Things to do in and around Los Angeles

OK, we all know that L.A. has smog and gridlock. If you live in Northern California, you probably think that's all it has to offer. That and Disneyland. Now, Disneyland is great, and reason enough to visit. But believe it or not, L.A. does have other attractions -- and I'm not talking about Universal Studios. Maybe I'm just trying to make the best of my situation, as someone who's chosen to live here, but see for yourself...

The Getty Center - Ride the electric tram up to the white marble city-on-the-hill, then spend the day browsing the galleries and enjoying the gardens and panoramic views.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) - A world-class museum right here in La-La Land!

Museum of Jurassic Technology - Defies description. Its bizarreness must be experienced firsthand.

The Huntington Library and Gardens - Plan ahead and make a reservation to have high tea in the Tea Room. The gardens are lovely, and the library always has an interesting exhibition up.

The Gamble House - A California Arts & Crafts masterpiece designed by Greene & Greene. Still has its original furnishings designed by the architects!

H.M.S. Queen Mary - For a long time, I couldn't see why an old cruise ship was such a big deal. Then I actually visited this beautiful Art Deco monument!

Griffith Observatory - Great for romantic sunset views of the whole L.A. basin. A favorite movie location.

Catalina Island - Just a couple of miles from L.A., and yet it's a completely different world. The town of Avalon is more picturesque than touristy, and is covered in colorful arts & crafts tile from the 20's and 30's. Great for a day hike!

Koreatown - It's like a city within a city (or a large, ethnic neighborhood within a large urban area). The food! The shops! The food!

Hollywood - It's not just a state of mind, it's a place! And there's more to see than those dumb stars in the sidewalk.

Old Town Pasadena - Nice architecture, upscale shops, a couple of lovely little museums: what more could you want on a Saturday afternoon?

Santa Monica Mountains - Want to get out of the city, without actually leaving L.A. County? Take a hike! The views are spectacular.

Downtown - Take this self-guided walking tour and discover downtown L.A.'s hidden architectural gems.

L.A. Times Calendar section - Movies, restaurants, theater, museums, dance, etc.

American Cinematheque at the Egyptian Theater - Non-profit organization that holds special screenings and film festivals in Hollywood

McCabe's Guitar Shop - Check out the acoustic shows at this West L.A. music store.

KCRW - Public radio station has community events calendar.

The Hollywood Bowl - The best place in town to see a concert.

Theater L.A. - Half-price theater tickets.