Aspiring actors with grandiose visions of stardom still flock to Hollywood, but this historic heart of L.A.’s film industry is not what it used to be, and disappointment may loom large. Today, Hollywood is more illusion and state of mind than actual industry, and studios are now dispersed around town, leaving only remnants of the neighborhood’s yesteryear glamour.

Just a few minutes away from homes with private pools in Los Angeles is one of the most amazing contributions to contemporary architecture in the country: the Walt Disney Concert Hall.This Frank Gehry-designed building amazes visitors with its curves and acoustics.