Los Angeles

By Matthew R. Poole

Despite more than 200 years of Spanish colonial history, Los Angeles feels young. Chalk it up to Hollywood's demand for eternal youth and beauty. Or maybe it's the city's constant influx of newcomers from Asia and Latin America. But Los Angeles is a dynamic city always on the move. Travelers with families stop off at California's quintessential playground, Disneyland, or one of Los Angeles' many beaches. But before you leave, head to the Walk of Fame and match footprints with the stars in front of Grauman's Chinese Theatre.

Things to Do

Check out the Walk of Fame, where Hollywood honors performers both world-famous and obscure. Reserve a coveted studio audience ticket to see the magic of television being created at CBS Television City. A visit to Los Angeles isn't complete without a day at the beach. Rollerblading bleached blondes and muscle men hang out on Venice Beach, and surfers catch waves at Malibu.

Shopping

Shopping is a competitive sport in Los Angeles. If you want to have a go with the big spenders, head to Beverly Hills, where you can blow your entire vacation budget in a single purchase at designer shops and sparkling jewelry stores. Bargain-hunters will find plenty of goodies, from cute flip-flops to costume jewelry and sunglasses, at the Grand Central Market in downtown Los Angeles.

Nightlife and Entertainment

The musical performances are wonderful, to be sure, but it's worth attending an evening concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall just to see Frank Gehry's gleaming, metallic venue up close. It's the crown jewel of downtown Los Angeles. West Hollywood enjoys a reputation for Los Angeles' hippest, happeningest clubs. But after a day of traveling, many visitors just head to Venice Beach. There's always something -- and someone -- crazy to watch, and you can't beat the picture-perfect sunset.

Restaurants and Dining

For an A-list celebrity experience, head to Los Angeles' favorite trendy restaurant, Spago. This flagship Wolfgang Puck restaurant in Beverly Hills glows with etched, colored glass, exquisite landscaping and beautiful people. The menu focuses on seasonal seafood and produce. For a less formal dinner, locals head to Chinatown for a wide selection of plump, savory dim sum, or dig into authentic Mexican fare on colorful Olvera Street.