Los Angeles, California. It's one of the greatest geographic locations of the American Dream. Known for fast cars, mountain-side mansions and big dreams, people still flock to the city like it's 1849. Tourist guides will play up the beaches, the museums, the Beverly Hills mansion tours, and of course, everything on Hollywood Boulevard.

I thought this was all L.A. was about before I went there. It wasn't until three or four trips later that I was able to start seeing the city behind the scenes. I go to school in St. Augustine, FL, so I know all about tourist traps and how much fun they can be. However, it's the smaller, local charms that are more special. L.A. is this way, too.

I didn't take a break between graduating high school and starting college, so California was a great break for me. I had so much fun each time I went, and I wanted to share some of my favorite, maybe not-as-popular experiences that made Los Angeles such an exciting place for me.

Olvera Street

Olvera St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

This might be a place you've heard of, but you aren't sure what it's all about. It's basically an entire street and then some, lined with Mexican stores and restaurants. The stores are unique, and the people are wonderful. Be sure to bring plenty of cash with you for easy purchases. The music, the vibes, the colors!

The ArcLight

6360 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Tons of theaters in L.A., so how do you choose? I promise, it's really easy. You just go to the ArcLight. The one shown above is the Sunset Boulevard location.

I have two words for you: assigned seating. Oh, yes. You get to pick your seats and no one can take them from you. I don't want to spoil the inside of the theater for you, but trust me, it's delightful. And, if you need to kill some time or get dinner, Amoeba Music and Stella Barra (best pizza place, hands down) are right down the street.

Griffith Observatory

2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Like Olvera Street, you might have heard of the observatory but are doubtful of the quite literal hike it takes to get there. If I can navigate my way up the mountain in the dark, so can you! (Don't worry- my "hiking" and "navigating" were accomplished with a Honda Accord and my iPhone.) I do recommend going at night because the view of the city is awesome. Plus, they do special planetarium showings with discount tickets for students!

If you've never been to California but this place is looking really familiar, this might help.

The Terminator, 1984.

The Last Bookstore

453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

My absolute favorite place in Los Angeles. This bookstore has provided me with so much inspiration in my creative writing, and I've gotten nice copies of my favorite books from here as well. There are many things that make this store special, but I'll name a few.

1. Their story is not only unique, but also inspiring.

2. They have a book labyrinth. An actual labyrinth. I would set aside an least an hour or two for this part. There are all kinds of hidden things to explore!

3. The inside is gorgeous. The artwork is everywhere, and it's all beautiful. The art makes the store seem...alive. Think Night at the Museum.

The Last Bookstore is a great local store to go to. Before planning your trip, check their calendar for special events!

All in all, Los Angeles is a perfect city to visit. The best feeling is when you find a new place you've never heard of and get to explore it. I'm a Florida girl at heart, but escaping the humidity and the mosquitoes for a week or-so does the trick. Sure, there is sometimes palpable smog and some parts of Downtown Los Angeles don't smell ideal, but there is nothing like standing on top of a mountain overlooking the city. You can almost hear all the hopes and wishes floating up toward you. Los Angeles is for the dreamers. If you're one of them, you need to be there!