There is no single smell that defines Los Angeles. Certain scents are often linked to the bustling streets of downtown or the green banks of the Los Angeles River, while others are linked to the more secluded and quiet corners of places like Mount Washington or Bel-Air. The essence of the city subtly changes as you travel through it, and each location offers a different sensory experience that reflects the crowds of Los Angeles.
Our sense of smell is often overlooked, but it's the one thing that can bring back memories of a place faster than anything else. There's the rich, loamy aroma of the redwood forests, which feels like you're breathing nature itself. Or, if you've ever been to Ojai, you'll know the sweet, citrusy aroma of Pixie tangerines lingering in the air. And think about driving down the 5th: you'll smell like manure, whether you like it or not.
Los Angeles has its own smells, too, from taco stands to trips to the beach to jacaranda trees in late spring. We'd love to hear from you about your favorite (or least favorite) smells that remind you of Los Angeles. Fill out the form below and we may contact you with a future story.
