Whether you're visiting Los Angeles to hang-out at celebrity haunts, shop the world-famous boutiques or simply explore the outskirts of the city, Los Angeles has a lot to offer. From farmer's markets to hiking up to the Hollywood sign, there is definitely something for every type of tourist in the showbiz capital. Branch out from your "Star Homes" map and participate in some of L.A.'s more off-the-beaten-track activities.
Hikes
Taking a walk in or around Los Angeles can be challenging or leisurely, depending on your preference. A must-do in L.A. is the "Heart-of-Hollywood Hike," which takes you from Hollywood Boulevard up through the hills to the summit known as Cloud's Rest. Not only will you pass the iconic Hollywood sign, but after those 3 miles, you'll witness a one-of-a-kind view of Los Angeles. The hike is not too arduous, so it's a option for travelers of all ages and provides a memorable snapshot above the city.
Food
Nowhere is the diversity of L.A. society better demonstrated than in the city's food. From farmer's markets, to Chinese greasy spoons to Brazilian take-out, there is a flavor to suit every pallet. Six Taste offers tours of the Financial District, Little Tokyo, Santa Monica, the New Chinatown, and Thai Town and also runs a Delicious Dumpling Tour. As of September 2010, the tours cost $55 to $60 and visit eight or nine separate eateries. Well-informed guides, versed in both culinary expertise and historical knowledge conduct these tours. Alternatively, Melting Pot Tours are cheaper at $49 per person as, and investigate L.A.'s lesser-known restaurants and cafes. Its Old Pasadena tour takes you down alleyways and side streets to the hidden gems of L.A.'s ethnic food scene, while the farmer's market tour exposes you to locally grown food prepared in myriad different styles.
Scavenger Hunts
For fans of scavenger hunts competing in the Amazing L.A. race is a must. Each team, consisting of two to eight people, receives a clue at the start that leads them to famous sites around L.A. Apart from being enormously entertaining; this is an effective way to sample a few famous attractions, as the race typically takes contestants to sites such as the Walk of Fame and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. The race runs all year round every Saturday and Sunday and costs just less than $80 per adult as of September 2010.
Museums
The Getty Museum is a free attraction in L.A. The gallery houses such luminaries as Van Gogh, Monet and Rembrandt as well showing some of the finest contemporary sculpture and photography. The tours are in-depth and informative, and there is a 10-minute introductory film available upon entry. In addition to the artwork, there are extensive gardens to explore, so taking a whole day to visit the museum is highly recommended.
Shopping
The Golden Triangle of Santa Monica Boulevard, Wilshire Boulevard and Canon Drive is a high-end shopper's paradise. Gucci, Cartier, Tiffany's and a plethora of other stores await the tourist's credit card. For wealthy hipsters, Robertson Boulevard is the place to be, with Curve, Maxwell and Giorgio Armani lining the streets. For anyone looking for deals, Downtown L.A. holds a host of cut-price treasures including fabrics and designer shoes, while sample sales can be found at California Mart. Alternatively, Melrose Avenue is a mixture of second hand bargains and high-end chic.
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