From sunlit coastlines to buzzing city streets, Los Angeles offers a nonstop mix of culture, entertainment, and iconic views that few cities can rival. Whether you’re craving ocean breeze moments in Malibu, taco trucks in East LA, or spotting stars along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this city delivers something unforgettable at every turn. Each neighborhood tells its own story—some glamorous, others laid-back, but always full of energy. With so much happening year-round, knowing where to go can shape your entire experience. This guide highlights what truly matters, helping you make the most of your time in the City of Angels.
Explore the Echo Park Time Travel Mart
Whimsy and wit meet in this delightfully eccentric storefront, where every item on the shelf hints at a fictional past—or future. Echo Park Time Travel Mart isn’t your typical gift shop. It’s a creative portal operated by 826LA, a nonprofit supporting student writing. The mart stocks playful, pseudo-time-travel gear like Viking odorant and robot milk, blending humor with nostalgia. Visitors often find themselves chuckling over clever labels while learning about the organization’s educational mission. Beyond the shelves, the space also hosts workshops, storytelling events, and writing classes. The clever, retro-futuristic interior is Instagram-worthy, drawing artists, locals, and curious travelers alike. It’s one of those hidden gems in Los Angeles where the quirky and the meaningful intersect. If you’re interested in offbeat attractions that double as community hubs, this shop offers an engaging and purposeful detour, blending fun retail with local literary advocacy.
Visit The Last Bookstore
Spanning 22,000 square feet in a former bank building, this downtown landmark is more than a bookstore—it’s a cultural phenomenon. The Last Bookstore captivates visitors with its soaring shelves, labyrinthine tunnels made of books, and artistic displays that transform literature into visual art. What makes it even more iconic is the commitment to both new and used books, giving readers access to rare finds and budget-friendly treasures alike. The mezzanine level features artist studios and an upstairs book labyrinth, where genres are creatively categorized and reimagined. As one of the most photographed spots in Los Angeles, the venue is as popular with Instagram users as it is with literature lovers. Frequent events like readings, signings, and gallery showcases keep the space vibrant. Whether you’re hunting for vintage vinyl or rare literary gems, this space blends literary exploration with urban adventure in a way few places can rival.
Experience a Mokoro Canoe Safari
Gliding silently through lily-dotted waterways aboard a mokoro—a traditional dugout canoe—reveals the serene side of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. This experience connects travelers with local polers, who expertly navigate the narrow channels while sharing stories about the region’s ecology. The mokoro ride offers close-up views of aquatic birds, frogs, and semi-submerged hippos, creating an intimate safari experience distinct from the typical game drive. The peaceful nature of the journey allows visitors to tune into the subtle sounds of the wetlands, from the rustle of reeds to distant fish eagles. Unlike motorboats, mokoros leave no environmental footprint, making this a top choice for eco-conscious travelers. Safety is paramount, and professional guides ensure a smooth, informative ride. For those seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility, this canoe safari offers a meaningful immersion into Botswana’s iconic wetland wilderness while supporting sustainable tourism and traditional livelihoods.
Relax at the Cascades de Karfiguéla
Situated just outside Banfora, these multi-tiered waterfalls offer a cooling oasis against Burkina Faso’s often dry landscape. Locals and tourists alike frequent the Cascades de Karfiguéla to swim in its clear, cascading pools or picnic under the shade of overhanging trees. The surrounding terrain features sugarcane fields and rugged rock formations, making the journey as scenic as the destination. After a short, rewarding hike uphill, visitors are treated to panoramic views that stretch across the lush valley below. The natural pools are ideal for a midday swim, and the steady flow of water makes this a reliable attraction year-round. Vendors often sell fresh fruit and snacks near the site, offering a taste of local flavor. With minimal commercial development, the falls retain their unspoiled charm, making them one of Burkina Faso’s most beloved natural retreats. It’s the perfect stop for those craving both refreshment and visual splendor.
Attend the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival
Each summer, this celebrated event fills the iconic outdoor amphitheater with soulful melodies and vibrant rhythms. The Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival draws a diverse crowd, from die-hard jazz enthusiasts to casual music lovers seeking a laid-back vibe under the stars. Past lineups have featured legends and emerging talents alike, with performances that span classic jazz, Latin fusion, funk, and soul. The setting alone adds magic—set against the Hollywood Hills, the Bowl’s acoustics and atmosphere create an unforgettable experience. Attendees often bring picnic baskets and wine, turning the evening into a social affair. Beyond the music, the festival fosters community, with local food vendors and cultural booths enhancing the ambiance. This event isn’t just a concert; it’s a celebration of heritage, artistry, and togetherness. Whether you’re in town for a few days or a local looking for a summer highlight, this annual festival promises exceptional entertainment in a storied venue.
