#119 La Brea Tar Pits
The La Brea Tar Pits within Hancock Park in Los Angeles has been one of the world's foremost fossil sites. Fossils from the Pleistocene Epoch reveal the story of what once roamed Southern California from the mastodon, saber-toothed cat, camel and ground sloth. Preserved insects, plants and micro-fossils have also been discovered which have led to important scientific research. The adjacent George C. Page Museum displays the prehistoric fossils in its working museum.
#111 Angeles Crest National Scenic Byway
Known as 'the most scenic and picturesque mountain road in the state', Angeles Crest National Scenic Byway is a beautiful scenic drive high up in the San Gabriel Mountains. Also known as Highway 2, the road began construction in 1929 and took 27 years to finish in 1956. It winds through Angeles National Forest & San Gabriel Mountains National Monument to a land of pristine alpine wilderness. During rain storms, the mountain peaks become engulfed in foggy clouds and makes the road appear to soar above to the Angels of Heaven.
#106 Will Rogers State Historic Park
Will Rogers State Historic Park is a beautiful ranch in the Santa Monica Mountains. Once the estate of Will Rogers, the highest paid actor in the 1930's, this ranch was his place of relaxation. With almost 200 acres overlooking the ocean, the ranch contains more than 30 rooms, 7 fireplaces, horse stables, a polo field and hiking trails. in 1944, Will's wife Betty donated the property to California State Parks. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the park is a great place to celebrate the life of Will Rogers as a philosopher and star.
#104 Mission San Gabriel Arcángel
Mission San Gabriel Arcángel is the 4th of the California Missions and was founded in 1771. It is one of the most affluent, best preserved missions and became the spiritual center of the San Gabriel Valley. The mission was created by the Spanish to teach Native Americans farming and industry and convert them to Christianity. The mission museum and grounds are the perfect way to experience what life would have been like.
#101 Malibu Pier
Malibu Pier on the stunning coast of Malibu is a wonderful classic wooden pier. Originally built in 1905 for the local ranches, the pier is now owned by California State Parks and has been a public pier since 1934. Enjoy the stunning coastal views while on a beautiful sunset stroll.
#95 Olvera Street
El Pueblo de Los Ángeles Historical Monument or Olvera Street is the oldest section of Los Angeles. Founded in 1781, the settlement was started by just 44 people and grew to be a social and commercial hub into what would be one of the largest cities in the world. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places, today, Olvera Street is a colorful market celebration of Los Angeles' Spanish and Mexican heritage.
#88 Palisades Park
Palisades Park is a beautiful bluff-top park in Santa Monica. With its stunning ocean to mountain views, it makes for a perfect stroll to enjoy a sunny California day. The park is landscaped with a variety of palm, fig and eucalyptus trees and stretches 1.5 miles.
#86 Solstice Canyon
Solstice Canyon is a beautiful spot in the Santa Monica Mountains. A 2 mile round trip hike takes you into the canyon to the ruins of the Roberts Ranch House which was designed by Paul R. Williams, famous African American Architect in 1952. The house blended in with its natural surroundings and can be discovered by its blueprint foundation today. A nearby waterfall is also a highlight that can be seen flowing all year long.
#83 Oak of the Golden Dream
The Oak of the Golden Dream is the first original discovery of Gold in today's Placerita Canyon State Park. Six years before the California Gold Rush, a man named Francisco Lopez, brother of nearby Mission San Fernando Rey de España, had a dream of Gold while napping under an oak tree. After the dream, he picked wild onions and discovered gold in its roots. It became the first documented gold site in California. Marking the famous March 9th 1842 discovery is the surviving tree and the California Historical Landmark No. 168 Plaque.
#77 Malaga Cove
Malaga Cove is a hidden cove in Rancho Palos Verdes. The southern edge is rocky shore which opens up to the sandy Los Angeles County stretch. The surrounding bluffs provide seclusion and make for an enjoyable escape from city life. During the winter rains, the hills turn a beautiful shade of green.