Lonely Planet Los Angeles

I've lived in LA for nearly 5 years and let me tell you, I've never held in my hand one light weight book that covers so much. Even if you've lived here for years, you'll find photos of things you've never seen before! They know every historic home, mansion, gallery, you name it, it's in this book. DK (Dorling Kindersley) books are top notch especially when it comes to illustration, maps and photos. This guide doesn't disappoint whatsoever. The only minor issue is that because the size of the book is relatively small and compact, the images are likewise pretty small. I still wouldn't trade it for any other guide! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO GET LA IN YOUR FINGERTIPS, no website is going to jam this much information about LA in one place. Well worth the price and then some.

I've lived in LA for 5 years and the 1st edition of this book is how I truly got to discover this city. I own around a dozen LA guide books - some general, some specific to topics like food or architecture. If there ever was an all-in-one guide book for LA it tis he LP LA book. Far more detailed than the LA section of the LP California guide, it's full of maps, historical & architecure walking tours, restaurant recommendations, local history, and wacky places of the beaten path.My only complaint is that future additions weren't as user friendly as the 1st edition. This is basically due to switching from color pages (and color maps) to black and white. The initial "best" of LA list changed, as well. I gave away my new edition and just held onto my old worn copy from '99.

This book far outshines the competition. The authors really know their stuff and offer so much more insight than the other glossed-over guides. If you really want the straight dope and have all your stereotypes smashed about Hollywood and Los Angeles, this is the book to use. Great restaurant recommendations, too.

Well written, great maps, and excellent suggestions. This guide met every 'guide-need,' helped me appreciate LA and want to return asap.

When i got this book i immedeatly loved it, it is chock-full of info on L.A. and i whole-heartily reccomend it, ands there's some great color maps in the back.