive exhibition, The Art of the Ramen Bowl, opening on March 18.

Japan House near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Art of the Ramen Bowl Japan House 6801 Hollywood Blvd. Level 2 Los Angeles, CA 90028

This exhibition spotlights imaginative porcelain ramen bowls and spoons designed by 30 world-renowned artists. Seen for the first time outside of Japan, the exhibition includes a giant ramen bowl created by well-known Japanese plastic food sample manufacturer Iwasaki Mokei, and an introduction to the noodle dish itself and to ceramics from Mino, a major Japanese ceramics center for over 500 years. The fully immersive experience includes programs such as special ramen pop-ups in the Japan House restaurant space, films, and educational webinars.

DTLA Ramen near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

DTLA Ramen 952 S Broadway Los Angeles CA 90015

DTLA Ramen offers Japanese ramen with a modern California spin. You have a choice of broth for your ramen, including pork, chicken, vegetarian, soy milk, and no broth at all, with a selection of add ons, such as ground spicy chicken, spicy miso paste, injected egg, or hard boiled egg, and chashu belly. In true DTLA spirit, the restaurant offers interesting craft beers, with an emphasis on Japanese brews.

Ramen Hood near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Ramen Hood Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

Ramen Hood is a chef-driven destination vegan ramen shop located in Downtown LA’s historic Grand Central Market. The food is one hundred percent vegan, with broth made by simmering kelp and shiitake mushrooms to extract their maximum umami. The “egg” is completely vegan, made in two parts. The “white” of the egg starts as locally made GMO-free soy milk, seasoned with salt and pepper and gelled with agar, a seaweed extract. The “yolk” is a combination of nutritional yeast, back salt and sodium alginate, which is spherified and placed it in the center of the white so that the yolk pops just like the real thing.

Ochoron Ramen near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Ochoron Ramen 123 Astronaut E S Onizuka St, Ste 303 Los Angeles, CA 90012

One of the oldest running ramen shops in LA, Orochon is famous for their incredibly spicy ramen competition that gives a special designation for people who can finish it within 30 minutes. Not so spicy menu items are offered as well, including appetizers, dumplings and teriyaki dishes.

9th St Ramen near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

9th St Ramen 111 W 9th St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

This modern Japanese restaurant features big hearty bowls of ramen and a rotating collection of Japanese specialties including tsukune from a robata, enoki mushroom tempura, albacore donburi, spicy lamb ramen, and charcoal-grilled chicken tori paitan ramen. The noodles are made from toasted wheat and rye flour. They also offer a selection of natural wine and sake.

AFURI Ramen near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

AFURI Ramen LA 688 Mateo St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Tokyo’s famous Afuri recently opened in DTLA after initially expanding to the Portland, Oregon area. The menu centers around their signature bowl of Yuzu Shio ramen – a light, delicate broth built upon a reduction made from local chicken, dry fish”niboshi” “katsuobushi”, dry konbu seaweed, and vegetables to produce a layer of umami flavors, and hints of refreshing yuzu citrus. The kitchen uses the same techniques employed in their central kitchen at the foot of Afuri mountain in Japan.

JINYA Ramen Bar near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

JINYA Ramen Bar 700 Wilshire Blvd Suite B Los Angeles, CA 90017

Anyone from Japan can tell you the two key ingredients in ramen are the broth and the noodle, and JINYA Ramen Bar works hard to ensure that both take center stage. Slowly simmered for more than twenty hours, each of their six signature broths balances flavors from whole pork bones, chicken and vegetables with just the right amount of bonito, dashi, miso, kombu, and other classic Japanese ingredients. The result is a rich broth that is thick and full-flavored.

Shojin near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Shojin 333 S. Alameda St. Suite 310 Los Angeles, CA 90013

Shojin presents a unique vegan, macrobiotic, gluten free Japanese dining experience, offering natural, organic cuisine for health-conscious customers. The ramen is onion and garlic free, made from cabbage, carrot, celery and olive oil. Add ons include garlic, ginger, kale, extra noodles, shitake mushrooms, and extra chile oil.

Rakkan Ramen near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Rakkan Ramen 359 E 1st St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

In 2011, Rakkan Ramen began as a tiny, four seated ramen bar in Tokyo. In 2017, with a passion for the world to taste their authentic Japanese Ramen, they opened their first overseas location in Los Angeles. Rakkan Ramen’s 100 percent plant-based broth is made with Dashi, a traditional Japanese soup stock full of umami, bringing out the best in each ingredient. They slowly simmer the carefully chosen vegetables and kombu (kelp) to extract the best flavor and lock in the umami. The marriage between the Oishii Japanese broth and silky slim noodles will help you discover the existence of another level of pleasure for your palate.

