Host or Travel: LA Plays Itself in Ep. 3 of Our New Travel Series

Ah, Los Angeles! If you’re looking for saints, you’ve boarded the wrong plane. Episode 3 of Host or Travel shows LA is more than silicone and smog, so get ready for some serious stargazing.

Here’s a little recap: We hit Runyon Canyon, where we got our blood pumping dodging selfie sticks and eyeing down the best shirtless talent. Voyeurism and public? We’ll take the lot. Later, the Ginger Rogers surf crew showed us the true meaning of a "group hang," and the East Side gays taught us that even though Akbar is located in Silver Lake, going out there is the gold standard. 

Of course, no queer tour of LA would be complete without a pilgrimage to the Tom of Finland Foundation. Let's just say this Michelangelo of muscle men makes art that puts the Statue of David’s physique to shame. 

And while we two-stepped with the studs at LA’s infamous line dancing party Stud Country, we’re not ready to stop dancing. Feeling the same? You’re in luck. Check out these extra spots for your next LA fix.

LA Food

Casita del Campo — Forget Taco Bell, honey. Step into Casita Del Campo, a Silver Lake staple where queer Mexican food thrives amidst provocative art, "West Side Story" memorabilia, and a colorful atmosphere that's practically begging for stolen kisses and under-the-table antics. 

Bavel — If you manage to score a table at Bavel, consider yourself one of the lucky ones. This fine-dining heavyweight is throwing down some serious Middle Eastern magic in the kitchen. The slow-roasted lamb neck shawarma is the stuff of legends—one bite and you might just swear off all other meat for good.

Chateau Marmont — LA’s favorite den of opulence and sin, where the ghosts of Hollywood’s horny past roam the halls. Kick back in the Gothic-style dining room straight out of a vampire's wet dream, or go for a little al fresco hanky-panky in the lush garden terrace. At the Chateau, anything goes.

LA Nightlife

Hi Tops — Slip into something more comfortable at this gay sports bar where the only thing tighter than the uniforms is the sense of camaraderie. With cheap pitchers and a chance to score, there's no striking out. Can't decide between the West Side and the East Side? Hi Tops has a location in both parts of town, so you can have your balls, brews, and boys any way you like 'em.

The Eagle — Spread your wings. The Eagle’s nest is calling. If you're looking for a beastly night out, fly right into this iconic leather bar where LA's best bears and daddies show you how it's really done.

Ostbahnhof — Abandon all shame, ye who enter here. Ostbahnhof is the unholy lovechild of a grungy warehouse party and a kinky art show. Wall-to-wall flesh, sweat, and a thick fog of pheromones make this party an extreme sport for queers. Inhibition? Don't know her. Shirts? Optional.

Arts and Culture

Wi Spa — Enter the steamiest corner of K-Town, where getting clean takes on a whole new meaning. From the depths of the mugwort pool to the heights of the Himalayan salt sauna, this 24/7 spa paradise is a playground for those who like their relaxation hot, wet, and au naturel.

Griffith Observatory—High atop Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory stands tall, an art deco planetarium with science exhibits galore. Feeling starstruck? You're not alone. Even Orion's belt can't help but come undone at the sight of Griffith's three solar telescopes.

LA LGBT Center — For over 50 years, the Los Angeles LGBT Center has empowered queer Angelinos as the world's largest service-providing LGBTQ+ organization. The Center provides free HIV/STI testing, medical care, mental health services, housing support, cultural events,  legal aid, and more to tens of thousands annually. With ten vibrant locations across LA, the Center welcomes all to get involved, access services, or take a tour.

Runyon studs. Eagle daddies. Tom of Finland fantasies. LA, you’re a star. We're spent, but we'll be back for more.

Hasta la vista, baby. See you next week in Zipolite. 

Got more hot spots we missed? Head to our YouTube channel and drop your recs in the comments!