Ever wonder how California assimilated the cultures of the Native Americans, the Mexicans and the Spanish? Connect all of the individual influences and learn about how they helped shape the California that we know today when you visit the Rancho Los Alamitos. This attraction has earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places not just for its cultural significance, but also for maintaining its historic ranch, ranch house and gardens that date all the way back to 1800.
As long as there are stars in the California night sky, the Griffith Observatory throws a star party every night. The venue offers these free get-togethers with a little help from the Los Angeles Astronomical Society. Also with the facility is the Samuel Oschin Planetarium; this planetarium gets in on the fun by offering $7 tickets to three exciting shows that spotlight the wonders of the universe, of the sea, and of the ocean. The observatory is also the home of the new Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon presentation theater, so there is much to do here between the time you are peering heavenward.
Lovers of nature will enjoy the chance to see some of the most incredible wildlife on the Catalina Adventure Tours. An incredible island adventure awaits you when you take this tour that has been accommodating visitors for over 20 years. Don't forget to bring your camera, as there are countless photo opportunities on this picturesque trek. These include seeing such striking creatures as seals, buffalo, and other animal life. The tour prides itself in bringing together the best of Catalina for all to enjoy.
The Dominguez Gap Trail is located in north Long Beach where the two side-channel wetlands parallel the Los Angeles River. Walking this recreation trail offers several stunning views, including the 30-acre east basin. The trail is somewhat difficult to access, and while walking any time of year is fine, the walk proves to be even more enjoyable during the wetter parts of the year.