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.

Los Angeles is characterized by a relatively mild Mediterranean climate that is conducive to the abundant usage of outdoor leisure spots. Residents and visitors can spend hours at the beach soaking in the warm ocean breezes or a weekend morning hiking in the cooler environment of the mountains.