California

10 Great Activities in Los Angeles

    The city of Los Angeles, shimmering under the California sun, offers a great get-away for singles, couples, and even families.  However, with a population of nine million, bumper-to-bumper traffic, and sometimes atrocious air quality, the city of Los Angeles can interfere with  relaxation. But, with a few must visit places and some tips and tricks, people of all ages can enjoy experiences that rival New York, Paris, or Milan. 

1.  Disneyland   
    Growing up, when someone won a contest such as the Olympic gold or prom queen, they shouted “I’m going to Disneyland!” With millions of people flocking to Disneyland each year, this statement still rings true.  While Disneyland’s main attendance and audience is young children, adults of all ages can have a fantastic time.  In fact, Disneyland’s California Adventure Theme Park (which lies within the grounds,) offers much less kid-friendly Disney and much more thrill.  The Tower of Terror and the Paragliding Simulator both thoroughly excite adults. Bottom line, every boy and girl (no matter their age,) loves the world of magic and Disneyland.
Tip: Stay outside of the park grounds and save tons of money.  There are dozens of hotels, all within walking distance to the park’s entrance. Also, be sure to take advantage of Disney’s Fast Pass System.  This kiosk allows  you to print out a ticket for ride admission one and half hours in advance. By doing some good planning, you can return at the time printed on the ticket, skip the line, and have the ride of your life.   

The Famous Mad Hatter Teacup Ride!

 2. Knotts Berry Farm    This theme park offers much more of a thrilling adventure than its rival,  Disneyland.  At not much more than an hours drive from Disneyland, it is also a favorite for locals. With Snoopy as their mascot, the advertising also brings the crowds to this popular destination and its accompanying water park.   At Knotts Berry Farm, be ready for long lines for popular rides, such as the Silver Bullet.  Also be prepared to pay a forguen for any food or souvenirs, like their mouth watering caramel apples.  However, the old town atmosphere, classic rides, and scream inducing attractions are well worth their visit.
Tip: The in-ride-photos, while expensive, can sometimes be a good memento to keep.  These pictures also come in handy for those “first time on a roller coaster” experiences that you wish to document.   

Knotts Berry Farm's "Supreme Scream"

3.  Medieval  Times    
    Just a few blocks from  Knotts Berry Farm, Medieval Times truly transports you back to a world of chivalry and honor.  As diners eat roast quail, soup, and vegetables (all without silverware,) they also watch an interactive show that rivals Broadway.  Enjoy a night of dressage, jousting, swordplay, and falconry, all while being removed from the world of traffic and exhaust and into the world of ladies and gentlemen.
Tip: If your budget allows, upgrade to what they call “The Royalty Program.” For an extra twenty or so dollars a ticket, you can sit in the front two rows, receive a cheering banner and a souvenir program!

The knights are ready for battle!

   
4.  Pacific Coast Highway
    While meandering on this spectacular road, you can see where beach homeowner’s attention is focused.   Simple garage doors facing the road dwarf in comparison to the massive windows that face the beach.  Indeed, while driving along the PCH, as it is affectionately known, travelers can truly marvel in the beauty that is the Pacific Ocean.  One of the most famous roads other than Route 66, you must visit the Pacific Coast Highway. As a bonus, it is often a route that leads to another destination.
Tip: While it is beautiful to look to your right and out onto the ocean, looking to your left is equally as beautiful, with multi-million dollar homes facing the PCH in Malibu and other surrounding cities.  The architecture of this area is absolutely breathtaking.



 

The PCH! Where it's at!

5. Santa Monica Pier / Santa Monica Promenade
    The Santa Monica Pier is an often visited destination for Los Angeles visitors with its carnival games, Ferris Wheel, and fun atmosphere. While the Pier is a must visit, take even longer and also visit the Santa Monica Promenade. Street performers, stand up comedians, and dancers attract crowds in front of store fronts that could rival downtown Manhattan.  At the Santa Monica Promenade, the shopping is fantastic!
Tip: Visit both the Pier and the Promenade at dusk after some dinner.  The shops on the Promenade are usually open late and the lights of the Pier can be seen for miles. This stop is perfect for dates or a ladies night.

There's always something to see on the Promenade!

6.  Hollywood Walk of Fame
    If New York City is a concrete jungle, then Hollywood is a marble one.  With the famous stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and handprints at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre , both are  a must for those visiting Los Angeles.  Travelers usually meander the star lined streets, with street performers and late night entertainment similar to the Santa Monica Promenade. In addition, shopping for Hollywood themed souvenirs is great in this area.  Just don’t expect to get a good deal!
Tip:  While taking pictures with Captain Jack Sparrow or the Storm Trooper can be fun, expect them to wave their open palm at you in hope of some payment for their “services.” Often first time travelers see these look-alikes as a great photo opportunity, only to realize that these characters are trying to make money by dressing up and posing with tourists.
 

Storm Troopers are awesome, right?

7.  The Beach
    Everyone remembers their first time visiting the ocean, feeling the sand in-between your toes, the salty smell, and the  even saltier water.  California is a coastal state for a reason and its beaches are a great place to wind down after a long day, get a good jog in the morning, or just have fun playing in the sand.  The beach offers a plethora of opportunities through special events, great food, and fantastic shopping.   The beach is where it’s at!
Tip: If you’re not a surf bum,  still check out the great surfing spots! Even if it’s just to watch.  Sunrises and sunsets make for great pictures and picnics.   Plus,  you won’t bake and burn in the mid day sun. 

True Story!

8.  Los Angeles Zoo
    The Los Angeles Zoo houses 1200 animals and has been a staple of the greater part of Los Angeles since 1966.  Bring your camera and your walking shoes because the park  covers 133 acres.  Be prepared to see unique animals and everything from beetles to elephants!
Tip: The best times to visit the zoo are early morning or late afternoon, as the viewing spots are much less crowded. Also be aware of when and how to use flash photography, as the light can scare the animals.  Often, the Zoo is part of an attractions pass, a discounted ticket to lots of different venues.  Check out online passes before you visit and get a great deal to all of your destinations!

The palm trees make it all the more alluring!

9.  Hollywood Sign
    With iconic letters dotting the California skyline, the Hollywood sign is surely one of the most photographed location in Hollywood.  However, it is also important to note that this is not a full or even half-day activity.  Whether you are spotting stars at The Ivy or Chateau Marmont, shopping in Hollywood, or just enjoying the weather,  the Hollywood Sign is a short picture and voyage.  Try to coordinate the Hollywood Sign with other attractions in the area to make the most of your time.
Tip: The Hollywood Sign, while iconic, is hard to find.  Due to the elevation of the sign in comparison with the buildings, sometimes you need to hunt to find the perfect vantage point.  Ask your concierge or waiter for the best place to take a picture.  Everyone has a favorite vantage point!

H-O-L-L-Y-W-O-O-D spells happiness, right?

10.  Universal Studios / Studio City
    This attraction, in addition to being a theme park, is also a working studio lot and movie theatre.  Take a day, or two, to explore all this attraction has to offer as its possibilities are unlimited.  Take a tour of the studio, relax while getting a bite to eat, and enjoy the thrill of Universal Studios and Studio City.
Tip: Remember to bring a pen and paper.  You never know who you’ll see filming a segment at Jay Leno or The Ellen Show.  Being there at just the right time can easily turn into an awesome autograph or photo opportunity. 

Imagine if that ball was rolling down the sidewalk!