Sampling the Scene Near Santa Anita
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Checkout this birds-eye view of some of Los Angeles prettiest flowers. (Photo courtesy of Orginal L.A. Flower Market)
Heading to sunny California for a long weekend during the holidays?
In addition to the sunny skies, fast horses, and clear water, there are plenty of local hotspots that deserve a shout out. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced night on the town, or a slow-paced waltz through some of the cities more subdued attractions, we’ve got you covered.
Be sure to put these destinations on your ‘L.A. to-do’ list this weekend – rest assured you’ll be glad you did!
Stop and Smell the Flowers – Need a getaway for the afternoon? Head to the original L.A. Flower Market, in—where else?—the Flower District, downtown. This is the hub for all things flower, where restaurateurs, wedding planners, florists and (yes!) some tourists make up the hustle and bustle among rows of flowers, plants and “floral accessories” from around the world. Great pictures will be in excess, and grab a bouquet for a friend while you’re there. This is one stop where your senses will thank you for visiting!
http://www.originallaflowermarket.com/
A little Mariachi to spice up your weekend – Boyle Heights is home to one of the richest (80 years rich!) traditions in the Los Angeles area. You surely will want to take a trip over during your stay for the Santa Anita Derby. Come experience Mexican mariachi bands as they play, adorned head to toe in their charro (Mexican horseman) suits – no, you will never escape the horses! The bands are hired to play at parties or restaurants from the Mariachi Plaza. Also, sneak a peak at the Boyle Hotel, the “Mariachi Hotel” that many of the musicians call home.
Check out the historic Boyle Hotel in the background:
http://www.timeout.com/los-angeles/music/venues/mariachi-plaza
A Bar with a View - See the city in a whole new way in the Westin Bonaventure's Bona Vista rotating cocktail lounge. Sip in style, taking a seat in the comfy plush chairs that face rounded glass walls in a lounge that features almost-imperceptible rotation as you sit 34 floors above ground. This stellar bar allows for a 360-degree view of downtown and beyond. Cheers, race-goers, keep that party going in skyline style!
http://www.timeout.com/los-angeles/food-drink/bona-vista-lounge
Love live music? Check out the calendar at the Troubadour club in West Hollywood, a legendary concert venue since opening its doors in 1957. According to the Troubadour website, the club has helped launch the careers of stars such as Elton John, James Taylor and Tom Waits.
Enjoy, and see you at the races!