Did you know that Los Angeles, California welcomed more than 50 million visitors in 2019 alone? LA is famous for having tons of things to do for anyone and everyone that visits. One of the must-visit areas of the greater LA area that you’ll need to check out during your next visit is Koreatown Los Angeles.
When you’re ready to start trip planning for your next vacation, it’s a good idea to visit Koreatown as it offers some of the best food anywhere in the United States. Beyond the food, there are tons of fun and memorable things to do in Koreatown for the entire family to enjoy.
Luckily, you’re in the right place to learn from a helpful Koreatown guide. Keep reading this article to plan your next trip to Koreatown today!
1. Korean Pavilion Garden
One of the best places to check out when you arrive in Koreatown, Los Angeles is the Korean Pavilion Garden. Southern California is home to a massive Asian population, and this location provides a quiet and relaxing setting for reflection and introspection for those that visit. You can find this garden on Normandie Avenue in the heart of Koreatown.
You’ll find no shortage of relaxing places to sit that are out of the sun. It’s best to avoid visiting the Korean Pavilion Garden if you have young children with you. This area is well-known for its relaxing atmosphere and children could take away from that aspect for others.
2. Koreatown Plaza
Another great place to visit when you’re trip planning for Los Angeles is the Koreatown Plaza. It features multiple floors that are filled with shops that you can explore, and you can find it at the corner of West 9th Street and South Oxford Avenue. You can’t go wrong with a trip to this shopping mall with the family, and it is a sure way to explore your family to a new culture.
This shopping center is filled with stores ranging from Korean health stores to home decor and beyond. You can even find a rare, international handbag or clothing store that is perfect for your style.
Add the food court into the equation and you can see why it’s a place that every person visiting Koreatown, Los Angeles needs to stop by and check out. It’s also wise to visit these cheesesteaks locations if you’re visiting from the East Coast and you need flavors from home.
3. Park’s BBQ
One of the biggest things that stands out about the things to do in Koreatown is the food in Koreatown. Park’s BBQ is one of the staples of Koreatown since it first opened its doors in 2003. You’ll find no shortage of Korean pop stars, A-List celebrities, and big-time athletes dining at this delicious restaurant.
The Korean dietary staples are all available at this establishment, though the most popular options tend to be the dumplings and the kimchee. It’s also a restaurant that allows you to grill your own meats for a more hands-on experience. Open your mind and your palette to a new type of cuisine when you visit Koreatown.
4. Anko
No trip to Koreatown is complete without a stop at Anko. Anko offers one of Korea’s favorite dessert treats in the form of shaved ice, which hits the spot when paired with the summer heat that the Los Angeles area is known for. Think of it as similar to Italian ice but with more exotic and tasty ingredients added in.
If you’re looking for a more traditional Korean experience then it’s worth a stop at Anko just to take in the atmosphere. You can also get cold coffee and an assortment of baked goods when you stop in, making it great for all crowds. If you’re having health issues then you can also purchase tonics that will help you purge your system of toxins.
5. Korean Culture Center
Korean culture is fascinating, and your visit to Koreatown, Los Angeles is the perfect setting to learn more about Korea and its people. You don’t need to visit karaoke bars and famous Korean BBQ restaurants. It’s a one-stop shop that offers a museum, a library, and an area to exhibit Korean art.
You’ll get to enjoy tours with locals that have extensive knowledge of Korea, Koreatown, and the people that have called it home. They’re a great resource for gaining knowledge and access to other areas in Koreatown that you should explore during your trip.
6. Soop Sok Karaoke
Karaoke is a major part of Korean culture, and it’s the perfect chance for the singer in your family to show off their voice and have some fun during your Los Angeles vacation. Soop Sok is the number one place to check out if you plan on going to a karaoke bar while you’re in Koreatown.
They have dozens of private rooms for karaoke with your friends and family. There is also an extensive catalog of songs that you can sing once you’ve added some liquid courage to your system.
7. Hyesung Noodle House
Korea is famous for delicious noodles, so it’s a good idea to visit Hyesung Noodle House if you want a true taste of Korean cuisine. Many native Koreans flock to this establishment to enjoy an authentic taste of food from home. If you want to open your palate up to Korean flavors then it’s best to try kalguksoo.
This soup with noodles in it can come with your choice of chicken or anchovies. These ingredients combine with minced veggies and scallions for a wonderful ride for your taste buds.
Plan Your Trip to Koreatown, Los Angeles Today
If your work or your vacations take you to Southern California then you owe it to yourself to plan a stop in Koreatown, Los Angeles. Make sure that you set aside time to try out the food in Koreatown, and don’t get stage fright when you get a chance to sing at Soop Sok Karaoke. The Korean Culture Center is another key stop if you want to learn more about Korean culture.
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