If I am bringing an infant or very young child, do I need a ticket for them?
Children are most certainly welcome on the tour, and infants or young children under the age of 5 do not need tickets if they will not be participating in the tastings. Please let us know if you will be attending with an infant or young child at the time of booking.
Is time allotted for shopping during the tour?
There is so much to cover during the course of the tour that minimal time is allowed for shopping. You will be provided a printed guide at the beginning of the tour so you can easily return to your favorite stores to shop at the end of the tour.
How much food is served on the tour?
There are 10 stops for food tastings on the tour. Some of the tastes are bite size, and others are more ample. For most people, there is enough food that lunch afterwards is not necessary.
What types of food are served on the tour?
Tastes are both savory and sweet from a variety of establishments including ethnic eateries (Middle Eastern/French/Italian), a European grocery store, a doughnut shop, an artisan candy kitchen, a farm fresh produce stand and a handmade ice cream shop.
Please let us know if anyone in your group has a dietary restriction (i.e., vegetarian, nut allergy, etc.) at the time of booking. With enough advance notice, the tour guide can usually accommodate special requests.
Are there any beverages served on the tour?
Coffee is available at the first tasting, and water is served at some of the locations visited. You are advised to bring along your own bottle of water, especially if it is a warm day. There are also places to purchase water and drinking fountains along the tour route.
Is there any alcohol served on the tour?
There are no wine tastings or other alcoholic beverages included in the price of this tour. Beer and wine is served at locations in the Farmers Market, and may be purchased on your own if you so desire.
Are there restrooms on the tour?
Yes, several of the establishments including the Farmers Market have restrooms which you can use.
Is the tour wheelchair and/or stroller accessible?
The Original Farmers Market is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Should I give the guide a tip?
Tipping tour guides is customary in the industry, especially if you had a great time and wish to recognize the guide for a job well done. An $8-$12 tip per guest is appreciated.
Why would an L.A. local take this tour?
Unless you live in the immediate neighborhood of this tour, chances are good that you may not be familiar with what's new and different since your last visit (and change is an ongoing phenomenon in Los Angeles). Our guides think locals will find this food tasting tour to be a fun and novel alternative to the usual leisurely lunch, and locals just might find a few new favorite haunts along the way.
How far do we walk? Is it a fast-paced tour?
The tour through the Farmers Market covers less than 1/4 mile at a comfortable pace with ample places to sit down along the way. No stairs or inclines. Suitable for all ages.
Do we just walk around and sample food?
Not at all! Aside from sampling delicious food from a variety of stalls within the Farmers Market, you will also get an insider's look at what life in this particular neighborhood of Los Angeles is like. The tour is fully narrated by your guide who will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about the Market and surrounding area from its history to its residential character to its celebrity haunts and more.
What happens if it rains?
The tours are held rain or shine. While rain is a rare occurrence in southern California, it does rain occasionally. In instances of heavy rain or local flooding, you may be notified that the tour for that date and time is canceled, and you would be able to reschedule your tickets, receive credit for a future tour or receive Cloud 9 Living credit for another experience.
How should I dress?
Casual and comfortable is key. The Farmers Market is mostly under cover. You will be on your feet for a lot of the 2.5 hours during the tour, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.
