Many people think of Los Angeles as the most glamorous place to live, when in reality there are probably some things that might make you think twice about moving there. Let’s start off with one of the big deal breakers…the traffic. Angelenos, as they are locally called, spend almost 3 days a year sitting in traffic. Three whole days.  It can take you an hour and a half just to drive 15 miles down the road. Whoever named it “rush hour” must have been on drugs.  LA has been awarded (cursed??) with the worst traffic in the US time and time again. So if you like to get in your car and quickly travel to your destination, you may not want to make this your future home.

What most people in the great city of angels do before they make it big, is wait. Wait for a call back. Wait for an audition. Wait for the promotion. Wait to someday be famous. If you are one of those lucky enough to make it to that wonderful status, you can spend your days dodging paparazzi, reading about yourself on the local tabloid, (probably total untruths), and throwing wild parties. If you haven’t yet made it to that point, you get to watch the “friends” you once had get slammed on the tabloids, and throw parties to which you aren’t even welcomed. Yes it all sounds very mean, but sadly it is true more times than not.

Living in Los Angeles is kind of like living in Neverland. You can never grow up. You can never tell people how old you REALLY are, nor can you ever change your appearance. The public will expect you to look the same way you did on the sitcom you did when you were a teenager or 20-something forever.

Dating in Los Angeles can also be extremely hard. If by chance you meet someone who is about to make it big or has already done so, they will assume you are just after the future fame and fortune they are going to receive. If the tables are turned and YOU are the fortunate one, you will be afraid that they are the ones after YOUR fortune and fame. It’s a vicious circle.

Pretty much everyone carries a small pooch in a bag, pouch, or somewhere on their person. This may be a strange sight, but it is a normal thing to the Angelenos. Just keep in mind when you see these small creatures, that they probably have better living quarters and perks than most of the humans you pass by.

When you awake in the morning thinking “Ugh, it’s going to rain today”, you will soon realize that it is just the smog that has not had a chance to burn off yet. Trust me, it will probably be a beautiful hot sunny day. Just not yet.

Yes, many have made it big in Los Angeles, and many still do. But it is not an easy road, and the stress you live with daily may not be worth the trip.

Filed under: Blog, Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on The Truth about Living in Los Angeles

The days of waiting for hours in an uncomfortable airport chair are in the past. Whether you are stuck for a long layover, have a flight delay or cancellation, or just like to arrive super early for your flight, here are some excellent perks that will make your wait time “fly” by.

Let’s begin in Singapore, at the Changi Airport. Here you can head to terminal 1 and check out the Balinese-themed rooftop pool. For a small fee of $13, you gain admittance to the pool and jacuzzi. You will also receive a complimentary drink (non-alcoholic) to sip while you relax. If you choose to stay at the Ambassador Transit Hotel, you can enjoy the facilities for free!

Vancouver International Airport is the place to see the 30,000 gallon aquarium. The city known for its love of the outdoors wants to be sure travelers get a taste of this as soon as they reach the airport. Unwind and gaze at the humongous tank and its residents, including starfish, sea urchins wolf eels and more. There is also a tank that is home to jellyfish! A small stream also runs through the airport, along with lush plants for the complete outdoor feeling.

Switzerland’s Zurich Airport is perfect for those who want to stay in shape wherever they go. Since the airport’s renovation in 2011, travelers can now rent bicycles, Nordic walking poles, and inline skates. Adults and kids alike can take advantage of this awesome perk, and there is plenty of space to exercise around the airport. There are also walking trails for those who just want to take a stroll.

Nashville International Airport will keep you in the party atmosphere throughout your wait and beyond. Drinks on the go will let you bring your cocktail or beverage from the bar with you while you stroll around. Whether you are headed for a manicure, massage, or just want to check out the art display, you can enjoy your drink while you browse.

San Francisco International Airport is the place to be if you are into yoga. Head to the 150-square foot yoga room in Terminal 2 and forget all about the hassles you may be facing. Stretch out the stress, or head to the reflection room for some quiet meditation. Massages, facials and mani/pedis are also available at the XpresSpa.

Amsterdam Schipol Airport in the Netherlands is very popular with art buffs. Enjoy free entry into the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, the only museum you will find in an airport. Here you will find some fantastic works by Dutch artists Jan Steen and Ferdinand Bol.

