HARD Summer 2012

Founded in 2007 by Gary Richards (aka Destructo), HARD has quickly risen to become one of the top event producers in the electronic music scene. HARD is rooted in Los Angeles, but has expanded to multiple cities across the United States, hosting a wide range of international DJs and artists at their festivals and tours. Last January, HARD's Holy Ship!, a 3-day music cruise, had its maiden voyage through the Bahamas, the first time HARD expanded internationally. If electronic dance music is your thing, be sure to put one of their events on your bucket list.
HARD Summer in Los Angeles is one of HARD's mainstays. Held in the picturesque LA State Historic Park in downtown Los Angeles, HARD Summer features four stages, hosting some of the world's top electronic music. For the first time this year, the festival will be held over two days.
Festival Line Up
FRIDAY AUGUST 3
Bloc Party, Boys Noize, Miike Snow, Chromeo (DJ-Set), Little Dragon, Magnetic Man, Erol Alkan, Bootsy Collins & The Funk Unity Band, Fake Blood, Gesaffelstein (Live), Breakbot, Buraka Som Sistema, Araabmuzik, Joey Beltram, Craze, Alex Metric, Surkin, John Talabot (DJ-Set), Danny Brown, Action Bronson, Riton, Oliver, Jokers of the Scene, Light Year, Nick Catchdubs, Jim-E Stack, Mr. Muthafuckin' Exquire, Lunice, Baio, Sound Pellegrino Thermal Team
SATURDAY AUGUST 4
Skrillex, Nero (Live), Bloody Beetroots (DJ-Set), Squarepusher, A-Trak, James Murphy (DJ-Set), Datsik, 12th Planet, Zedd, Dillon Francis, Brodinski, Claude Vonstroke, Birdy Nam Nam, Justin Martin, Gaslamp Killer, Trolley Snatcha, Destructo, Alvin Risk, Zombie Disco Squad, DJ Antention, Codes, Huoratron, Kill Frenzy, Smims & Belle, Jason Bentley, Brenmar, Nick Thayer, Amtrac, The Starship Connection
Photo: Oliver Correa, The HiFi Cartel
- How do I get to and from the festival?
- How do I get around during the event?
- What time does it start and end?
- Are there any prohibited items?
- Can I bring outside food and/or drink?
- Will there be food sold at the event?
- Will there be alcohol sold at the event?
- What do I need to know about money?
- What will the weather be like?
- What should I wear?
- What should I bring?
- Anything else I need to know?
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How do I get to and from the festival?
To avoid traffic and parking fees, you can take the Metro, which drops you off only 100 feet from the entrance. If you're traveling from East LA or Pasadena, take the Gold Line; if you're coming from the Valley or Hollywood, take the Red Line to Union Station and transfer to the Gold Line to Chinatown Station. Many parking lots at the Metro stops are free of charge, so park near the Gold or Red line and hop on the MTA for the most convenient way to get to the festival. HARD teams up with the MTA to keep the Gold and Red lines moving on a late-night schedule after the festival ends each night, so keep an eye out for this special schedule as the festival nears.
Another fun, economical, and convenient way to get to the festival is to take JusCollege Shuttles. The shuttles depart from seven college campuses in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Santa Barbara, and will drop and pick you up at the main entrance. Make sure to reserve your shuttle seat as soon as possible, as seating is limited.
If you must drive, the Los Angeles State Historic Park is located on 1245 North Spring Street, and there are multiple parking lots near the venue. However, all of them are independently owned, so keep in mind that there will be parking fees. CLICK HERE to see a map of recommended parking options.
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How do I get around during the event?
Although there are four stages, you won't have a problem walking between them. However, due to the large crowds, it is advised to designate a meeting spot for you and your friends in case you get lost.
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What time does it start and end?
Doors open at 6pm, and the festival ends at 2am on both days.
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Are there any prohibited items?
