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.
Be sure to make a reservation for a table at The Spare Room bar, located in the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. This upscale bar and nightlife lounge features high-end service, with a full bar and waitstaff. Have a party at this intimate venue, complete with two bowling lanes, table games and a secret photo booth.
Located on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory is a national leader in public astronomy. Visit or even rent the observatory for an extensive display of space and science research, as well as the planetarium show and a chance to look through telescopes at the beautiful LA night sky. This attraction is one of the most famous observatories in the country.
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.