Seoul, South Korea is where the Incheon International Airport is located. Here is the perfect place to get into the Korean culture. View clothing, amazing crafts, and enjoy some of Seoul’s music as well. You can even make crafts like Dancheong, various colors of paint on wooden buildings, or traditional Korean paper, which is called Hanji. Dress up in traditional Korean clothes and other items, and pose for a photo. Musical performances are very entertaining to sit and watch, and help you pass the time quite nicely.

Munich International Airport will introduce you to the famous German beer gardens. Before you head out into the surrounding areas, find out what your favorite German beer is right at the airport. You might get lucky enough to catch some live music or even a cabaret show. Tour the brewery and speak to the brewmasters.

Hong Kong International Airport caters to those golfers who missed out on their morning game due to having to take a flight. Take in nine-holes right at the airport at the Sky City Nine Eagles Golf Course. This outdoor course, outside of Terminal 2, offers equipment rental, and luggage storage.

Chicago’s O’Hare is where you can check out the awesome dinosaur skeleton. This super busy airport, one of the biggest and busiest in the world, is home to the brachiosaurus skeleton. Head to Terminal 1 and see this 72-foot long dinosaur from the past. It’s not hard to find… it towers four stories above everything!

Filed under: Blog, Traveling by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on Awesome Airport Amenities Around the World

Water parks are an awesome place for all day wet fun. But what if you are at a theme park and want to get the best of the water themed rides? Don’t settle for the same old boring ride. Head to one of these spots for an out of the world experience!

Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges in the Islands of Adventure theme park in Florida is a must ride if you are hot and looking to get wet. I mean really wet. This ride will soak you to the core and have you coming back to do it all over again. There is a compartment for keeping personal items dry which is a major plus. And they have pay dryers at the end of the ride in case you don’t want to stay soaked.

Another ride at this park is Dudley Ro-Right’s Ripsaw Falls. Picture a log flume and a roller coaster track together. Follow the storyline through the ride, enter dark spaces and get ready for the 75-foot drop!

Disney’s California Adventure is where you will find Grizzly River Run. This ride boasts being the longest, tallest, and fastest river rapids ride. Ride around a bear shaped mountain, and see who is the unlucky one to get the most water splashed onto them! The twists and turns make each ride different so you may come out drier than your fellow riders.

Knott’s Berry Farm in California is the home of the Timber Mountain Log Ride. Ride through a 19^th century lumber camp and enjoy the scenery as well as the ride. An update was done in 2013 to the animatronic figures so everything will seem new and fresh.

Disneyworld and Disneyland are where you can find the Splash Mountain log flumes. Inspired by the 1946 Disney film “Song of the South”, the ride recycled the animatronic figures from the “America Sings” attraction which was closed shortly before they opened the Splash Mountain ride. Be ready for the awesome breathtaking drop at the end!

Disney is also the home to It’s a Small World. A favorite of old and young alike, this ride takes you on a slow cruise through many different countries around the world. Hear the different languages, see some of their customs, and enjoy the wonderful music. Warning…the song may be stuck in your head for days after!

Those of you who love Disney’s “Frozen”, (who doesn’t?) can anticipate the opening of the new Frozen ride in Epcot. Titled “Frozen Ever After”, this ride is still in the makings. The dark Norway ride, Maelstrom, was completely gutted to make way for this new ride, which will take visitors to Arendelle and Elsa’s ice palace. The ride is scheduled to open in 2016.

Disney also has one of everyone’s favorites…the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. Join Captain Jack Sparrow on a pirate adventure as you avoid getting blown up by Barbossa, see the plundering of Tortuga, and see Jack Sparrow trying to hide from those who are searching for him. You may get a small splash on you but basically will stay completely dry throughout the ride.

Disney’s Jungle Cruise has been a favorite for years with visitors of all ages. Journey through the jungle and see the amazing animatronic elephants, tigers, hippos and many other creatures. The “Captain” of your cruise ship will keep you entertained with an exciting, sometimes humorous, narration.

Filed under: Blog, Traveling by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on Best Theme Park Water Rides in the US

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in well known to be the busiest airport in the world. It has served the most passengers ever since the late 1990s, a whopping 92 million in 2011. As for the number of planes arriving and taking off? Chalk up 900,000 every year.

The Atlanta airport was named after William B. Hartsfield and Maynard Jackson, who were previously mayors of the city. Though the airport is a popular international destination, most of the traffic comes from domestic flights.

