Note that the Farmer's Market area is really two things, the original Farmer's Market,  which is an outdoor eating and shopping area begun by farmers during the depression, and The Grove which is an open air, upscale mall.  Most people love one or the other, some even love both.  Note that the Farmers Market is across the street from CBS studios.

The original Farmers Market no longer has any actual farmers selling their produce, so it's not really a farmer's market.   Nevertheless, the Farmers Market is a gem where you can get some of the best food in town and do some of the best people watching in the country.  What makes the Farmers Market wonderful is that it's outdoors and it has the feel of a country bazaar -- in other words it has a street life, something lacking in many L.A. attractions.  The Market has a several "gift" stores selling tchochkes, clothing stores, etc.   More importantly, it has a wonderful assortment of food stands offering some of the most varied fare in town.  The owners of the Farmers Market wisely made the decision to keep the big chains out so what you get are local entrepreneurs who love food and prepare it well -- far better than all but the more expensive restaurants.   Because the food stores are is so varied, it's also a great place to come with kids since grownups and kids can find something to eat.  Live entertainment certain nights -- click here for details.

 The Grove, which adjoins the Farmers Market, is an upscale, outdoor Mall selling nothing that you can't get elsewhere.  It's an explicit attempt to create the atmosphere of a European town center in a shopping mall.  But don't be fooled, it's as American as apple pie and The Grove has a feel more like Disneyland than a real city, but therein lies its charm. 

Note that the top floors of The Grove parking lot have outstanding views of the Los Angeles area -- be sure to check out all four points of the compass