Attractions in Los Angeles

While Los Angeles may seem like the typical metropolitan city, anyone who takes the time to look beyond the buildings and glittering lights will realize that some of natures most stunning vistas are woven into the streets and surrounding areas. The diversity in habitats, from beaches to wetlands to mountains, allows LA to be rich in greenery, and nature enthusiasts will love exploring the native flora from the thousands of hiking and biking trails. With the ocean to the west, Los Angeles is cradled mostly by the San Gabriel and Santa Monica Mountain ranges. The Santa Monica Mountains, which run from the Hollywood Hills to Ventura County, are known not only for their beautiful peaks and lush woodlands, but also for Mulholland Drive, the famous road that runs much of the length of them. At the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains is the largest municipal park in the US, Griffith Park.

The city is home to some spectacular stretches of green and asphalt that collectively form the parks that residents frequent on a daily basis. Los Angeles parks are the perfect place for a multitude of uses, including special outings, dog walking, exercise, light sporting events, and of course skating and rollerblading. Some of the city’s parks are specifically designated for use as dog parks or as primarily for children and/or seniors.

Whether you're the type to wear a lab coat on a daily basis or the type who knows way too many details about way too many movies, there's a museum for you in Los Angeles. As one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country, LA takes as much pride in its own history as it does the history of the world. From exhibits that depict the origins of life in phenomenal detail to unparalleled collections of artwork, each museum is as much a tour through history as it is a shrine to every culture. Ardent fans of the entertainment industry will love visiting the museums that specialize in collections of movie, television and music memorabilia, as well as the ability to see archived footage of some of the most popular moments on screen.

On the list of brilliant ideas throughout history, something has to be said for Walt Disney and his idea about how to stir up a sleepy little Anaheim orange grove. Since Disneyland opened its doors over 50 years ago and embedded itself into the hearts and dreams of millions of children everywhere, amusement parks of a similar nature have been built all around the world. While Disneyland still remains the nexus of California's theme parks, it is no longer the only, or most unique, option for amusement in Los Angeles. Many of LA's other theme parks offer tourists the chance to ride some of the fastest roller coasters ever built or to re-enact some of the most celebrated and thrilling movie moments. It doesn't matter who you are, where you come from or which amusement parks you choose, there's something undeniably intoxicating about the sensory adventure waiting on the other side of the entrance gates.

One of the best ways to truly appreciate the sunny state of California is to climb aboard a beautiful yacht and watch the stunning coastline sail by on a boat tour. Though this may not be the most common way to see the sights of any city, it is certainly one of the best; something about taking a cruise tour makes everyone feel like royalty. Day or night, the Mediterranean climate of southern California provides the ideal setting for dining and dancing on the Pacific Ocean. Champagne brunch cruises are perfect for anyone who wants to bask in the sun while enjoying a sweeping view of sandy beaches and world-famous coastal towns. As dusk approaches, sunset dinner cruises become gold mines for postcard pictures when the famous coastal towns are splashed in fiery hues of amber and rose.

Offering some of the best, unobstructed looks at the lives of every creature, Los Angeles live animal experiences are anything but limited. From furry critters with claws and paws to feathered friends who squawk, almost anyone can find their favorite member of the animal kingdom. The aquariums are fascinating places for young and old, featuring exciting exhibits designed to stimulate the mind as well as appeal to the eyes. Animal fans will find some of the best observing opportunities in the world at in the zoos around Los Angeles, which are varied enough to offer something for everyone. The world-renowned San Diego Zoo is massive and frequently packed with tourists, while the Los Angeles Zoo’s smaller animal population and quieter atmosphere makes it an ideal place to spend a relaxing afternoon with friends or family. The Orange County Zoo offers an incredibly affordable option for entertainment.