Atlanta has the perfect location for travelers going from east to west or north to south. Almost 60% of Hartsfield-Jackson’s flights are claimed by Delta Airlines. Delta has had a big part in helping the airport grow into what it is now. They work with SkyTeam partners including Air France and Korean Air to help connect the international flights. With so many more international flights coming through, the airport saw an expansion in 2012, and the Maynard H. Jackson International Terminal was opened.

There are 7 concourses making up the airport, and they are connected by an underground tunnel. This tunnel consists of a moving walkway that carries passengers, and also features a people-mover called the Plane Train. The airport is so large that it sometimes takes passengers up to 40 minutes to transfer between gates.

If you are a frequent flyer, you are sure to pass through Atlanta’s airport at some time in your life.

Arriving and Departing

Getting to and from the airport is not too difficult, as it is located about 15 minutes form the heart of Atlanta. There are dozens of taxis and shuttle buses to transport travelers, and the public train system is a very convenient option.

Renting a car couldn’t be easier at the car rental center. Since 2009 when it opened, the 10 major car rental companies have helped thousands get to their destination. They boast almost 10,000 parking spaces, and have a roadway that connects to all major highways.

Layovers, Delays and Transfers

If you find yourself stuck waiting at the airport for a length of time, don’t fret. Minute Suites, in Concourse B, will rent you a private room with a day bed, TV, and desk to get some last minute work done. You can also head to one of Delta’s Sky Clubs, located throughout the airport, and receive a day pass or just a one- time pass. Here you will find food, drinks and amenities. Hot showers are available at the clubs in concourse E and F.

Amenities

Atlanta’s airport won’t let you down when it comes to perks. Get your taste buds ready for something besides airport fast food, as the airport has local chefs and culinary experts offering you the best in dining options. Check out One Flew South, which has been called the best fine-dining airport restaurant in the US. Paschal’s Southern Cooking will give you a taste of the town, with some traditional fried chicken, catfish, and oysters.

Filed under: Blog, Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on Atlanta Airport Guide

When asking people what to do or see in the Los Angeles area, most people will fill you in on Hollywood and all there is to do and see there. Hollywood is awesome, since it’s a great place to visit and there is definitely plenty to see. But after you are done star searching, where do you go next? Here are a few ideas to keep you busy on your next visit.

Echo Park is perfect if you are into music, culture and urban art. For awesome art shows, check out I AM 9 Bit. This 4500-sq. ft. gallery is perfect for art lovers or those who just want to check out the art scene.

Sage Vegan Bistro is perfect for those who love organic vegan dishes. Sandwiches, veggie burgers and much more are served in generous helpings. Check out Kind Kreme’s raw ice cream for a treat your taste buds will be craving again and again.

Dodger Stadium has been welcoming guests since 1962. If there’s not a game scheduled while you are there, you can look into the behind the scenes tour. Check out the press box, Dodger dugout, the Dugout Club and take a run on the field.

Another place to visit is Culver City. There are plenty of things here to see, activities to keep you entertained and plenty of good food.

The Museum of Jurassic Technology is not your every-day museum. Some even call it a “no” museum. It is strange, quirky, bizarre and definitely not for those who like to see just the facts, or have each display explained to them. If you are up for something way off the ordinary path, check it out.

If you are into plays, head to the Kirk Douglas Theatre. Since 2004, the theatre has been introducing local playwrights and showing their plays to the community.

Manhattan Beach is another hidden gem you may pass by. This is where beach volleyball began. Head to Sand Dune Park and see the 100 ft. high natural sand dune. Adults and kids alike love this natural feature, but take note that you will need reservations to check them out.

See some of your favorite aquatic creatures at the Roundhouse Aquarium, located at the end of the pier. Interaction is encouraged, and even though it is a small aquarium, there is plenty for you to see.

For some authentic Italian cuisine, head over to Mama D’s. The homemade ravioli, fresh baked bread and crispy thin crust pizzas will have your mouth watering as soon as they arrive.

Filed under: Blog, Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on What’s to see in Los Angeles besides Hollywood?

For all those travelers who realize at the last minute that they forgot to bring a gift for a housewarming, friendly get together, or just a visit to an old friend, Time 2 Toast has come to your rescue.

Denver International Airport has introduced something new to the area, which several airports already have available. Time 2 Toast is a beverage kiosk which sells beer, wine and liquors, and is located conveniently beyond the security screeners who will confiscate such items. While other airports like Portland and San Diego have bottles of beer to go, along with other alcoholic items available for purchase, this is a first for Denver.

