LA Dreaming Podcast: Recent Episodes
Michelle Ares
Are you looking for things to do in Los Angeles? This podcast is meant for locals as well as those visiting LA. We will cover all things to Los Angeles to help you get the most out of your time in the city.
Bullocks Wilshire was once one of the most premiere and luxurious shopping experiences in Los Angeles. It was frequented by Hollywood Stars like Clark Gable and Mae West while also serving as a filming location for movies like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. In the early 90’s the store sadly closed but the building itself was taken over by Southwestern Law School. For this episode, we are joined by archivist Sara Halpert who shares incredible stories about Bullocks Wilshire. Sara also shares how you can step inside this special place.
You can sign up for the Friends of Bullock’s Wilshire mailing list to get information on events. If you have any memories or photos you would like to share with Sara about Bullocks Wilshire you can email her at shalpert@swlaw.edu.
The Santa Monica Pier is a beloved place in Los Angeles County. Visitors from all around the world come to this special place every day as it continues to be a fun and unique place to have some fun by the beach. For this episode, we are joined by Jim Harris the Executive Director of the Santa Monica Pier. Jim shares some fascinating stories and history behind the pier with us. For more information on what we discussed in this episode, you can visit the Santa Monica Pier’s website here and read the book America’s Last Great Pleasure Pier.
For more information on things to do at the Santa Monica Pier check out our blog post on ladreaming.com.
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram and TikTok.
The Griffith Observatory is one of the most iconic places to visit in Los Angeles. This beautiful museum is free, fun, educational, and the views of the sky and LA are fantastic. The observatory also hosts free events like public star parties. Joining us this episode is Alana
from “Periodic Adventures”, as we highlight some of the best things to see inside and outside of the observatory. We also share tips for other things to do in the area to incorporate into your visit.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit:
You can follow our guest Alana through her blog, Instagram and TikTok.
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram and TikTok.
Have you visited the painted stairs in Silver Lake? You can visit on your own, or if you want to be immersed in the stories and history of Silver Lake you can take a tour of the painted stairs with Chris from “See LA in a Day”. In our conversation with Chris we talk about the Micheltorena Stairs, Stair Tempo, the Swan Steps, as well as other stairs in Los Angeles worth checking out.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit:
https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/the-painted-stairs-in-silver-lake/
You can follow our guest Chris on Instagram @seelainaday and head to seelainaday.com.
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram.
Do you know about some of the amazing things you can get with your LA Public Library? In this episode I speak with Mayuko and Cisco from LA Library Adventures on Instagram. They visited all 73 branches in the LAPL system. We talk about some of the branches, resources like the California Library State Parks pass and so many other things you can get through our public libraries.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit:https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/use-california-state-parks-library-pass-at-over-200-locations/
You can follow our guests on Instagram @la_library_adventures
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram & Tiktok.
The Turner Classic Movies Film Festival takes place every April in Hollywood, California. For this episode we are joined by Jack Fields who is a classic movie enthusiast that has attended this festival every year since it began in 2010. Jack shares information about the TCM Classic Film Festival and what the experience is like. We discuss festival passes, how to get standby tickets, what venues are used and so much more. At the end we also share places near Hollywood that class movie fans might like to check out.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/a-helpful-guide-to-the-tcm-film-festival-in-hollywood/
You can follow our guest Jack on Instagram and Youtube.
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram & Tiktok.
Have you ever wondered what it's like to be in the audience of a TV show taping? Join me as I speak with my friend and TV fan TeArra Hardiman about what it's like to go to talk shows, game shows and sitcom tapings in Los Angeles.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/movies-tv/the-ultimate-list-of-tv-show-tapings-in-la/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram & Tiktok.
We are discussing 7 Landmarks in Los Angeles County that you can visit on a day trip. We are joined by Andy, the project manager of The SoCal Landmarks project. The SoCal Landmarks project was started a few years ago and has introduced many people to some spectacular places. In our conversation we talk about Wayfarers Chapel, Point Fermin Lighthouse, the Korean Bell of Friendship, The USS Iowa, Sunken City, the Warner Grand Theatre, and Fort MacArthur. Andy also shares wonderful resources and suggestions for how people can become involved in preserving landmarks.
