After spending an extended weekend in LA with my friend Blair (thanks Southwest) and exploring so many areas of the city – shout out and thanks to everyone that warned us we would need to rent a car I don’t know what we would have done without it) I thought I would share some of my highlights and a few things I wish we could have made it to! I separated them into neighborhoods since LA is a bit spread out & thought it may be the easiest way:

Venice:
The Butchers Daughter : What interior decor heaven looks like. The design of this cute post is what California dream homes are made of. There is so much natural light and the menu is huge. We started off with some fresh juice and avocado toast and enjoyed the scenery for over an hour! They had a bar that would be fun to grab a quick bite at and it may have been an off time but we didn’t wait at all.

Lemonade : You have probably seen these Lemonade’s all over instagram if you follow anyone from California but it didn’t disappoint. On Saturday there was a huge line out the door but if you just wanted a lemonade and no food you could just order and pay at the counter with no wait. I had the blood orange and it was to die for.

Blue Bottle : Trevor & I are both coffee addicts and love trying new local spots so I was excited to try this California staple. No line and it was so good but beware strong for me!

Huset :  Such a good Swedish inspired interiors store that had me wanting every piece for our new place.

Abbot Kinney Blvd : Where we spent most of our time in Venice! The street is lined with restaurants, shops & everything in between. The perfect spot to wander all day in the sun!

Venice Beach Boardwalk : The perfect spot to wander and enjoy people watching. I wish it had been a tad bit warmer when we were there but I think when it’s warmer renting a cruiser and biking it would be perfect.

Santa Monica

Mendocino Farms Sandwich Market : We loved grabbing lunch on the patio there and it was just a short walk from the shops and restaurants. Plus, it’s connected to a doughnut store so what else could you ask for?

Downtown LA

Grand Central Market : An open air market filled with every type of food and drink you could ask for. We grabbed Egg Slut there our last morning and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a meal downtown while watching the city.

Bäco Mercat : A recommendation from my friend Supra that did not disappoint. Everything from the atmosphere to food was delicious and if you happen to be downtown I highly suggest it!

LA Arts District:
Blacktop Coffee : Another local coffee shop I suggest trying out even if you aren’t into coffee get a flavored iced coffee or tea!
Cerveteca DTLA : For some reason we were both craving tacos & guacamole on Sunday and this hit the spot. The restaurant is in the heart of the arts district and has an open air vibe so you can enjoy the sunshine. I highly recommend the salmon tacos – although they aren’t what I usually order I loved them!

Silverlake
Barbrix : The perfect spot for dinner! We dined outside on the cutest patio while cozying up to heaters under string lights. The charcuterie was amazing and the food was all tapas style and easy to share! Also, if you love rosé try both they have on the menu!

Runyon Canyon : May seem cliche but I was excited to hike the trail. I had never been on any other trip to California and it was a tad less peaceful than I had imagined but still a great hike. It’s super steep but busy with people chatting and running but the view from the top is spectacular. If you want to get out and get some exercise and fresh air this is perfect!

Although it’s spread out I think its was the perfect place for a fun girl’s weekend and totally recommend it. I am so thankful for the extra sunshine and yummy meals we had – not so much the running through the airport while being out of shape….