Can you feel that? That soft, autumn rustling in the air? That there, my friends, are the winds of change a blowin’. And we’ve all learned that change can be a good thing. So, that’s what we are doing here. (And by “here”, I mean my column.) Unless of course you are new to this site and ALL of this is new to you. In that case, I bid you a warm welcome. ::hug::
Today is the beginning of my new series that I’m calling…
That much I’m sure you’ve already gleaned from the title. (…might have ruined the surprise on that one.) It’s basically a list of cool stuff that the majority of us like-minded people will hopefully find interesting.
So, this week I bring you:
*Disclaimer* These are all things that I’ve yet to do. So, I’m not speaking from any actual experience here, just out of a hankering to try.
Also, these are specific to Los Angeles only. Sorry!
Tour the Murals (Street art) of LA
As any creative mind knows; art comes in many forms. There is so much crazy talent out there on the streets! Make a day of it; grab your beau, pack a picnic, and please don’t forget the camera. (Because if you don’t Instagram it, it didn’t happen) Here is a great resource to plan your day. Stick to one area or branch out and explore the cross-cultural artistry that is emblazed on the walls all over this fine city of ours.
Exposition Park Rose Garden
This is my uber romantic pick. It is touted as an “Urban Oasis” for Angelinos. Gorgeous roses everywhere, beautiful fountain, large marble statues; it’s a great place to wax poetic, write sonnets, or whatever other mushy things that sweethearts like to do. Also, it was a brothel in the early 1900’s. So, clearly, there’s love in the air.
Plus, if all goes well, you can extend the date by heading over to the nearby California Science Center and you two can get nerdy with your bad selves.
*Free admission, Parking $10. Open from daily from 9am-sunset. Closed from January 1st– March 15th.
Independent Shakespeare Co.
These plays take place every summer in a natural amphitheater at Griffith Park’s old zoo. How I have I never gone to this before?? You pack your own noms and libations, bring a couple low chairs, and a blanket for snuggling when it gets chilly. This company has a great reputation of putting on a fantastic production with well-seasoned actors. Try to get there early to figure out parking and to get a good seat.
*Free general seating, or $4 upfront (but please think about donating!)
The Museum of Jurassic Technology
So, apparently this place is not for everybody. From what I gather, it’s essentially just a place filled with odd things. It’s like a real museum but without any useful content. You can expect to see things like exhibits on magnetics, vintage holograms, the history of camping survival techniques, an “old wives tale, cures” exhibit, and a pigeon sanctuary. It’s dark, slightly creepy, and filled to the brim with fodder for conversation. And there are plenty of places to grab a drink close by just in case you need a tall stiff drink in order to deal with what just happened.
*I think there is a $5-$8 “suggested donation”
Melrose Trading Post
Speaking of conversation starters! Every Sunday, merchants from all avenues of (hipster and indie) life set up shop at the parking lot of Fairfax High School. Perfect place to pick up that owl statue made entirely of seashells that you have been wanting. Also an ideal place to wander around and take advantage of the ample people watching opportunities. You crazy kids could even make a game of it; you each try to find the craziest thing for under $5. Loser buys Fro-yo.
*Entry fee is $3, Parking can be difficult, Bring cash!
Opaque “dining experience”
Yep, I put a restaurant on the list. But before you start whining about how “cliché” and “unimaginative” that is, zip your pie-hole and keep reading. (….mmmm. Pie)
Opaque is a “multi-sensual dining experience”. (???) In other words, you’re dining in the dark! Say whhaaat? Apparently, it’s exactly what it sounds like; you’re seated in a pitch-black dining room, guided and served by blind or visually impaired individuals. Please note that this is not cheap. But, it sounds like it would prove itself to be a unique experience and something that might even have you stepping into the sunlight with a renewed appreciation and revived view on day-to-day life.
*Thursday-Saturday at V Lounge in Santa Monica, set menu is $99/person
OK. I did my research. But, now I want to hear what you’ve got! Be nice and share with the readers a dating experience you’ve had that spoke to your unique and artistic sensibilities.
Get cracking! The most romantic holiday of the year is just around the corner. You know, Halloween!
– Alex