The Blog of Joy Bolger

The Blog of Joy Bolger

The Eastside Angle

The Eastside Angle

The Blog of Joy Bolger


Recent Posts

Oh, Silver Lake — sweet Silver Lake!

Oh, Silver Lake — sweet Silver Lake!

Oh, Silver Lake — sweet Silver Lake! Should we start with the “lake” itself? Silver Lake’s iconic reservoir is one of the most beloved spots in Los Angeles. It’s about two miles around — perfect for a jog, a leisurely walk, or a good gossip […]

Before Los Angeles had freeways or skyscrapers, there was Lincoln Heights

Before Los Angeles had freeways or skyscrapers, there was Lincoln Heights

Before Los Angeles had freeways or skyscrapers, there was Lincoln Heights — the city’s very first suburb. Originally known as East Los Angeles, this historic neighborhood sits just northeast of Downtown and has been part of L.A.’s story since the 1870s. It’s home to the […]

And What About Mount Washington?

And What About Mount Washington?

The Mount Washington Hotel, perched at the top of Mount Washington, was once a getaway for Hollywood starlets in the early 1900s. In 1925, the Self-Realization Fellowship purchased the property, drawn to what they described as its strong spiritual vibration — and you can absolutely […]

Oh Sweet Altadena

Oh Sweet Altadena

Last weekend, I went to dinner in Altadena at Betsy for the first time since the fires, and it was one of the most uplifting experiences I’ve had in a long time. The entire evening felt like a celebration of community—friends, neighbors, and families coming […]

There are so many wonderful pockets in Pasadena

There are so many wonderful pockets in Pasadena

There are so many wonderful pockets in Pasadena, but here are three of my favorites: Linda Vista, perched on the ridge above the Arroyo, is one of Pasadena’s most prestigious and peaceful neighborhoods. Its winding streets feature architect-designed homes, panoramic canyon views, and mature oaks […]

What’s Happening In Highland Park

What’s Happening In Highland Park

The first place I moved to on the Eastside from Studio City was Highland Park. We lived in a cute Craftsman home on Annan Way just off Figueroa. What originally drew me to the neighborhood was how cool it felt — and the fact that […]

Glassell Park Favorites

Glassell Park Favorites

Glassell Park is smack dab between Glendale, Eagle Rock, Mount Washington, and Frogtown—one of the easiest Northeast LA (NELA) spots to zoom across town. With quick access to the 2, 134, and 5 freeways, it’s convenient yet still feels tucked away. In the past few […]

Glendale is always a good choice—maybe even the safe one

Glendale is always a good choice—maybe even the safe one

Glendale is always a good choice—maybe even the safe one. If Los Angeles neighborhoods were dating profiles, Glendale’s the one you take home to mom and dad. Dependable, family-oriented, and always looking out for you. Sure, there are flashier, more “Instagram-famous” spots out there—but when […]

Los Feliz Neighborhood Update

Los Feliz Neighborhood Update

When I moved to Los Feliz in the ’90s, we were all still swing dancing — hitting The Dresden to watch Marty and Elayne, ordering Merlot at Bourgeois Pig, and smoking cigarettes outside Birds. I loved it then, and I love it now. The architecture […]

In The Heart Of Echo Park

In The Heart Of Echo Park

In the heart of Echo Park lies a beautiful lake where you can rent paddle boats, go for a jog, or enjoy a picnic while admiring the views of Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA). The architecture in Echo Park, much like its residents, is wonderfully eclectic.You’ll […]