Ming Ya Buddhist Foundation of L.A.

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.

Wayfarer Chapel

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/

Self Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine

The first thing you encounter when entering this lake of meditation is the "Court of Religions" honoring Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. There's an authentic reproduction of a 16th-century Dutch Windmill. There's a shrine devoted to Ghandi containing some of his ashes. While it's a busy and eclectic place, few places beg you to quietly contemplate like the Lake Shrine. For more information check here: http://www.lakeshrine.org/

Sepulveda Unitarian Universalist Society

This congregation was founded in 1965 with a building they call "The Onion."

Hindu Temple Society of Southern California

Built in 1977, this temple is modeled after the 11th century Chola style best known in Southern Indian structures like the Brihadeeswarar temple. The architect's name is Muthiah Sthapathi who has designed 25 temples in the U.S. Yes, the building is fun, but this is also a place of worship. For more about the religious activities check here: http://www.hindutemplesoutherncalifornia.org/index.html