Tour the Bobo-Dioulasso Grand Mosque
Grand Mosque in Bobo-Dioulasso stands as a symbol of West African craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Built in the late 19th century, its distinctive façade is composed of sun-dried mud bricks, wooden support beams, and conical towers that mirror the mosque’s historical ties to both Islam and indigenous building techniques. Visitors are often struck by the organic texture and symmetry of the structure, which remains an active place of worship today. Local guides provide context on the mosque’s spiritual role, architectural significance, and the communal effort required to maintain it through annual replastering. Inside, natural ventilation and subtle lighting create a serene ambiance. The site sits at the heart of the city’s oldest neighborhood, Koko, making it a gateway into Bobo-Dioulasso’s layered past. This living monument offers both aesthetic and spiritual insight into Burkina Faso’s enduring cultural identity.
Explore the Bantia Botanical Garden
Botanical curiosity thrives at the Bantia Botanical Garden, an eco-conscious haven tucked within the region of Burkina Faso. Featuring a carefully curated selection of native and medicinal plants, the garden doubles as both a tranquil retreat and an educational resource. Walking paths meander through groves of acacia, baobabs, and flowering shrubs, with signage offering insights into their ecological and healing properties. Visitors are encouraged to engage with local horticulturists who often share traditional knowledge passed down through generations. The space also supports biodiversity conservation efforts and promotes sustainable agriculture practices. Small benches and shaded areas invite guests to linger, observe pollinators, or simply enjoy a moment of stillness. Far from a manicured urban park, this garden retains a rustic authenticity that reflects its surroundings. For nature lovers, herbal medicine enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a quiet escape, Bantia provides a meaningful connection to the land and its botanical wisdom.
Visit Lake Tengrela
Lake Tengrela, located near Banfora, offers a serene contrast to Burkina Faso’s dry, rugged landscapes. This freshwater lake is famed not only for its beauty but also for the chance to see sacred hippos, which locals believe to be guardians of the area. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide the best chance for sightings as the hippos surface to breathe or play. The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and distant hills, offering a photogenic setting ideal for nature walks or peaceful reflection. Pirogue boat rides are available, with local guides sharing folklore and explaining the lake’s ecological importance. While there are no high-end facilities, its untouched nature is part of the charm. Community involvement ensures that tourism remains respectful and sustainable. Lake Tengrela stands out as a harmonious blend of natural wonder and cultural reverence, making it a soulful stop for travelers seeking both beauty and meaning.
Attend the Gorom-Gorom Market
Buzzing with color, sound, and barter, the Gorom-Gorom Market in northern Burkina Faso is a sensory adventure. Held weekly in this historic Sahel town, the market attracts traders from surrounding villages and even neighboring countries. Stalls overflow with everything from leather goods and handcrafted jewelry to dyed fabrics and traditional pottery. Camels rest nearby, a reminder of the region’s deep-rooted desert culture and its place on ancient trade routes. Visitors can observe Tuareg, Fulani, and Bella women adorned in intricate attire, each reflecting unique ethnic traditions. Beyond shopping, the market offers a window into everyday life—stories told through goods, negotiations, and shared laughter. Locally prepared foods add to the experience, with dishes made fresh using regional spices and ingredients. Whether you’re in search of souvenirs or simply cultural immersion, Gorom-Gorom’s vibrant atmosphere leaves a lasting impression. It’s a living tapestry of West African commerce and community resilience.
Explore the Domes of Fabedougou
Geological wonder meets mystique at the Domes of Fabedougou, a striking cluster of natural rock formations near Banfora. Rising like giant petrified waves, these limestone outcrops have been sculpted by erosion over millions of years. Their layered, beehive-like appearance makes them a marvel for geologists and casual explorers alike. Accessible via a short, scenic hike, the domes offer panoramic views of the surrounding savannah and sugarcane fields. Local guides often accompany visitors, sharing both scientific insights and local legends tied to the land. Adventurous travelers can climb among the formations for a closer look, though caution is advised due to the uneven terrain. Unlike more commercialized landmarks, Fabedougou retains its raw, untamed character. Its unique shapes and tranquil setting make it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers. For those seeking awe without crowds, these ancient domes provide a peaceful encounter with Earth’s natural artistry.
