Home to several natural as well as historical elements, Placerita Canyon State Park covers vast acres of forested land and features native chaparrals. Featuring the eponymous canyon, the park is also replete with California live oak trees. There is a Nature Center where you can glean information about the local flora and fauna. Additionally, self-guided tours, which aid in learning about the local animals and plants, can also be undertaken. Other activities to enjoy here include hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, and picnicking.
One of Santa Monica's most prized possessions, this Southern Californian waterfront state park is the closest landmark to the iconic Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade. Equipped with modern amenities such as volleyball courts, serene picnic spots and scenic swimming zones, this golden-sand landscape houses something that sets it apart from everything else in the vicinity: Muscle Beach, a haven for bodybuilding exhibitions and gymnastic presentations. A sunbather's haven, the beach has also hosted special events like the world-famous Cirque du Soleil, transforming the place into a dynamo of energy, music and vivid colors. The Santa Monica Ferris Wheel is one of the state park's most noticeable attractions.
Nestled amid the Santa Monica Mountains, the Topanga State Park spans 11,000 acres (4,451 hectares) of land area and dazzles visitors with spellbinding views of both the ocean and the valley. Undulating grasslands, coastal scrublands, and woodlands mainly characterize the diverse topography of this sprawling park which affords a world of serenity and peace. There are great hiking trails, some of which offer the opportunity to study the ecology and geology of the area as you traverse the scenic paths. The park also facilitates activities such as horseback riding, camping, and mountain biking. Additionally, you can drop by the visitor center located onsite.
The Huntington, the former home of a railroad tycoon, is many things—an extensive library filled with rare books, a large art collection containing numerous European prints and paintings, botanical gardens of almost unmatched splendor and a forum for regular lectures and other activities. You will also find a fine bookstore, cafe and tea room on the grounds. Come and wander through the 150 acres of colorful gardens, lily ponds and beautiful sculptures. The rare books and manuscripts in the library include some of the earliest editions of Shakespeare's works, a copy of the Gutenberg Bible on vellum and the Ellesmere manuscript of one or more of Chaucer's greatest works. Please note reservations are required in order to visit and prices vary depending on the day of the week.
From fun outdoor activities to notable architecture, Will Rogers State Historic Park has it all. In 1944, actor Will Rogers' family donated his 31-room house and the surrounding 186-acre (75 hectares) grounds so that the estate could be turned into a state park. Take a tour of the ranch, watch a polo game, go on a horseback ride, or embark on an exhilarating hike to explore its environs. The park offers a rare chance to gain a deeper insight into the life of the star.
Covering miles and miles of coastline, Will Rogers State Beach makes for a great recreational spot. It stretches from the star-studded Pacific Palisades all the way into Malibu. Along with lifeguards and the usual amenities, the beach is replete with volleyball courts and a playground. Conducive to water-oriented recreation such as surfing and swimming, it also contains scenic picnic areas. Parking is chargeable per vehicle.
The Huntington, the former home of a railroad tycoon, is many things—an extensive library filled with rare books, a large art collection containing numerous European prints and paintings, botanical gardens of almost unmatched splendor and a forum for regular lectures and other activities. You will also find a fine bookstore, cafe and tea room on the grounds. Come and wander through the 150 acres of colorful gardens, lily ponds and beautiful sculptures. The rare books and manuscripts in the library include some of the earliest editions of Shakespeare's works, a copy of the Gutenberg Bible on vellum and the Ellesmere manuscript of one or more of Chaucer's greatest works. Please note reservations are required in order to visit and prices vary depending on the day of the week.
From fun outdoor activities to notable architecture, Will Rogers State Historic Park has it all. In 1944, actor Will Rogers' family donated his 31-room house and the surrounding 186-acre (75 hectares) grounds so that the estate could be turned into a state park. Take a tour of the ranch, watch a polo game, go on a horseback ride, or embark on an exhilarating hike to explore its environs. The park offers a rare chance to gain a deeper insight into the life of the star.
Nestled amid the Santa Monica Mountains, the Topanga State Park spans 11,000 acres (4,451 hectares) of land area and dazzles visitors with spellbinding views of both the ocean and the valley. Undulating grasslands, coastal scrublands, and woodlands mainly characterize the diverse topography of this sprawling park which affords a world of serenity and peace. There are great hiking trails, some of which offer the opportunity to study the ecology and geology of the area as you traverse the scenic paths. The park also facilitates activities such as horseback riding, camping, and mountain biking. Additionally, you can drop by the visitor center located onsite.
One of Santa Monica's most prized possessions, this Southern Californian waterfront state park is the closest landmark to the iconic Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade. Equipped with modern amenities such as volleyball courts, serene picnic spots and scenic swimming zones, this golden-sand landscape houses something that sets it apart from everything else in the vicinity: Muscle Beach, a haven for bodybuilding exhibitions and gymnastic presentations. A sunbather's haven, the beach has also hosted special events like the world-famous Cirque du Soleil, transforming the place into a dynamo of energy, music and vivid colors. The Santa Monica Ferris Wheel is one of the state park's most noticeable attractions.
Set in the Downtown core, Long Beach Waterfront is something not to be missed. This area overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Los Angeles River, is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Dotted with restaurants, hotels, shops and a world-class marina, there is a lot you can do here. Some of the interesting sights are the ShoreLine Aquatic Park, Aquarium of the Pacific, Shoreline Village, Marina Green Park, Bixby Passageway Tunnel Mural and Long Beach Museum of Art. Embark on scenic cruises from the Waterfront by hiring boats as well.
Covering miles and miles of coastline, Will Rogers State Beach makes for a great recreational spot. It stretches from the star-studded Pacific Palisades all the way into Malibu. Along with lifeguards and the usual amenities, the beach is replete with volleyball courts and a playground. Conducive to water-oriented recreation such as surfing and swimming, it also contains scenic picnic areas. Parking is chargeable per vehicle.