Los Angeles Holocaust Museum. Photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust.

Smile a lot, laugh a lot, learn a lot, cry a lot. That’s a bit what it’s like inside the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust. It’s true that the horrors this museum immortalizes are striking, but so are the stories of survival, of humanity, and of triumph in the face of speechless evil. Built with architectural mastery and flair, the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust is a modern-day museum utilizing the latest in audio-tour technology to give visitors a personalized experience through hours of telling commentary.

Filled with interactive touch-screen exhibits, original artifacts and movie displays, this free Los Angeles museum is a great way to get the little ones involved in history, but be forewarned – some of the images on display can be disturbing.  Designed to take as objective a look at the holocaust as possible, this museum still evokes a strong emotive response – it’s good to be prepared. Docent-lead guided tours are available alongside the audio-guided ones, and these are a good option if you have an hour to spare.

The Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust is free to all guests, and it’s just another one of the great things about being in LA – it gives you a chance to see all of Los Angeles’s free museums. Parking at the Holocaust Museum is also free, and located under the museum (use the call box to gain entry).

The Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust is located at 100 S The Grove Dr. and open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (except Friday, when the museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.).
Phone: (323) 651-3704

 -Hudson Hornick

Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust from Viator Los Angeles

Hikers check out the downtown skyline

I jumped at the chance to head to the park for the Hollywood Hills Hiking Tour. After meeting up with the rest of the group at the Greek Theatre, our guide Bill described the trek and led us up the first trail towards Mt. Hollywood. The two-and-a-half hour hike was challenging but not exhausting, which is generally what you want from a workout.

Much of the hike took place on a leash-free section of the park, so we passed plenty of dogs and their owners along the way. It didn’t take long to understand why so many locals love hiking up here.

Griffith is more than four times the size of New York’s Central Park, and from the top its immense size became clear. We could see the skyline and the Griffith Observatory, the famous dome that houses astronomy exhibits.

First glimpse of the Hollywood sign through the palm trees

Bill made sure we enjoyed the physical aspects of the hike while also appreciating the park and its history. He tossed in plenty of background info as we went along and even pulled out a portable tablet during rest breaks to show video clips from movies that were filmed here and pictures of the Hollywood sign from decades earlier, back when the sign read “HOLLYWOODLAND” and lit up at night.

I’m always starstruck while visiting L.A., so I made sure to keep my eyes open for celebs, who sometimes hike these trails while trying to stay incognito with large sunglasses or giant floppy hats. There weren’t any famous faces on the trails this time, but I did have the opportunity to look down onto some of the posh, multi-million dollar mansions in the hills.

If you’re more into nature than Hollywood stars, look for coyotes and deer, which are all over these hills. Shortly after our hike ended, I spotted two coyotes running across the main park road.

The Griffith Observatory and the downtown skyline

The tour wrapped up at the Griffith Park Observatory, a free attraction with models of the planets and other space-themed exhibits. You’ll probably want to give yourself an additional half hour to see everything inside the observatory.

The hiking tour is available in the morning and in late afternoon. There’s not a lot of shade on the trail, so choose the morning hike to break a sweat in the midday sun. If you’d rather see colorful sunset views of the city, try the later tour.

The Hollywood Hills Hiking Tour was a great reminder that true outdoors experiences can be found right in the city, just blocks from the craziness in the heart of Hollywood.

 Photos courtesy of Scott Shetler.

Read more: Where to Hike in Los Angeles

- Scott Shetler

Hollywood Hills Hiking Tour from Viator Los Angeles

Hollywood! Photo courtesy of Coco Mault via Flickr.

There’s no doubt about it – Hollywood’s got its own mystique and charm, part of which is trying to spot some celebrities. Strolling the Hollywood “Walk of Fame” puts you in a unique “behind the scenes” frame of mind, but it definitely does strike you that you’re not likely to see Bradley Cooper just strolling down the street. There’s a certain knack for finding the star’s favorite hideouts. Luckily, you’ve got Viator on your side.