Colorado is known for its breweries. Over 250 of them scatter the state, producing some of the finest craft beers in the country. A couple of these fine breweries, Boulder Beer Company and New Belgium, have licensed their names to the airports restaurants to sell many of their items.

But until Time 2 Toast, you couldn’t carry these fine items with you. The kiosk will carry some of the delicious beers from New Belgium, Great Divide and Coors’ Colorado Native line. Also available are some local favorites like Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey. You will be able to purchase four packs or six packs of these brews.

Keep in mind that these items are still for pack and travel, not to be opened upon purchase or while waiting in line.

The kiosk will bring smiles to plenty of people who realize at the last moment that they are going to arrive empty-handed.

Filed under: Traveling by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on A New Way to Keep Travelers in High Spirits

When you are traveling the US or internationally your first priority is getting to your destination as easy as possible. But why not enjoy some awesome perks before or after your flight? Check out some of these airport amenities.

1. San Francisco International Airport
Guiding over 40 million travelers on their way each year, San Francisco’s second busiest airport wants to make sure you enjoy whatever time you spend there. Relax before or after your flight in their reading room. Stuck between flights? Check out the 24-hour yoga room for some de-stressing meditation. Get a manicure, pedicure or even a facial at the XpressSpa. If shopping is what helps you pass the time the airport offers more than 80 stores for items such as sports gear, technology, or you can check out some new fashions at Gucci or Coach. If you are trying to keep kids amused, let them visit the fish at the aquarium, or go on a scavenger hunt, complete with a prize at the finish.

2. Chicago O’Hare International Airport
O’Hare airport is where one of the largest dinosaur skeletons in the world is located. The brachiosaurus is a gigantic 72 feet long and 40 feet high! Adults and kids alike love gazing at this fantastic display. O’Hare is also well known to movie buffs as the location of the first 2 “Home Alone” movies, and “Meet the Parents”, among others. There is also an aircraft exhibit, kids interactive playground, and of course authentic deep dish Chicago pizza!

3. San Diego International Airport
Art lovers will enjoy San Diego’s airport. Enjoy shopping, dining, and plenty of relaxation throughout the airport. The art exhibits will give you something to browse and really enjoy. Check out some fantastic paintings, breathtaking photography, and even live entertainment. The performing arts program includes dance, theater and music to put a little kick in your step as you proceed through the airport. Don’t miss the awesome display called “taxonomy of a cloud”. This spectacular formation is made up of 365 strands of Swarovski crystals, and makes a beautiful shower of rain.

4. Burlington International Airport, Vermont
Burlington’s airport is perfect for getting in some much needed relaxation time and de-stressing. Couches, coffee tables and easy chairs will make you feel welcome and give you a place to cuddle up and unwind. The skyway is furnished with rocking chairs to sit back and enjoy the views of the incoming and outgoing planes.
Evolution Yoga is a great spot to stretch out from that long flight and enjoy the quiet. There is even a shower available. Above the parking garage is a beautiful rooftop garden with benches and a picnic table. The observation tower is the perfect spot to relax and get the best view of the planes on the runway and the mountains in the background.

5. Hong Kong International Airport
Hong Kong’s airport is unique in that it offers weary travelers the chance to hit the golf course for nine holes. Equipment rental and luggage storage are offered so you can enjoy yourself even if you have no clubs with you. There is plenty of shopping with over 280 stores, and a kids’ area and discovery center will keep the little ones occupied for those long layovers.

6. Vancouver International Airport
The Vancouver airport wants you to get the feel of the Canadian wilderness before you even venture outdoors. The green wall is 55-feet tall, and houses over 27,000 individual plants in a beautiful pattern. An aquarium with over 5,000 sea creatures is the perfect place to just chill and watch the relaxing ocean life. If you have extra time, check out the nature path which will lead you into the forest, past a waterfall and pond to the majestic totem poles.

7. Heathrow Airport, London
London’s Heathrow is known for those who want to get in all the shopping they can while traveling. Shop high fashion stores such as Dolce & Gabanna, Prada, Tiffany & Co., Chanel and Dior. Mouth-watering Italian bistros can be found throughout the airport as well as sit down restaurants such as Gordon Ramsey Plane Food. Complimentary beauty services, such as make up touch-ups, massages and mini-facials are also offered.

