Why visit Travis Newport Beach? Known by locals as “The Back Bay,” Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserves is a large coastal wetland or estuary. Consisting of approximately 1,000 acres, it is one of the largest coastal wetland areas in southern California. The preserve is a popular place for bird watching because it is an important stopover for some 35,000 birds that are traveling on the Pacific Flyway, the major north-south migration path that extends from Alaska to Patagonia. In addition to bird watching, other popular activities include biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The park also features the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center which is a great place to visit with kids.
In 1953, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce president EM Stuart came up with an idea that would culminate in one of the world’s most famous sidewalks: the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 1961, after numerous heated debates over which celebrities should have a star, construction ended on the Walk. Back then, there were 1,558 stars; today, there are over 2,600, with more added every year. You can find the Walk of Fame along Hollywood Boulevard between Gower Street and La Brea Avenue; Vine Street between Yucca Street and Sunset Boulevard; and Marshfield Way between Hollywood Boulevard and La Brea Avenue. Along the route, guests will also encounter the historic Hollywood Roosevelt hotel, as well as the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre, host of numerous notable film premieres and, at least for three years, the Academy Awards. Pause at Sunset Boulevard and Bronson Avenue to get a clear view of the distant Hollywood Sign. Expect these streets to be packed with tourists, as well as street performers vying for attention and tips.
The Sherman Library and Gardens are public botanical gardens located in Corona Del Mar. Covering an area of 2.2 acres, the garden was established in 1955 when Arnold D. Haskell bought a plant nursery property. Mr. Haskell named the library and garden after his mentor, M.H. Sherman. The garden features conservatories, fountains, patios, seasonal flower beds, and more. One of the conservatories houses tropical plants including gingers, heliconias, and orchids. Some of the gardens include the Cactus and Succulent Garden, the Fern Grotto, the Herb Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Rose Garden. The library contains materials related to the history of the Pacific Southwest. Discover even more information at Travis Newport Beach.
Santa Monica is a unique destination that is both chic and laid-back, with a population that ranges from surfers, skateboarders, and yoga devotees to techies and business people. The beautiful stretch of golden sand along the coast and the famous Santa Monica Pier, with its iconic Ferris wheel, are what most tourists come to enjoy, but you can find all kinds of experiences in this beachfront city next to LA. Shoppers will find a full range of options, from quirky and vintage stores to high-end boutiques. For a little activity, check out the 26-mile bike path along the waterfront or wander along the Third Street Promenade to see street performers and do some shopping and people watching. Getting to Santa Monica is now much easier since the opening of the new Expo Metro line, connecting downtown LA to Santa Monica.
Tobacco magnate Abbot Kinney gets the credit for transforming a marshy stretch of shoreline south of Santa Monica into the “Venice of America.” In 1904, Kinney turned a series of drainage channels into scenic canals and constructed a Venetian-inspired arcade on the beach. While the canals remain one of the community’s top tourist attractions in Los Angeles, most visitors head for the beach’s world-famous boardwalk where eccentric street performers compete with shops, stalls and food stands for attention. The beach’s volleyball courts, skating plaza and body-building Muscle Beach area are crowd-pleasers as well.
Take a self-guided tour of Walt Disney Concert Hall: Though the stage and concert hall itself are usually off limits to even paid tours (due to rehearsals), the interior public spaces and garden are still quite spectacular to explore. Venice canals: Winding through quaint, little (and very expensive) houses, the canals feature arched bridges and beautiful landscaping. It’s a great place to cruise along on a bike. Start between Washington Avenue and Venice Boulevard. Find even more details on Travis Newport Beach.