what is there to do in los angeles nature

Nature & Parks in Los Angeles

1. Griffith Park. From the Griffith observatory, Old zoo, the LA zoo, Travel Town , etc.. ...
2. Runyon Canyon Park. One of the best hiking routes in L.A. ...
3. Lake Hollywood Park. ...
4. Echo Park. ...
5. Topanga State Park. ...
6. Venice Beach. ...
7. Will Rogers State Historic Park. ...
8. Venice Skatepark. ...
9. Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens. ...
10. The Japanese Garden. ...

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Full Answer

What are some cool things to do in Los Angeles?

11. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum " This is a park and a natural history museum created from preserved remains of wildlife that live in ice age LA. " 12. Walt Disney Concert Hall

What are the best national parks near Los Angeles?

1 Channel Islands National Park. Five of the eight Channel Islands are protected as Channel Islands National Park, the nearest national park to Los Angeles. 2 Joshua Tree National Park. One of my personal favorite U.S. ... 3 Death Valley National Park. ... 4 Pinnacles National Park. ... 5 Yosemite National Park. ...

What are the natural scenery around Los Angeles like?

The Santa Monica Mountains, for example, lie within eyesight of Los Angeles, but are surprisingly wild and home to a large mountain lion population. The most impressive natural scenery, however, is found in the national parks around Los Angeles.

What are the best places to live in Los Angeles?

Lake Balboa Park The park’s huge, (baseball, football, soccer, tennis, paddle ball, racquetball, walking, running, sports center and m... 15. Playa Del Rey Beach 16. Temescal Gateway Park Living near Temescal Park allows me the unfettered opportunity to hike & Explore whenever I want, and it’s always sur... 17. Grand Park

Can you experience nature in Los Angeles?

The scientists said yes. Nature is everywhere in Los Angeles, and our gardens aren't any different.

Does Los Angeles have nature?

Los Angeles offers plentiful—and popular—hikes throughout the area, but the trails north in Pasadena's 190-acre nature preserve feel far outside the city.

Where can I see wildlife in Los Angeles?

Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area. Nature & Wildlife Areas. ... Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve. Nature & Wildlife Areas • Canyons. ... Westridge-Canyonback Wilderness Park. Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks. ... Ballona Wetlands. Nature & Wildlife Areas. ... Ballona Freshwater Marsh. ... Butterfly garden. ... Audubon Center at Debs Park.

What is the most popular park in Los Angeles?

Griffith ParkGriffith Park is one of the most famous parks in Los Angeles and one of the largest municipal parks in North America. Within its 4,310 acres, you'll find over 50 miles of trails leading to many waterfalls and lagoons.

What city are the Santa Monica Mountains in?

Los AngelesSanta Monica Mountains National Recreation AreaBackbone Trail near Mishe MokwaShow map of California Show map of the United States Show allLocationSanta Monica Mountains; Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, California, U.S.Nearest cityMalibu, California Newbury Park, California7 more rows

Where can I hold a monkey in Los Angeles?

5 Places in L.A. Where You Go to Get Up Close and Personal With Wild AnimalsGentle Barn. Like the name implies, this place is a haven for farm animals- 170 of them to be exact. ... Wildlife Learning Center. ... Gibbon Conservation Center. ... The Shambala Preserve. ... Wildlife Waystation.

Are there bears in Los Angeles?

Biologists estimate that about 150 to 500 Black Bears now roam Angeles National Forest.

What animals are in Los Angeles?

A Field Guide To SoCal's Iconic Wildlife (And Where To Find Them)Coyote. Scientific name: Canis latrans. ... Eastern fox squirrel. Scientific name: Sciurus niger. ... Bottlenose dolphin. Scientific name: Tursiops truncatus. ... Red-tailed hawk. Scientific name: Buteo jamaicensis. ... Puma. ... Red-crowned parrot. ... Black bear. ... Bobcat.More items...•

Is Griffith Park Free?

Access to Griffith Park is free, though there is paid parking closest to the Observatory.

How safe is Griffith Park LA?

But according to The Times' Mapping L.A. database, there is relatively little crime in Griffith Park, especially given how many people visit the park. The most common incidents over the last few months were thefts from vehicles.

What is the largest park in Los Angeles?

Griffith ParkAs the largest municipal park in Los Angeles, Griffith Park protects 4,511 acres/1,825 hectares of mountains and canyons at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains. It's a remarkable stretch of rough, hilly wilderness in the heart of an enormous urban area—and it's also home to a wealth of culture.

What is the environment like in LA?

The climate of Los Angeles is mild to hot year-round, and mostly dry. It is classified as a Mediterranean climate, which is a type of dry subtropical climate. It is characterized by seasonal changes in rainfall—with a dry summer and a winter rainy season.

What type of climate is Los Angeles?

MediterraneanUnder the modified Köppen classification system, Los Angeles climate is categorized as Mediterranean. This climate type is characterized by pronounced seasonal changes in rainfall - a dry summer and a rainy winter - but relatively modest transitions in temperature"--Introduction.

