If you’re looking for a neighborhood that has it all – from trendy restaurants and bars to beautiful parks and scenic views – then Highland Park is the place for you. Located in Northeast Los Angeles, Highland Park has become one of the city’s hippest neighborhoods in recent years, drawing in a diverse crowd of residents and visitors alike. In this guide, we’ll explore all that Highland Park has to offer, from its history and culture to its top attractions and must-visit spots.
History and Culture
Highland Park has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century when it was founded as a streetcar suburb of Los Angeles. Over the years, it has been home to a diverse population of immigrants, including Armenians, Mexicans, and Italians, who have left their mark on the neighborhood’s architecture, cuisine, and culture.
Today, Highland Park is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, music venues, and theaters scattered throughout the area. The neighborhood is also home to a variety of cultural institutions, including the Highland Park Heritage Trust, which works to preserve the neighborhood’s historic buildings and landmarks.
Top Attractions
If you’re looking for things to do in Highland Park, you won’t be disappointed. The neighborhood is home to a variety of top attractions, including:
1. Highland Park Bowl
Highland Park Bowl is a historic bowling alley that was originally built in 1927. Today, it has been transformed into a trendy bar and restaurant that serves up craft cocktails and gourmet pizza. With its vintage decor and lively atmosphere, Highland Park Bowl is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a fun night out.
2. York Boulevard
York Boulevard is the heart of Highland Park, with its wide range of trendy restaurants, bars, and shops. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine, artisanal coffee, or vintage clothing, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste on York Boulevard.
3. Occidental College
Occidental College is a private liberal arts college that is located in Highland Park. The college’s beautiful campus is open to the public and offers a variety of events and programs throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and art exhibitions.
4. Ernest E. Debs Regional Park
Ernest E. Debs Regional Park is a 282-acre park that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the city. The park is also home to the Audubon Center at Debs Park, which provides educational programs and events for visitors of all ages.
Must-Visit Spots
In addition to the top attractions listed above, Highland Park is home to a variety of must-visit spots that you won’t want to miss. These include:
1. Highland Park Farmers’ Market
The Highland Park Farmers’ Market is held every Tuesday afternoon and offers a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. With its friendly vendors and lively atmosphere, the farmers’ market is a great place to pick up some local goods and meet other members of the community.
2. Monte Vista Projects
Monte Vista Projects is a contemporary art gallery that showcases the work of emerging and established artists. The gallery hosts regular exhibitions and events, providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage with the local community.
3. The Chicken Boy Shop
The Chicken Boy Shop is a quirky gift shop that is located in a building that features a giant chicken statue on its roof. The shop sells a variety of unique gifts and souvenirs, including t-shirts, postcards, and chicken-themed knick-knacks.
4. La Monarca Bakery
La Monarca Bakery is a local chain of Mexican bakeries that serves up a variety of traditional sweet and savory baked goods. With its colorful decor and cozy atmosphere, La Monarca Bakery is a great spot to grab a coffee and a pastry and soak up the neighborhood’s vibrant energy.
Exploring the Neighborhood
One of the best ways to experience Highland Park is simply by exploring the neighborhood on foot. With its mix of historic homes, street art, and trendy shops and restaurants, there’s always something new to discover around every corner.
Start your walk on York Boulevard and make your way east toward Figueroa Street. Along the way, you’ll pass by numerous art galleries, vintage shops, and trendy restaurants, including the popular fusion restaurant, The Highland Cafe.
Once you reach Figueroa Street, turn north and head towards the historic Southwest Museum of the American Indian. This museum houses a vast collection of Native American art and artifacts, as well as an extensive research library and archives.
After exploring the museum, continue north on Figueroa Street towards the Mount Washington neighborhood. Along the way, you’ll pass by the beautiful Highland Park Recreation Center, which offers a variety of sports facilities and programs for visitors of all ages.
As you make your way back towards York Boulevard, be sure to stop by the Highland Park Theater, a historic movie theater that first opened its doors in 1925. Today, the theater continues to show classic and contemporary films, providing a unique cinematic experience for visitors.
You must also consider hiring a chauffeur when exploring Highland Park. Hiring a Highland Park limousine service is an excellent way to experience the hippest neighborhood in Los Angeles in style and comfort. With a knowledgeable chauffeur at your disposal, you can sit back and relax as you are driven through the neighborhood’s bustling streets, taking in all the sights and sounds this eclectic community has to offer. Whether you’re looking to visit the best restaurants and bars, discover hidden art galleries, or explore the neighborhood’s rich history, a limo service can provide the perfect experience for your Highland Park adventure.
Final Thoughts
Highland Park is truly one of Los Angeles’ most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. From its rich history and culture to its top attractions and must-visit spots, there’s something for everyone in this hip and eclectic community.
Whether you’re a local looking to explore your own neighborhood or a visitor looking to discover a new part of LA, Highland Park is the perfect destination for a day of adventure and exploration. So what are you waiting for? Put on your walking shoes and start exploring all that Highland Park has to offer today!
