Atwater Village rests on a dime’s edge — it’s so small, you can basically blink on your way from Silver Lake to Glendale without noticing the neighborhood’s tree-lined streets, elegant architecture, unique businesses and mouthwatering eateries.
That’s why, to really get to know the charming 2-square-mile enclave, you’ll want to slow down. Wander along Edenhurst Avenue on the north side of town and spot a mix of Midcentury Modern, Craftsman and Spanish-style homes (the neighborhood has the highest number of homes built before 1939 in the city). Peek at the historic equestrian district, home to more than 500 horses. Take a ride on the Glendale Boulevard bike lane, which connects to the scenic L.A. River Bike Path. Admire California’s largest avocado tree.
Get to know Los Angeles through the places that bring it to life. From restaurants to shops to outdoor spaces, here’s what to discover now.
There’s a sense of creativity woven into the boulevards that run up and down Atwater, named after Harriet Atwater Paramore, a pioneering resident who grew poppies on the land. The Beastie Boys filmed their “Check Your Head” album in an Atwater Village studio dubbed G-Son Studios, and the late singer-songwriter Elliott Smith was known to frequent neighborhood bar the Roost. These days, you’ll find the energy of indie bookstores, vintage shops, restaurants with dog-friendly patios, legendary dive bars, a thriving arts scene and more on these blocks — a feel of the area’s neighborly vibes.
“Atwater is tightly knit,” says Wendi Weger, owner of the Curatorial Dept., a secondhand clothing shop on Glendale Boulevard. “We all know each other, and we’re all friendly.”
It all adds up to a quaint neighborhood, sheltered from the bustle of urban Los Angeles. Despite its small size, Atwater Village is packed with inspiring gems. Here’s where to find them.
What’s included in this guide
Anyone who’s lived in a major metropolis can tell you that neighborhoods are a tricky thing. They’re eternally malleable and evoke sociological questions around how we place our homes, our neighbors and our communities within a wider tapestry. In the name of neighborly generosity, we may include gems that linger outside of technical parameters. Instead of leaning into stark definitions, we hope to celebrate all of the places that make us love where we live.
Our journalists independently visited every spot recommended in this guide. We do not accept free meals or experiences. What L.A. neighborhood should we check out next? Send ideas to guides@latimes.com.
