This month’s destination: The Westside

The February 2025 Critical Mass ride in Los Angeles was a fantastic event, attracting thousands of participants despite the chilly weather.

Initially, the plan was to cycle the iconic Marina Del Rey Ballona Creek to the Del Rey Lagoon Park for our mid-break, but cold and foggy conditions during pre-rides made this route impractical. Pre-rides play a crucial role in ensuring safety and feasibility, as they allow us to consider the needs of first-time riders, families with children, and the overall safety of all participants. Ultimately, the community’s enthusiasm shone through, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and safety in planning future rides.

LACM HQ: Koreatown Start

This month’s Los Angeles Critical Mass kicked off smoothly at the iconic intersection of Wilshire Blvd and Western. Volunteers from 306 Cycling and Burnt Flatz were present, contributing to the high energy and positive vibes as our volunteers prepared for the ride while participants gathered in anticipation of the 7:29 PM start time. This month’s ride began uniquely, with Lisa arriving at the corner of Wilshire and Western to address the crowd. She outlined the ride rules, discussed the route, and presented our liability disclaimer. Additionally, we kindly reminded our BMX riders to refrain from doing wheelies among the crowds of mass participants, as this could pose a danger to our fellow participants.

Wilshire Blvd Miracle Mile

As we departed Koreatown, we found ourselves on Wilshire Blvd, cycling through the historic central areas of Los Angeles and passing through the vibrant Miracle Mile.

Los Angeles’ Miracle Mile is a vibrant stretch along Wilshire Boulevard, renowned for its rich cultural offerings and historical significance. This iconic area is home to a diverse array of museums, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the La Brea Tar Pits, making it a hub for art and history enthusiasts. The boulevard is lined with striking architecture, featuring a mix of Art Deco and modern designs, which adds to its charm. Miracle Mile also boasts an eclectic selection of dining options, shops, and entertainment venues, attracting both locals and tourists alike. With its bustling atmosphere and cultural landmarks, Miracle Mile serves as a dynamic center for exploration and enjoyment in the heart of Los Angeles.

Every time we ride through Miracle Mile at night with thousands, the smiles on our participants’ faces radiate high-energy vibes, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and friendship. Riding on Wilshire Blvd is always an exciting experience—there’s never a dull moment!

Fairfax: Lil Ethiopia

From Wilshire Blvd, we turned left onto Fairfax to visit and cycle through Little Ethiopia. Los Angeles Critical Mass journeys through historic neighborhoods in L.A. and nearby cities, allowing thousands of participants to explore and briefly stop at iconic landmarks while capturing photos and enjoying the ride. As we continued down Fairfax towards Venice Blvd, we had the chance to tour Little Ethiopia before heading to historic downtown Culver City.

Los Angeles’ Little Ethiopia is a vibrant neighborhood that celebrates Ethiopian culture and cuisine, located along Fairfax Avenue. This bustling area is known for its authentic Ethiopian restaurants, cafes, and shops, where visitors can savor traditional dishes like injera and doro wat, while enjoying the warm hospitality characteristic of Ethiopian culture. The streets are often alive with colorful murals and art that reflect the rich heritage of the community. Little Ethiopia also hosts various cultural events and festivals, showcasing music, dance, and art, making it a lively destination for both locals and tourists seeking to experience the unique flavors and traditions of Ethiopia in the heart of Los Angeles.

Downtown Culver City

Passing through historic downtown Culver City, our participants enjoyed the evening ride while Culver City P.D. met up with us to escort us to our mid-break at the Veterans Memorial Park.

L.A.P.D. had originally escorted us to Culver City from the Miracle Mile area.

Downtown Culver City is a vibrant hub that beautifully blends historic charm with modern attractions, making it an ideal pass through ride during this month’s Los Angeles Critical Mass. The area is renowned for its picturesque tree-lined streets and well-preserved architecture, which reflects its rich cinematic history as a former center of film production. Key attractions include the iconic Culver Hotel, a historic landmark that has hosted numerous celebrities, and the bustling Culver City Arts District, filled with galleries and studios showcasing local talent. The downtown area also features an array of dining options, from trendy cafes to gourmet restaurants, inviting riders to take a break and enjoy a meal. Additionally, the Culver City Walks program offers scenic walking paths that highlight public art installations and green spaces, enhancing the community’s appeal. As our participants rode through this lively district, they experienced the unique blend of culture, creativity, and community spirit that defines downtown Culver City.

Veterans Memorial Park Mid-Break

Veterans Memorial Park in Culver City served as a vibrant gathering spot during this month’s Los Angeles Critical Mass, where thousands of our attendees took a well-deserved break. This beautifully landscaped park is a tribute to those who have served in the military, featuring a serene atmosphere that encourages reflection and community engagement. The park is adorned with lush greenery, walking paths, and a variety of memorials that honor veterans, creating a peaceful environment for relaxation and camaraderie. The park’s central location made it an ideal rest stop, allowing participants to recharge while soaking in the surrounding beauty and engaging with fellow cyclists. With its combination of natural beauty and historical significance, Veterans Memorial Park provided a perfect backdrop for the camaraderie and spirit of this month’s Los Angeles Critical Mass.

Once our mid-break was done, we were headed to West Hollywood while passing through Beverly Hills.

West Hollywood

As we rode through West Hollywood along Melrose Avenue, participants were immersed in a dynamic atmosphere filled with an array of attractions. This iconic street is renowned for its eclectic mix of trendy restaurants, night clubs, boutiques, vibrant street art, and popular cafes, making it a hotspot for both locals and visitors at night. The colorful murals that adorn the buildings create a lively backdrop, perfect for those capturing Instagram-worthy moments. Notable landmarks include the historic Melrose Trading Post, a weekly flea market where unique vintage finds and artisanal goods abound, and the famed Sunset Strip, just a short ride away, known for its legendary music venues and nightlife. The area is also home to a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from gourmet dining to casual eateries, catering to all tastes. As our participants passed through this bustling neighborhood, they experienced the evening energy and creativity that define West Hollywood, making it a memorable part of this month’s Los Angeles Critical Mass ride.

Back to Koreatown

End of the Ride: Los Angeles Critical Mass

From Melrose, we cruised down La Brea to the iconic Wilshire Blvd, making our way back to headquarters. We covered over 20 miles, journeying from Koreatown to Culver City, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, and back to Koreatown. This month’s ride saw many first-timers and families with children putting in impressive miles.

Acknowledging Our Support Team

Our volunteers, ride marshals, and support vehicles play a crucial role in the success of our monthly rides. Their dedication and hard work ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Thank you for your invaluable contributions!