Meet Mark Van

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mark Van and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mark, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Sights L.A. was born from a vision to spotlight the local gems and iconic spots of the Crenshaw Leimert Experience that most tourists overlook. Our community has been the backdrop for legendary films, yet it’s the businesses here that bring the real story to life. As gentrification reshapes the area, I knew it was time to highlight the culture and energy that make this place one-of-a-kind. Sights L.A. is here to show that L.A. is so much more than beaches and Hollywood.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My Business Journey: Sights L.A.

I founded Sights L.A. because I wanted to showcase the authentic and often-overlooked gems of Los Angeles—beyond the beaches and Hollywood stereotypes. Our walking experiences celebrate the rich culture and history of areas in the Leimert Park Crenshaw District, featuring landmarks and stories that highlight the city’s vibrant essence.

What Sets Sights L.A. Apart

Sights L.A. stands out from other tours by offering an immersive, culturally rich experience that goes beyond the usual landmarks, embracing the heart and soul of Los Angeles. Our mission, “There’s more to L.A. than beaches and Hollywood,” drives us to highlight the city’s untold stories through exclusive murals of icons like Kobe Bryant, Gianna Bryant, and Nipsey Hussle, iconic filming locations like Insecure with Issa Rae, and pivotal moments like the Black Dahlia mystery. Guests enjoy food tastings from local eateries, unique shopping opportunities, and insights into historic jazz and hip-hop venues such as The World Stage and Mavericks Flat. What truly sets us apart is the personal touch—you meet the business owners and hear their stories, creating a connection to the community that’s as vibrant and unforgettable as Los Angeles itself.

Proud Moments

I’m most proud of turning a vision into reality. Seeing people walk away from our experiences with a deeper appreciation for Los Angeles fuels my passion. Collaborating with local businesses and artists has been equally fulfilling, as it supports the community while creating unforgettable moments for our guests.

The Road to Today

The journey hasn’t been easy. Starting Sights L.A. required balancing a tight budget, building partnerships, and promoting a fresh perspective in a saturated market. Every step has been a learning experience. When things got tough—like juggling business plans, videography, and building trust with partners—I focused on community support and consistency. For instance, collaborating with creative brands like Sole Folks opened doors for growth while giving back to the neighborhood.

Lessons Learned

-Be Clear About Your Vision: Know what you want and why you’re doing it.
-Invest in Relationships: Collaboration is key to success, whether it’s local businesses or influencers.
-Adapt and Innovate: Markets change, and staying relevant requires creative solutions.

What I Want the World to Know

Sights L.A. is about transformation—transforming perceptions of Los Angeles and bringing people closer to the heart of its communities. Our story is a testament to persistence, community pride, and believing in something bigger than yourself.

For anyone visiting or living in Los Angeles, know that this city has more to offer than meets the eye. Let us show you the parts of L.A. that make it extraordinary.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The Ultimate Week-Long Itinerary in Los Angeles

If my best friend came to visit, we’d have an unforgettable time exploring the city I love! L.A. is full of culture, history, amazing food, and unbeatable vibes. Here’s the week-long itinerary I’d plan, starting with a highlight: a Sights L.A. walking experience that shows them the heart of the city.

Day 1: Welcome to L.A.

Morning: Kick off with breakfast at Jacks for their incredible breakfast. It’s a mix of history and flavor.
Afternoon: A must-do Sights L.A. walking experience in the Crenshaw District and Leimert Park. We’d explore exclusive murals, sample local food, visit cultural landmarks, and hear the stories that make this area special.
Evening: Dinner at Dulan’s for authentic Soul Food great vibes.

Day 2: Beaches & Breezes

Morning: Head to Santa Monica Pier for some fun, then walk along the beach to Venice Beach Boardwalk. People-watching, local artists, and street food make this area a must-see.
Lunch: Grab tacos from Teddy’s Red Tacos—their birria is the real deal!
Afternoon: Rent bikes and cruise the beach path or shop for unique finds on Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
Evening: Drinks at The Bungalow for a laid-back, coastal vibe and stunning sunset views.

Day 3: Hollywood & Beyond

Morning: Breakfast at HomeState for Tex-Mex-inspired breakfast tacos.
Afternoon: Explore iconic movie locations, walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and hike up to the Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood sign.
Evening: Dinner at Musso & Frank Grill, an old-school Hollywood staple where stars have dined for decades.

Day 4: Downtown LA

Morning: Start the day at Grand Central Market for a variety of breakfast options (Eggslut is a favorite).
Afternoon: Explore The Broad Museum and the stunning Walt Disney Concert Hall. Wander through Little Tokyo for mochi treats and cultural shops.
Evening: Cocktails and dinner at Perch, a rooftop restaurant with incredible skyline views.

Day 5: Art & Soul

Morning: Head back to Leimert Park for a coffee at Hot & Cool Café and soak in the artistic vibes of this historic neighborhood.
Afternoon: Visit the California African American Museum (CAAM) and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).
Evening: Food and live music at The World Stage, a community gem for jazz and spoken word.

Day 6: Food Tour & Shopping

Morning: Breakfast at The Griddle Café for massive pancakes.
Afternoon: Go on a mini food tour through Koreatown for Korean BBQ (try Hae Jang Chon) and boba tea from Tiger Sugar. Then, shop at The Grove and the historic Original Farmers Market.
Evening: End the day with an unforgettable dinner at Bestia, a hip Italian spot known for its handmade pasta and inventive cocktails.

Day 7: Relax & Reflect

Morning: Brunch at Malibu Farm on the Malibu Pier, with stunning ocean views and fresh, farm-to-table dishes.
Afternoon: Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at El Matador Beach for dramatic cliffs and serene vibes.
Evening: Wrap up the trip with a sunset picnic at Griffith Park or a casual dinner at Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘n Waffles—because nothing says L.A. like a good soul food send-off.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Karon Kash @Wright Hands Management

We would like to express sincere gratitude to Karon Cash and his team for their time and support. Karon’s proactive approach, always focused on solutions and not just reacting to challenges, has been truly inspiring. His leadership and dedication set a strong example for moving forward, and Sights L.A. is excited about the opportunities ahead with contribution Karon and his team.

Thanks again
Mark
Sights L.A.

Website: www.SightsLA.com

Instagram: @SightsLA_

Yelp: Sights LA

Youtube: https://youtu.be/v_E-1CNbAqs?si=Dy5wkwUALN-C2Mzz