“Not much to look at, huh?”
The 2017 Oscar Best Picture nominee La La Land is the ultimate ode to Los Angeles, immortalizing the breathtaking sunsets, swaying palms and iconic landmarks while depicting a whirlwind romance of two people pursuing their dreams in the city of stars. It’s as much a love story of two people in love as it is a love letter to L.A. Whether you’re looking for date night inspiration or you’re looking for a little reminder that you live in an actual dreamland, here are 10 of the most romantic locations to visit from the timeless movie.
1. Angels Flight
The 1118-year-old Bunker hill funicular where Sebastian and Mia share a kiss is a short but memorable hillside trip and it only costs $1—or $2 if you’d like to take a piece of history home with you (a souvenir, in other words).
Location: 351 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
2. Grand Central Market
Whether you’re averse to the gentrification of Mexican and Chinese food or not, the neon-lit bar featured in the film’s date montage oozes romance. The hungry patrons’ buzz will soon fade away when you sink your teeth into fresh pupusas from the no-frills Grand Central mainstay Sarita’s Pupuseria.
Location: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
3. Griffith Observatory
This 1935 art deco landmark hardly needs an introduction and its beauty speaks for itself. Sebastian and Mia famously waltz (and float) through the beautiful planetarium, although this was actually a set based on the actual one.
Location: 2800 E Observatory Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
3. Mt. Hollywood Drive
Gracing every possible poster space across the world upon the release, this spot is the most recognizable one from the movie. The newly acquainted love birds tab dance their way around this iconic strip and Sebastian jokingly says, “Not much to look at, huh?” while looking out at the gorgeous view. It’s easily one of the best spots to taking in a cotton candy sunset over L.A. and bust out all the moves from “A Lovely Night.”
Location: Mt Hollywood Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
4. Colorado Street Bridge
Pasadena locals might know this bridge as “Suicide Bridge,” but hopefully it Stone’s and Gosling’s romantic stroll along the 1913 landmark will outshine the association. Walking 150 feet above the Arroyo Seco is just as wonderful as wandering below its majestic concrete arches.
Location: 504 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105
5. Warner Brothers Studio Backlot
As an aspiring actress, Mia decides to take a job working in a coffee shop right next to all the Hollywood action. The quaint streets will transport you to a ton of other cities, and it’s hard to deny the romance of people pursuing their dreams with passion and watching them create the magic we see on screen.
Location: 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505
6. Rialto Theatre
This opulent theater features an eclectic combination of architecture, which earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. While it only opens for special occasions, it’s still a magical spot to wander post and enjoy the neon-soaked streets.
Location: 1023 Fair Oaks Ave, South Pasadena, CA 91030
7. Watts Towers
These famous towers are the work of an Italian immigrant Sabato (aka “Sam” or “Simon”) Rodia. The collection of 17 mosaicked sculpture was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1990 for good reason. It’s a testament to the vibrant local culture and mix of residents that make this city so unique.
Location: 1765 E. 107th St., Los Angeles 90002
9. Light House Cafe
The Southbay community will be pleased to know that after remaining shut for the better half of a year during the pandemic, the beloved jazz cafe will be reopening with an all-new menu. So you can live out your La La Land dreams.
Location: 30 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
10. Hermosa Beach Pier
The pier, lit with lamps and jetting out into the deep Pacific Ocean, is a magnificent place to take a stroll with a salty breeze and beautiful sunset sinking into the horizon. You can follow a meal at the Light House Cafe and sing City of Stars just like the two
Location: Hermosa Ave. and 33rd St., Hermosa Beach 90254
Featured Image: Cameron Venti via Unsplash