One-Day Getaways in LA
We've all moved to LA to be part of a bustling metropolis, but sometimes you just want to get away. Without actually having to drive for five hours or deal with Middle America (anything east of San Gabriel) or anything crazy like that. The good thing about LA's sprawling urban-ness is that there are pockets of country goodness right here in the County of Angels. Hikes, farmers, antique (not vintage) stores, quiet little hotels...we've got it all. Reveal your own quiet getaways in the comments! (photo)
Wednesday Santa Monica Farmer's Market
Arizona Ave. & 2nd. St. Santa Monica 90401
Every Wednesday from 8:30 to 1:30, one of the most famous farmers' markets in the world takes place, drawing well-known chefs and people who DO NOT see the humor in … StuffWhitePeopleLike.com. You could spend the entire five hours wandering around admiring the beautiful produce and getting free samples of locally made products. You'll want to come back every week for the people watching and the overhearing of gossip about people you don't know. [link]
Pasadena Bungalow Heaven
N. Wilson Ave. & Bell St. Pasadena 91104
[link]
Not a Cornfield
N. Spring St. & W. Ann St. 90012
Otherwise known as Los Angeles State Historic Park (by squares), these 32 acres are being used as some sort of eco art project. It got its name by being an actually … cornfield for a year, but this spring it's abloom with wildflowers. Yep, wildflower meadows in Chinatown. Will wonders never cease? [link]
Coldwater Canyon
3431 Fryman Rd
Los Angeles, CA 91604
One of the best hikes that doesn't require GPS (either to get there or to avoid getting lost once hiking) is also one of the most hippie-friendly. TreePeople, which goes … around planting trees and spouting leftist propaganda and being awesome, has the run of the place, turning the hikeable part of the canyon into an educational eco-paradise. And this canyon links up to Fryman and Wilacre, so you get three hikes for the price of one (free!). [link]
