Los Angeles, California

Street performers, tattoo artists, novelty vendors, Gen-X nomads, hippies, people-watchers and freaks of all kinds come together to create this unique bazaar you have to explore at least once. And don't forget the three-mile beach or the streets that are lined with edgy boutiques. No wonder why this is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Southern California!

Spread over 4,000 acres, Griffith Park is the largest urban park in the United States and has been used as the backdrop for several movies, including "Batman" and "Jurassic Park." It houses the Griffith Park Observatory, and the Los Angeles Zoo. Also within the park are the Autry Museum of Western Heritage and the Travel Town Transportation Museum. Fifty-three miles of picturesque hiking trails as well as swimming, biking and horseback riding ensure something for everyone. Griffith Park is also home to the Hollywood sign, which stands on Mt. Lee.

Between Crescent Heights Boulevard and Doheny Drive, you can indulge in all the glitz, glamour and spectacle of L.A. without traveling more than a few blocks. Sip a poolside or rooftop drink at exclusive bars, or hear live music at rock clubs like the Viper Room and House of Blues.

Go behind the scenes on the world famous Studio Tour to explore where Hollywood movies are made. Then, enjoy thrilling rides, shows and attractions that put you inside some of the world’s biggest movies. End your day at Universal CityWalk® with acres of L.A.’s hottest entertainment — from indoor skydiving to live music, movies, clubs and mouth-watering food — why would you go anywhere else?

La Brea’s tar pits have thousands of animal bone and plant remains. Some of the fossils have been dated back to 40,000 years ago. Many of these are on view in this fascinating museum, including the remains of a 9,000-year-old woman! During the late summer, the outdoor excavation pits can be visited with experts demonstrating how the remains are recovered.

Iowa is an authentic war ship that is now open to tourist visits. History buffs will enjoy the guided tours and learning about the ship's glory days, while kids will be kept occupied by treasure hunts. Join the "Full steam ahead tour" where you get access to areas of the ship that is usually not shown to the general public.

Downtown Art Walk takes place on the second Thursday of every month. This self-guided tour is the perfect experience for art lovers as it showcases many art exhibition venues in Downtown Los Angeles.

One of the cultural symbols of Los Angeles, Walt Disney Concert Hall is said to have the most 'acoustically sophisticated' concert halls in the world. Home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic orchestra and the Los Angeles Master Chorale, this downtown building truly is an architectural wonder not to be missed.

Through interactive exhibits, ground-breaking programs, live demonstrations and exciting films, both grownups and kids can explore the wonder of science at California Science Center. The STS Endeavor and IMAX cinema are only a couple of must-sees - bring a lot of time along, as you will most probably want to wander around for hours.

Even though the museum displays antique furniture, mechanical musical instruments and even an early 20th century locomotive, most visitors come here to see the impressive collection of retro automobiles, all dating from years 1898 to 1997.

With its Frank Gehry-designed interior and wonderful collection of masterpieces by Degas, Picasso, Rembrandt, Goya and Rodin, the Norton Simon is the best-kept secret in Los Angeles. The house is set in beautiful gardens and exhibits one of the most impressive private collections of American, European and Asian art in the world.

Located in the Westwood Village area of Los Angeles, this memorial park is a resting place for some of the greatest names in the entertainment business. Marilyn Monroe, Truman Capote, Dean Martin and Ray Bradbury — among others — rest beneath the ground of this L.A. park.