8. Munich Airport, Munich
Munich airport wants you to get into the Oktoberfest fun no matter what time of year. Enjoy live music, Bavarian treats, a brewery and beer garden, and even an ice-skating rink in the winter.

9. Changi Airport, Singapore
Get some exercise and stretch out from your flight at the indoor nature trails, or relax by the butterfly garden. Adults and children alike love the world’s largest airport slide. The slide is about 40 feet high and great for rejuvenating after a long flight. There is also a movie theater with free shows and a rooftop Jacuzzi where you get a complimentary drink!

10. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Schiphol is the perfect airport to venture into if you have a large appetite. Here you can find cuisine from around the world. Dutch meals, Asian cuisine, Mediterranean tapas and a seafood and wine bar. Try your luck in the casino or just relax in a lounge. There are also “Yotels”, which are like a mini hotel room complete with a shower and a bed if you end up being there longer than you planned.

Filed under: Traveling by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on 10 Airports That Have Amazing Amenities

Some airports want to be sure you are pampered and comfortable from the time you enter through the course of your waiting time. Here are a few that go that extra mile to make your time with them stress-free and relaxed.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
The AA Admirals Club in Terminal 4 is one of the most popular lounges in the United States for several reasons. It is very spacious, with comfortable seating. They have a separate children’s play area so that you won’t have to be bothered with the sound of children playing if you are trying to relax or get some work done. They have good food available so you can have a hot meal, and the helpful, caring staff will assure you that you have what you need. Take a shower to refresh yourself, or just relax and watch the planes take off and land. If you get tired of always searching for power outlets, don’t worry. They added super cool power chairs into their lounge area to better serve their guests.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
At this Houston airport, in Terminal E, you can check out the United Club. This modern lounge area has 3 floors of space for you to stretch out. The clean welcoming atmosphere is a plus with members everywhere. They offer private showers, and complimentary cocktails. Previous guests suggest you try the Bloody Mary! You may want to keep track of time while you relax in this awesome club so you don’t miss your flight!

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
The Delta Sky Club in Atlanta, Concourse C, is the last place you would expect to find some comfortable quiet time in the busiest airport in the world, but once you enter you will find your secret hideaway. This extra roomy club has special window cubes for some privacy and quiet. The lockers have built-in outlets inside of them so you can charge your laptop or other items from inside your safe locker while you relax and de-stress!

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
The Alaska Airlines Board Room, Central Terminal, is quite an awesome lounge for such a small airport. 2 Floors overlook Concourse C so you can get in some people watching. You can view the planes and ramps from the large windows as well. Friendly, helpful staff are ready to help you make the best of your waiting time. They also offer fresh pancakes in the morning so you can start off your day with a delicious breakfast!

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, Terminal 4, is the place to be if you find yourself in a NY airport. Being one of the newer lounges on the scene, you can enjoy the fresh look and newness of your surroundings. The lounge offers a full bar, an entertainment zone, and a dining area that offers a la carte meals, desserts and even the finest of wines.
With the good comes the bad…here are some you may want to avoid.

ATL, Concourse B
Though the lounge in Concourse C is awesome, this one needs an upgrade. The layout is all wrong, it is crowded and usually dirty. It is too small for the number of guests, hardly any outlets, at least not working ones, and most guests advise you to head to concourse C and not waste your time here.

LAX, United Club
Terminal 7 is where you will find this outdated club. Food is scarce, and there are hardly any amenities. Travelers admit it is better than sitting at the gate, but just barely. Beware of the fruit flies at the bar!

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
United Club, Terminal 2, is probably not one you want to put on your list, It is very small, and you are lucky if you find a place to sit down. The staff is friendly and helpful, but they hardly make up for the messy atmosphere and poor amenities. Save yourself the disappointment and head over to Terminal 1’s Concourse B.

Filed under: Travel Tips, Traveling by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on Airport Lounges The Best and the Worse

The LA convention center is the perfect place for your next exhibition, convention or trade show. Its central location is perfectly situated in the business and cultural heart of the city.

Since the center opened in 1971, it has received four renovations which included modernizing, expanding, and keeping the center fresh and updated. Over two million people visit the center every year, many of them to attend one of the 350 events that take place yearly.

The center boasts 720,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, 147,000 sq. ft. for meetings, and 64 meeting rooms. Presentations run smoothly in the 299-seat theatre, which offers rear screen projection.

