LA is known for filmmaking; so you shouldn't be surprised to learn dozens of film festivals occur in the LA area every year. The Los Angeles Film Festival is one of the largest, screening over 100 films during its 10-day festivities. The festival showcases independent, international, feature, documentary and short films and draws in a crowd of more than 90,000 to its special events and premieres.
If you are willing to travel a bit out of the main LA area, be sure to add the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden to your destinations list. This gorgeous, 127-acre garden and outdoor oasis is nestled into the low-key San Gabriel town, near the mountains. The Arboretum houses luscious plant collections from all over the world, including many rare and endangered species.
Have a blast at Universal Studios Hollywood. Movie fans will adore the backlot tours, where you can see how the magic happens. Enjoy the rides, attractions and shows, and shop at themed retail outlets. Check out the popular Jurassic Park: The Ride or Special Effects Stage-you may even see a few costumed characters roaming the grounds.
Watch the Los Angeles Kings tear up the ice in the Staples Center. Created as part of the 1967 NHL expansion, the LA Kings continue to reach for the crown after having advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals in the 1992-93 season and losing to the Montreal Canadians in five games. Watch this sports team fight for the win next time they hit the ice.