Making The Best Out Of LA

When a tourist thinks of Los Angeles, they think of movies and glamour. Anyone who lives about an hour or so away can only think about the traffic and its lack of cleanliness. But somehow this big city seems to attract lots of people each year. Despite my personal dislike for Los Angeles, I can admit there are some pretty cool things to see and do here.

Gaze at the stars at the Griffith Observatory. Although, most people come for an incredible view of Los Angeles, as well as the best view of the Hollywood sign. But what you may not know, is that inside the observatory there is a museum full of space exhibits, this also includes the pendulum as well as the telescope. The museum (and parking) is free however, you do have to pay for a planetarium show.

As much as I hate to say it, how can you say you've been to Los Angeles and never once seen Hollywood. Hollywood is the Times Square of Los Angeles, bright lights and filled with a bunch of tourists who don't know how to walk. Of course this will be the most annoying place to go to, but sometimes these things need to be done. The Hollywood Walk of Fame and the handprints/footprints at the Chinese Theatre are a must see for tourists. And across the street you'll have the historic El Capitan theatre. On this part of Hollywood Blvd, is theatre and premiere central. Who knows maybe when you're there you'll stumble upon a real Hollywood premiere.

If you want to appreciate art and culture in Los Angeles, then try The Getty Center. The museum itself is free but there is a parking fee. But from the parking lot, you do get to enjoy a fun little tram ride up to the museum! Paintings, gardens, amazing architecture and a spectacular view, The Getty has something to offer everyone.

Also if you're a really big museum lover there is Museum Row. Here you'll find other popular museums such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art or as everyone else calls it LACMA, La Brea Tarpits and Museum, Hancock Park, and several other museums!

And what's a trip to LA without a visit to the most famous zip code? That's right, 90210, Beverly Hills. Take a look at the most fake city in the entire world, I say this because it's where all the plastic surgeons are. And why not take a stroll down Rodeo Drive and look at all the things you probably can't afford.

If you want more affordable shopping, check out The Grove, a cute outdoor mall. And right across from the mall, you'll find the Original Farmers Market.

However there are some tourist destinations in Los Angeles that I completely don't understand. Venice Beach, for one, it's dirty and disgusting. Shady people everywhere and a dirty beach. No thank you. If you must go to the beach head down south towards Manhattan Beach or even Orange County, there you'll find cleaner beaches where it is safe to swim and walk along.

The Santa Monica Pier is another one where I don't understand the hype. It's a very crowded amusement park on a pier, big deal. It's not very clean or well taken care of either. The pier is nice to look at from a distance, but I don't recommend going there. Unless you want to be disappointed in an overhyped landmark.

Also don't bother taking a tour of celebrity homes or buying a map of the star's homes. All you're going to see when you pull up to the house is a very large wall and gate.

Los Angeles, it's a big city filled with a bunch of things to do and see. Sometimes it can be a pain to get around. You'll need a car, and to be careful and have tons of patience because driving in LA is the worst. But the delicious Mexican food will make up for it. Until next time.