Pickwick Gardens

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.

Head to The Wiltern for performances by up-and-coming artists. This medium-sized art deco venue hosts popular local, regional and, occasionally, national performers and bands in a series of concerts throughout the year. Adjacent to the 12-story Pellissier Building, this theater offers some of the best acoustics - and entertainment - in the city.

Get some fresh air at Griffith Park. This huge municipal park is filled with fun activities and attractions for the whole family. See the true stars of Hollywood at the Griffith Observatory and its planetarium. Ride the miniature rails on the Stockton Terminal locomotive and learn about transportation at the Travel Town Museum. Go around the merry-go-round or get on a real pony for a safe, fun ride around the track.

Explore 36 miles of trails through the open grasslands, cliffs and canyons of Topanga State Park. Located near the Santa Monica Mountains, this state park also provides a lovely view of the Pacific Ocean. Discover a number of geographical wonders, like earthquake faults, marine fossils and volcanic intrusions while taking in the sights at this outdoor destination.