The Best Free Things to Do in Los Angeles

Anyone who has spent any real time in Los Angeles knows what "over the hill" means. In Los Angeles, this means going over the mountains between the Los Angeles Basin and the San Fernando Valley. Most people do this via the 405 freeway, that poster child of congested Southern California roadways. But what many do not know is that this range is part of the Santa Monica Mountains. This 40-mile range runs from the Hollywood Hills north, along the coast, where it ends at Point Magu, in Ventura County. Much of this mountain range has been designated a national recreation area and is completely free for locals and visitors alike to explore. Shout with joy while atop the Backbone Trail, a hiking trail that follows the ridge line of the range, offering stunning views along the way of the sea and interior. Horse back riding and mountain biking are also common pursuits here. Escape the lung burning smog of the lowlands for a short time and keep aware in case a bobcat or a mountain lion lopes by.

Los Angeles is blessed with numerous clean, beautiful beaches which cost absolutely nothing to enjoy. Unlike many east-coast beaches, which charge a fee before visitors even touch the sand, Los Angeles beaches ask nothing more than respect for the environs and awareness of individual safety.

Any of the beaches in the area will satiate the interested, but two in particular are worth mentioning. Venice beach is an odd little place that is often a curiosity to visitors. This area is known as a counter-culture magnet with all sorts of different folks strutting about, including punk rockers, muscle men pumping iron, street basketball games, ocean side gymnastics and surfers. Also, not surprisingly, there are canals in this area, hence the area's name.

Alternatively, try Santa Monica Beach, just north of Venice, which offers not only the sea but the Third Street Promenade. The Promenade is well known in the area for its excellent, largely organic farmer's market, heaps of restaurants and bars, and numerous street performers, including some excellent musicians.

There is no place like Hollywood. Not exactly glamorous, Hollywood Boulevard is more of a kitsch paradise with a few gems thrown here and there. One of these gems is the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Located off Vine Street and heading west towards La Brea Avenue, the walk of fame is a sidewalk that is a sort of performers' hall of fame. Big stars on the ground with names of the famous are walked on by every passerby. Some of them have shoe or hand prints as well. Try to resist the urge to lay a hand down in comparison. One star, that of Muhammad Ali, is actually located on the wall instead of the sidewalk as Mr. Ali requested he not be walked all over. Famous entertainers on the walk include Gene Autry, The Simpsons, Ingrid Bergman and Gregory Peck, whose original star was stolen and never recovered.