Popular hangouts include some Venice Beach gyms (Golds), some nightclubs (The Rainbow Room ,The Ivy, The Viper Room), and random hearsay with “that guy on the corner” speculation. Sunset and Fairfax seem to catch their fair share of celebrity attention, whether you’re stopping in for coffee, or just heading out for a cocktail – keep your eyes peeled here. Rodeo Drive is always a good bet as well, and if you don’t see them, at least you’ll be taking in your own version of world-class window-shopping site-seeing.

All-in-all, it might be your best bet to simply try to spot celebs on a studio tour. This way, you’ll be able to have some fun as well as give yourself the opportunity to see some famous faces – all without worrying about appearing like some creepy stalker. The Hollywood Movie Location Tour is another great option, as you can see in real-life what it’s like where famous movies are filmed. If that’s not enough, consider paying a local to take you around to see where and how the movie stars live. Nothing brings you closer.

-Hudson Hornick

Searching for Celebrities in Hollywood from Viator Los Angeles

The Banning Museum. Photo courtesy of the Banning Residence Museum.

Sometimes while visiting the expanse that is the greater Los Angeles area, it’s easy to forget that this impressive city also, at one point in time, had humble origins. It took many an interesting story to create what is modern day LA, and one of those stories, one of those lives, is preserved in the Banning Residence Museum. Not too far from the heart of LA lies the city of Wilmington where Phineas Banning, founder of the city and “father of the port of Los Angeles” built the 23 room residence that is today the Banning Museum. Located on 20 acres of sprawling parkland, this Greek revival mansion tells the story of the history of the area, from the late 1800s to today and is one of the preeminent Los Angeles area attractions.

Carefully restored to their Victorian splendor, you don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy the Banning Museum. A beautiful stretch of land in an otherwise rough urban sprawl, the Banning Museum and its grounds are a regular sanctuary for Long Beach residents and its guests. Inside you’ll be greeted by the Visitor’s Center where you’ll wait for your regularly-timed guide to usher you through the house. The guides are well-informed and highly regarded, and each bit of history about Phineas Banning and his intrepid spirit helps you to reconstruct the boom-town that was early LA.

The Banning Museum is located at 401 E M St. in Wilmington, CA
http://www.banningmuseum.org/

-Hudson Hornick

The Banning Residence Museum from Viator Los Angeles

The Japanese American National Museum. Photo courtesy of Justefrain via wikimedia.

A small but important strip of roughly 5 blocks in downtown LA, you’ll find Little Tokyo. An oft-overlooked stretch of history, these short blocks house some of Japanese-America’s most historic treasures, thus making Little Tokyo the perfect walking-tour opportunity to see one of Los Angeles’ brightest hidden gems.

Roughly encapsulated by Los Angeles, 3^rd, Alameda, and First streets, Little Tokyo offers a lot to see in a small area. Aside from the usual Japanese shopping and restaurants, Little Tokyo is a National Historic District, and it’s here where you’ll find the Japanese American National Museum, the Japan America Theatre, the Yagura Tower, the James Irvine Japanese Garden, and the Jodo Shu Bhuddist Temple – all vital attractions that consistently draw visitors from a wide spectrum of ethnic backgrounds.

The Japanese American Museum is a particular highlight for Japanese Americans, as it’s the only one in the whole United States which focuses mainly on Americans of Japanese ancestry. And the Japan America Theatre continually hosts Kabuki classics and historical drama, so if you like your history served up in drama form, consider seeing one of their productions (for a schedule, visit http://www.jaccc.org/). If, however, you’re looking for something that seems miles away from the ordinary Los Angeles shuffle, consider walking through Little Tokyo and stopping at the various delicious Japanese restaurants or finding serenity in the James Irvine Japanese Garden – it’s its own little slice of bliss.

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Los Angeles tours and things to do, Los Angeles attractions and Los Angeles travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Los Angeles for a customized tour!

Los Angeles’ Own Little Tokyo from Viator Los Angeles

Found yourself in Los Angeles and looking to impress a certain somebody? Los Angeles has plenty of things to do, and, as you might expect, there are some great romantic options available to you. From sunset strolls along Mulholland to sunrise cruises on the Pacific, LA’s the place for young (and old) love.