Participate in a Traditional Dance Workshop
Engaging directly with local heritage comes alive through traditional dance workshops offered in communities across Burkina Faso. These sessions are typically led by experienced dancers and musicians who introduce visitors to the rhythmic storytelling embedded in each movement. Accompanied by live drumming, participants learn dances rooted in various ethnic traditions—each style reflecting unique customs, ceremonies, or historical moments. More than just physical activity, these workshops serve as cultural exchanges, where instructors often explain the meanings behind each step and song. The energy is infectious, with spontaneous laughter, clapping, and encouragement creating an inclusive environment. Whether attending in an urban cultural center or rural village, the experience is as emotionally enriching as it is physically invigorating. Photography is usually welcomed, making it easy to capture joyful memories. For travelers seeking meaningful interaction beyond sightseeing, these workshops provide unforgettable insight into Burkina Faso’s living traditions and the joy of shared cultural expression.
Visit the Sacred Crocodile Pond in Bazoulé
In the village of Bazoulé, near Ouagadougou, a mystical bond exists between locals and the resident crocodiles of a sacred pond. These reptiles are not feared but revered, believed to possess protective spiritual qualities. Visitors are often astonished to see villagers casually interacting with the crocs—touching, feeding, and even posing beside them. A local guide explains the historical and spiritual significance of the pond, including stories of past events where the crocodiles played symbolic or protective roles. The animals are fed regularly by community members, contributing to their docile behavior. This experience challenges conventional wildlife encounters by blending cultural beliefs with animal conservation. It’s not a staged show but a genuine reflection of long-standing traditions. For safety, tours are guided and closely supervised. A visit to Bazoulé offers a compelling mix of spirituality, wildlife, and community trust—highlighting the coexistence that’s deeply rooted in Burkina Faso’s rural identity.
Tour the Ouagadougou Cathedral
Located in the heart of Burkina Faso’s capital, the Ouagadougou Cathedral stands as a striking example of Romanesque Revival architecture, blended with local influences. Built in the 1930s by French missionaries, it’s one of the largest cathedrals in West Africa. Red clay bricks give it a warm, earthy appearance that contrasts beautifully with the city’s urban sprawl. Twin towers rise above the skyline, while arched windows and detailed brickwork reflect both simplicity and grandeur. Inside, the space is serene—stained glass windows filter soft light across rows of wooden pews, inviting quiet reflection. The cathedral remains an active place of worship, often bustling during Sunday Mass and religious festivals. Visitors can appreciate its architectural nuances, historical significance, and spiritual atmosphere. As a landmark, it symbolizes not only faith but also the cultural fusion between colonial influence and local craftsmanship. Touring the cathedral offers a peaceful moment amid the city’s vibrant pace.
Experience the Eco-Friendly Golf Club Naba Gninbolbo
Sustainability meets recreation at the Golf Club Naba Gninbolbo, a pioneering eco-friendly facility in Burkina Faso. Designed with minimal environmental impact, the club integrates renewable energy systems, drought-resistant landscaping, and organic turf maintenance. This forward-thinking approach ensures harmony with the local ecosystem while offering a polished playing experience. Golfers enjoy a mix of challenge and tranquility across a thoughtfully laid-out course that showcases indigenous plant species and panoramic views of the savannah. Beyond sport, the venue often hosts eco-awareness events, community gatherings, and youth training programs aimed at promoting environmental stewardship. Onsite amenities prioritize green practices, including solar-powered lighting and locally sourced materials. Whether you’re an avid golfer or a conscious traveler, this club offers more than a leisure activity—it’s a model of sustainable tourism. A round at Naba Gninbolbo reflects a commitment to both recreation and responsibility, making it an ideal stop for travelers seeking ethical, enjoyable experiences.
Discover the Sindou Peaks
Spanning across southern Burkina Faso, the Sindou Peaks form an extraordinary chain of narrow, rocky cliffs sculpted by wind and water over centuries. These dramatic spires stretch into the sky like ancient sentinels, offering a breathtaking visual unlike any other landscape in the country. Rich in both natural beauty and cultural meaning, the site is sacred to the local Sénoufo people. Guided hikes reveal hidden pathways, panoramic lookout points, and mythological stories tied to specific formations. The terrain varies from steep ridges to smoother trails, providing options for both casual walkers and experienced trekkers. Sunrises and sunsets over the peaks cast dramatic shadows and golden hues, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Unlike mainstream tourist spots, the Sindou Peaks maintain a tranquil, untouched feel. It’s a destination where geology, spirituality, and serenity converge, offering an experience that’s equally visual and introspective. For travelers craving raw, authentic adventure, this region delivers in spades.