There is usually one thing that brings people to beautiful southern California, the weather. And with this wonderful weather also comes a great excuse to have shopping centers outside. There are three that fit the bill as being the best in Los Angeles, The 3rd Street Promenade, The Americana at Brand, and The Grove.
The 3rd Street Promenade
Near the Santa Monica Pier, you will find this long stretch of pedestrian only street known as the 3rd Street Promenade. There are tons of well known stores, a few movie theaters with the latest hits as well as the indie favorites, and many little eateries to satisfy any food enthusiast. And the best part about this great place is? It is just steps from the amazing Pacific Ocean!
There is a great gelato place that has some of the best selections in all of Southern California. And Monsoon is an amazing infusion of Asian dishes in a very Thailand, exotic setting. The cooks even make the food right in the center of this rather large dining hall. There are numerous parking garages along 4th Street that offer minimal fees, and possible street parking, although most will be metered and have strict signs. There is a lot down by the mall (the southern end of the Promenade) that offers 3 hours of free parking.
The Americana At Brand
The Americana at Brand is the newest of the outdoor mall craze and for that reason also the largest. Made by the same people as the Grove, it has an in-house movie theater, many, many stores, and also quite a few little eateries.
The high point of the Americana is the huge park like green area that lies in between this majestic shopping center. It is not uncommon to see locals lounging around with a book, or kids running around this great place. Definitely a great place for everyone.
There are even apartments built above all the stores to show that the creators are really going for a whole city within a city feel. The Americana At Brand is located in Glendale near the 5 and 134 freeway. Parking is available in a structure just on the side of the location for a fee, but for free parking, park in the Glendale Mall lot just a block or two away.
The Grove
For a day spent in a European village setting, the Grove will definitely have all you are looking for. Besides just a shopping center, they are also right next door to the famous Farmer’s Market where you can spend hours strolling around the various shops and picking up one of the best crepes in town.
The Grove has many shops and restaurants, has a very nice Pacific Theater, and a beautiful little grassy area near a large fountain that is perfect for lounging around in after a long day spent shopping. For a restful tour of the area, hop on the shiny green trolley for a fun ride.
For a great day and evening spent under the sun, the Grove really does get the top spot with most locals. It is very near Hollywood, always has something going on, and you may even spot a recognizable face or two.
Parking is available in a structure near the Grove, and is also available in a lot near the Farmer’s Market end. Both do require a fee.
Los Angeles with its outdoor flavor and amazing weather make a day spent out under the sun a perfect way to spend your time. Even if you do not enjoy shopping, you can always just walk around these top three outdoor malls in sunny Southern California.