The hike: Taking a stroll on the beach or in the hills of LA is one of the timeless classics and still greatest ways to have a good time with your loved one. The beaches of Los Angeles are numerous and plenty (over 80 miles of coastline in this city) but as far as natural beauty and romance are concerned, head to El Matador beach, located about 10 miles northwest of Malibu. Rocky outcroppings, barren beaches, and the unbelievable sunset will have you gasping, snapping photos, and holding hands in no time.

Take dinner in a room with a view. Downtown Los Angeles proper might not be the hotbed of tourist activities you’re after, but it is centrally located and does have some spectacular restaurants – even restaurants with a view. For a truly memorable romantic experience, consider heading up to one and taking in the LA skyline at night. Try Takami Sushi and Robata Restaurant (911 Wilshire Blvd, 21^st Floor) for some sensations sushi and sunset, while dinner atop the Getty Center in Brentwood (1200 Getty Center Drive) will give you unparalleled views of the Santa Monica Mountains.

And if for you excitement equates to romance, why not consider taking in the best view of all and indulge in a helicopter tour over LA ? You’ll see all of LA in this once-in-a-lifetime unforgettable experience. Maybe not for the faint of heart, but completely safe and the views speak for themselves. Besides, they say danger leads to love, don’t they?

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Los Angeles tours and things to do, Los Angeles attractions and Los Angeles travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Los Angeles for a customized tour!

Romantic Things to do in Los Angeles from Viator Los Angeles

Mural on the Venice Beach boardwalk. Photo courtesy of Ingrid Truemper via Flickr.

Welcome to Venice Beach. Undoubtedly one of the most vibrant and colorful communities along the Los Angeles area’s great expanse, Venice Beach has been loved by so many for so long the very name conjures up a certain beachy mystique. Part art experience, part beach-town, part edgy LA, Venice Beach is a step into a rare glimpse of one of the area’s beating cultural heart.

Venice Beach is what happens when you combine the southern California sun with the soft breaking waves of the Pacific and a beach community that likes to express itself. Venice Beach is the original site of Muscle Beach where bodybuilders shape their physique out in public view, as well as home to the modern skateboarding movement, the origination of Jim Morrison’s The Doors, and an ideal strip of restaurants, shopping, sports and recreation hotspot.

If it’s your first visit to Venice Beach, you must take a stroll along the Venice Beach boardwalk – it’s a wonderful mélange of street performers, artists, and the colorful community that makes up this eclectic neighborhood. While there, you can check out the skate park where skateboarders and bikers pull tricks to wow onlookers and hone their skills, or stroll and pick up some cheapie sunglasses or the random henna tattoo.

Another must-do while in Venice Beach is the free journey through what the locals call the Venice “Art Crawl.” Local artists have made a home in Venice Beach and their artwork can be seen proudly on display in local shops and residences. There are also the Venice Art Walls on the beach and at the old pavilion area and the art here can be seen anytime daylight is shining.

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Los Angeles tours and things to do, Los Angeles attractions and Los Angeles travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Los Angeles for a customized tour!

Venice Beach from Viator Los Angeles

Daisies at Huntington Garden. Photo courtesy of portilaj via Flickr.

“Something is always blooming at Huntington Gardens. “

Every time of the year is a special time of year in the Huntington Gardens. The old saying goes something like, “California doesn’t have seasons,” but that’s not true – and proof of it can be seen in a visit to the Huntington Gardens in Los Angeles. With over 14,000 different varieties of plant on display in 14 principal garden areas, you can find a delightful display of beautiful blooming flowers in the Huntington Gardens any time of the year.

When Henry Huntington purchased the land back in 1903, the land was little more than a cattle range flecked with alfalfa crops. Today, 120 acres of that land is actively maintained, landscaped and open to visitors year round. A credit to gardening, landscaping, and landscape architects everywhere, the gardens themselves are a feat, and while visiting one of these “principal landscapes,” you can get not only the sense of peace and tranquility that comes with visiting mother nature, but also feel a sense of inspiration, admiration, and awe at the size and scope of the project, and the diligence with which it has been maintained.

