Centrally located between Santa Monica and West Hollywood, Westwood is a posh SoCal area known as home to the massive University of California, Los Angeles — whose student population totals over 40,000. But it’s not just a collegiate atmosphere. Westwood offers plenty of attractions for non-students. Below, a look at our favorites.
Walking tour
Take a stroll around the university, where you can have a peek at stunning Romanesque-inspired buildings. After, head down to the town center where, on Thursdays, you’ll find its farmer’s market (noon to 6 p.m.) that’s replete with fresh produce and local crafts. In need of a quick bite? Sure, this area has food chains, but they’re cool ones, including the famed In-N-Out and the Mexican-inflected Tacos Tu Madre, the latter of which offers cool twists on classics like a fried chicken burrito (dishes from $4).
Good eats
Munch on super-thick slabs of bacon at STK.MAC A. STARNES mac@macstarnesSTK, a clubby steakhouse in Manhattan, opened its Westwood outpost at the W hotel in 2016. The LA iteration kept its slick East Coast aesthetic, featuring white leather booths, lacquer wood tables and mood lighting. It’s also a perfect place for people watching — celebs like Diddy and Olivia Munn have been spotted there. And the food is just as decadent. Steaks are served in small, medium and large cuts, and come with more than a dozen sauces.
Culture vultures
Inside the Hammer Museum.Hammer MuseumEntrepreneur Armand Hammer (grandfather of actor Armie Hammer), founded the Hammer Museum in 1990 to house his artwork. Since being acquired by UCLA in 1994, it’s been transformed into one of the trendiest museums in the city, showcasing modern art by Max Hooper Schneider and Henry Taylor. Coolest of all, it’s free and open to the public. And maybe you’ll see a star when you’re there, as Armie himself is a frequent guest.
Shopping spree
While Westwood is conveniently just 3 miles away from Rodeo Drive, skip the brand-name shops and swing by Beverly Hills’ new boutique stores. Battistoni, a Rome-based brand, offers ultra luxe menswear. Meanwhile, Schutz, a women’s shoe store, sells trendy heels at an affordable price point (from $170) — affordable, at least, by Beverly Hills standards.
Cool close adventure
The sexy pool at the Highlight Room.Warren JaggerWhen it comes to LA’s buzzy nightlife scene, the Highlight Room in Hollywood (just a 30-minute Uber ride away) is the place to be. Opened earlier this year on the Dream Hollywood’s rooftop, it sports a pool, sweeping views of the city and flowing champagne (drinks from $20).
Day trip
The Aquarium of the Pacific.Getty ImagesVisitors looking for a quick escape from the city’s hustle and bustle should head down to Long Beach, just an hour’s car ride away. There, they can visit the Aquarium of the Pacific (tickets from $30), where visitors can check out all kinds of maritime creatures, like stingrays, whales and penguins. Afterwards, take in sights of the scenic Pacific Ocean while strolling along the waterfront.
Sweet dreams
W Los Angeles - West Beverly HillsFor a sleek retreat, head to the local W Los Angeles – West Beverly Hills (from $180). Opened in 1999, taking over a former apartment complex, the hotel recently underwent a $25 million renovation and now features a purple-lit lobby with swanky swivel sofas. Guests who want to live large can check into the presidential suite, which includes a wet bar, an office and a gold-paneled screening room.



