Located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles sits historic Grand Park, a mecca for celebration and unity! Recently renovated to accommodate a diverse amount of events, it’s not only a wonderful site to see, it’s also a wonderful place to be! This park has been the home for numerous events such as Made in America, N.Y.E LA, and many more. Grand Park is located between City Hall and The Music Center, but is surrounded by many  ethnic communities such as Olvera Street, Chinatown and Little Tokyo (all are within walking distance). The park is open everyday from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Before visiting, we suggest reviewing the Event Calendar located at grandparkla.org. You never know what the city of Los Angeles may be offering the day you drop by!

Welcome to one of the world’s great cultural, research and educational centers! Located in Pasadena California, this is a nonprofit private institution that not only specializes in rare books and an extensive collection of manuscripts that not only touch upon American history, but British history as well. Their library is noted as the nation's most important centers of study! Their art collection is impressive as well, seperated into three distinct galleries along the Huntington grounds. The real treat, however is in the Botanical Gardens. It is an ever changing exhibition of color and constant delight! Make sure to explore their Desert Garden, Japanese Garden and Chinese Garden! Their Botanical Gardens really engage the senses, teaching children and adults how important botany is and how well it can engage your imagination. The grounds are open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the exception of Tuesday, for the grounds are closed on that day only. Visit www.huntington.org/hours/ for any other additional information you may require.

Descanso Gardens, located in La Canada Flintridge, a small thriving community in the Los Angeles County, is a 160 acre public garden. This is a unique garden, distinguished by its specialized botanic collections, historical significance and rare natural beauty. This garden strives to offer an experience for their guests that is unlike any other. The gardens are open everyday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the exception of December 25. Parking is always free and the general admission is only $9.00 (children under the age of 5 years old are always free). Visit www.descansogardens.org for any other additional information you may require.

A true testament to Los Angeles’ rich history! The Greystone Mansion located in Beverly Hills, California, is a prime example of the historic and timeless architecture that put Beverly Hills on the map as one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Visitors are encouraged to visit and explore the grounds surrounding the estate. The property is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but during the summer holiday, they remain open till 6:00 PM. This isn’t considered a huge tourist spot, in fact it’s quite a local gem! Relaxing here is very easy, and you will definitely be surprised by how much you will enjoy the views! It would be best to visit during the week (usually the estate is closed off because of weddings and other special events) parking and entry is always free for the public.

The Japanese Gardens, also noted as “The garden of water and fragrance” is an oasis that lies in the midst of the San Fernando Valley. A lush 6 ½ acre garden not only features one particular garden, but 3 in total! There is a zen meditation garden, featuring a tortoise habitat. Alongside that is a stone Buddha arrangement and a wisteria arbor across a Plover Path. This garden also includes a waterfall, lake and streams. All designed by Doctor Koichi Kawana, the Japanese Garden located in Van Nuys, California is a private and peaceful destination for all botany lovers! Admission is fairly cheap (only $5 for adults and children under 12 are always free). Consider this garden when traveling through Los Angeles if you’re looking for a little slice of paradise!

Go where the locals go! The recently revamped neighborhood of Echo Park is a hot spot amongst Los Angeles locals. The historic buildings that line the streets of Sunset Blvd and Alvarado St. remain standing in beautiful condition, however the surprise is in the evident love this neighborhood has for supporting local businesses! Local chefs, artists and musicians have revitalized this neighborhood, bringing back a different and new lifestyle to the streets. Come grab a drink with your friends, watch a show at the Echo and grab a slice of pizza at Two Boots afterwards! Parking is very easy: Lucille St and Sunset Blvd has paid parking lots during the day, but after 8 PM, parking is free! Street parking is always available as well. Come and take a chance, you never know what you might find!