In a city that’s usually 75º and sunny, it can seem impossible to plan for rain. And if we have learned anything so far in 2017 it’s that in LA when it rains it pours. But fear not, Angelinos, we have put together a foolproof guide to surviving (and, dare we say, thriving) during this stormy season without breaking the bank.
D T L A //
The Broad is one of LA’s coolest art museums– and, it’s completely free. It houses a wide range of contemporary and postwar art, and (on the off-chance you haven’t seen it yet on your Insta feed) Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room. Check it out while you can, the mirror room is only up through October and is a definite must-see. (**Pro-Tip: make reservations to get into the museum earlier in the day to avoid the lines and secure your chance to see the Infinity Mirrored Room before it books up**)
Dinner and drinks at the Grand Central Market
There’s nothing like a rainy day to put us in the mood for soup and a board game, both of which you can find at LA’s Grand Central Market. Located just a few blocks from The Broad, this melting pot of cultures and cuisines houses Wexler’s Deli, home to one of the best bowls of matzo ball soup that LA has to offer. Once you’ve gotten your soup fix, head over to the bar at Golden Road, where you can play one of the many board games they have to choose from while enjoying an LA-brewed craft beer.
W E S T S I D E //
Grab a cup of Joe at Dogtown Coffee
This cozy coffee joint pays homage to Santa Monica’s rich surf and skate culture. The interior is hip and homey, making Dogtown a great spot to get some work done on a rainy day. As an added bonus, this is one of the few elusive spots in LA where breakfast is served all day and you can get a latte for under $4.
Warm up with a bowl of pho at Nong Lá
What’s a better way to end a rainy day than warming up with a big bowl of pho? Nong Lá on Sawtelle, is home to some of the tastiest pho on the West Side. 10/10 would recommend.
W E H O //
There are lots of fun activities to do in WEHO– but first, coffee. Alfred in the Alley, located on Melrose place, is a great place to stake out a spot and stay for a few hours. Whether you’re working on a project, enjoying a meal, or just people-watching (we won’t judge), Alfred’s quaint interior and tasty coffee won’t disappoint.
See a comedy show at The Groundlings
The Groundlings is an improv and sketch comedy theater in the heart of West Hollywood. Not only are you guaranteed to see an incredible performance (some of their past students include Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig), but with tickets priced at $20 or less, an evening at The Groundlings won’t break the bank.
H O L L Y W O O D //
Bowling at Highland Park Bowl
Perhaps better known as “LA’s Oldest Bowling Alley,” Highland Park Bowl is a serious blast from the past (think The Great Gatsby). It’s a beautifully restored building from 1927, and– even for us West-siders– it’s worth the cringe-worthy drive up to Highland Park.
Rain got you feeling down? Head over to Roscoe’s for the absolute best comfort food. Of all time. Rosco’s Chicken and Waffles is both delicious and affordable, and their mouth-watering food is guaranteed to lift your spirits on a gloomy day.
S O U T H B A Y //
Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific
If you want to take the trending #LAunderwater extremely literally, head over to the Aquarium of the Pacific to enjoy underwater exhibits (without having to actually get wet). Also, they have otters. Enough said.
Catch a show at Sgt. Pepper’s Dueling Pianos
Sgt. Pepper’s Dueling Pianos, located at The Pike in Long Beach, offers live music, comedy, affordable drinks, and yummy food. If you’re looking to spend an evening all in one place to avoid driving too much in the rain, Sgt Pepper is your guy.