Daikokuya Little Tokyo near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Daikokuya Little Tokyo 327 E 1st St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Featured on ABC News, LA Eater, Thrillist, LA Times, ZAGAT, LA Weekly, Sunset magazine, and more, Daikokuya is known for their original soup made from soy sauce and pork bones, which are simmered for a full day. The signature Daikokuya Ramen consists of noodles, boiled egg, seasoned bamboo shoots, and green onions, with tender slices of homemade pork belly chashu. Eggs are soaked in a special sauce all through the night before serving. Be sure to try their premium brand sake, handmade by Daikokuya/Bishamon Group.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: DTLA Ramen

Photo #2: Japan House

Photo #3: DTLA Ramen

Photo #4: Ramen Hood

Photo #5: Ochoron Ramen

Photo #6: 9th St Ramen

Photo #7: AFURI Ramen LA

Photo #8: JINYA Ramen Bar

Photo #9: Shojin

Photo #10: Rakkan Ramen

Photo #11: Daikokuya Little Tokyo

LA’s Best Exhibitions & Immersive Experiences

Great news for art lovers. Some of LA’s most coveted exhibitions, like Kusama Infinity Rooms at The Broad and Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience, have reopened to the public at last. You’ll also discover must-see shows as richly diverse as our city itself, such as The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection at SoFi Stadium, Garden of Words calligraphy exhibition at The Huntington, and a gallery showcasing Japanese art, design, gastronomy, innovation, and technology at Japan House. If you’re looking to get your culture on, you’ll find plenty of inspiration near Circa. Check websites for health protocols and reservations.

Tupac Shakur, Wake Me When I’m Free exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Tupac Shakur, Wake Me When I’m Free The Canvas @L.A. Live 944 Georgia St. Los Angeles CA 90015

Have you visited the Tupac Shakur, Wake Me When I’m Free exhibit yet? This immersive and thought-provoking experience explores the life and legacy of Tupac Shakur. You can catch it right across the street from Circa at The Canvas. Created in collaboration with the Shakur Estate, this exhibit leverages technology, contemporary art, and never before seen artifacts from Tupac’s personal archives, and delves into the greater meaning of his activism, music, and revolutionary art.

Kusama The Souls of Millions exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Kusama Infinity Rooms The Broad 221 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Two of Yayoi Kusama’s groundbreaking Infinity Mirror Rooms have reopened to the public. Kusama’s Longing for Eternity (2017) is currently on view. Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away (2013) is open with reservations required in advance. Born and raised in Japan, Yayoi Kusama has consistently created artwork about repetition and the concept of infinity. In 1965, Kusama produced her first Infinity Mirror Room, creating the illusion of infinite space using mirrors. Since then, Kusama has made more than twenty unique rooms. Book your tickets HERE

Banksy: Genius or Vandal? exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Banksy: Genius or Vandal? 10113 Jefferson Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232

In case you missed it the first time around, Banksy is back at an iconic location in Culver City. The exhibition includes over 80 original works, sculptures, installations, videos and photos including the now classics Girl with Balloon, similar to the one destroyed by the artist at the auctioneer Sotheby’s in London. For the very first time, the public will be able to discover the works of Banksy in their natural habitat, thanks to an impressive multimedia installation. In addition, enjoy at the end of the exhibition a virtual reality experience through the artist’s career, created especially for this event.

Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience 1345 N. Montebello Blvd. Montebello, CA 90640

Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience is a 20,000 square foot light and sound spectacular featuring two-story projections of the artist’s most compelling works. Encounter the brilliance of one of history’s greatest artists in 360 degrees. The exhibition features a one of kind Virtual Reality component, which guides you on a ten-minute journey through “A day in the life of the Artist.” Walk alongside Monet during this peaceful, visually rich journey to discover the inspiration behind eight of his iconic works.

Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia California Science Center 700 Exposition Park Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90037

The California Science Center proudly presents the world premiere of Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia – an international touring exhibition featuring over 120 ancient artifacts, half of which are on tour for the first time. Journey back 900 years to discover engineering and cultural marvels and daily life in the Khmer empire. Visit the exhibition and see the immersive IMAX movie Angkor 3D – a visually stunning IMAX adventure where science and mystery intersect on a 7-story screen.

Jane Goodall exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Becoming Jane Natural History Museum 900 W Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007

Explore a hands-on, transportive, multimedia exhibition celebrating the extraordinary life and work of world-renowned conservationist and ethologist Dr. Jane Goodall. As an intrepid young woman with a dream to learn about animals in Africa, Dr. Goodall traveled to what is now Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park and immersed herself by observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Rather than seeing the animals as subjects, she came to know them as individuals with personalities and emotion – a notion now considered revolutionary. Today, in her current role as an activist, mentor and advocate for creating a better world, she inspires us all.

