How to Vacation Like a Movie Star

Gaze: Recently reopened after a five-year renovation, the Griffith Park Observatory (griffithobs.org) is one of the city's most enchanting public buildings. Opened in 1935, it is a pristine example of the art deco architecture that flourished in Hollywood's halcyon years. On clear nights, the observatory's original 12-inch Zeiss telescope is open for visitors to take a peek into the heavens. Check the Web site for stargazing schedules and astronomy lectures.

The nation's largest collection of camellia bushes--34,000 of them--are in bloom now through May at Descanso Gardens (descanso.com). Once an old-growth oak forest, the 150-acre park still has scores of the shady California Live Oaks, as well as meandering paths that wind through incredibly colorful flowering bushes. It's an ideal spot to enjoy the springtime California sun.

Pony Up: Go horseback riding in the hills near the historic Hollywood sign and take in views that stretch from Dodger Stadium to the Pacific Ocean at Sunset Ranch (sunsetranchhollywood.com). Rides start at $25 for an hour but the Sunset Dinner Ride, a four-hour trip to a nearby Mexican restaurant, is a steal at $75 per person (not including food.)

Cruise: Visit Segway of Los Angeles (http://www.segway.la/) and see the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice the way locals do. Hop on an easy-to-maneuver Segway and ride the bike strand that takes you past palm tree-studded "Muscle Beach," the Santa Monica pier and thousands of toned and tanned bods: $75 for a two-hour tour. Sunblock not included.

© 2008