For more information about the landmarks please visit the website for The SoCal Landmarks Project and connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/visiting-landmarks-in-los-angeles-county/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram & Tiktok.
We are discussing filming locations in LA from the movie "Valentine's Day" with Becca from The Film Tripper. Valentine’s Day uses so many real places that you can visit in Los Angeles as filming locations. We discuss locations like the Venice Canals, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Lake Hollywood Park, and more.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode visit: https://ladreaming.com/movies-tv/valentines-day-movie-filming-locations-in-los-angeles/
Our guest Becca has a blog: TheFilmTripper, Instagram and TikTok where she shares about filming locations.
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram & Tiktok.
We discuss Food Halls and Food Markets in Los Angeles with Kris from Get Lost With Kris on Instagram. Food brings people together and these locations that we focus on are providing places that are great to experience with family and friends. We speak about classics like the Original Farmers Market and Grand Central Market, both of which are beloved by locals. Other locations we discuss are Citizen Public Market, BLVD MRKT, the Anaheim Packing District, 4th Street Market, and the Riverside Food Lab. We also give a few shout outs to other locations that we did not have more time to focus on. If you are a foodie we hope this episode will be extra enjoyable for you.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/a-guide-to-food-halls-and-food-markets-in-los-angeles/
You can follow our guest Kris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getlostwithkris/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming
This episode is we focus on real places in Los Angeles that inspired Disney California Adventure Park. Our guest is travel blogger Lindsey, from "Adventures in Lindseyland", who has written a lot about Disney-inspired travel and even had a series on Disney in LA. This conversation is bound to teach you something new and hopefully encourage you to seek out new places to discover and explore at both DCA and the city of LA.
For more information on what we discussed in this show please visit: https://ladreaming.com/disney/real-places-in-la-that-inspired-disney-california-adventure-park/
You can follow our guest Lindsey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adventuresinlindseyland_/
Visit Lindsey's blog: https://adventuresinlindseyland.com/
You can connect with our host Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
Interested in staying up to date with LA Dreaming? You can join our newsletter: https://ladreaming.com/la-dreaming-email-list-sign-up/
The SoCal Haunt List is a guide to help you discover yard displays, walk-throughs, paid attractions, and haunted shows in Southern California. We talked with Derek, the creator of the SoCal Haunt List, to find out more about the Halloween Scene in LA and beyond.
You can visit the SoCal Haunt List website here: https://socalhauntlist.com/
You can also connect with them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socalhauntlist/
Follow LA Dreaming on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
For more information on Halloween activities in LA please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/spooktacular-halloween-events-los-angeles-locals-should-do/
In this episode we discuss pop-ups in LA with Lena. Pop-up experiences are popular events that take place throughout the LA area. Sometimes pop-ups are immersive experiences based on a popular TV show or movie; other times they highlight a celebrity chef or a musician. We also share all of the various ways that we learn about these types of events.
You can follow our guest Lena on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lenazilla/ You can find more information on places we talked about here https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/your-essential-guide-to-los-angles-pop-up-events/ You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
The D23 EXPO is a convention that takes place every two years in Anaheim, California. The ultimate fan event is three days long, though you can choose to only go one day. We talk with Mindy, a Disney Blogger, about what to expect as a first-time attendee. This conversation is helpful for those planning on going to the upcoming expo, or wanting to attend one in the future.
You can find Mindy’s D23 Guide here: https://thisfairytalelife.com/d23expo/
You can find Mindy on Instagram (@fairytalemindy) here: https://www.instagram.com/fairytalemindy/
You can find information about D23 on LA Dreaming here: https://ladreaming.com/disney/disneys-d23-expo-tips-for-a-magical-first-experience/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram (@la.dreaming) here: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
We discuss hiking trails in Los Angeles with journalist Ellie Rudy. Los Angeles County has so many different hiking trails for people of all skill levels. For this conversation, we focus on seven different areas where you can enjoy a walk or hike including the Angeles National Forest, Malibu Creek State Park, and Mount Baldy. Our goal is to encourage you to go out and explore our beautiful trails.
