Nature in LA: More of an adventure finding than experiencing (but that’s fun too)
By Lindsey Hamilton ‘22
You read that right…nature in LA! Who knew? I wasn’t being sarcastic either — half of the fun of the nature that exists in this metropolis is finding it. Because, well, it’s LA. In a city with stars seemingly everywhere but in the sky, green space is one of the last things I think of.
Lucky for you all, I’ve done the intrepid (internet) exploring for you.
For those brave enough to venture where the paths are dirt and there’s a little more wildlife than rats and roaches, here are the best places in the LA area to catch a breath of fresh air.
Within 5 miles of USC
Exposition Park
Right under our noses, Exposition Park is an easy walk away. With the California Science Center, the Natural History Museum, and the California African American Museum framing the Rose Garden, it makes for both a fun weekend outing or a quick study break stroll.
Los Angeles State Historical Park
Recently converting to primarily drought-tolerant succulents, this 32-acre park somehow manages to fit frolic-ready fields in DTLA.
Echo Park Lake
Ducks, pedal boats, and picnic spots, oh my! Echo Lake is a glittery oasis located just past downtown.
James Irvine Japanese Garden at JACCC
This quaint little garden is a hidden gem of Little Tokyo. Be warned: double check your GPS because there are several Japanese gardens; this is the one next to the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center.
Blue Ribbon Garden
If you have the privilege of being able to attend a concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, be sure to check out the Blue Ribbon Garden hidden 30 feet above street level in the concert hall walls.
Vista Hermosa Park
The name got it right: this sunny park is situated just right for a perfect view of the LA skyline.
Within 10 miles of USC
Tongva Park
Featuring spaceship-like arches and ocean views for days, this elevated park is located a short walk away from the Santa Monica metro station.
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
A quaint little park with quaint little bridges over a quaint little stream next to quaint little trails, this park is the perfect place to unwind or take a hike.
Ernest E. Debs Regional Park
The park for the outdoorsy person in the bunch. This park features lush trails and birdwatching a-plenty.
Hollywood Sign
While I’ve heard the hike is a long haul, do you really even live in LA if you haven’t been to the Hollywood sign? (The answer is yes, but I would recommend checking it out regardless.)
Elysian Park
Opening in 1886, Elysian Park is LA’s oldest park with the folklore to match. Featuring trails, an arboretum, and a little mystery, it is a park and a history lesson all in one.
Within 30 miles of USC
Griffith Park
There’s so much to do at Griffith Park, it would probably be more efficient to list everything Griffith doesn’t have. We all know about the famous (and wonderful) Observatory, but what many people don’t know is that Griffith park also has horseback riding, a locomotive museum, a carousel, a zoo, a Native American museum, golf, and more.
Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens
A library AND a garden? My inner biology nerd is screaming. The picturesque property features plants from around the world and an extensive art and rare books collection.
Palos Verdes
If rural coastline is your taste, Palos Verdes is the place. Check out the tide pools, Wayfarer’s Chapel, and the Point Vicente Lighthouse.
Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine
Where else will you find a windmill next to a temple next to a lake? This park is just as magical as it sounds and is a great place for meditation and relaxation. (Fun fact: the shrine was one of Elvis Presley’s favorite spots in LA and where George Harrison’s funeral was held)
Malibu
A place that makes me think of both Brandy Melville and the Miley Cyrus song, Malibu is a nice mix of chill and glitz. It’s home to both celebrities and hiking trails and is a fun spot to get away from LA.
Will Rogers State Historic Park
A woodsy park in the Santa Monica mountains on the former estate of American humorist Will Rogers. Take the hike to Inspiration Point to become, well, inspired.
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