Nestled between Pasadena and Downtown Los Angeles, this vibrant neighborhood brims with history and personality. Long before it became a sought-after enclave, the area was home to the ancestors of the Chumash people, who established settlements here more than 13,000 years ago.

Like much of Los Angeles, Highland Park has undergone rapid transformation in recent years. Once a quiet and somewhat overlooked community, it has welcomed an influx of exceptional restaurants, independent shops, dispensaries, and creative spaces. This wave of revitalization has infused new energy into its streets while preserving the area’s historic charm.

One of Highland Park’s standout qualities is its pedestrian-friendly vibe. The neighborhood revolves around two bustling commercial corridors with a small town feel—Figueroa Street and York Boulevard—where you can slip into a hip listening bar for a drink or explore a local dispensary for your next favorite strain.

1 GREEN EARTH CO.

Highland Park’s premier dispensary carries top-shelf names like Almora Farm, Fresh Flower, Cannabiotix, and their exclusive in-house brand. GECollective.com

2 BOB BAKER MARIONETTE THEATER

This magical theater was founded in 1963 and is the oldest marionette company in LA. What other theater treats you to ice cream after the show? Top yours with some chocolate edibles from Green Earth Co. BobBakerMarionetteTheater.com

3 JOY

A popular neighborhood eatery drawing inspiration from Taiwan’s street food culture that comforts the soul, with cozy classics like noodle soups, dumplings, and scallion pancakes. Leave room for the Hakka mochi or shaved ice. JoyOnYork.com

4 THE POP-HOP

Cool bookseller with carefully selected classic and new titles, art editions, and zines, plus print workshops. Make sure to stop in nearby at Kumquat Coffee for a quick coffee break. ThePopHop.com

5 FIG TREES

Continue your urban exploration at this friendly neighborhood dispo, where tax is included in the listed price. Also serves as an art gallery featuring local artists. FigTreesLA.com

6 KITCHEN MOUSE CAFE

Vegetarian spot serving the community yummy, healthy comfort food in a cozy and easy going setting. Try their brunch—it’s great! KitchenMouseLA.com

7 TROPICAL JUICE LA

Colorful juice bar serving up smoothies, bionicos, and other healthy drinks out of a lively window counter. TropicalJuiceLA.com

8 SOFT HUMANS

A well-curated vintage shop for men and women’s clothing. They have the best selection of rare vintage t-shirts in town and play great music. IG:@softhumansshop

9 SNAKE OIL PROVISIONS

Men’s shop specializing in Japanese selvedge denim, Red Wing Heritage boots, and other premium garments for the casually understated, yet bespoke guy. SnakeOilProvisions.com

10 SUNBEAM VINTAGE

The mid-mod dream is alive at Sunbeam. Browse their selection of well-priced vintage furniture, lighting, and home goods. They also design and produce their own line of furniture. SunbeamVintage.com

11 DE LA PLAYA

The vibe is deep beachside, but poolside will do. This chill record shop showcases the best cumbia, salsa, merengue, bossa nova, samba, tropicalia, jazz, and Italo disco from around the globe and also hosts fun events. DeLaPlayaMusic.com

12 HIGHLAND PARK BOWL

Originally built in 1927, this historic bowling alley has been beautifully restored to its former glory. Enjoy craft cocktails and small bites on the lane at this lively destination. HighlandParkBowl.com

13 LODGE ROOM

Housed in a 1922 Masonic Lodge, this dynamic venue hosts concerts and other live performances. Check out Checker Hall, a beautiful Mediterranean-inspired bistro and bar upstairs. LodgeRoomHLP.com

14 GOOD HOUSEKEEPING

End the evening with a nightcap at this cozy bar and lounge. For the California sober, they feature a non-alcoholic cocktail menu. Happy hour every Sunday, 4-6 p.m. GoodHouseKeepingHLP.com