Parking at the center is very generous, with room for 5,600 vehicles. Separate sections are available so that you can be close to the location of your event.

The LACC is an awesome set for filming TV, movies and commercials, and plenty have already had the privilege of filming here. TV shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, Parks and Recreation, and Major Crimes were filmed here, as well as major motion pictures including Gone Girl, Interstellar and even Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

Locations from all over the center have been used in filming shots. From the exterior to the parking garage, the lobbies, corridors and even the concession area all have that perfect quality for shooting a scene.

The center also has a green initiative and does its part to conserve energy, water, control waste and to recycle. From solar panels and LED lighting to low flush-facilities and water efficient kitchen appliances, the LACC is proud to be part of the battle to keep the earth green.

Visitors flock to the center for many different purposes. Business meetings and presentations, concerts, ceremonies and pageants are all held at the center. Some are open to the public, while others are invitation only. Some upcoming events at the center are the Special Olympics World Games, auditions for the TV show “the Voice”, the World of Dance tour, and the International Gem and Jewelry Show. If you are visiting the center for a business meeting or presentation, take time to check out one of the scheduled events while you are there. You can also check out LA Live, which is right by the center. Here you will find the STAPLES center, Microsoft Theatre, music venues, the Grammy Museum, and plenty of night clubs and restaurants.

Booking your event is a breeze with the professionals leading the way for you. Just let them know what your desires and needs are, and they will be sure to walk you through the process and set up the perfect event for you. Catering at the convention center is offered from Taste of L.A. They will help you set up the perfect breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner menu that will be sure to please all your guests.

Floor plans, virtual tours and much more can be viewed on their website so you can get an idea of what you want.

Whether you are attending an event at the center or throwing your own, you can be sure that attention to detail is the top priority for guests and hosts alike. Be sure to make a visit to the Los Angeles Convention Center a must on your next business trip to LA.

Filed under: Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on Los Angeles Convention Center

Los Angeles is bursting with plenty of music in the summer that will satisfy all kinds of music lovers. Here are some festivities you won’t want to miss.

The Farmers Market has Friday night concerts throughout the summer. Fresh foods from the market are available, along with a fun family atmosphere.

California Plaza offers music, dance and theater on weekend evenings. These free performing arts shows are multicultural and very entertaining.

The Ford Theatres JAM sessions are an interactive presentation where participants of all ages are invited to dance, sing and play along with the professional artists. They travel throughout many communities in the Los Angeles area.

The Pershing Square Summer Concert Series is held at the public park by the same name. Come on Wednesday for a lunchtime concert, check out some Salsa on Thursdays. Friday nights are dedicated to films, and Saturdays are full of rock and pop music.

Hollywood and Highland is where you will find the Wine & Jazz Summer Series. Hear some of the top jazz performers, while helping a good cause. Though the event is free, there is wine tasting and appetizers available with a fee to help support Project Angel Food. The wonderful people at Project Angel Food deliver over 10,000 meals every week to those affected by life-threatening illnesses. It is a great cause, and for only $10 you add your support and also enjoy some great wine and appetizers, along with awesome jazz music. The concerts are held on Tuesday nights.

The Santa Monica Pier hosts Twilight Concerts. Thursday nights are when the Pier comes alive with rock, indie pop, reggae, R&B, and 80s music. There is plenty of food and excitement along the pier as well.

The Levitt Pavilion has shows throughout the week during the summer. From Grammy winning performers to Jazz, Americana to Blues, Latin music and even Children’s music, you can hear a wide range of music at the Pavilion.

Summer music at the Hammer Museum portrays plenty of live acts in the outdoor courtyard. KCRW DJs keep the place hopping, along with jazz performers and plenty of special guests.

The Getty Center courtyard is where you will find Saturdays Off the 405, a popular summer series. Not only can you gaze at the breathtaking views of the city, but enjoy a drink and some music while you relax. DJs will open and close the night, and awesome performers will keep you entertained in between.

KCRW Summer Nights is when the local public radio station, KCRW, leaves their studio and travels around LA hosting free outdoor music events. Some of the venues they appear at are One Colorado, Chinatown, and Grand Park. You can find pretty much any type of music you like at one of the concerts.

Don’t let summer pass you by wishing you had accomplished more. Head to one of the many outdoor free events and enjoy the sounds of summer.

Filed under: Lifestyle by Michelle Gushard
Comments Off on Free Summer Concerts in Los Angeles