You can read Ellie's article on 10 Best Hikes in LA for LA Magazine here: https://www.lamag.com/citythinkblog/10-best-hikes-in-los-angeles/
You can follow Ellie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweatygirl_3000/
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please head to: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/hiking-trails-in-los-angeles-worth-checking-out/
You can follow LA Dreaming on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
In-N-Out Burger is a beloved California-based fast food chain. Enjoying a burger & fries at In-N-Out is a must-do whether you are local or visiting LA for the first time. In this episode, with my Dad, we discuss the history of In-N-Out, and how you can visit the replica of the original location as well as the company store. We share some of the coolest locations you can visit as well as some tips to make your experience even more enjoyable. Our goal was to share a few things that even big fans might not know.
For more information on what we discussed in today's show please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/this-in-n-out-museum-is-a-must-see-for-california-foodies/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram: @la.dreaming
We discuss old Hollywood inspired spots in Los Angeles with Lara Scott from K-EARTH 101.
While there are so many different places that you check out to experience old Hollywood glamour, we focus on five locations that will help transport you back in time. Three of the locations we discuss have all hosted the Academy Awards (The Hollywood Roosevelt, The Pantages Theatre, and The Millennium Biltmore Hotel). We also discuss the LA Central Library and the Old Town Music Hall in El Segundo. Join us as we share what makes these places special.
For more information on what we discussed in the episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/experience-old-hollywood-glamour-at-these-los-angeles-locations/
You can listen to our guest, Lara, on-air at: https://www.audacy.com/kearth101/listen#recently-played
You can follow Lara on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larascottmedia/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
We discuss beach bonfires in Orange County with Heather from ThatOCGirl.com. Did you know that while LA County only has two beaches where you can enjoy a bonfire, the OC has more than 8 beaches for you to choose from? If you don't want to spend all day saving a fire pit, Heather shares tips for the ultimate VIP experience.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/enjoy-beach-bonfires-in-orange-county/
You can follow our guest Heather on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/itsthatocgirl/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
We discuss the iconic Hollywood Bowl with Bonnie Mink. In addition to being the summer home for the LA Philharmonic, you can enjoy concerts, movie screenings with the orchestra playing along, as well as fun events like "The Sound of Music" sing-along. Since the bowl is considered a public park, you can also come here to work out on Saturday mornings. For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/hollywood-bowl-tips-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-visit/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
We discuss hidden gems in Orange County with Rey. There are so many cool places to visit in the O.C., but in this conversation, we strive to share with you some places that will hopefully make your next adventure even more epic. We mention places in Brea, Huntington Beach, Newport, Irvine, Anaheim, and more! For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/hidden-gems-in-orange-county-that-are-worth-checking-out/
You can follow our guest Rey on Instagram at: @exploreytion
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram at: @la.dreaming
There are so many different ways that you can see movies for free in LA. In this episode, we discuss the different ways that you can see movies for free with Elliott Ares. We share how you can attend test screenings of upcoming movies, FYC events, movie premieres, and more. If you enjoy seeing movies be sure to listen to our very first podcast episode where we discuss the outdoor movie screenings in LA.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/how-to-go-to-the-movies-for-free-in-los-angeles/
If you would like to learn how to you can attend movie premieres & other events with cast & crew members visit https://ladreaming.gumroad.com/l/TSFOY
You can follow Michelle on Instagram @la.dreaming
We are talking to Erin from TheSoCalGal about things to do in Venice Beach and Santa Monica. You can easily spend an entire day exploring this fun area.
