Highland Park - Searching for the light
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Highland Park

4.6
·491k reviews·Pittsburgh, United States

A vibrant, walkable LA neighborhood brimming with unique shops, delicious eats, and a lively local scene.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Bagels and coffee buzz

CrowdMedium
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Highland Park - Searching for the light

Highland Park

Best Time

Weekend mornings

Bagels and coffee buzz

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant, walkable LA neighborhood brimming with unique shops, delicious eats, and a lively local scene.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Highland Park is a rare gem in LA for its walkability, packed with unique shops, cafes, and eateries."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Embrace the Walkability

Highland Park is super walkable! Explore shops, cafes, and restaurants on foot.

🛍️ Thrifting Adventures

Hit up Leader of the Pack, The Bearded Beagle, or Bridge Thrift for unique finds.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

BELLE'S BAGELS

BELLE'S BAGELS

Bagel shop and delicatessen

Iconic spot for incredible bagels and pastrami sandwiches in a retro setting. A must-try for foodies!

HIGHLY LIKELY

HIGHLY LIKELY

Cafe

A beloved local cafe offering great coffee and a perfect spot to relax and people-watch.

HIGHLAND PARK BOWL

HIGHLAND PARK BOWL

Bowling alley and bar

Step back in time at this classic bowling alley, perfect for a fun night out with friends.

Thrift Stores Galore

Thrift Stores Galore

Various locations

Hunt for unique treasures at popular spots like Leader of the Pack and Bridge Thrift.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Walkability

Highland Park is a rare gem in LA for its walkability. Ditch the car and explore its charming streets, packed with unique shops, cafes, and eateries. Perfect for leisurely strolls and discovering hidden gems.

Plan for Diverse Interests

From vintage thrifting and artisanal bagels to lively bowling alleys and upscale dining, Highland Park offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Consider your group's preferences to craft the perfect itinerary.

Best Times

When
Weekend mornings
Why
Bagels and coffee buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Less crowded dining
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Thrifting and exploring
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

10 Spots in Highland Park Recommended by Natives (w/ @Nelson Grande) #highlandpark #hlp #larestaurants #laeats #labars #explorela #thingstodoinla #lahiddengems
@drewmtillman
12.4K likes • 197.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Embrace the Walkability

Highland Park is super walkable! Explore shops, cafes, and restaurants on foot. TikTokInstagram

🛍️ Thrifting Adventures

Hit up Leader of the Pack, The Bearded Beagle, or Bridge Thrift for unique finds. TikTokInstagram

another LA neighborhood itinerary for your weekend - there is sooo much to do in highland park gonna have to do a pt 2 soon! me 🤝 walkable neighbhorhoods 📍highland park things I did here today: - @bellesbagels - thrift at leader of the pack, the bearded beagle, or bridge thrift - coffee at highly likely - bowling at highland park bowl - tacos / drinks at @HomeState patio . . . #highlandpark #high...
@thingstodola
11K likes • 165.3K views
pt 2 of discovering LA neighborhoods until I get bored 📍 HIGHLAND PARK I love this neighborhood because it’s so WALKABLE (something so many parts of LA are lacking in 💔) there are so many cute thrift stores, cafes, & unique things to do and the photo opps for my content creator girlies r endlessss @itshighlylikely @bellesbagels @bridgethrifthighlandpark @highlandparkbowl . . . #highlandpark #...
tori.nucci
10.5K likes • 292.6K views

☕ Coffee & Bites

Grab a coffee at Highly Likely or delicious bagels from Belle's Bagels. TikTokInstagram+1

🎳 Fun at the Bowl

Enjoy a night of bowling and drinks at the classic Highland Park Bowl. TikTok

📍Checker Hall - Highland Park @checkerhall Save this for your next date night or girls night out 🩷 #checkerhall #hiddengem #highlandpark #losangeles #placestogo #larestaurants #european #vibes #lafoodie #uniqueexperiences #fyp #lowkey
heyitstheleos
7.9K likes • 164.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Embrace the Walkability

Highland Park is super walkable! Explore shops, cafes, and restaurants on foot. TikTokInstagram

