By Vivian Wong and Candice Nguyen
Voices Staff
From the “World’s Greatest Wino” to the best hot dogs in town, Los Angeles has plenty to offer visitors, with crazy characters, iconic grub and lively landmarks.
Tourists and locals flock to Venice Beach for its easygoing atmosphere. Located on the west side of the city, the strip is known for its sandy beaches, carnival-like atmosphere and boutique shops like Botox on the Beach.
“Venice Beach is the place. It’s the people. The people make the place,” says C. Bobby Brown, a street performer.
Across town, you can get a great lunch for cheap, but be prepared to wait in line. Regarded as L.A.’s most famous hot dog stand, Pink’s is enjoyed by locals, tourists and celebrities since 1939. The average price for a footlong is less than $5. Everyone loves a good deal.
Long-time Pink’s fan, Lloyd [ED: customer didn't want last name printed], says, “The line’s always around the corner.”
Sidewalk traffic from a constant flow of tourists keeps Hollywood Boulevard buzzing, even during the hottest of days. Outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, the stars on the ground are just as worshipped as the celebrities they represent. Tourists stop to pose by their favorite famous figure, either in star or wax form. At Madame Tussauds wax museum, visitors can put their arm around Samuel L. Jackson or air kiss Marilyn Monroe. Don’t worry. Here, they don’t melt away.