Backpacks, dolls, toys, kandi jewelry, furry/plush items, glow sticks, light toys/gloves, professional recording equipment, weapons, bandanas, gas masks, pacifiers, glass, bottles, open cigarette packs, gum, outside food or beverages, and illegal substances & paraphernalia are not allowed in the festival.
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Can I bring outside food and/or drink?
Outside food and drinks are prohibited in the venue.
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Will there be food sold at the event?
There will be food trucks and a Vendor Village, selling food at the venue.
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Will there be alcohol sold at the event?
There will be on-site bars serving alcohol at the festival.
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What do I need to know about money?
HARD is a cash-only event, so plan accordingly.
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What will the weather be like?
The weather in LA during August will be hot - the average temperature range is between 64-84°F (18-29°C). Luckily, the festival doesn't start until 6pm each day, which is when the temperature begins to drop to a more comfortable level.
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What should I wear?
The HARD audience can get pretty creative when it comes to festival garb -creativity is encouraged, as long as you're not wearing anything listed under "Prohibited Items". Bright colors are always a safe bet, and it will be hot, so dress accordingly.
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What should I bring?
Make sure to bring a light layer to fend off a possible chilly breeze at night. Sunscreen is also an essential item for any event in Southern California; even though it doesn't start until 6pm, the sun will be strong, so apply before you get there. Bring enough cash to last you throughout the event, and an ID (18+ to enter, 21+ to drink). International festivalgoers will need a valid passport for entry. For maximum convenience, you should bring a fanny pack or a cross-body bag to store all your essentials to keep your hands free for dancing.
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Anything else I need to know?
HARD hosts other events throughout the year, including HARD Haunted Mansion, HOLYSHIP!, and many other smaller tours and events across the US. Check out our event listings for a HARD event near you.
Saturday, Mar 31, 2012
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HARD LA
The Wiltern, 8pm
A-Trak, Jack Beats (Live debut performance), Destructo, Oliver, JWLS BUY TICKETS
Saturday, Aug 4, 2012
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HARD Toronto
Fort York: Garrison Common, 5pm
A unique outdoor concert experience featuring Justice, M83, Austra, and Buraka Som Sistema. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets for $50.
Saturday, Oct 27, 2012
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HARD Haunted Mansion
Shrine Expo Hall, Los Angeles. Time TBA
Lineup TBA
Tuesday, Jan 1, 2013
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Holy Ship
Embarking January 2013
Pre-books are sold out. CLICK HERE to join the waiting list.
Eat
You can find vendors that sell food and beverages inside the venue, but there are also a ton of restaurants nearby if you're looking for more options. Since LA is difficult to traverse without a car, most of the restaurants we recommend are near the festival venue. Chinatown is conveniently located right next to the park, and Little Tokyo is not too far away, so you won't have to look far to get some quality grub.
If you want to see where all of our recommendations are located in relation to the festival, check out our handy dandy Google Map.
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Rainbow Bakery
- 424 West College Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90012
- +1 (213) 617-7638
If you want something quick and easy, stroll over to this Vietnamese bakery, known for their classic Banh Mi sandwiches. At just $3 for a sandwich and $3-4 for vermicelli bowls, this bakery is a great spot for some delicious cheap eats. It'll be good for your appetite and your wallet.
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Homegirl Cafe
- 130 West Bruno Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90012
- +1 (213) 617-0380
- www.homegirlcafe.org
Part of Homeboy Industries, this cafe is unlike any other restaurant. Their mission is to help at-risk and previously gang-involved young men and women by training them in restaurant service and the culinary arts. Members go through a one-year training program to prepare modern Latin cuisine and baked goods. With chilaquiles, tortas, tacos, and inspiring stories, you're in for a quality meal.
