Do you like to shop?

That’s a rhetorical question to Angelinos, and others, of course. Yesterday, I went, I came, and I conquered in my search of the total Hollywood Walk of Fame experience, and I found more than I thought I would.

What did I find, curious minds are asking?

Truth be told, in the upcoming weeks I’ll be featuring all of the goodies I found during my foray; but for today I’d like to converse a bit about one of Los Angeles’ leading entertainment, shopping, and eating destinations:

The Hollywood & Highland Center

Home to the Kodak Theater, the Hollywood & Highland Center is a favorite shopping and eateries destination. With five stories of shops and food, including Planet Punk, American Eagle Outfitters, Victoria’s Secret, Baja California, Green Earth Café, and so many others, the Hollywood & Highland Center is uniquely Southern California, with its creamy pastel colors and hip aesthetic.

With that and the great art deco and modern architecture, how could you go wrong?

Upon entering, you’re greeted with

Following your own personal red carpet and walking up the stairs, your path leads you here.

Of course what good is shopping without eating Al fresco?

Let’s see, so far, you’ve done a little shopping and had some lunch, now what?

How about a little time to stop and smell the roses?

Just go to the top of the stairs to embrace the stunning view of the Hollywood Hills with the Hollywood sign as a backdrop.

Or maybe you’d like to walk around The Road to Hollywood?

And read a few of the funny “quotes” on the walkway

So far you’ve had a grand day, walking, shopping, and enjoying the gorgeous surroundings. Upon your departure, as you step onto the sidewalk toward the cross walk, suddenly, you stop and do a double take:

When Travelin’ Local in Hollywood, some of the locals may look like extras in a film, but we know that the Apes here don’t bite. And friendly too!

Here’s to a grand time and kudos to the developer and people that built the magnificent Hollywood & Highland Center—I could spend a whole lot of time and money there, but just being able to enjoy its sights, sounds, and some get-a-way time–truly seemed like a great vacation day in the middle of the day and city.

But for some serious eating and shopping, it can’t be beat!