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The WashedUp Journal

Stories, guides, and insights for social connection in Los Angeles.

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The Loneliness Epidemic in LA: What the Data Says
Making Friends

The Loneliness Epidemic in LA: What the Data Says

Liz Bridges ·

LA has 13 million people and one of the worst loneliness problems in America. Here's what the research shows and what actually helps.

Why Making Friends in LA Is So Hard
Making Friends

Why Making Friends in LA Is So Hard

Liz Bridges ·

You moved to Los Angeles expecting a social life. Instead you got traffic and canceled plans. Here's why, and what actually works.

15 Best Things to Do in LA This Weekend
Things to Do

15 Best Things to Do in LA This Weekend

Liz Bridges ·

Rooftop movie nights, hidden trails, free museums, and more. The best LA weekend plans that are way better when you bring people.

Going to Concerts Alone in LA: A Complete Guide
Things to Do

Going to Concerts Alone in LA: A Complete Guide

Liz Bridges ·

Solo concert tips for every LA venue, from the Greek to the Roxy. Plus how to find people to go with so you don't have to go alone.

Meetup vs Bumble BFF vs WashedUp: Honest Comparison
Making Friends

Meetup vs Bumble BFF vs WashedUp: Honest Comparison

Liz Bridges ·

Three apps, three approaches to making friends in LA. Here's what each one does well, where they fall short, and which fits you.

Best Beaches in LA for Groups: 2026 Guide
Things to Do

Best Beaches in LA for Groups: 2026 Guide

Liz Bridges ·

Planning a beach day with friends? Here are LA's best group beaches ranked by vibe, parking, food, and things to actually do.

The Best Social Apps in Los Angeles: 2026 Honest Review
Making Friends

The Best Social Apps in Los Angeles: 2026 Honest Review

Liz Bridges ·

Honest 2026 comparison of every social app in Los Angeles. WashedUp, Meetup, Bumble BFF, Timeleft, and more ranked by what actually works for meeting people in LA. No sponsored picks.

Free Museums in LA: Complete 2026 Guide
Things to Do

Free Museums in LA: Complete 2026 Guide

Liz Bridges ·

Every free museum in Los Angeles. Which ones are always free, which have free days, and which are best for a group outing.

10 Best Hiking Groups in LA for Meeting People
Things to Do

10 Best Hiking Groups in LA for Meeting People

Liz Bridges ·

Sierra Club, Meetup trail groups, app-based matching, and more. The best ways to find hiking partners in Los Angeles right now.

Things to Do Alone in LA (+ How to Find People)
Things to Do

Things to Do Alone in LA (+ How to Find People)

Liz Bridges ·

The best solo activities in Los Angeles, and how to turn any of them into a group plan when you're ready for company.

Best Neighborhoods in LA for a Day Out with Friends (Local's Guide)
LA Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods in LA for a Day Out with Friends (Local's Guide)

Liz Bridges ·

Not sure where to spend the day with friends in LA? Here are the best walkable neighborhoods for a group outing — from Silver Lake to DTLA.

Explore LA With Our Local Guides

Beaches, hikes, neighborhoods, landmarks, and more — our local guides to the best of Los Angeles.

Browse All Guides →