Forget 1999, it’s time to party like it’s Summer of 2021. LA is back in action baby – the sun is shining, people are smiling, and so much is happening around town that it’s hard to keep up with the pace of making up for lost time! But what I have missed more than anything are my “classic summer in LA” activities like outdoor movies, adventures with friends, and visiting all of my favorite places that remind me why I love LA. I could give you 100+ things to check off your LA bucket list (“100 Things to Check Off Your LA Bucket List“, for example) but for right now, for this summer, we’re narrowing it down to 5 musts! Clear your calendars, here we go:

 

 

5 OF THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN LA THIS SUMMER

 

 

 

EATALY LA

Part Italian marketplace, part grocery, part cooking school, part bar/restaurant, part favorite rooftop in Los Angeles… Eataly LA does it all and does it well. Ever since Eataly opened in Century City a few years back I have been a loyal fan – I may have even been referred to as “The Oprah of Eataly”, that’s how deep my love for them runs. This summer a perfect day at Eataly looks like either brunch or dinner at Terra. the wood-burning Italian grill restaurant on the rooftop, spritz at the Campari Bar on the second floor, a light (or large) grocery run (don’t forget the Italian wines, fresh pasta, and tiramisu to take home), plus espresso and housemade gelato to go! *chefs kiss* 

 

 

 

DODGER STADIUM

All of my favorite memories from summer’s past include a Dodger game – or several. Dodger Stadium is practically a home away from home for me and I am always looking forward to the next chance I can get to spend the evening with a bunch of friends in blue while enjoying beers and Dodger Dogs, cheering on my favorite players (Moooookieeee), and singing along at the 7th inning stretch. Even if you’re not a baseball fan it’s impossible not to appreciate the stadium and proper “LA” experience. it is one of LA’s most historical and stunning gems at the very least.

 

 

 

MOONLIGHT ROLLERWAY – ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN LA THIS SUMMER

I have never felt more like a kid again and had more fun pretending to be one than at Moonlight Rollerway in Glendale. It’s every awesome and awkward memory of being a pre-teen rollerskating around a rink brought back to life. I may be older but the sense of nostalgia, the music, the JOY, and the energy at Moonlight Rollerway is something special. It’s the perfect place to round up a group of friends, throw on some glitter, and do something different. Not to mention, if you like many people who bought rollerskates in 2020 and haven’t made good use of them, nows your chance to put them to work under a disco ball and amongst some like-minded friendly faces.

 

 

 

CINESPIA AT THE HOLLYWOOD FOREVER CEMETERY

Cinespia at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is truly the most “only in LA” summer activity, maybe in existence. And thus of course it’s one of my favorites. Where else is it totally normal to watch a classic/cult classic movie in a cemetery? Complete with a DJ, celebrity sightings, wine flowing, and picnics galore – and naturally we Angelenos eat it up. I try to go to a screening at least once a season; these screenings will forever be some of my most fond memories of summer in Los Angeles, and I know I’m not alone in that!

 

 

 

GETTY VILLA AND/OR GETTY CENTER

Because there’s no such thing as getting too much culture… two of my favorite places/museums to frequent are the Getty Villa in Malibu and its big sister the Getty Center in Brentwood. Both are stunning works of architectural genius. I love that they both offer indoor/outdoor experiences. If you buy tickets to one you have same-day access to the other! You can spend an entire day at both Getty museums simply getting lost in their dramatic architecture, stunning gardens, and sweeping views.

 

 

 

[Disclaimer: This post was created in partnership with Eataly LA who have been Love & Loathing LA supporters/partners/practically family for years. All words and opinions belong to me and only me. Thank you for supporting the wonderful local brands who support me!]