Culture, history, beaches and more are offered by the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles. But breaking the bank is not a requirement to partake in fun, healthy activities around the L.A. area, The west's largest city offers a plethora of free activities that promote a healthy lifestyle. From the ocean and its beautiful beaches to the hiking trails throughout the Hollywood Hills, you can have a great time and feel good about it because only you'll get thinner, not your wallet.
Sightseeing
Los Angeles is filled with iconic, pop culture history. The many neighborhoods and areas of the city are replete with celebrity homes and other important aspects of Hollywood history; other areas offer views of the valley and the Hollywood Hills. Mann's Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman's Chinese Theater) is a major attraction. Outside the Hollywood Boulevard establishment rests the hand prints of legends such as Marilyn Monroe, Humphrey Bogart and Sophia Loren. The theatre also holds premiers of movies. It is free to stand outside the theatre and watch celebrities enter the establishment at premiers. You can also explore the Walk of Fame along Hollywood Boulevard and adjacent streets, where entertainment luminaries are immortalized. Mulholland Drive offers views of the Hollywood Hills and Hollywood Boulevard. Drive through Bel Air and see the homes of Nicholas Cage, Lauren Bacall, Helen Hunt and many other celebrities.
Gardens and Museums
Los Angeles offers a plethora of free museums. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, California Science Center, Exposition Park Rose Garden and the famous Getty Museum all offer free admission. The Exposition Park Rose Garden features thousands of rose plants in many varieties. The Getty Museum features artwork ranging from the work of the Dutch master's, drawing from Leonardo De Vinci, modern art and many other exhibits. Wells Fargo History Museum focuses on the history of the California gold rush.
Parks
L.A. offers public parks. Visiting parks in Los Angeles Griffith Park and Observatory is a highlight of the city. The observatory offers a giant telescope that allows for detailed views of stars and planets. The observatory has been in public service for over 75 years. The park's grounds also offer landscaped and manicured walkways. The Los Angeles Bird Sanctuary offers a walkway through a nature preserve and a section of undeveloped land that is rich in bird species.
Beaches
Beaches are popular destinations for both L.A. residents and tourists alike. Zuma Beach is a popular beach due to its prime surfing. Venice Beach is home to an eclectic crowd ranging from new age hippies to international tourists. One of L.A.'s most popular and well-known beaches; Venice Beach is not the best locale for surfing or other water sports. Manhattan Beach offers several volley ball courts; the home of the Olympic Sport, Manhattan Beach hold's the world's oldest beach volleyball tournament.
Hiking
Surrounded by hilly and mountainous terrain, the massive city offers many free hiking trails. Heart of Hollywood Hike is located less than 2 miles from Hollywood Boulevard. It features city views and a no-leash dog policy. Occasionally, celebrity sightings occur. Beginning at the Pacific Palisades, the Topanga State Park Trek is a 7-mile round trip hike. The key feature is the Parker Mesa Overlook, which affords views of the Southern California coast.
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