The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures has secured the city’s ‘post-pandemic revival,’ along with these new gems.
TIME has named L.A. one of the ‘World’s Greatest Places Of 2021’ in its third annual list. A number of newcomers and revivals have helped the city claim its spot, but the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures cemented it. This 300,000-square-foot entertainment and cultural hub also happens to be opening on September 30 with a program curated by Spike Lee and Pedro Almodóvar with tickets going on sale on August 5.
Travel, tourism and hospitality industries faced a year, which, for many, resulted in a rapid descent into a desperate state. Yet, for others, it created an opportunity to transform. This list is a tribute to countries, cities, regions and cities that managed to navigate extraordinary circumstances with unique challenges and come of out of it with more exciting experiences to offer than ever before. These honorees have responded to the obstacles by adapting, building and innovating and showcases the inspiring creativity and ingenuity of people and businesses seen around the world.
Global correspondents and contributors were asked to nominate places that fitted the bill, resulting in a jaw-dropping list of unique destinations and things to do that will undoubtedly spark your wanderlust or deepen your appreciation for the city you call home.
Here are the main reasons L.A. made the cut:
Academy Museum Of Motion Pictures
The all-new Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, designed by Pulitzer Prize-winning Italian architect Renzo Piano (responsible for the iconic The Centre Pompidou in Paris and The Shard in London) is finally complete. It features four floors of gallery space, showcasing an unparalleled collection of cinematic gems and two theaters—one of which is situated in the stunning glass sphere with 1,000 seats. There’s also a restaurant and a gift shop.
Citizen Public Market
This stunning, multilevel space has a lush rooftop and features a market of mouthwatering food. It has rapidly become a cultural gathering space where you can do anything from after-work drinks to sunset yoga classes.
South Los Angeles Beverage Company’s Upcoming Tasting Room & Business Incubator
The Black-owned South Los Angeles Beverage Company will be opening up a 13,000-sq.-ft. brewery, tasting room and business incubator in Florence, California, this year. It will be part of SoLA Beehive, a 92,000-square-foot office and retail space with plenty of vendors and outdoor seating. Owners Craig Bowers and Samuel Chawinga have already launched their first beer brand called People’s Republic of South Central (PRSC) with 100% of net proceeds benefiting charitable initiatives in South Central Los Angeles.
Damian And Ditroit In DTLA By Chef Enrique Olvera
Chef Enrique Olvera of Mexico City’s Pujol has opened up Damian in DTLA. It’s a stunning modern Mexican eatery with a backdoor taqueria Ditroit, serving up to around 500 per day.
Santa Monica Proper Hotel
Proper Hotel’s latest, 148-room outpost is unspeakably lush. Interior designer Kelly Wearstler has ensured that every inch of this will leave you in awe. Neutral tones and luxe-natural aesthetic with eclectic pieces that ooze design, make this a staycation dream. If you staying the night isn’t within your budget, you can retreat to Calabra restaurant and lounge to enjoy craft cocktails around its rooftop pool. Find out more here.
Beverly Hills At Fairmont Century Plaza
The landmark Century Plaza has been taken over by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and received a $2.5 billion revamp that includes one of L.A.’s largest spas, spanning 14,000 square feet. The Beverly Hills at Fairmont Century Plaza and spas will open on September 27.