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Philippe The Original
- 1001 North Alameda Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90012
- +1 (213) 628-3781
- www.philippes.com
Dubbed the "home of the French Dip sandwich," this local hotspot is one of most famous restaurants of Southern California. Since 1951, Philippe's has served juicy sandwiches to residents and tourists alike. Although you'll most likely have to stand in line, their roasted meat sandwiches (they serve beef, pork, ham, lamb, and turkey) and homemade hot mustard are definitely worth the wait.
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Daikokuya
- 327 East 1st Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90012
- +1 (213) 626-1680
- www.dkramen.com
Winning multiple awards including "The Best Soups in Los Angeles" award for the KCET channel, a trip to LA wouldn't be complete without visiting this famous Ramen joint. Their secret homemade broth cooked over an entire day and their tender black pork make for a perfect bowl of ramen. If rice is more your thing, they also have a wide selection of rice bowls and bento boxes.
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Empress Pavilion Restaurant
- 988 North Hill Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90012
- +1 (213) 617-9898
- www.empresspavilion.com
Since HARD Summer is located right next to Chinatown, it would be a shame if you didn't visit this famous district to try some Chinese delicacies. Empress Pavilion Restaurant serves everything from Dim Sum, classic Chinese entrees, and even banquet-style dishes for larger groups.
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Spring Street Smokehouse BBQ
- 640 North Spring Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90012
- +1 (213) 626-0535
- www.sssmokehouse.com
If you're craving comfort food, this restaurant is the place to go. Serving hickory-smoked classic BBQ meats, sides like mac and cheese, and even a BBQ pasta, visit this local hotspot for an ultimate BBQ meal.
Sleep
Since LA is so spread out, we recommend staying in the downtown LA area to stay close to the festival venue. Downtown LA is a major business and transportation hub, making it easy to travel to and from other parts of the city. From here, you'll be able to get around easily, even if you don't have a car, as there are multiple MTA Metro and bus stops conveniently spread around the area. The best part about staying in downtown LA is the close proximity to popular spots like the Staples Center, NOKIA Theater, Museum of Contemporary Art, and Beverly Hills.
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Millennium Biltmore Hotel
- 506 South Grand Avenue
- Los Angeles, CA 90071
- +1 (213) 624-1011
- www.millenniumhotels.com/millenniumlosangeles/index.html
Voted "Best Hotel" by readers of the Los Angeles Downtown News in 2011, this European-style hotel is located in Pershing Square, a historical park in downtown LA. Conveniently just one block away from the Pershing Square station on the Metro Red and Purple Line, this luxurious hotel is an easy and quick ride away from the festival venue, and other popular destinations such as Universal Studios and Hollywood.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi in the Lobby, Valet Parking, Indoor Swimming Pool, Fitness Center, Bars and Lounges, Banquet and Meeting Spaces.
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Kyoto Grand Hotel and Gardens
- 120 South Los Angeles Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90012
- +1 (213) 629-1200
- www.kyotograndhotel.com
This contemporary hotel combines Asian-fusion decor with modern elegance, and is an excellent bang for your buck. Located within walking distance of the Civic Center stop on the Metro Red and Purple Line, you will be able to easily travel to the festival and other major points of interest. The hotel also provides free shuttle service to guests within a three mile radius of the hotel, operating from 7am to 10:30pm daily. Be sure to check out the rooftop garden, which offers a breathtaking view of the LA skyline.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi in Public Areas, Complimentary Shuttle Within a 3-Mile Radius, Valet Parking, Fitness Center, Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service, ATM Machines.
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Los Angeles Marriott Downtown
- 333 South Figueroa Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90071
- +1 (213) 617-1133
- www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/travel/laxdt-los-angeles-marriott-downtown/
The Marriott in downtown LA has clean, spacious rooms, with amazing views of the city. It is located close to the Civic Center stop on the Metro Red and Purple Line, which can easily take you to the festival and any other LA locales you want to check out.
Amenities: ATM Machines, Fitness Center, Outdoor Pool, Free Wi-Fi, Foreign Exchange, Daily Housekeeping Service, Local Restaurant Dinner Delivery, Room Service (6am-11pm), Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service, Valet Parking.
