The Hidden Neighborhood of Los Angeles; Silverlake
When people think about Los Angeles, they automatically assume that everything revolves around the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, the beaches of Santa Monica, and the gritty industrial sector of downtown. What most people don’t realize is that Los Angeles is a sprawling community composed of several distinct districts and neighborhoods that compose the demographic makeup of the city.
On your next visit to Los Angeles you could visit a Club Med tennis resort next to the beaches in Malibu, or you could experience the delicate counter-culture sensibilities in one of the most unique neighborhoods in the city: Silverlake. Located west of Hollywood and just north of Downtown, Silverlake is hidden within the hills of the city. There are many things to do in this area known for its alternative music scene, high same-sex couple percentage, and unique Spanish architecture. Here are some of the things that make Silverlake the unique place it is:
Silverlake Lounge
The Silverlake Lounge is the place to go if you want to be seen in this neighborhood full of artists and actors. Alternative rock staples like the Silversun Pickups, Foo Fighters, and Beck got their start here, because the trendy spots in West Hollywood only take acts that steer to the mainstream radio rock sound. Open mic nights and happy hours are the common motive in this home away from home for the creatives in Los Angeles.
The Thirsty Crow
Right across the street from Silverlake Lounge lies The Thirsty Crow. While it may not be the alternative hotbed that its neighbor is, this bar specializes in getting its patrons drunk with a literary twist. Specials include Absinthe Minded Tuesdays and Whisky Wednesdays served by bartenders dressed in the traditional garb worn by bartenders of the past. The bar closes at 2am, but the numerous taco vendors outside will feed you until the sun comes up.
The Spanish Architecture
Silverlake is mostly decorated in architecture inspired by the Spanish settlers who founded Los Angeles. Throughout the roving hills of the neighborhood you can find houses with citrus trees paying homage to the conquistadors who first inhabited the city. Another unique aspect of the architecture in Silverlake is the modern influence found in many of the homes and business buildings. Famous modernist architect Richard Neutra called Silverlake home and the office building he worked in is now a historical cultural monument.
Sunset Junction Street Fair
Every year in the middle of summer, the streets of Sunset Boulevard get taken over by an influx of alternative musicians, ethnic food vendors, and hipsters. Locals like to call this the Sunset Junction Street Festival. Past performers of this festival include the Butthole Surfers, Conor Oberst, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, and Melvins.
There is more to Los Angeles than what you see on television and the movie theaters. Silverlake is one of the best alternative vacation destinations in America.
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