Pipilotti Rist Geffen Contemporary at MOCA exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Pipilotti Rist Geffen Contemporary at MOCA 152 N Central Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Pipilotti Rist: Big Heartedness, Be My Neighbor is the first West Coast survey of the internationally renowned Swiss media artist. Rist’s installations explore relationships of video and the body; exterior environments and interior psychological landscapes; and reason and instinct, and exuberantly probe the video medium’s capaciousness – for vivid color; sweeping views and extreme close-ups; introspection and cultural critique; and, importantly, the creation of shared experiences within the museum public space.

GRAMMY Museum exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Songs of Conscience, Sounds of Freedom GRAMMY Museum 800 W Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Songs of Conscience, Sounds of Freedom examines the role music has played in informing and inspiring social consciousness throughout American history. Charting a path from spirituals sung by enslaved people in America and the songs and sounds of the American Revolution, to the mass movement of music and art that helped to stir action during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, to the continued fight for racial justice in America today, the exhibit spans time and genre to tell the stories of music’s role as a source of inspiration and education.

Garden of Words exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Garden of Words Part 2 The Huntington1151 Oxford Rd. San Marino, CA 91108

Celebrating the recent opening of the final phase of its Chinese Garden, The Huntington presents an exhibition of contemporary Chinese calligraphy as the inaugural installation in the garden’s new art gallery, the Studio for Lodging the Mind. The exhibition is designed to illuminate the art form and foster deeper appreciation of its expressive qualities. The works on view comprise the original calligraphic scrolls that served as the models for inscriptions throughout the garden. To complement the show, a series of calligraphy demonstrations by featured artists will be offered inside an adjacent structure known as the Flowery Brush Library.

Japan House exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Japan House 6801 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028

From manga to modern architecture, prototyping to paper culture, the Gallery at Japan House is dedicated to highlighting the best of Japanese culture. Minimal, refined, and intricate, these creators embrace Japanese aesthetics through a myriad of mediums including art, fashion, gastronomy, technology, textiles, and literature. An innovative project of the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan House seeks to foster awareness and appreciation for Japan around the world by showcasing the very best of Japanese art, design, gastronomy, innovation, technology, and more.

The Kinsey Collection exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

The Kinsey Collection SoFi Stadium 1001 Stadium Dr. Inglewood, CA 90301

The Kinsey African American Art & History Collection is the inspired work of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, and their son Khalil, and considered one of the largest and most comprehensive of its kind. Beginning over 50 years ago, the Kinsey’s have been on a journey of collecting fine art and primary source historical objects that document the African American experience and illuminate the untold stories of Black Excellence throughout U.S. history. Curated by Khalil Kinsey and historian Larry Earl, the exhibition focuses on the lives, accomplishments, and brilliance of African Americans from the 16th century through the years of slavery and emancipation to the civil rights movement through modern day.

Immersive Frida Kahlo exhibition near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Immersive Frida Kahlo Lighthouse Artspace 6400 Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028

Explore the world through the eyes of the legendary Frida Kahlo – a brilliant, uncompromising painter who created some of the history’s most iconic artwork. As you stroll through the Lighthouse Immersive gallery, you will see the Mexico-born artist’s work come to life on a grand scale and discover the people, events, and obstacles that made her the extraordinary woman she was. The mesmerizing, large-scale projections, accompanied by a ravishing musical score, will sweep you up as you encounter Frida as never before. Frida Kahlo’s art is not only beautiful on an aesthetic level; it has also become a universal symbol of resilience and perseverance.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: The Broad

Photo #2: Tupac Shakur Wake Me When I’m Free

Photo #3: The Broad

Photo #4: Exhibition Banksy: Genius or Vandal?

Photo #5: Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience

Photo #6: California Science Center

Photo #7: Natural History Museum

Photo #8: Geffen Contemporary at MOCA

Photo #9: GRAMMY Museum

Photo #10: The Huntington

Photo #11: Japan House

Photo #12: The Kinsey Collection

Photo #13: Immersive Frida Kahlo

Love is in the Air: Celebrate Valentine’s Day in DTLA

Love is in the air this Valentine’s Day. And your favorite DTLA restaurants and local businesses are pulling out the hearts and flowers for a little romance this weekend. From Modern American cuisine to French savoir faire, many top eateries are offering chef-driven Valentine’s Day dinners à deux. We also found some unique ways to celebrate, such as high tea at The Huntington, wine tasting at LA’s oldest winery, and even a Happy Hour pottery making class. Whatever your relationship goals, you’ll find a cupid’s quiver full of ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day when you live at Circa. Check websites for hours, reservations, health guidelines, pick up and delivery details.

Our Circa community is blooming because of our wonderful residents. To show our appreciation, we’re handing out complimentary fresh take-home bouquets in the Lobby on Friday, February 11 from 1PM – 3PM. RSVP in your Alfred app.

