, 
Most people associate stairs with function. For example, many staircases in Echo Park were built to assist Angelenos from Red Car stops to uphill homes. Now staircases bring people to city views and give people a no-cost exercise alternative to gyms and fitness studios. Read on and learn about 14 great staircases across L.A. County.
One of the best aspects of living in L.A. is outdoor access. The beach, mountains and desert are all within striking distance. Hiking is always an option, whether it’s the Santa Monica Mountains, Griffith Park or the mighty San Gabriel Mountains. We previously covered the Top 10 Easy Hikes in L.A. Now you'll learn about eight of the best intermediate hikes in L.A. County that will yield prized views and get your heart pumping, but won’t require a day off from work to recover.
1. Carry your cell phone with you in case of emergency. The signal can be limited in the mountains, but in case you run into trouble, the phone is your best friend.
2. Carry plenty of water because trails often have little shade and it can get hot.
3. Wear sunscreen and a hat. Even if the sky starts out overcast, sun often breaks through clouds.
4. Stay to the center of the trail to limit contact with plants like poison ivy and wildlife like rattlesnakes and tarantulas.
One of the best aspects of living in Los Angeles is the ready access to outdoor activities. The beach, mountains and desert are all within striking distance. Hiking is always an option, whether it’s the Santa Monica Mountains, Baldwin Hills, Hollywood Hills, down south in Ranchos Palos Verdes or up in the mighty San Gabriel Mountains. Learn about 10 of the best easy hikes in L.A. County that will get your heart rate up and yield some terrific views, but won’t lead to exhaustion.
A few quick reminders:
1. Carry your cell phone with you in case of emergency. The signal can be limited in the mountains, but the phone is your best friend if you run into trouble.
2. Carry plenty of water because trails often offer little shade and it can get hot.
3. Wear sunscreen. Even if the sky starts overcast, sun often breaks through clouds.
4. Stay to the center of the trail to limit contact with plants like poison ivy and wildlife like rattlesnakes and tarantulas.
Whether you want to explore a new hobby, get more physically fit, or turn an interest into a profession, there's always something new to learn. A wide range of classes and schools throughout Los Angeles can make you an expert in no time at all. Here are some of the best places to learn something new in L.A.
L.A. is one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Even frequent visitors and longtime residents who think they know L.A. can always discover something new in this exciting metropolis. Read on to find out the latest attractions and greatest events taking place in the City of Angels.
As the countdown to 2015 begins, here’s a look back at some of the best art, culture and music events of 2014.
The Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board is making it easier than ever to discover L.A. without a car. Car Free L.A. features a series of self-guided "car free" itineraries that offer a new, eco-friendly way to experience the best of L.A. via foot, bike and Metro. Whether it’s culture, coastal attractions, global cuisine, music or architecture, you can see it all car free.
On Sunday, Sept. 21, 2014, join fellow Car Free enthusiasts around the globe and celebrate World Car Free Day. Read on for our guide to car free events taking place across the city, from bike tours to a scavenger hunt and a 5K run at Dodger Stadium. All events take place on Sept. 21 unless otherwise noted.
From top celebrities to community leaders, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has been taken on by tons of Angelenos in an effort to support this worthy cause.
The actress, who stars in the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie, talks putting on her game face, making a little magic, and DIY projects.
For many visitors, a trip to Los Angeles isn’t complete without experiencing the natural beauty that surrounds the city. Whether your hotel is in Downtown L.A. or at the beach, there are numerous L.A. County and California State Parks located a short drive away. From spectacular coastal settings to rugged mountains and otherworldly desert landscapes, these parks offer a wide range of daytime activities and options for camping overnight. Read on and find out more about camping sites near Los Angeles.
To make online reservations at L.A. County Parks, use the Activities Reservation & Registration System (LACARRS) to reserve and/or register for County services and programs, including RV Park, camping, picnic, facilities, and rooms.
Online reservations for California State Parks can be made via the ReserveCalifornia system. The format is similar to booking hotel rooms or airline tickets - after creating a profile, you'll be able to reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance.
