By Heather Broeker
Sunny days and warm nights,
beaches and neon lights all create an atmosphere that makes
Los Angeles a great vacation destination. Grab a rental car, preferably a convertible, and take a tour of some of the city's famous sights.
Hollywood and NoHo
You might not ever make it onto the silver screen, but you can still get a taste of the lime-light in Hollywood. Up your chances of a star-sighting on a Beverly Hills trolley tour. It is a 40 minute ride starting on Rodeo Drive that introduces you to the art, architecture and gossip of the most famous neighborhood in America. You may get lucky enough to see your favorite starlet sipping a latte outside a café. Finish off your day by cruising up Beachwood Drive for the best view of the Hollywood sign.
Outdoor Life
Griffith Park, just north of Hollywood offers two 18-hole golf courses and two smaller courses which cater to a range of skill levels. Or take a swing at the driving range if you don't like to chase balls. The park also offers 53 miles of trails for hikers and horseback riders, getting you far away from the city without going very far. If that's not enough adventure, Six Flags Magic Mountain has over fifteen roller coasters and a host of other attractions just half an hour outside of the city.
A Taste of History
If you're looking for a little bit more culture, explore some of California's pre-gold-rush history at the San Fernando Mission Rey de Espana, which was founded in 1797 as a layover for Spanish missionaries traveling down the San Fernando Valley. Then travel even further back in time with a visit to the La Brea Tar Pits. Statues of native prehistoric creatures demonstrate the dangers that this geological oddity posed to prey and predators alike. The area is one of the richest and most varied fossil deposits in the world.
Resources
About the Author:
Originally from North Carolina, Heather Broeker studied journalism and advertising at the University of North Carolina. After graduation she moved to Los Angeles, where she worked for Fox Searchlight, Fox Reality and later as a writer and marketing director. Broeker now lives in Los Angeles and runs Head Over Heels, a writing and public relations company.
