Los Angeles is a huge metropolis in the heart of California, which attracts travelers with its stunning luxury, stylish modernity, magnificent beaches, and the choice of entertainments.
In addition, those travelers who like nature can also find several places to relax from the bustle of the city and get some fresh air. Here’re some interesting natural getaways located within Los Angeles. With AVR car rental you can reach any of them quickly and save extra time to visit other attractions in Los Angeles.
Chavez Ravine Arboretum
This wonderful piece of nature and a picturesque oasis is located in the Elysian Park. It was established by the authorities of the city as a natural megalopolis air purifier. It’s planted almost 1000 species of trees, which are representatives from different parts of the world.
Here you cannot only breathe enough fresh air, admire the wildish flora, but also have a good rest, walking along the alleys and sitting on the benches in the shade of the trees. The arboretum is full of the blooming Australian kanooka, covered with bright yellow clusters of inflorescences.
Arboretum’s major decoration is evergreen trees, palm trees of various species, exotic shrubs with fragrant flowers. There’s a large library in the territory of the garden, where a huge number of books about plants are collected, as well as courses and master classes are held.
Also, you’ll find there several cultural and historical monuments, including a cozy Peacock Cafe with the corresponding interior. Chavez Ravine Arboretum is a perfect place for wedding, corporate parties, family celebrations and photo shoots.
Address: 301N N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia
Rancho La Brea Tar Pits
In the center of Los Angeles there is an amazing place that doesn’t correspond to luxury and fashionableness – this is one of California’s bituminous lakes, called the Rancho La Brea. These lakes were formed as a result of the long-term decay of the remains of extinct animals: mastodons, short-faced bears, ancient bison, saber-toothed cats, and giant sloths.
Until now, in the areas of bitumen lakes you’ll see the skeletons and bones of these prehistoric fauna representatives, which are placed in the expositions of the Museum. Among them are specimens whose age is about 400 thousand years.
On the La Brea Ranch, many sculptures of exotic animals have been created: a mammoth, elephants, wolfs, and bears. Some species of rare flora are presented. This place is of great interest among tourists and locals.
Address: 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles
Griffith Park
Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America, and even if in some places the seal of civilization appeared a long time ago, almost the entire area is occupied by wildlife – this is not at all a familiar park with benches and fountains.
However, it’s very popular among outdoor enthusiasts: depending on the wishes, you can arrange a walk along the difficult, steep paths of the hills and along fairly simple routes for beginners. The park offers beautiful landscapes of the hills and Los Angeles at the foot. The Griffith Observatory is one of the main attractions of the park. Moreover, it’s free of charge.
Also, you’ll be able to use the numerous exhibits from the telescope to all kinds of educational materials.
From here you can clearly see the Hollywood sign and the panorama of the city with characteristic and recognizable silhouettes of a few skyscrapers, as well as the distant brilliance of the ocean on a sunny day. The fans of nature should pay attention to Runyon Canyon Park – it’s smaller, and the pedestrian paths are simpler, but the views are also unforgettable.
Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles
Torrey Pines Reserve
Although Torrey Pines belongs to San Diego, you can quickly get to it from Los Angeles via Pacific Coast Highway.
Torrey Pines Park is a place that looks the same way as the first settlers on the American continent saw it. The highway along the ocean, parking and wooden fencing are the only elements of civilization available there.
Usually, there are few tourists, but many locals and animal photographers – you probably won’t see so many half-meter lenses anywhere else. Several species of unique birds of prey live in the park, and because of the clean, pristine lagoons of the reserve, this is a place of migration for numerous sea birds.
Actually, Torrey Pines is not a regular park, but a nature reserve. Such status is assigned to truly unique places for unusual geological formations, endangered species of plants and birds. The park is named after a unique species of pine, which can be found in just a few places in the world, including Torrey Pines Reserve.
Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla
Grand Park
Grand Park is another bright landmark of the modern metropolis. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, it stretches from the Music Center in the west to the City Hall in the east. It’s conventionally divided into several zones.
There are fountains, pools, lawns and places for recreation. Festivals, concerts, fairs and other entertainment events are often held there. The main decoration of the park is a fountain, which is illuminated at night by bright lights. On particularly hot days, you can refresh yourself and it’s not against the law.
Grand Park is full of neatly planted flowers and trees, which makes it incredibly beautiful. In the immediate vicinity there are cafes and restaurants where you can always have a snack and cheer up with some kind of drink. The park is perfect for leisurely walks and sports, as well as for noisy outdoor activities.
Address: 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles