For our newest Oh Joy Day Trip, we’re heading to a hotspot…the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles! This area has seen major revitalization in the last few years and has turned into a mecca of cool shops, restaurants, and places to be inspired. Come see!

Hauser & Wirth – This indoor/outdoor gallery has a variety exhibits including this iconic giant rose in the center courtyard and an urban garden with chickens that would be fun for kids as well. Manuela (the restaurant below) also uses the herbs from this garden in their kitchen!

Currently, there’s also a Jason Rhoades neon light installation that had a really cool, submersible feeling. It was fun to walk around and see what random words you could find.

Manuela – This restaurant is a new hot spot for date night in Los Angeles. So, take advantage of the more low key lunch hours. We loved the half indoor/half outdoor vibe which feels luxurious, yet cozy. We loved the the charcuterie plate (those biscuits!), hushpuppies, shaved tuscan kale, and grilled carrots…YUM!

Alchemy Works – This shop has a wide range of products from local artists & designers, plus a cool little Warby Parker optical shop in the back. We loved the gorgeous selection of handbags & shoes if you’re looking to treat yo self!

House of Woo – This little shop has a nice selection of baby, kids, and adult clothing, as well as home accessories and toys by local and independent designers.

Van Leeuwen – Every day should end with ice cream! We got the Strawberry, Pistachio, Lemon Meringue, Purple Carrot (which was surprisingly a favorite!)