Redbird Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Redbird Valentine’s Day Weekend 114 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

DTLA favorite Redbird is offering a special Valentine’s Day dinner on Sunday February 13 and Monday February 14. Chef Neal Fraser and team will be serving a celebratory three course prix fixe dinner with optional wine pairings in the Main Dining Room, Garden and Lounge. This year there will also be an additional Tasting Menu in the East Room from Chef Neal, only available on February 14. Menu and reservations HERE

71Above Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

71Above 633 W. 5th St. 71st Floor Los Angeles, CA 90071

Take Valentine’s Day to new heights! Towering over downtown LA on the 71st floor of the U.S. Bank Tower, 71Above is the highest restaurant west of the Mississippi. Offering elevated modern American cuisine, 71Above boasts breathtaking ocean views from Malibu to Laguna Hills, along with spectacular views of the Los Angeles basin and the surrounding mountain ranges. For Valentine’s Day, 71Above is offering a sumptuous four course dinner with optional wine pairing. See menu HERE

Le Petit Paris Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Le Petit Paris 418 S Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a little French savor faire. Le Petit Paris is offering a 4 course prix fixe menu including a tempting amuse bouche, and choice of appetizer, entree, and dessert. Housed inside the historic El Dorado Building, the restaurant is an architectural marvel, featuring multiple skylights, two bars, a mezzanine level, and a large outdoor patio. Valentine’s Day menu HERE

Perch LA Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Perch LA 448 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Elevate your Valentine’s Day celebration at Perch LA. Perch is a French inspired rooftop bistro that offers unobstructed views of Downtown Los Angeles that will make you feel as if you’re floating over the skyline. Executive Chef Gerardo Benitez has created a playful menu inspired by French culinary classics utilizing the freshest of seasonal ingredients. Vegetarian menu is available as well. Reservations must be made by phone 213-802-1770.

Bottega Louie Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Bottega Louie 700 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Bottega Louie DTLA is back, and the menu is sweeter than ever, with a specially curated catalog for Valentine’s Day. Choose from luscious macaroon boxes, decadent chocolate covered strawberries, and the ultra-luxurious Valentine’s Day Gift Box, containing chocolate bar library, 6 piece macaron heart box, assorted chocolate truffles, white chocolate pretzels & M de Minuty Rosé. Peruse the catalog HERE

Jean Pascal Florist Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Jean Pascal Florist ROW DTLA1318 E 7th St. M1 Ste. 148 Los Angeles, CA 90021

Jean-Pascal Florist is noted for mixing classic French craftsmanship and modern styling into chic, harmonious, and majestic bouquets, offering luxurious flower arrangements, a curated vase emporium, candles, flower books, curiosities, and seasonal topiaries. To better accommodate the influx of orders during Valentine’s Day, Jean-Pascal has created a special selection HERE

San Antonio Winery Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

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

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with some Los Angeles history. Founded in 1917, San Antonio Winery is Los Angeles’ only working winery and has been designated a historical landmark since 1965. Today the winery continues to be a family-owned and operated with four generations of the Riboli Family. Treat your Valentine to a wine tasting or winery tour, and cap it off with dinner at Maddalena Restaurant, named after the family matriarch herself.

Still Life Ceramics Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Valentine’s Day Happy Hour Still Life Ceramics ROW DTLA 767 S Alameda St #198, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Join Still Life Ceramics for a one-hour wheel throwing class and make a heart-shaped bowl during Valentine’s Day weekend. Beginners welcome! Class is held at our studio at ROW DTLA. Please note that a single $60 booking reserves a spot for one person; book two spots if you would like to bring a guest. Still Life Ceramics is a studio and brand in Downtown Los Angeles, making functional ceramic art for your everyday life. Book your reservation HERE

The Huntington Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Valentine’s Day at The Huntington 1151 Oxford Rd. San Marino, CA 91108

Just a short jaunt from THEA, The Huntington is offering a romantic trifecta for Valentine’s Day, including Valentine Tea for Two; Three Centuries of Valentines, an exhibition of more than 12,000 Valentine cards and other memorabilia on love; and a special Valentine’s Day Collection at The Huntington Store. Visitors must have advance admission ticket. Pre-order HERE

Bring Something to the Party Valentine’s Day near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Bring Something to the Party The Bloc 700 West 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

There’s no place like home to celebrate Valentine’s Day with the one you love. Bring Something to the Party is a chic one stop party boutique offering everything you need to create a romantic vibe including scented candles, room & body spray, plants, home decor, gourmet specialities, balloons, greeting cards made by local printers, custom gift wrapping, and more.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: 71Above

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Redbird

Photo #4: 71Above

Photo #5: Le Petit Paris

Photo #6: Perch LA

Photo #7: Bottega Louie

Photo #8: Jean Pascal Florist

Photo #9: San Antonio Winery

Photo #10: Still Life Ceramics

Photo #11: The Huntington

Photo #12: Bring Something to the Party