When most people visit LA, there are the everyday places that everyone visits. Then there are some places that a lot of people don't quite visit. Here are a few places that most people go to, but if you haven't, they are highly recommended.

The first stop on our list is the Griffith Observatory Hike and Hollywood Sign Hike. They are completely different views, but lucky enough they share the same parking lot. Unfortunately though, the parking lot at the Observatory is always closed or full. I highly recommend parking on the windy road that is just below the Observatory. ( Pictured Below )

As you walk up the road in the direction of the Observatory, you will have a pretty breathtaking view of the city. We didn't actually visit the Observatory on this visit, but it is certainly something you can do before the hike. The hike up to the top is approximately 1.5 miles each way. There are some short cuts but I wouldn't recommend them, as they are steep and rocky.

Almost every bend in the road offers a different vantage point of downtown, the Observatory, Hollywood, etc. At the very top of the hike, there is a lookout point with tables and benches. If you can muster up the strength to carry up a picnic basket, then i would definetley do it! The view from the top is incredible because of how far you can see. Soak it all, then whip out your camera.

After catching your breathe, its time to head towards the Hollywood Sign. Don't be discouraged that it looks far because its really only 1.5 miles away on a flat dirt road. The windy dirt roads make it look a lot farther then it actually is.

We decided to take a short cut and ended up being a mission. I had google maps open on my phone so I could follow the single track though the hills, but ended up being straight up the side of a mountain. Not only was it steep, but it was loose rock. I suggest staying on the flat dirt road.

Once you hit the pavement part of the trail, that's when your calves will start to burn. From the bottom to the top, its about a 30-40 min walk depending on how in shape you are. The paved road is nice and smooth but windy as can be. Once again, don't be discouraged because the view at the top is worth it.

After a long walk up the road, you will be above the Hollywood Sign. Take it all in. It might seem like you didn't see anyone else on the trail but there is no doubt, you will be up there with a bunch of people.

Enjoy the view and look full circle. You will be able to see farther then you thought.

In total, the hike should take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours. It all depends on how long you stay at the top of the hike and how quickly you do them.

After a long walk back to your car, its time to head to the Hollywood Bowl Overlook. Luckily, the drive is only about a 10-15 minute drive from the Observatory. The hardest part about the lookout is the parking. When I say there are only 8 parking spots, I literally mean there are only 8. 10/10 times all of them will be taken. The best thing to do is wait in line until someone leaves or park at the bottom and Uber / Lyft to the top. One thing to remember is don't give up until you get in!

When you eventually get into the park, your jaw will drop. You have a perfect view of the Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood Sign, and downtown LA. If you happen to go on a night when a performance is happening at the Bowl, you will be able to hear everything perfectly.

The best time to be here is around sunset, as you get to see the city go from an urban jungle to beautiful city landscape. Unfortunately the park closes at sunset which only gives you 25-30 minutes of total darkness. A security guard usually comes and checks to make sure the park is clear so you wont get locked inside the gates.

Pictures don't do this place justice!

This is a perfect idea to do on the weekend or for a date. The biggest thing I have to say is to not get discouraged by how far the hikes look. They really aren't to bad and the views at the end are 1 in a million.

Just remember to soak in all the views with your eyes first before seeing them through a lense or screen. Get out there and enjoy!

Here is a breakdown of what this costs:

**1/2 a tank of gas $20
Waters & Snacks - $20
Observatory Parking - FREE
Observatory Hike - FREE
Hollywood Sign Hike - FREE
Hollywood Bowl Overlook Parking - FREE
Day of fun - PRICELESS

TOTAL - $40 for a good time !

** DEPENDS ON HOW FAR YOU LIVE

Hollywood Hills

Here is a breakdown of what this costs:

TOTAL - $40 for a good time !