Ground Up Builders

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.

The historic movie palace, Million Dollar Theater, was built by entrepreneur Sid Grauman before his Egyptian Theatre and Grauman's Chinese Theatre. The Million Dollar Theatre has been preserved for its unique and extraordinary architecture, even though the building lay abandoned for two years. Re-opened in 2008, the theater currently shows live Spanish theater.

Hit the beach, Venice Beach! Walk along the circus-like boardwalk or stroll through the sand at this beachfront district. Catch some surf or just take in the sun while you explore this bustling area. Forgot to bring swimwear? No worries. Venice beach also has a skate park, a bike trail and tennis, basketball and volleyball courts. There's no outdoor beauty like the kind you'll find at the beach.

Enjoy a fantastic view of Santa Monica from Suite 700 Penthouse Bar, the rooftop bar and lounge at Shangri-La Hotel. After drinks, slip into the Dining Room for signature dishes from the Raw bar, Gourmet Flatbreads and Sticky Toffee Pudding. If you prefer to skip dining, take an expertly made drink to the outdoor cabana and relax by the pool.