When people around the world think of Los Angeles, they often picture movie stars, red carpets, luxury cars and the Hollywood Sign sitting high above the city. While those things are certainly part of Los Angeles, they only tell a small part of the story.
The real Los Angeles is far more diverse, creative and culturally rich than most people realise.
Unlike many cities, Los Angeles isn’t built around one central district. Instead, it is a collection of unique neighbourhoods, each with its own personality, culture and history. Exploring Los Angeles means discovering dozens of different communities that together create one of the most influential cities in the world.
Downtown Los Angeles, commonly known as DTLA, has experienced a massive transformation over the past decade. Once known primarily as a business district, DTLA has become a creative hub filled with art galleries, music venues, rooftop bars and independent restaurants. The Arts District, located on the eastern side of Downtown, has become one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, attracting artists, designers, musicians and entrepreneurs.
A short drive west takes you to Hollywood. While tourists flock to the Walk of Fame and the famous Hollywood Sign, locals know that Hollywood’s true identity lies within its music venues, historic theatres and creative energy. For decades, Hollywood has been a launching pad for musicians, actors, filmmakers and dreamers looking to make their mark.
Further west sits Santa Monica, one of Los Angeles’ most iconic coastal communities. Known for its famous pier and beautiful beaches, Santa Monica offers a completely different atmosphere from Downtown. Visitors can walk alongside the Pacific Ocean, enjoy outdoor cafés and experience the relaxed California lifestyle that has attracted people from around the world for generations.
Just south of Santa Monica is Venice Beach, a neighbourhood unlike any other. Street performers, skateboarders, artists, musicians and entrepreneurs all share the same space. On any given day, visitors might encounter a live DJ set, an outdoor art exhibit or an impromptu performance. Venice has become a symbol of Los Angeles creativity and self-expression.
For those interested in fashion and youth culture, Melrose Avenue remains one of the city’s most influential streets. Home to legendary streetwear brands, independent shops and cultural landmarks, Melrose has played an important role in shaping modern fashion. Many of today’s biggest brands built their foundations in this neighbourhood.
One of the greatest strengths of Los Angeles is its diversity. Communities from around the world have helped shape the city’s identity. From Koreatown and Little Tokyo to Boyle Heights and Chinatown, Los Angeles is a city where different cultures meet, collaborate and influence one another.
This diversity is reflected in the city’s music scene as well. Los Angeles has produced world-famous rock bands, hip-hop legends, electronic music pioneers, jazz musicians and independent artists. Whether you’re listening to a local DJ performing in a small venue or attending a major concert, music remains one of the city’s defining characteristics.
For readers in Liverpool, there are perhaps more similarities between Liverpool and Los Angeles than one might initially expect. Both cities have produced influential musicians, both possess strong creative communities and both continue to inspire artists from around the world.
Los Angeles may be known for Hollywood, but its true character comes from the people who create, perform, innovate and dream every day.
This is the Los Angeles that tourists rarely see.
This is the real Los Angeles.
As MODE continues to connect Liverpool and Los Angeles, I’ll be taking you deeper into the neighbourhoods, music scenes, creative communities, hidden landmarks and untold stories that make this city special.
From Hollywood to Venice Beach, from underground artists to cultural pioneers, there are thousands of stories waiting to be told.
So if you’ve enjoyed this introduction to Los Angeles, stay with us.
The journey is only beginning.
Sergio Ceron
LA Columnist, MODE
THE REAL LOS ANGELES: WHAT HOLLYWOOD DOESN’T SHOW YOU
