Silver Lake, Los Angeles: Avoiding the Broken Hipster and Finding Your Bliss (Maybe)
Ah, Silver Lake. Land of ironic mustaches, bespoke succulents, and brunch lines that would make your grandma clutch her pearls. But fear not, weary traveler! There's more to this hipster haven than just overpriced avocado toast (although, let's be real, that toast is pretty darn good).
Nature is Calling (Unless it's Too Hot, Then It's Yelling)
First things first: gotta get that #vitaminsea. Silver Lake Reservoir is your golden ticket. Walk, jog, rollerblade (if you're feeling particularly adventurous and accident-prone) around the 2.25-mile loop. Just be sure to dodge the brooding writer wrestling with their screenplay and the guy in yoga pants practicing his downward-facing existential dread. Pro tip: Stock up on caffeine at Lamill Coffee beforehand. That first sip overlooking the glistening reservoir will make you feel like a whole new you (until the existential dread kicks in).
Channel Your Inner Thrill-Seeker (Without Actually Doing Anything Thrilling)
Feeling a teensy bit adventurous? Hike up the Silver Lake Stairs! It's not Everest, but those never-ending steps will get your heart rate up and those calves burning. Reward yourself with a craft beer at Sunset Junction (because what else is there to do after exercise but drink?).
Retail Therapy: Because Retail Therapy Solves Everything (Except Your Empty Bank Account)
Sunset Junction is also ground zero for shopping. Hit up Mohawk General Store for that perfect boho chic outfit, or browse the racks at The Odells for vintage finds that won't break the bank (or your soul). And for the mixologists in the making, Bar Keeper is your one-stop shop for all things fancy barware.
Nightlife: Where Hipsters Go to Extinguish Their Existential Dread (with Alcohol)
The Silverlake Lounge and Zebulon are your go-to spots for catching some live music. Indie rock, punk, the occasional existential kazoo solo – you never know what you're gonna get. Just be prepared to fight your way through a throng of people with ironic band tees and ironic detachment.
Fueling Your Silver Lake Adventure (Because Food is Life)
Let's face it, all this exploring is bound to work up an appetite. Grab a delicious (and reasonably priced!) burger at the Window or indulge in some upscale Italian fare at Alimento. Vegetarians and vegans fear not, there are plenty of options for you too! Check out vegan hotspot Sage Vegan Bistro or grab a healthy (and Instagrammable) salad at Cafe Tropical.
The Final Word: Embrace the Weird
Silver Lake is a melting pot of quirky characters and offbeat charm. So ditch the expectations, embrace the weirdness, and who knows, you might just have a truly unforgettable experience (or at least a decent brunch photo for your Instagram).