For more information about what we talked about in today's episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/things-to-do-in-venice-beach-and-santa-monica/
You can follow Erin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocalgal_/
Visit Erin's site: https://thesocalgal.com/links/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
Finding secret swings has become a favorite adventure for so many. In this conversation with Brenda, we share swings in the LA area as well as several outside of LA County. We hope this inspires you to get out and explore.
For more information on secret swings please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/a-helpful-guide-to-secret-swings-in-los-angeles/
You can follow our guest Brenda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brenda.in.wanderlust/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
We talk about a favorite annual event, PaleyFest, with Shelby Parker. PaleyFest is an experience that gives fans an up-close and personal behind-the-scenes look at numerous TV series. This is a great way to see the stars of one of your favorite shows.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit: https://ladreaming.com/movies-tv/3-reasons-to-attend-paleyfest/
Get the eBook The Ultimate Guide on How to Meet Celebrities in LA
You can follow our guest Shelby on Instagram: @shelbyparker_creative
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram: @la.dreaming
In this episode we discuss fun things to do in LA with kids, with blogger Christina Patricio. From El Capitan Theatre to LEGOLAND, we cover 10 places that you and your family are bound to enjoy.
For more information on the places we discussed in the episode, as well as other ideas of things to do in LA with kids please visit: https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/fun-things-to-do-in-la-with-kids/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram: @la.dreaming
You can follow our guest Christina on Instagram: @christina.patricio Blog: ThePatricios.com FB: The Patricios Twitter: The Patricios Tik Tok: @Christina.Patricio YouTube: The Patricios Pinterest: @cmpatricio
We discuss must-see movie theaters in Los Angeles with classic film fan Jack Fields. From the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood to the Los Angeles Theatre in DTLA, we touch on some of the ways you can experience and explore our wonderful theaters. For more information about the theaters we discussed please visit https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/movie-theaters-in-la-that-are-worth-checking-out/.
You can follow Jack on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jack.fields.16/
You can follow Michelle https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
If you enjoyed this episode you might also enjoy our first episode about Outdoor Movies in LA.
We speak with Bruno Monteiro about our experiences being contestants on Wheel of Fortune.
For more information please visit https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/how-to-be-a-wheel-of-fortune-contestant/
You can follow Michelle on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
"The O.C." was an iconic teen drama series that aired on Fox from 2003 to 2007. While the story took place in Newport Beach, California, the show never filmed scenes there. We discussed the impact of the show, filming locations, fashion, and meeting cast members with my friend Esther Lane Montes.
You can follow Esther on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itsestherlane/
You can follow Michelle on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
For more information on what we discussed in the episode visit https://ladreaming.com/movies-tv/filming-locations-from-the-oc-that-fans-should-visit/
We discuss the best birthday freebies in LA with Jennifer Hubbard. From free tickets to the LA Kings, to free meals and desserts from multiple restaurants, this episode is a great resource for planning out your birthday week. You can follow our guest Jennifer on Instagram at @JenniferH92
For a list of Birthday Freebies in LA visit https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/the-best-birthday-freebies-in-los-angeles/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram at @LA.Dreaming
In Part 2 of our discussion of The Rose Parade we are joined by award-winning float designer Richard Burrow, with Bonnie Mink returning. It was such a joy to have Richard share how anyone can submit a float design for the Rose Parade and what the whole process is like.
For more info about the parade, visit this episode's guide at https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/how-to-see-rose-parade-in-pasadena/
Follow Michelle on Instagram at @LA.Dreaming
In this episode we talk with Bonnie Mink about the iconic Rose Parade in Pasadena, CA. We discuss the history of the parade, how to volunteer to work on a float, as well as what attending the parade is like. Be sure to come back for Part 2 where we talk to Richard Burrow, who has designed award-winning floats for the parade.
For more info about the parade, visit this episode's guide at https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/how-to-see-rose-parade-in-pasadena/
Follow Michelle on Instagram at @LA.Dreaming
I spoke with Caroline from LoveAndLoathingLA.com about where to see Christmas Lights in Los Angeles. We both have a passion for the holiday season and are so excited to share with you some of our favorite spots to have an extra magical experience. Los Angeles is a town that truly goes all out for the holiday season, which makes it difficult to fit it all in during one season. I hope this episode & guide will help you find a new way to explore LA this year.
