Expert: Steve Summers - 2/10/2009

Question
Hi.

My wife & I are planning on spending a couple of weeks in CA starting in San Diego. We've never been to CA before but have heard lots of good things and intend to drive around southern CA. We are in our late fifties age-wise & wondered what area's you might recommend we see?

Thanks

Answer
Hi Dale,

If you are starting in San Diego, I shall defer to the Jedi Master of San Diego, Local Wally. He has all the info you need on San Diego at www.localwally.com. For first timers, I recommend Sea World, Balboa Park, Old Town, and the San Diego Zoo.

As you head north, go up I-5 and visit Disneyland, the Happiest Place on Earth. Even if you're a not a kid anymore, Disneyland is quite delightful. Except in summer, when the throngs are there. If you go in summer, go with the idea that you won't get to see very much because of the crowds. But be sure to see the fireworks and the parades. My favorite rides are the Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Submarine Ride. My wife likes the Jungle Cruise.

Around Disneyland, you have plenty to do around the Downtown Disney District and the Garden Walk. You can also go to the Block at Orange for a movie or some shopping, just a few miles away.

The next most poplular spot is Hollywood, which is part of the city of Los Angeles. Go to the Hollywood & Highland complex where you can see the Kodak Theater, Chinese Theater, Walk of Fame, and the El Capitan Theater. Then hop on the subway. If you go north, you can visit Universal Studios. If you go south, you can visit Union Station, Olvera Street, Phillippe's, and Chinatown.

Farmers Market and The Grove - A new shopping complex right next to a Los Angeles landmark, The Grove and Farmers Market coexist. Enjoy a movie or shopping, and then take the trolley to the Farmers Market for lunch or dinner. It is right next to CBS, so walk across the lot to see if they are taping "The Price is Right". You might even get in.

Griffith Park - Home of the Los Angeles Zoo, Griffith Park Observatory, Travel Town, the Greek Theatre, and Gene Autry Museum of Western Heritage.

Getty Museum - The Getty's architecture is so beautiful that it keeps me fascinated. No matter whether you like their art or architecture better (or maybe you'll just enjoy the view), the Getty is sure to please. Free.

Attend a TV taping - You can get free tickets at audiencesunlimited.com, tvtix.com, or see the booth at Universal City walk. It's very interesting to see a show being taped. The most popular, by far, is the Tonight show with Jay Leno. Check the NBC web site for all the details there.

Places to eat:
In-N-Out Burger: Multiple locations, best burger in LA, ask anyone.
Pink’s Hot Dogs: 709 N. La Brea, just north of Melrose. You might even see a celebrity. Maybe.
Tommy’s Chili Burgers: Look for the shack, an LA tradition. The original location is at Beverly & Rampart, a couple miles west of downtown.
Canter’s Deli: 419 N. Fairfax, between Beverly & Melrose. Near CBS, you might spot a celebrity.
Phillippe’s: 1001 N. Alameda. Great roast beef sandwiches. Near Union Station and Olvera Street. Watch the mustard, it’s hot.
The Pantry: Corner of Figueroa and 9th, downtown. Huge portions, they never close, GREAT steak and eggs.

Visit the Santa Monica area, with its old pier and carousel (used in the Sting as a movie location). In fact, just about anywere in the LA area has been used as a location. Just south of Santa Monica Pier is Venice Beach, which is a virtual circus of people. All the strange and unusual come here to the Ocean Front Walk. It's a sight to see.

Pacific Coast Highway from Santa Monica to Oxnard is very nice, as it passes through Malibu. all the way to Oxnard. Then continue on highway 101 to Santa Barbara, which is a beautiful city, especially if you like the Spanish and Mission architecture.

Have fun!