Vintage locomotives and autocars are featured at The Nethercutt Museum, making it a haven for an automobile enthusiast. The founder J.B. Nethercutt began his collection in 1956, which was later transformed into a museum that could be enjoyed by the public. Apart from cars, this place also exhibits antique furniture and musical instruments. Though the museum can be visited without a guide, The Nethercutt Collection, located across the street, can only be perused through a guided tour.
This is where the Walt Disney Company has been working its magic since 1923. Relocated from its original studio at Silver Lake, the Burbank studio was established after the monumental success of the 1937 film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The international headquarters of this iconic company, this state-of-the-art facility offers its services in the fields of film production, music publishing, stage production, distribution, and marketing. The site spans over 51 acres (21 hectares) and features notable structures like the Michael D. Eisner Building, Disney Legends Plaza, and the Frank G. Wells Building, among others. There is also a provision at the Main Theater to showcase first-run Disney movies for special guests. A colossal landmark on 500 South Buena Vista Street, the studio is unfortunately not open to the public, but hoists gigantic head constructions of Mickey Mouse and the Seven Dwarves over its steep red-bricked walls for passers-by to savor.
One of the most noted places in the world, the Warner Brothers Studio has played home to some of the entertainment worlds most famous comedy and drama series. The studio has numerous sets for various scenes all of which have excellent facilities, props and sound and light systems. On location here are also craft and set shops where patrons can purchase memorabilia. There is a tour of the entire studio which takes guests on a journey into the entertainment world with guides who are well versed with the place.
This small theater in Burbank features intimate productions of high quality. The group has received praise from local drama critics and produces plays in all genres-musicals, comedy, and drama—classical and contemporary. Ray Bradbury, the science fiction writer, has a special affection for this theater. The Colony has mounted four Bradbury productions through the years, including three world premieres: The Martian Chronicles, Fahrenheit 451 and The World of Ray Bradbury.
Mission San Fernando Rey de Espana is an old mission that has been transformed into a museum that offers a unique look into the region's past. The original mission was founded on September 8, 1797 and has been meticulously restored to closely resemble the original structure plus a few modernizations. Visitors to the mission can tour the church, monastery, living quarters and even an archival center featuring preserved documents and records. Also be sure to check out the museum's theater, which offers short films pertaining to the mission's illustrious history.
One of the most renowned comedy clubs in the city, Flappers Comedy Club has hosted some of the most famous names in the comedy business. The club is also a restaurant, and serves some delectable American food. Among the comics who have graced the stage here include Christopher Titus, Josh Blue and Paul Rodriguez. Do see the club’s website to know more about upcoming shows and other details.
With more than ten tours, Guideline Tours is perhaps the largest in the area. Specific destinations include downtown, Malibu, Santa Monica, the Getty Center, Universal Studios, Disneyland, Queen Mary Seaport and more. Its most unique tour is Nightlife L.A. which visits Griffith Observatory, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Century City, and Melrose Avenue. Tour prices sometimes include admission to major theme parks and other attractions. Internet discounts are available. Tour times vary, so call for specific times and to make reservations, which are required.
The Robinson Memorial is fittingly located a few blocks from where the legendary athlete and trailblazer was born. After facing constant scrutiny by the community for being part of the only black family living in the area, Jackie Robinson went on to become a star athlete at Pasadena City College and UCLA. He eventually became the first African American in major league baseball and the rest, as they say is history. The memorial depicts the visages of both Jackie and his older brother Mack, who also contributed to the civil rights movement.
Considered by the Greene brothers as their best architectural achievement, the Robert R. Blacker House is a grand bungalow which was built in 1907 for 100,000 USD. In adjusted figures, that sum is even more impressive, especially since the owner of the house provided the lumber from his own company. In the 1980s, a Texan purchased the house and sold off a number of the furniture and other interior accoutrements designed by the Greene brothers, causing a scandal among Pasadena's preservationists. Although the home is a private residence, no tour of historic L.A. structures would be complete without catching at least a glimpse of it.
Downey History Center is an educational center that provides a wealth of historical information, preservation, education and research. Whether you are just curious about Downey's history or are a serious scholar, you will find everything you need. Resources include Downey newspapers dating from 1888, photographs dating from 1870, books and periodicals about Downey, Los Angeles County, California and more. There is also a lot of information on Downey's namesake, Governor John Gately Downey. Call ahead for varying days.
This museum presents wax figures of African American personalities. It also showcases the eras through authentic clothing, uniforms and artifacts. The museum has figures of Malcolm X, Muhammed Ali, Harriet Tubman, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Louis Armstrong and George Washington. It also presents cultural artifacts from the African world as well as black memorabilia from recent times.
Located on South Lake Avenue, The Commons can be better described as a meeting point for locals on the east of the Playhouse District. The charming venue offers a good range of unique services, stores and eateries like the Green Street Restaurant and more that are lined along its shady courtyard. It's a spot where you can combine work with a fine dining experience. Besides, the California Institute of Technology and the famous Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens lie a short distance away.