Be sure to follow our guest on Instagram at @LoveandLoathingLA & on TikTok @LoveAndLoathingLA .
You can follow Michelle on Instagram at @LA.Dreaming
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/where-to-see-christmas-lights-in-los-angeles/
The best things to do for Christmas time in Los Angeles with Stefan from LifeHacks LA. We discuss fun and unique experiences that will keep you busy this holiday season.
You can follow Stefan on Instagram at @LifeHacksLA . Be sure to check out his LA Hackers Club as well as the Life Hacks LA podcast. Don't forget to also visit LifeHacksLA.com for more information about what to do in the Los Angeles area.
You can follow me on Instagram at @LA.Dreaming and can visit https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/things-to-do-for-christmas-in-los-angeles/ for more information on what we discussed on the podcast.
California is an incredibly beautiful and diverse state. Our national parks all offer something different which is why you should consider visiting them all. In the newest episode of the LA Dreaming Podcast, we discuss the beautiful 9 National Parks in California with Dawn from FlyingDawnMarie.com. Dawn and her husband have visited all the California National Parks and share the most incredible and helpful content through her blog and Instagram. I highly recommend following her. @FlyingDawnMarie
You can follow me on Instagram at @la.dreaming and can visit https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/discover-the-beautiful-9-national-parks-in-california/ for more information on what we discussed on the podcast.
The Disneyland College Program is a challenging, but magical experience. I participated in both the Walt Disney World College Program as well as the Disneyland one. In the newest episode of the LA Dreaming Podcast, I discuss my experience on the Disneyland College Program with my friend Caitlin Casillas.
For more information on what we discussed in this episode please visit https://ladreaming.com/disney/a-guide-to-the-disneyland-college-program/
You can follow Caitlin on Instagram: @TrueStoriesOfRealLife. Be sure to visit her website as well, CaitlinCasillas.com
Follow Michelle on Instagram at @LA.Dreaming
In this episode we discuss spooky things to do in LA with Ramsey Wild. There are so many different activities to do in the Los Angeles area that I wanted to focus on some unique and spooky experiences that you can have. For more information on what we discuss in this episode please visit https://ladreaming.com/guidetola/spooky-things-to-do-in-la-this-fall/
For Fun Things to do in LA be sure to follow Ramsey
Instagram: RamseyWild
TikTok: RamseyWild
You can find the host Michelle on Instagram @la.dreaming
This episode is all about Halloween in Los Angeles Theme Park Edition. There are so many different ways you can experience Halloween in LA. We are focusing on what makes the Halloween experiences at the theme parks unique. We speak with theme park extraordinaire Meghan about Oogie Boogie Bash, Halloween Horror Nights, Fright Fest, Knott's Scary Farm, Brick or Treat, and Howl-O-Scream.
At the end of the podcast, we talk about a few non-theme park Halloween experiences like Freeform's Halloween Road, The Los Angeles Haunted Hayride, a showing of Hocus Pocus that Meghan is hosting, and Street Food Cinema screenings.
For more information on what we discussed during the show please visit: ladreaming.com/halloween-in-los-angeles-theme-park-edition/
Follow the host Michelle on Instagram at: @la.dreaming
In the premiere episode of the LA Dreaming Podcast, we talk with Casey Hempel about outdoor movie screenings in Los Angeles. We discuss screening series like Street Food Cinema, Cinespia, Melrose Rooftop Theatre and so many more.
For more info about outdoor movie screenings in LA, check out the episode guide at https://ladreaming.com/movies-tv/the-ultimate-guide-to-outdoor-movies-in-la-podcast-episode/
You can follow our host Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la.dreaming/
You can follow our guest Casey Hempel at:
https://caseyjhempel.gumroad.com/
https://www.instagram.com/caseythefinalgirl/
https://www.instagram.com/caseythefitnessprincess/