Inspired by Tokyo's Imperial Gardens, the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden opened its doors in 1981 and is a part of the California State University. The donation of funds came from the namesake's widow, and her passion for gardens led to the creation of this space. A serene garden and a sight to behold, it is dotted with several trees, including Japanese black pines, pink cloud cherry, fern pines, saucer magnolias, and Chinese flame trees. A koi pond with a bridge and fish, garden art, a pagoda, a tea house, fountains, and a zig-zag bridge add to the beautiful landscape. The garden is a much-favored spot for weddings.
Visitors to El Dorado Nature Center can explore a diverse range of habitats, including serene lakes, lush woodlands, and meandering streams. The center boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails that wind through these habitats, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the local flora and fauna. El Dorado Nature Center also hosts educational programs and events, making it a great place for families and school groups to learn about the natural world. It's an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor retreat.
Located on five acres (two hectares) of waterfront property along Long Beach harbor, the Aquarium of the Pacific presents marvels of the deep blue to locals and tourists alike. As its name implies, the aquarium features marine life from the Pacific and showcases more than 100 exhibits displaying around 500 species. The aquarium is beautifully designed, with each species shown according to the part of the Pacific it calls home. Also, the jellyfish exhibits are some of the best outside the famed Monterey Bay Aquarium and is a superb spot to see several comb and sea jellies.
One of the great 20th Century luxury liners, The Queen Mary has been the centerpiece of Long Beach Harbor since 1967. The Queen Mary allows tourists to take a self-guided tour of the bridge, engine rooms and officers' quarters, while guided tours visit areas of the ship which are otherwise inaccessible. See the classic art deco interiors and learn about the vessel's interesting history. The ship is now not only a historic attraction, but is also a hotel, has several restaurants and shops, and there's even an on-site wedding chapel! Measuring 1019.5 feet (310.74 meters) in length, it features an indoor swimming pool and various conveniences and amenities characteristic of a cruise liner.
Built in Art Deco style, this observatory was constructed in the early 1930s and is a highlight among the landmarks in Southern California. See incredible light shows at the Oschin Planetarium, which puts to use the latest technology. Outside the observatory, you'll find sweeping views of the nearby area that are breathtaking during the day as well as at night. Exhibits and planetarium shows will fascinate visitors. Some visitors might recognize the observatory as the site where the climax of Rebel Without a Cause was filmed. On clear nights take advantage of the free public telescopes to see the stars up close.
It is no exaggeration to say that Disneyland Resort is one of the best-known attractions in the whole world. For 45 years, Disneyland Park was the only theme park at this site, and is the better known of the two amusement parks at Disneyland Resort. While the original Disneyland is about rides and fun Disney characters, the Disney California Adventure, built-in 2001, recreates the popular sights of California. Disneyland Resort also houses three resort hotels and the famous entertainment, dining and shopping district known as Downtown Disney. The hours of operation vary for the two theme parks, restaurants and shops. One-day passes are available, but the three or five-day passes are recommended for what is sure to be an experience of a lifetime.
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.
Quick Culture conducts tours that cover various museums and galleries in Los Angeles County. The well-read guides take visitors through art periods, painters, territories, etc. to help them appreciate art. The kids' tours are highly popular. They make sure you enjoy the sightseeing and traveling experience in the city, Call to reserve.
Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum is named so because it belonged to Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle, who was one of the first female physicians in the entire county till she died in 1924. Built by Stoughton and George in 1889, the Late Victorian Queen Anne style house now operates as Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum by the Santa Ana Historical Preservation Society in honor of the original owner. It open for tours on the first Saturday of every other month, starting from February.
Bhagavad Gita Museum is a unique Los Angeles gem. Established in 1977, its aim was to teach visitors about the Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture calling for selfless action. You will gain an insight into the scriptures through eleven large dioramas that depict colorful scenes. Some of the awe-inspiring dioramas include the Changing Bodies diorama and the the Precarious Condition of the Living Entity diorama. You'll also see animatronics that help bring life to the story. Sign up for a guided tour to gain a deeper insight into the museum exhibits.
Greenbar Distillery, located in the middle of Arts District, is widely known for their organic craft spirits like vodka, gin, tequila, whiskey and rum, as well as several bitters. The distillery provides guided tours and private tours for enthusiastic visitors where the guides explain the entire history of distillery, their equipment and about their own process of making. They also host several tasting sessions for their extensive range of products and provide a selection of samples for you to choose and take home. The specialties of the taproom are their Fruitlab Ginger Liqueur, the Spiced Rum, and the vanilla infused vodka. They also provide cocktail-making lessons for interested visitors; so you can show off your newly acquired skills by shaking up some good margaritas for your friends. Moreover, a tree is planted by them for each bottle of spirit or bitters that is sold which serves the purpose of giving back to the environment.