Summer is here! There’s so many amazing things to do in LA this season and it’s going to be a tough job deciding which ones to do. So we’ve put a list together of our top 5 things to do in LA this summer to make it easier for you, and to encourage you to open another world – to experience LA to the fullest.
Enjoy a concert at the Hollywood Bowl
There’s nothing like a night out at the Bowl. After braving the Hollywood traffic and getting a parking spot (my go-t0 is the one on the corner of Franklin and Hollywood – you’re welcome!), you can head over there early and have a picnic before you go in to watch the show.
Make sure you read the concert info as there are some shows that don’t allow glass into the venue. But most of the time it’s perfectly fine to bring whatever you want, including food and alcohol. I suggest bringing a bottle of the Villa Maria Bubbly to toast to a wonderful evening ahead.
Spend an afternoon at Echo Park Lake
Grab your picnic basket and find a shady spot after taking a walk around the lake and maybe a ride out in the paddle boats. This amazing park has great views of the Downtown Los Angeles skyline and is the perfect place for an afternoon picnic. Enjoy a glass of Villa Maria Chardonnay as you gaze out at the huge fountain in the middle of the lake with a beautiful city backdrop.
The historic Lotus Festival happens here at Echo Park Lake every summer and celebrates its 37th year this July 15-16. This event celebrates the contributions of Asian-Americans to Los Angeles and will honor the Bangladeshi community. It will feature food, music, dragon races, and more!
Watch an outdoor movie at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
If you haven’t experienced a night out at the cemetery, here’s your chance! During the summer, they have outdoor movies at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery and you can bring a blanket, food and drinks to enjoy. It’s pretty cool to walk through celebrity tombstones with the backdrop of palm trees and the Hollywood Sign.
Check the schedule for upcoming movies including Dirty Dancing, The Princess Bride and more. I recommend the Villa Maria Rosé for this incredible experience under the stars and next to the graves.
Watch the sunset at El Matador Beach
No summer is complete without several trips to the beach, so head over to my personal favorite, El Matador beach in Malibu. There’s a reason that this is a popular engagement proposal spot and has been in many productions – it’s gorgeous! So perhaps on your next summer Friday or when you get to take off from work early, head over to this picturesque location.
I recommend going on the weekdays to avoid the crowds and venturing north to find an unoccupied spot to picnic. For this romantic rendezvous, bring a bottle of the Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc to sip while you watch the sun go down.
Listen to live jazz at the LACMA
You can head over every Friday night this summer to listen to free live jazz music at the LACMA. It’s such a fun experience listening to sweet sounds right next to the popular Urban Lights outdoor exhibit.
If you don’t come early enough to grab a seat, bring a blanket and go picnic-style on the grass. Don’t forget to bring some bites and a bottle of Villa Maria Pinot Noir to enjoy while you experience the tantalizing tunes!
There’s so much to do in LA this summer, check out our Summer 2017 Bucket List to get our curated selections of our absolute must-dos this season! You can also check out 10 Incredible LA Donuts Every LA Girl Must Try at Least Twice!
This post is sponsored by Villa Maria Wine, all opinions are our own. Thank you to Villa Maria Wine and all our amazing sponsors that continue to support The LA Girl!
