Los Angeles
Los Angeles

Los Angeles Attractions - Los Angeles Parks

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.
Pacific Park Los Angeles

Pacific Park

Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401; Tel: 310.260.8744
This old-school amusement park is small but its spectacular location on the Santa Monica Pier along the ocean makes it worth a visit. There's a rickety roller coaster and a slew of arcade games, and the park's perch allows it to feature what may the best view in Los Angeles—from the top of its tall Ferris Wheel riders can see up and down the beautiful Pacific Coast. Tip: For those wanting great lunch or dinner, the recently refurbished The Lobster at the top of the pier has great seafood.

Griffith Park

4730 Crystal Springs Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027; Tel: 214.913.4688
Covering more than 4000 acres, L.A.'s biggest park makes NYC's Central Park look like a median strip. The park features two golf courses, pony rides, a train museum and the stunning L.A. Griffith Observatory (which is currently closed for renovation). It's great to get lost in this green oasis in the gray land lined with freeways.