'70s Fans Will Be In Pure Paradise At This Quirky California Bar
The 1970s were an inarguably iconic time in the history of the United States, and the counterculture movement left lasting imprints on American fashion, art, and music. Throughout the 1960s and '70s, the City of Angels became a hub for artists, musicians, and political activists. During a trip to Southern California, you can walk in the footsteps of '70s-era legends like The Doors, Joni Mitchell, Frank Zappa, Fleetwood Mac, Neil Young, and so many more. There's no better place to soak up the vintage vibes of the 1970s than Los Angeles, California.
Throughout the bustling city of LA, you'll see some excellent examples of 1970s architecture among the modern construction, and you can visit iconic spots throughout the city where some of your favorite musicians, artists, and actors left their mark. From Hollywood to Laurel Canyon, the city is a dream come true for lovers of the '70s. If you really want to feel as though you've stepped back in time to the grooviest era of them all, head to Good Times at Davey Wayne's in Hollywood. Wear your best vintage attire, and head to this speakeasy-like spot to boogie the night away.
Chillin' at the pad
To enter Good Times at Davey Wayne's, you'll first have to find the secretive entrance on El Centro Avenue. Among what appears to be a garage sale full of vintage treasures, a refrigerator door opens into a groovy living room right out of the 1970s, where you can enjoy creative cocktails and boozy snow cones while immersing yourself in the retro decor. If you only have one day in Los Angeles, put this unique bar on your list.
Instead of a traditional bar, you'll be chilling on comfy couches surrounded by old vinyl, and walls covered with photos clipped from 1970s magazines. You'll often be able to catch live entertainment, like vinyl-spinning DJ sets, dance performances, and bands playing blues or classic rock. Snag creative and classic cocktails from the bar and hang out inside, or head out back to the patio where you can order tiki drinks from an Airstream trailer along with tasty BBQ bites.
Twin brothers Mark and Jonnie Houston are well-known around LA for their other excellent and immersive enterprises and have firmly cemented their place in the city's thriving nightlife scene. They created Good Times at Davey Wayne's in honor of their late father, David Wayne Houston. But leave the athleisure at home. The dress code at Good Times at Davey Wayne's is "California casual," and shorts and sandals are not permitted after dark. Besides, it's the perfect excuse to dress up in your finest '70s-inspired fit for a nostalgic night of fun.
Keep the good times rollin'
After visiting Good Times at Davey Wayne's, you might be inspired to immerse yourself further into the 1970s history and aesthetics. Luckily, Los Angeles is the perfect place for a vintage-inspired vacation. LA has fantastic vintage shopping, so score some flower-power fashion while you're in town. Check out American Vintage, Decades, Arcade, and the Melrose Trading Post flea market for some of the best finds.
Head to Venice Beach, which has maintained a cool retro vibe. It's one of the most filmed beaches in the United States and inspired musical geniuses like Jim Morrison of The Doors. Don't miss the massive mural of the musician painted by the LA artist Rip Cronk.
Whisky a Go Go is a quintessential LA nightclub on the Sunset Strip that has existed since the 1960s. Some of the world's most famous bands have graced the stage, including icons like Jefferson Airplane, Jimi Hendrix, The Who, and Led Zeppelin. It's still an epic place to catch a live show, so check out the calendar to see who is playing during your trip.
Laurel Canyon was the place many of the best '70s-era musicians and artists called home. You can tour the neighborhood with Laurel Canyon Tours, where local guides will point out the homes that once belonged to members of The Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, The Beatles, The Doors, and more. And of course, don't forget to check out the best views of the iconic Hollywood sign.