One of the wonderful things about USC is that there are so many things on or just off campus that almost everything you need is conveniently located. Because of this, however, sometimes you have to make an effort to go out and explore LA. LA is such a large, diverse city that sometimes the thought of exploration can be daunting. Here are a few of my personal favorite places for when I don’t feel like being on campus all day.
Manhattan Beach
I personally think Manhattan Beach is the nicest beach in LA (though I do like Santa Monica). With lots of great stores and the amazing Manhattan Beach Creamery for your sweet tooth (and the most delicious ice cream sandwich you’ll ever taste), it’s a perfect place to relax, shop, play volleyball, and get some vitamin D to rejuvenate between classes.
Hollywood Sign
LA is located quite nicely for whatever you want to do: ski, beach, or hike. Though it’s not one of the most difficult hikes in the area, on a sunny day (which is most days) the Hollywood Sign hike is absolutely beautiful once you get to the top and a great group excursion.
Bricks and Scones
For the caffeine addicted (a group to which I’ve long been a member) the idyllic Bricks and Scones on Larchmont has not only amazing lattes but Nutella filled croissants. It’s a nice, quiet place to bring your laptop and work on an essay away from campus without being distracted by your surroundings.
Disneyland
And then of course, where else, but Disneyland, a convenient half an hour on the freeway south of campus.
