History!
Los Angeles’ human history begins as early as 6000 BC, when the Gabrieleño and Chumash peoples occupied the region. Their hunter-gatherer existence ended in the late 18th century with the arrival of Spanish missionaries and pioneers, led by Padre Junípero Serra. Known as El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles, the first civilian settlement became a thriving farming community but remained an isolated outpost for decades.
After Spain lost its hold on the territory to Mexico in 1821, many of that nation’s citizens looked to California to quench their thirst for private land. By the mid-1830s, the missions had been secularized and their land divvied up into free land grants by Mexican governors, thus giving birth to the rancho (cattle ranch) system.
At the time of the Mexican-American War (1846-48), American soldiers encountered some resistance from General Andres Pico and other Mexican commanders, but eventually LA came under US rule along with the rest of California. The city was incorporated on April 4, 1850.
Things to do!
1) Get active on Venice Beach
Venice Beach has long been known as the kooky Mecca of California, and while it's been getting more than a fair share of mainstream tourists, the area nurtures its eccentric spirit. Skateboarders, radical pamphleteers and body builders: the visibility is great if you enjoy people-watching.
2) See the Hollywood sights
Hollywood celebrities are never far away in LA. To catch a glimpse of stardust, stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where more than 2,400 figures from the entertainment world are immortalized in pink terrazzo with symbolic gold lettering. Countless premieres and galas have passed through, adding to the renowned pagoda's star quality.
3) Marvel at Big budget modern art
The Getty centre is the envy of museums worldwide for its generous endowments. Although it doesn't match the rich collections of Old World galleries, it has some impressive works covering a vast sweep of history, from the Renaissance to present day. Among them are several paintings by Rubens, a couple by Gainsborough, and a sprinkling of Impressionists, including Monet, Renoir, Cézanne and Van Gogh. The French decorative arts and an expanding photography collection are definitely worth visiting. And don't forget to hunt out Miró and Moore in the fine sculpture garden.
4) Shop in Style on Rodeo drive
Many people dream of being Julia Roberts shopping on Rodeo Drive, but few can afford to buy from the array of high-end designers seen in the film Pretty Woman. So window-shopping is the order of the day. Along the $200-million ersatz European cobbled walkway Two Rodeo, browsing tourists mingle with serious spenders. A hop away is Anderson Court, which is the only shopping mall designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
5) Power walk to conserve energy
Take a fuel-efficient walking tour and cherish Los Angeles' urban architectural heritage.The Los Angeles consevancy walking tours take in the city's top sights, from Downtown's historic theaters and art deco (on a weekly basis) to the modern skyline tour (bi-monthly). Be sure to reserve a place well ahead, because the tours are incredibly popular.
Venice beach! Hollywood sights! Modern art! Rodeo drive! Walking Tours!