Your Ultimate Guide to the 2024 Los Angeles Angels Home Opener: Where to Stay, Eat, Drink, and Have Fun in LA

On April 5, 2024, the Los Angeles Angels will host the Boston Red Sox in their home opener at Angel Stadium in Anaheim. Whether you're a local or traveling to LA, this guide will help you make the most of your experience by staying near the coast or downtown and trekking to the game. From the best places to stay and eat to top spots for drinks and fun, here’s everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

Where to Stay: Coastal and Downtown LA

For a true LA experience, consider staying near the coast or downtown and making the trek to Angel Stadium.

1. Shutters on the Beach
   • Location: Santa Monica, right on the beach.
   • Vibe: Luxury with a relaxed coastal vibe.
   • Why Stay Here? If you want to combine your baseball trip with a quintessential LA beach experience, Shutters on the Beach offers luxury accommodations with stunning ocean views, just a scenic drive away from the stadium.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles
   • Location: Downtown LA, near LA Live.
   • Vibe: Modern luxury in the heart of the city.
   • Why Stay Here? Situated in the vibrant downtown area, The Ritz-Carlton provides easy access to the city’s best attractions and nightlife, making it a perfect base for exploring LA and heading to the game.
3. The Viceroy Santa Monica
   • Location: Santa Monica, close to the beach.
   • Vibe: Chic and modern with a laid-back vibe.
   • Why Stay Here? With its stylish design and proximity to the beach, The Viceroy Santa Monica offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, allowing you to enjoy the best of LA before trekking to the game.

Best Places to Eat Near the Coast and Downtown

Start your game day with a meal at one of these top restaurants near the coast or downtown LA.

1. Gjelina
   • Cuisine: Contemporary American with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
   • Must-Try Dish: The wood-fired pizzas—crispy, flavorful, and a local favorite.
   • Why Eat Here? Located in Venice, Gjelina is known for its trendy atmosphere and delicious, locally-sourced dishes, making it a great spot to fuel up before heading to the game.
2. Bestia
   • Cuisine: Italian-inspired with a modern twist.
   • Must-Try Dish: The bone marrow with spinach gnocchetti—rich and indulgent.
   • Why Eat Here? Situated in the Arts District of downtown LA, Bestia is a hot spot for foodies, offering a creative menu in a lively setting.
3. Blue Plate Oysterette
   • Cuisine: Fresh seafood with a coastal flair.
   • Must-Try Dish: The lobster roll—packed with tender, juicy lobster.
   • Why Eat Here? Located in Santa Monica, this seafood restaurant is perfect for a pre-game meal by the beach, offering fresh dishes and ocean views.

Best Sports Bars for Angels Fans

Experience the LA energy by visiting these popular sports bars before or after the game.

1. Brennans
   • Atmosphere: Casual with a beachy vibe.
   • Best Drink: A cold craft beer or a classic cocktail.
   • Why Drink Here? Located in Marina del Rey, Brennans is a local favorite known for its laid-back atmosphere and spacious outdoor patio, making it an ideal spot for a pre-game drink.
2. Yard House – LA Live
   • Atmosphere: High-energy with a huge selection of beers on tap.
   • Best Drink: A refreshing local craft beer.
   • Why Drink Here? Situated in the heart of downtown LA, Yard House is a great place to catch up on sports highlights and enjoy a wide variety of drinks before making the trek to Anaheim.
3. The Victorian
   • Atmosphere: Historic charm with a lively crowd.
   • Best Drink: A signature cocktail or a glass of wine.
   • Why Drink Here? Located in Santa Monica, The Victorian is a unique spot housed in a beautiful Victorian mansion, offering a vibrant setting for fans to gather before heading to the game.

Must-See Attractions in Los Angeles

Enhance your visit to LA with these top attractions before or after the game.

1. Santa Monica Pier
   • What It Is: An iconic LA landmark with an amusement park, aquarium, and dining.
   • Why Visit? Enjoy the classic LA beach vibe with a visit to the Santa Monica Pier, where you can take in ocean views, enjoy a ride on the Ferris wheel, or grab a bite to eat before heading to the game.
2. Griffith Observatory and Park
   • What It Is: A famous observatory with stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.
   • Why Visit? Explore the exhibits, take in breathtaking views of LA, and hike one of the many trails in Griffith Park for a quintessential LA experience.
3. The Getty Center
   • What It Is: A world-renowned art museum with impressive architecture and gardens.
   • Why Visit? Spend a morning exploring the art collections and gardens at The Getty Center, enjoying the serene atmosphere before the excitement of the game.

Final Tips for Visiting Fans

Arrive Early: Traffic in LA can be unpredictable, especially when traveling from the coast or downtown to Anaheim. Plan to leave early to ensure you arrive on time.

Public Transportation: Consider using the Metro or rideshare services to avoid parking hassles at Angel Stadium.

Dress Comfortably: LA weather in April is usually mild, but it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket for the evening game.

Visiting Los Angeles for the Angels’ home opener offers the perfect blend of baseball excitement and LA’s vibrant city life. Whether you're staying by the coast or downtown, your trip will be filled with amazing food, great drinks, and unforgettable experiences. So grab your Angels gear, secure your tickets, and get ready to enjoy an epic Opening Day in Los Angeles!