Hi, fellow Tigers!
I’m Alexia Grevious Henderson, Class of 2014, and I moved to Los Angeles in 2017 for a job opportunity with Magic Johnson Enterprises. I wasn’t sold on Los Angeles at first, but after nearly nine years, I’ve fully embraced life as an “Angeleno.” The weather is incredible year-round, and Los Angeles offers everything from beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails to some of the best parks and shopping in the country. Here is just a snapshot of the beauty this global city has to offer.
Runyon Canyon
If you love sweeping views and switching up your workout, Runyon Canyon is a must-visit trail. From the top, you can see everything from the Hollywood sign to the downtown skyline and even the Pacific Ocean. Be prepared to break a sweat — each of the three main trails is a steady incline up the canyon. Whether you prefer a paved path, stair climbs or rugged terrain, there’s a route for everyone.
Playa del Rey/Dockweiler State Beach
I consider myself a true water lover. While many visitors flock to Santa Monica or Venice Beach, locals know that heading a bit farther south to Playa del Rey or Dockweiler State Beach offers more space and a relaxed vibe, complete with built-in fire pits.
Pro Tip: Playa del Rey, near Los Angeles International Airport, is known for a good time, so arrive early to secure a spot. Just be warned: The Pacific is much colder than the Atlantic Ocean, so save your swim for a hot day or bring a wetsuit.
The Grove
Rodeo Drive is a must for first-time visitors, but Los Angeles offers plenty of other shopping experiences. The Grove is a vibrant outdoor retail destination in the heart of the city, surrounded by cultural landmarks like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. You can catch a movie, enjoy fine dining or browse one of the largest Zara stores in the United States, complete with a dedicated shoe department. Next door, the historic Original Farmers Market offers fresh food and local flavor.
Dodger Stadium
You don’t have to be a baseball fan to appreciate Dodger Stadium, but if you are, don’t miss it. Home to the Los Angeles Dodgers, this historic ballpark boasts incredible views of downtown. The Dodgers have led Major League Baseball in attendance for over a decade, a testament to the electric atmosphere and enduring appeal of the experience.
Crypto.com Arena
Formerly — and still fondly — known as Staples Center, this iconic venue is a cornerstone of the city’s sports and entertainment scene. Home to the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers, WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks and NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, it regularly hosts major concerts and events. Outside, the plaza features statues honoring Laker legends such as Magic Johnson, Pat Riley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, making it a destination for sports fans and visitors alike.