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Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown Hotel
- 711 South Hope Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90017
- +1 (213) 488-3500
- http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1598&EM=VTY_SI_losangeles_1598_overview
Located only one block away from the 7th Street/Metro Center stop on the Metro Red, Blue, and Purple Lines, this hotel is a good fit those who don't have a car. Rooms are newly renovated, and the hotel is adjoined to Macy's plaza, making your stay both comfortable and convenient. Many major tourist destinations are within walking distance to the hotel.
Amenities: 24/7 Business Center, Valet Parking, Laundry Service, Fitness Center, Outdoor Swimming Pool, Sun Deck, Club Lounge, Complimentary Breakfast, Meeting Rooms.
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O Hotel
- 819 South Flower Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90017
- +1 (213) 623-9904
For those who want a more intimate feel to their stay, this hotel, the first boutique hotel in downtown LA, provides cozier accommodations. Refurbished in 2007, the hotel's contemporary and stylish decor and amenities create a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The 7th Street/Metro Center stop on the Metro Red, Blue, and Purple Line is only one block away.
Amenities: Meeting Space, Bar.
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Jerry's Motel
- 285 South Lucas Avenue
- Los Angeles, CA 90026
- +1 (213) 481-8181
If you want to save on accommodation, this motel will give you the comfort of a luxury hotel without the high price. Although it is located a bit further away from the Metro or bus stops, there is free parking available, and past guests have raved about their super friendly service. Excellent for shorter stays or for those with cars.
Amenities: Free Parking.
Shop
LA is a cosmopolitan city with an extensive selection of stores and some of the shopping in the country. Since there are thousands of stores in the city, we understand it can be a bit overwhelming, so we've handpicked a few great starting points for your shopping adventure. From large shopping malls to eccentric vintage stores, you are sure to find a great purchase during your stay in LA.
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Amoeba Music
- 6400 West Sunset Boulevard
- Los Angeles, CA 90028
- +1 (323) 245-6400
- www.amoeba.com
Dubbed "The World's Largest Independent Record Store," Amoeba Music has something to offer all music and movie lovers. Occupying a whole city block, this store, located in downtown Hollywood holds the largest, widest, most diverse collection of music and films. From the most common album to the rarest vinyl record, they have it all. They even have experts in every area, offering a wide range of knowledge about music, movies, and their products. Don't forget to check the live event schedule on their website, as they host artists from all over the country and world right in the store.
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Wasteland
- 7428 Melrose Avenue
- Los Angeles, CA 90046
- +1 (323) 653-3028
- www.shopwasteland.com
This is your one-stop shop for clothing that is vintage, modern, and/or designer. If you don't mind having to sift through racks of clothing, you're sure find a fabulous designer garment on the cheap. They also sell a selection of new, trendy styles that will help you create a fashionable LA look.
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Space 15 Twenty
- 1520 North Cahuenga Boulevard
- Los Angeles, CA 90028
- +1 (323) 465-1893
- www.space15twenty.com
This unique space houses a variety of retail stores, a restaurant, temporary pop-up stores, a gallery, and a book shop. They also host a weekly flea market on Sundays. Each store is connected through an outdoor courtyard that hosts performances and shows by musicians, artists, and designers. Stop by this retail space with its artsy, engaging feel, for an afternoon of shopping, food, art, and pleasure.
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Kitson
- 115 South Robertson Boulevard
- Los Angeles, CA 90048
- +1 (310) 859-2652
- www.shopkitson.com
This famous store on trendy Robertson Boulevard has become a celebrity hotspot, with paparazzi camped outside the entrance. Their team of buyers only look for the trendiest, hottest items to stock in store. Selling everything from clothing, shoes, and bags to books, novelties, and candles, you are sure to find something for yourself or as a gift for someone special. Fancy a necklace you saw in a recent issue of People magazine? Stop by Kitson and they'll probably have it. Just make sure you're willing to spend some bucks - it can get a little pricey.
