Fun Places to Go in LA

Perched high in the hills of the Santa Monica Mountains in West LA, the Getty Museum is known the world over. Visitors enjoy a magnificent view of LA as they ride the tram from the parking garage to the museum grounds. The architecture of the buildings is modernistic with high ceilings and long windows. Natural lighting is plentiful in the museums five gallery pavilions. Fountains bubble along the sides of the buildings, manicured lawns and gardens. Guests can enjoy a panoramic view of LA as they walk from building to building. Onsite cafés are available when you are hungry. The Getty offers a variety of lectures, performances and family activities throughout the year that are open to the public. Located off the 405 freeway, admission is free. Parking is all you pay for.
(www.getty.edu)

With a variety of TV shows based in the L.A. area, there are numerous opportunities for you to see a live taping. Be a contestant on the "Price is Right." Sit in the audience as Dr. Phil gives advice. Laugh at the taping of "The Tonight Show." "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?" Find out while you are in L.A. Be a contestant on "Jeopardy." Lifetime memories will be made while you sit in these studios.

Located near Griffith Park in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, the L.A. Zoo is known for both its animals and its AAM (American Association of Museums) accredited Botanical Gardens. The 7,000-plus plants in the collection serve to both beautify the zoo as well as feed some of the animals. The zoo is home to the Winnick Family Children's Zoo. Here children can pet and play with domesticated llamas, sheep, and goats. The Children's Zoo amphitheater and animal nursery serve as an educational tool for children. The Zoo also houses the Neil Papiano Play Park. Serving all children, including those who have disabilities, it has animal structures and other play structures available for entertainment. This park also has a picnic area.

Witness the artistry and beauty of the Tournament of Roses Parade. Held on January 1, this parade features floats that are intricately decorated with flowers. Celebrated for more than a century this parade is a fixture of L.A. culture. Every New Years Day, millions of people from around the world watch this event from the sidelines of the parade route and TV. Arrive early to watch this parade. Some claim their spot along the parade route the day before and camp to make sure they retain their spot. The parade starts at 8 a.m. local time. Grandstand tickets can be purchased at: http://www.tournamentofroses.com/events/tickets_parade.asp

Located off of the 101 freeway, Universal Studios is both entertaining and educational. Enjoy the thrill of plunging into water with the Jurassic Park ride. Enter an Egyptian tomb during the Revenge of the Mummy Ride. Have a close encounter with a great white shark while you are on the Studio Tour. Observe a demonstration of special effects. Watch animal actors perform for you. When you get Universal Studios VIP pass, you will allowed onto sets of movies currently in production. This pass will also let you go to the front of the lines for the rides in the park.
After your day at Universal, spend some time in Universal Citywalk. Situated between the parking lot and Universal Studios, this bustling area has a variety of entertainment options. Diverse dining options are yours with eating establishments such as Wolfgang Puck L.A. Bistro, Pizza Hut and Starbucks available. After you have eaten, shop for shoes or stop by one of the many clothing store. Watch a movie at the AMC movie theater. Learn how to salsa dance at the Rumba Room. Hang out at the Hard Rock Café. Universal Citywalk is a great place to relax.

Become a child again as you are awed by Disney's Parade of Dreams. Be amazed by the fireworks in the evening. Enjoy the 3-D experience of Honey, I Shrunk the Audience. Look for hidden Mickey Mouse's while you stand in line at the Haunted Mansion. Take a picture with Snow White. You can learn more about Disney through private tours which give you a unique view of Disneyland. "Discover the Magic" as you and your friends become detectives for two hours. Learn more about Walt Disney and what drove him in the "A Walk in Walt's Footsteps" tour. Disneyland has something for all ages.