What is Los Angeles known for?

Los Angeles, or LA, is one of the most well-known cities in the world. But why is Los Angeles so famous? Hollywood stars, the TV & movie industries, and gorgeous beaches all make LA a famous city and a popular vacation spot.

What is the landscape like in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles county is a vast and varied geographic entity. It includes a group of inland valleys, a coastal plain separated by low mountains that are interspersed with steep passes, an arc of still higher mountains, and a long seacoast.

What are the best day trips to Los Angeles?

What are the best day trips from Los Angeles? The best day trips from Los Angeles according to Tripadvisor travelers are: Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More.

How long is the Hollywood tour?

Private Tour - Day Hollywood Tour of Los Angeles - 6 Hours.

Where to hike in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles offers plentiful—and popular—hikes throughout the area, but the trails north in Pasadena’ s 190-acre nature preserve feel far outside the city. Wildlife and nature abound at Eaton Canyon, but the highlight comes from crossing its rocky creeks and gentle stream to reach the trail’s natural waterfall, a stunning rustic sight.

Where to visit in Southern California?

The botanical gardens at this well-kept library are world-renown, but hold a treasured getaway amidst its 120 acres. Set between the thousands of succulents within the Desert Gardens and the shaded enclave of Huntington’s Jungle Garden, the Lily Ponds serves as a quiet sanctuary and one of the most idyllic places to enjoy nature in Southern California. Easy to miss due to the towering bamboo, find a breathtaking rose garden, traditional Japanese landscapes, and a colorful collection of subtropical plants.

What animals live in Playa Del Vista?

As protected land just beyond the rising buildings of Silicon Beach, this Playa Del Vista habitat filled with winged inhabitants—like green herons, night herons, and killdeer —surround the bog just steps off a busy thoroughfare. A trail along the outskirts offers an unobstructed view and convenient last glance at Los Angeles while en route to the airport, but tours allow for a closer look, as well as opportunity to rehabilitate the marsh.

How big is Lakeside Botanic Garden?

The 10-acre, non-denominational fellowship property, run by a non-profit organization and open to the public, is intended for peaceful reflection and meditation, allowing the lakeside botanic garden to remain a wondrous secret.

What is the trail along the outskirts of Los Angeles?

A trail along the outskirts offers an unobstructed view and convenient last glance at Los Angeles while en route to the airport , but tours allow for a closer look, as well as opportunity to rehabilitate the marsh.

Where is James Irvine's Japanese garden?

James Irvine Japanese Garden. A gem inside the Little Tokyo neighborhood, this small recreation of a 16th century Japanese garden comes complete with maple trees, black pine trees, and a stone waterfall. Only a half-acre, what this secret garden lacks in size it makes up for in whimsy.

Where is the Hollywood reservoir?

Hollywood Reservoir. Hidden within the winding residential streets of the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood Reservoir gives a stunning view of the city skyline and a peek into the true beauty within Los Angeles’ expanse.

Why is the dog beach in Los Angeles called the dog beach?

County. The park is named after the area’s late local canine celebrity, Rosie the English bulldog.

Why go to Echo Park Lake?

Why go? The historic Echo Park Lake in recent years finally became a family-friendly destination worthy of its bold backdrop: the Downtown skyline amid the lotus flower blooms, fountains and the Lady of the Lake statue.

Where is the garden in the Grand Avenue?

Don’t miss: Climb up the staircase on Grand Avenue, near 2nd Street, and you’ll find a garden hidden behind the hall. Bring a bagged lunch or a climb along the building’s lustrous exterior.

What are the best beaches to visit in Los Angeles?

One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles! Venice beach is by far the most popular beaches in California! A place to see a side of Los Angeles that has nothing to do with the movies. Soak up the rays and relax. Lots of great food options in the area.

What can you say about Los Angeles?

What can you say about Los Angeles? It’s the city of angels, known just as much for its tourist vibe as it is for its entertainment and its close connections with the television and media industry. For anyone who’s interested in relaxing in the sun while they watch for celebrities or taking photos at famous movie sites, this is the place to come.

What was the first destination for live music in Southern California?

Fun fact: Hollywood Bowl was the first destination for live music in Southern California | source: Ian D. Keating (flickr)

What is the best hostel in Los Angeles?

Best Hostel in Los Angeles: Banana Bungalow Hollywood. Some of the richest people in the world have homes in Los Angeles, so it stands to reason that it can be an expensive place to visit. But you can cut down on your costs by staying in a hostel in LA.

Is bag snatching common in Los Angeles?

Just make sure that you watch your belongings at all time, because bag snatching is common, even in the richer areas of the city. It all comes down to applying basic safety precautions after all! However, there are also parts of Los Angeles that are extremely dangerous such as Skid Row and South Central.

Is Los Angeles safe to travel to?

Some of the richest people in the world have their homes in this city, which is why you can visit a lot of streets that look picture perfect. In fact, most of the tourist areas of this city are safe to visit. Just make sure that you watch your belongings at all time, because bag snatching is common, even in the richer areas of the city. It all comes down to applying basic safety precautions after all!