So… what’s blooming in January? Well, some “Sticks on Fire,” some beautiful hanging Japanese Flowering Apricot, some red aloe that looks like a little flaming Christmas tree, “Verbanica,” the ever popular “Seminole,” and the light of the holiday season, “Christmas Cheer.” But to truly appreciate what’s blooming in Huntington Gardens, you have to visit and take a stroll for yourself.

Parking is free, reservations are not necessary, and the first Thursday of every month is “Free day,” so with advance tickets, you can visit these lovely grounds for no charge whatsoever. Not bad, eh?

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Los Angeles tours and things to do, Los Angeles attractions and Los Angeles travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Los Angeles for a customized tour!

Bloomin’ Beautiful at Huntington Gardens from Viator Los Angeles

A rare fog in Palisades Park. Photo courtesy of 2laneblacktop via Flickr.

Los Angeles’s Palisades Park is one of the last bastions of things to do in Los Angeles that are truly free and wonderful. Famous for its jogging paths and wonderful natural scenery, any visit to Palisades Park is a good visit – and in the concrete jungle that is LA, the park is a popular recreational place.

While visiting Palisades Park, consider taking the walking path along the palm tree-lined cliff to overlook the ocean. With panoramic views of the glittering Pacific down below, it’s easy to see why the famous Route 66 terminates here – the majesty of being on the end of the continent coincides with the romanticism of that long, dusty road.

Also while here, take a stop and check out the rose garden with corresponding art sculptures. Beautiful for picnics, sunsets, or photography, the rose garden in Palisades Park is a sweet treat to an already nice experience.

Others enjoy a more active embrace to the park, and while there’s a playground and jungle gym for the little ones, many parents enjoy walking the bridges across the Pacific Coast Highway (the PCH) and hitting the beach while here as well. Others meet to do yoga in the early morning and sunset, while others still can be seen jogging up and down the winding trails.

Whatever you decide to do in Palisades Park, you’re sure to find it a relaxing enjoyable time and a welcome treat to the wonderful outdoors of Southern California. Don’t forget that entry to the park is free, and while parking in the park costs a bit of change, there are numerous residential streets surrounding Palisades Park, so feel free to park here free of charge.

-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Los Angeles tours and things to do, Los Angeles attractions and Los Angeles travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Los Angeles for a customized tour!

Palisades Park: Things To Do from Viator Los Angeles

One of the many floats in the famous Rose Parade. Photo courtesy of prayitno via Flickr.

Seeing the Rose Parade in Los Angeles can be a bit of an event. Though the Rose Parade started out with modest beginnings, since 1890, things have changed quite a bit. Originally designed to draw attention to the splendor of California, you can say the event was a success; nowadays, over a million people annually show up to witness all the events that surround the Rose Parade (now called the Tournament of Roses) which includes all events leading up to and extending after the Rose Parade and effectively filling Pasadena to capacity.

That being said, there’s plenty to see and do, and there’s a good reason while so many people do it. Chock full of activities of all kinds, the event isn’t just about the flower-filled floats that glide down Colorado Street. The 124^th Rose Parade is hosted on January 1^st, New Years Day at 8:00 a.m. so it’s an early one, to be followed with the 99^th Rose Bowl game afterward, as well as a postparade showcase of floats to get up close and personal with the elaborate structures you just witness go down the street.

If you find yourself in town early, you can also consider attending the Equestfest, an equestrian event with horses and riders performing drills, stunts, riding and roping, as well as enjoying a bundle of food and music. Alternatively, before the big parade, you can, for $10, see the floats before they roll down the street and smell up close and personal all the flowers they stick in the magnificent floats.

If you’ve come to catch just the Rose Parade and then dash off to watch the Rose Bowl on TV, be aware that there is no charge for curbside viewing, and Grandstand Viewing tickets can be purchased by calling (626) 795-4171. For a full list of Rose Parade events, see the Tournament of Roses Schedule.

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-Hudson Hornick

Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Los Angeles tours and things to do, Los Angeles attractions and Los Angeles travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Los Angeles for a customized tour!

The Rose Parade, Los Angeles from Viator Los Angeles