Back when it was cool to build dams, the "Malibu Lake Mountain Club" stopped up the river that ran through here. Surprise surprise, the river's gone. But, the lake remains for us to marvel at. I'd say we could boat around, but it's not open for public recreation.
More than just your ordinary pumpkin patch, Lombardi Ranch is a working farm that holds Halloween above all else. There's a giant sunflower field lined with scarecrows dubbed "Scarecrow Alley," a corn maze, train and wagon ride, and of course, pumpkins and squashes galore. On the weekends they also have musical performances. For more about the ranch check here: http://www.lombardiranch.com/
Remnants of the Cold War Nike-Ajax anti-aircraft base furnish aeriel views of the city, ocean, mountains and valley. Quite impressive. There's also a self-guided tour with signs that announce war slogans like "we will bury you." For more about the park check here: http://www.lamountains.com/parks.asp?parkid=54
This Buddhist temple stands out from the rest of LA river lined Valley Blvd. Its architecture, stone reliefs, gardens, and statues make it a pleasure for even a non-Buddhist to visit.
Grace E. Simmons was a local activist who fought to protect Elysian Park from development. So, they named this lodge after her. The lodge comes complete with a man made cascade, and a picnic area available to rent out for events. There's a little Japanese garden tucked behind the lodge too. For more info check here: http://www.laparks.org/dos/parks/facility/elysianPk.htm
Frank Gehry's delight is ranked in the top 3 music halls in the world. The wooden interior, curved walls and ceilings, and seating chart create a top notch music experience. Especially, now that we have Dudamel. If you don't know who Gustavo Dudamel is, well, do some research because he's important. Or, check here: http://www.gustavodudamel.com/
I don't know, it's not June Gloom because it's the wrong time of year. The official people of weather are calling it "scattered clouds." They lie. The valley is just nestling these clouds into its bosom.
Part of what I love about rain in LA is how transportation in the city completely ceases to function. People forget how to drive and the streets flood. Here's a very wet, nighttime parking lot.
Even though the Rose Bowl was packed with Bruin fans on Saturday, Sunday brought about a different kind of crowd. The second Sunday of every month is the Rose Bowl Flea Market, which draws 2500 vendors ranging from antiques to clothes to indescribably glorious goodies. For more info check here: http://www.rgcshows.com/RoseBowlFleaMarketGeneralInfo/tabid/52/Default.aspx
Just kidding, it's a house. It's actually called "The Chemosphere," an octagonal design by John Lautner from 1960.
Also known as "glass chapel" or "tree chapel," Lloyd Wright's vision sits on a cliff overlooking the ocean. It's quite breathtaking, but I wasn't allowed inside because they do have services. So, if you plan on going, I would call ahead. For more info check here: http://www.wayfarerschapel.org/
Yellow flowers in September. Soft red flowers in October. There's a good group of them growing on Ventura between Woodman and Hazeltine. Beautiful beautiful beautiful.
This park celebrates Mexico through a number of sculptures honoring Mexican "Abe Lincolns" including Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata. The bell is a replica of the Bell of Dolores, the bell rung by Fr. Costilla in 1830 to announce Mexico's revolt against Spain.