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Wacko
- 4633 Hollywood Boulevard
- Los Angeles, CA 90027
- +1 (323) 663-0122
- www.soapplant.com
A fun and quirky shop, Wacko sells over 2 million pieces of unique pop-culture toys and novelties. Their selection is huge; you can find anything here, so don't expect to walk out without a purchase. Want bacon flavored toothpaste or a hamburger kitchen timer? Wacko will have it.
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The Grove
- 189 The Grove Drive
- Los Angeles, CA 90036
- +1 (323) 900-8080
- www.thegrovela.com
This picturesque outdoor mall houses retail stores, upscale restaurants, a movie theater, and even the historic Farmer's Market. You'll find traditional stores like Victoria's Secret and Nike, and restaurants such as The Cheesecake Factory. They also host all kinds of events that can be fun for everyone. Make sure to check out The Original Farmer's Market at the end of the mall, which serves the freshest and most delicious fare in LA. The Grove is your ideal entertainment destination that will satisfy your senses like never before.
Party
LA has one of the best party scenes in the world, with tons of clubs, bars, and lounges lining Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, and more. LA definitely isn't lacking in the party department.
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Exchange LA
- 618 South Spring Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90014
- +1 (213) 627-8070
- www.exchangela.com
Exchange LA, which used to be the Los Angeles Stock Exchange Building, is a trendy nightclub close to the Hard Festival venue and a premier destination for LA partygoers. With four floors of dance space, a Sky Loft, five full-service bars, and a killer sound system, Exchange LA will not disappoint. Music artists come here to play as well, but for these events you'll have to grab your tickets before they sell out!
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Avalon
- 1735 North Vine Street
- Los Angeles, CA 90028
- +1 (323) 462-8900
- www.avalonhollywood.com
Formerly the Palace Theater, this club has a historic, antique architecture mixed with a modern flair. It used to be a place where world famous bands would play, including The Beatles, Prince, and The Rolling Stones. Now, it has transformed into a top-notch Hollywood nightclub that also hosts live events, such as Grammy parties, movie premier events, and concerts. Recently, Avalon has become a popular venue for electronic artists, with a few resident DJs, including Sasha and Erick Morillo, playing every week.
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Playhouse Hollywood
- 6506 Hollywood Boulevard
- Los Angeles, CA 90028
- +1 (323) 656-4800
- www.playhousenightclub.com
Voted #4 for the Best Nightclub in the world by Reuters International, this popular venue hosts some of the best parties in LA. Located in the heart of Hollywood, this 13,000 square foot venue tops it all off with stylish, contemporary architecture. Playhouse has been all the rage with the electronic music scene as well, with famous producers such as Tiesto, Chuckie, and Steve Angello taking the stage multiple times a week.
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Myhouse
- 7080 Hollywood Boulevard
- Los Angeles, CA 90028
- +1 (323) 960-3300
- www.myhousehollywood.com
Designed by world-renowned designer Dodd Mitchell, this 10,000 square foot venue is built like a luxurious home, with three rooms, an outdoor patio with a fireplace and jacuzzi. Dress to impress, because the doorman might slow you down if you're not looking your best. Want to experience the ultimate house party? Then visit Myhouse.
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The Sayers Club
- 1645 Wilcox Avenue
- Los Angeles, CA 90028
- +1 (323) 871-8233
- www.sbe.com/thesayersclub
For a more intimate feel, you can head over to The Sayers Club, which is a mix between a cozy and glamourous venue. Unlike a lot of other clubs in LA, this club spins old school hip hop, which may be a refreshing change. Since there is no sign to this club, you need to be in-the-know in the LA club scene, or go with someone who is a local. Drinks are known to be delicious as well - they might be on the pricey side, but totally worth it.