Is Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles?

Owned and operated by the City of Los Angeles, Griffith Observatory should be included in your itinerary. Get in touch with some real stars while you’re in the city! A slightly strange observatory, because the light of the city means you can’t actually see much through the telescope.

What to do in Los Angeles?

Some classic attractions in the area include TCL Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame , and Paramount Pictures Studios, the only television and film studio left in Hollywood. For a taste of stardom, window-shop along Rodeo Drive or cruise Sunset Boulevard. There are also a plethora of shorelines to choose from, including Venice Beach , Zuma Beach and the Santa Monica Pier and Beach. Arts lovers will want to see a show at Walt Disney Concert Hall or swing by Los Angeles County Museum of Art to admire its collection. If you aren't sure where to start, a daylong guided tour of the city is a great way to orient yourself. And after exploring all LA has to offer, consider taking a daytrip south to Anaheim-Disneyland.

Where to hike in Los Angeles?

In about a half-hour, travelers can trade in busy downtown LA for the serenity of nature at the Angeles National Forest. The almost 700,000-acre forest is an easily accessible place for locals and visitors to hike, bike, ski, ride horses, swim, fish and even camp. Encompassing the San Gabriel Mountains, terrain ranges from desert to dense forest. Perhaps one of the most visited sites is Mount Baldy, which is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,064 feet. The 28-mile Gabrielino National Recreation Trail offers a variety of hikes, from moderate to challenging. Recent visitors loved the views and found the range of trail options perfect for different types of hikers.

What are some must see places in Hollywood?

If you're a film buff, vintage Hollywood is a must-see. Some classic attractions in the area include TCL Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame , and Paramount Pictures Studios, the only television and film studio left in Hollywood.

What are the rides at Universal Studios Hollywood?

One of the most popular attractions in the Los Angeles area, Universal Studios Hollywood features rides and amusements based on some of the most popular scenes and characters from film and television. You can take the famous tram tour past the creepy Bates Motel from "Psycho" and get caught up in a high speed chase with the "Fast & Furious" cast. Kids can shake hands with cartoon favorites like SpongeBob SquarePants and Scooby-Doo. Of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is another huge hit, as is Jurassic World – The Ride. If thrills are your thing, there are plenty of hair-raising coasters and rides. On Transformers: The Ride-3D, riders join Optimus Prime in his battle against the Decepticons; meanwhile, youngsters will love the 3D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (complete with a Minion dance party).

What is Zuma Beach in Malibu?

Malibu's Zuma Beach is considered one of the finest beaches in the Los Angeles area. Locals and tourists laud Zuma for its awesome waves, ample parking and easy access to beachside snacks. Plus, there are a plethora of lifeguard stations and bathroom facilities.

Where is Grand Central Market in Los Angeles?

Grand Central Market, or foodie heaven according to visitors, is located in downtown Los Angeles by the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad.

Where to go on the Ferris wheel in Santa Monica?

Travelers also recommend riding the Ferris wheel at the pier and people-watching at the Third Street Promenade. Just west of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica contains one of the most legendary beach scenes in the United States. Santa Monica also boasts an abundance of great restaurants and excellent nightlife spots.

What are the best animals to see in Los Angeles?

Orcas, blue and fin whales are less common, but can occasionally be spotted in summer. It’s no surprise that this island national park near Los Angeles is one of the best national parks for wildlife viewing. It’s also particularly popular among scuba divers and sea kayakers.

What is the closest national park to Los Angeles?

One of my personal favorite U.S. national parks, Joshua Tree is one of the closest national parks to Los Angeles. Merely 2.5 hours after leaving the city behind, you’ll be immersed in some of America’s greatest desert scenery.

How long is the drive from Los Angeles to Sequoia?

From L.A., it’s about 5 hours by car. On the way, you’ll basically pass by Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, too, so it’s advisable to combine those three beautiful national parks near Los Angeles in one epic multi-day drive.

What are the best activities to do in Joshua Tree?

This is one of the best places for stargazing in the country, while popular daytime activities in Joshua Tree range from desert hikes to road cycling and rock climbing.

What are the animals that live in the Channel Islands?

Those include three endemic mammals—the cute Channel Islands fox, deer mouse and spotted skunk—and one reptile—the island fence lizard.

Where are the twin parks in the Sierra Nevada Mountains?

These twin parks lie side by side in the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains , about 4 hours by car from L.A. In terms of natural variety, few parks can match what Sequoia and Kings Canyon have to offer. In Sequoia National Park, you can see General Sherman, the largest living tree on the planet.

Where is Pinnacles National Park?

Much less-known and less-visited than the superstar national parks in California, such as Yosemite, Death Valley and Sequoia, Pinnacles National Park lies about 5 hours north of Los Angeles. After a peaceful drive through the Salinas Valley farmlands, you’ll arrive at this remarkable park.