🛍️ Thrifting Adventures

Hit up Leader of the Pack, The Bearded Beagle, or Bridge Thrift for unique finds. TikTokInstagram

☕ Coffee & Bites

Grab a coffee at Highly Likely or delicious bagels from Belle's Bagels. TikTokInstagram+1

🎳 Fun at the Bowl

Enjoy a night of bowling and drinks at the classic Highland Park Bowl. TikTok

🍽️ Date Night Vibes

Checker Hall offers a unique European-inspired dining experience for date nights. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors love Highland Park for its vibrant, walkable streets, diverse culinary scene, and excellent thrift shopping opportunities. It's praised as a neighborhood with a unique character, offering a refreshing contrast to more car-centric parts of LA. Some find parking challenging and certain popular spots can get crowded, but the overall experience is highly positive.

What People Like

Walkable neighborhood
Great thrift stores
Diverse food options

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult
Crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Highland Park is accessible via the Metro L Line (Gold Line) at the Highland Park station, making it easy to reach from downtown LA. Many visitors appreciate its walkability once there, reducing the need for a car. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Highland Park is known for being a very walkable neighborhood, which is a rarity in Los Angeles. You can easily explore many shops, cafes, and restaurants on foot. TikTokInstagram

Street parking can be found, but it can be competitive, especially on weekends. Some businesses may have dedicated parking lots. Consider using ride-sharing services if you're not keen on searching for parking. Reddit

For those coming from NYC, Highland Park's walkability and vibrant street life might feel familiar and appealing. It offers a good mix of nature access and urban amenities. Reddit

Highland Park is located northeast of Downtown LA and is relatively close to areas like Eagle Rock, Pasadena, and South Pasadena, making it a good base for exploring the wider region. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Most attractions in Highland Park, like cafes, shops, and parks, do not require tickets. However, specific venues like Highland Park Bowl might have cover charges or require reservations for certain times. TikTok

Hours vary widely. Cafes like Highly Likely typically open early, while restaurants and bars like Checker Hall have evening hours. It's best to check the specific hours for each establishment you plan to visit. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Exploring the diverse thrift stores, enjoying the street art, and walking through the neighborhood are all free activities. Many local parks also offer free access. TikTokInstagram

For popular spots like Checker Hall or Belle's Bagels (especially for larger groups), making a reservation is highly recommended to avoid long waits. Instagram+1

While Highland Park itself is a neighborhood, any public parks within it generally offer free admission. Specific park amenities might have associated costs, but general access is usually free. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Belle's Bagels for incredible deli sandwiches and bagels, Checker Hall for a unique European vibe, and various taco spots are highly recommended by locals and visitors alike. TikTokInstagram+1

Highly Likely is a popular local cafe known for its great coffee and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a casual meet-up. TikTokInstagram

While specific vegan/vegetarian restaurants aren't highlighted, many cafes and eateries offer vegetarian options. It's always best to check menus or call ahead for specific dietary needs. Reddit

Highland Park offers a diverse culinary scene, from classic American deli fare and tacos to more unique international-inspired dining experiences. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Checker Hall is specifically mentioned as a great spot for date nights or girls' nights out due to its unique ambiance and European vibes. Instagram

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Entertainment

Highland Park is a thrifter's paradise! Popular spots include Leader of the Pack, The Bearded Beagle, and Bridge Thrift, offering a wide range of vintage clothing and goods. TikTokInstagram

Beyond shopping and dining, Highland Park offers unique experiences like bowling at the retro Highland Park Bowl and exploring its vibrant, walkable streets. TikTok

You'll find a mix of independent boutiques, vintage clothing stores, record shops, and specialty stores, contributing to the neighborhood's unique character. TikTokInstagram

While not explicitly detailed in the provided content, the vibrant atmosphere of Highland Park suggests potential for live music at various bars and venues. Highland Park Bowl often features entertainment. TikTok

The neighborhood's walkability, diverse street art, unique storefronts, and photogenic cafes provide endless opportunities for content creation and photo opportunities. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While specific family attractions aren't detailed, Highland Park offers a generally welcoming environment. The walkability makes it easier to manage with strollers, and spots like Highland Park Bowl can offer a fun, albeit potentially noisy, activity for older children. TikTok Exploring the various thrift stores can also be an adventure for kids looking for unique toys or clothes. TikTokInstagram

