STOP TO VISIT the Hollywood Bowl if you ever can! A bucket list item should really be to go on the 2nd or 3rd of July when they are celebrating the 4th of July. I am certain that it would be more crowded on the 4th. I recently attended their 4th of July Spectacular on the July 2nd, and it was STELLAR! The Gogo's joined forces with the L.A. Philharmonic to honor the military, share patriotic and iconic music, and put on one of the best fireworks shows I have ever seen! (Sidenote: The Gogo's DEFINITELY still got the beat!)

Outstanding Famers Market on Fridays in Downtown L.A. - enjoy delicious fruit and beautiful flowers! Super fun to sample the wide variety of fruit as well.

The Broad Museum in Downtown LA is FREE and FUN! It's best to reserve tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line. Check in to visit the Infinity Mirror exhibit after entering the museum. Spend the day in DTLA - eat at Grand Central Market, take Angel's Flight up to the museum, and enjoy Grand Park! These are ALL stellar stops!

Stop to visit or to stay at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles! Gorgeous views of the city from your hotel room or from the rotating bar at the top! A stellar experience!

I've grown up in the Los Angeles area and am just now discovering some of its gems. I definitely encourage people to stop and visit Spires 73 at the top of the Intercontinental Hotel in Downtown LA. You take the elevator to the 73rd floor of the hotel, and then you sip on cocktails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city. This is definitely a stellar stop.

I have heard that they charge $25 to ride to the top on Friday and Saturday night, so it is good to keep this in mind if you are planning to do this over the weekend. Another option is going to the top of the Bonaventure hotel, which is free and has a revolving bar/lounge.

(*HINT: Take the metrolink or subway system downtown and enjoy a day in the city. Your metrolink ticket allows you to use the subway system for free!)