VOX

Check out one of the most successful teams in the history of the NBA. The Los Angeles Lakers formed in 1947 and quickly rose among the ranks. The second most valuable NBA franchise, the Lakers hold the record for the longest winning streak as well as 17 championships. Wear your purple, gold and white jerseys out to the Staples Center to show your support for this all-star sports team.

Watch a movie in the famous Chinese Theatre, where movie stars have gathered for Hollywood premiers since the 1920s. Find the autographs of your favorite celebrity or try to match your hands and feet to those the stars have left in the concrete walkway. This beautiful theater and cultural attraction was designed to resemble a miniature Chinese palace, to make moviegoers feel like royalty.

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.

Aside from an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts and art, the Huntington Library Art Collections and Botanical Gardens also contain 120 acres of landscaped gardens. Of the dozen principal gardens open to the public, the Children's Garden is most popular for the younger visitors. Children can learn about plants and different elements of nature through fun, hands-on activities.