Consider packing snacks and drinks, as navigating with young children can be easier with readily available refreshments. The neighborhood's diverse food scene means you can likely find casual, kid-friendly options at many eateries. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

Highland Park is an excellent choice for solo travelers and couples looking for a vibrant and engaging LA experience. The walkable streets are perfect for independent exploration, allowing you to discover charming cafes like Highly Likely for a solo coffee break or a relaxed afternoon. TikTokInstagram

For couples, a date night at Checker Hall offers a unique and romantic ambiance, Instagram while a fun evening of bowling at Highland Park Bowl provides a more playful option. TikTok The abundance of thrift stores also offers a fun activity to do together, hunting for vintage treasures. TikTokInstagram

🛍️ Budget-Conscious Explorers

Highland Park is a fantastic destination for those watching their budget. The neighborhood is renowned for its thrift stores, offering a wide array of affordable clothing and unique finds. TikTokInstagram Many of the cafes and taco stands provide delicious and inexpensive meal options, making it easy to eat well without breaking the bank. TikTok+1

Enjoying the walkable streets and soaking in the neighborhood's atmosphere is completely free. While some entertainment venues like Highland Park Bowl have costs associated with them, the overall experience of exploring Highland Park can be very budget-friendly. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Highland Park's Culinary Scene

Highland Park is a foodie's delight, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences that cater to various tastes. Belle's Bagels stands out as a local favorite, not just for its delicious bagels but also for its full delicatessen offering. Visitors rave about their pastrami sandwiches and the spot's authentic retro vibe, making it a must-visit for a hearty meal. Instagram

For a more unique dining experience, Checker Hall is highly recommended, especially for date nights or gatherings with friends. Its European-inspired ambiance and menu create a memorable evening. Instagram Beyond these specific spots, the neighborhood is dotted with numerous taco stands and casual eateries, reflecting the vibrant culinary landscape of Los Angeles. Many content creators highlight the ease of finding great food while exploring the walkable streets. TikTokInstagram

When planning your culinary journey, remember that Highland Park is best explored on foot, allowing you to stumble upon hidden gems and enjoy the local flavors at your own pace. Checking operating hours for specific establishments is advisable, as they can vary, especially on weekends. Reddit

The Thrifting Haven of Highland Park

Highland Park has cemented its reputation as a premier destination for vintage and thrift shopping enthusiasts. The neighborhood boasts a collection of highly-regarded stores where treasure hunters can find unique clothing, accessories, and home goods. Leader of the Pack, The Bearded Beagle, and Bridge Thrift are frequently mentioned as top spots, each offering a distinct selection and shopping experience. TikTokInstagram

These thrift stores contribute significantly to the neighborhood's charm and appeal, drawing in visitors looking for sustainable fashion and one-of-a-kind items. The density of these shops makes it easy to spend an entire afternoon browsing, making Highland Park a go-to for those who love the thrill of the hunt. The walkable nature of the neighborhood further enhances the thrifting experience, allowing for seamless transitions between different stores. Instagram

For the best thrifting experience, consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds, though the energy on weekends is also part of the appeal. Be prepared to spend time sifting through racks to discover those perfect pieces that tell a story. Reddit

Highland Park: A Walkable LA Neighborhood

One of the most celebrated aspects of Highland Park is its remarkable walkability, a quality highly valued in the sprawling city of Los Angeles. This feature allows visitors and residents to easily explore the neighborhood's diverse offerings on foot, from charming cafes and bustling shops to vibrant street art and local eateries. TikTokInstagram

This pedestrian-friendly environment makes it ideal for leisurely strolls, spontaneous discoveries, and a more immersive experience of the local culture. Unlike many other parts of LA, Highland Park encourages you to park your car and wander, soaking in the unique atmosphere. This is particularly appealing for those who appreciate a more relaxed pace and the joy of discovering hidden gems along the way. Reddit

The concentration of businesses and points of interest within close proximity means you can easily spend a day exploring without needing to drive between locations. This makes it a more sustainable and enjoyable way to experience the neighborhood's character and charm. TikTok

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