Explore
Los Angeles is the largest city in California, and there is never a shortage of things to do. From beaches to museums, this sprawling urban area has it all. With so many things to see and explore, you'll want to come back to this city for more.
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Venice Beach
- Venice Beach, CA
- www.venicebeach.com
Your visit to Los Angeles or Southern California in general wouldn't be complete if you didn't visit the beach. A vibrant and fun place, Venice beach is the center for the creative and artistic, and a hub for entertainment. Along the world famous boardwalk, you'll see street performers and artists entertaining the crowd, with numerous restaurants and vendors for your enjoyment. Hang out on the beach under the California sun, chill out at the skatepark, or people-watch on the boardwalk for a day of never-ending fun.
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Grauman's Chinese Theater
- 6925 Hollywood Boulevard
- Los Angeles, CA 90028
- +1 (323) 461-3331
- www.chinesetheatres.com
Home of the red carpet, this theater has hosted over thousands of world-class movie premiers. The hand and footprints of renowned celebrities are immortalized in the forecourt of the theater, where you will see hundreds of tourists snapping photos on any given day. Along Hollywood Boulevard, you can check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which consists of over 2400 brass stars embedded in the sidewalks of the road. Kodak Theater, home of the Oscars, circuses, and top-notch performances, is right next door, in the Hollywood & Highland center. Don't forget to check out the souvenir shops spotted along the boulevard as well, so you can purchase some fun souvenirs to remember your celebrity-filled visit.
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Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
- 5905 Wilshire Boulevard
- Los Angeles, CA 90036
- +1 (323) 857-6010
- www.lacma.org
The largest art museum in the western United States, this seven-building complex hosts a permanent collection, special exhibitions, installations, and sculptures from all over the world. Ranging from Japanese prints, African sculptures, to modern photography, this museum has it all. The light post sculpture outside, a signature feature of the LACMA, offers an amazing backdrop for pictures. They also host free concerts when it's warmer, to make your visit that much better. Whatever you do, you're in for a serious treat.
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Getty Center
- 1200 Getty Center Drive
- Los Angeles, CA 90049
- +1 (310) 440-7300
- www.getty.edu
Visit this museum to see an unparalleled collection of European and American art, and special exhibitions unique to this museum. Make sure to check out the Central Garden, a beautiful space that displays trees and flowers in a unique design, and a maze of azaleas floating in the pool. The central arrival plaza also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles. With a unique architecture, special art exhibitions, and stunning gardens, you won't regret your trip here. Another plus- it's free!
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Griffith Observatory
- 2800 East Observatory Avenue
- Los Angeles, CA 90027
- +1 (213) 473-0800
- www.griffithobs.org
If you like science and are into astronomy and anything space-related, this observatory will have you smiling. They house a state-of-the-art planetarium with one of the most advanced star projectors in the world, which offers a detailed view of the star-filled sky. Advanced telescopes are also a feature of the observatory, which are free to the public for a view of the moon and planets on a clear night sky. Come here to learn more about the cosmic world and enjoy the cool features inside and out.
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Universal Studios
- 100 Universal City Plaza
- Universal City, CA 91608
- +1 (818) 622-3801
- www.universalstudioshollywood.com
Visit this movie studio-theme park, where some of the oldest and most famous Hollywood movies have been filmed. Go behind the scenes on the Studio Tour to discover where Hollywood movies are shot, ride The Simpsons virtual roller coaster, and enter a dangerous dinosaur world on Jurassic Park: The Ride. Learn the secrets behind movies at the special effects stage, then end your day at the Universal CityWalk, where you can stroll through the numerous stores and restaurants. Don't doubt this one - you are going to have a blast here at the "The Entertainment Capital of LA".
At-a-Glance
Location:
Los Angeles Historic State Park, Los Angeles,Dates:
August 3-4, 2012Price Points:
2-Day Pass $109Website:
www.hardfest.com
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