Los Angeles is among the world's most beloved cities. What was at one time a rough uncivilized town of the old West where public hangings were common in the 1800's has blossomed into a modern world class city of today.

Los Angeles is a favorite city among architects and preservationists. That's because as other cities were trying to redevelop their downtowns by demolishing the old and building the new, Los Angeles merely moved the downtown center further west along with new construction and left the old downtown behind and largely intact. That old downtown which includes the Historic Core, the Old Bank District and other historic areas is a collection of approximately one thousand pre-World War Two art deco buildings and sixteen historic movie palaces, of which twelve line Broadway. These areas which has literally remained unchanged since the 1930s have become popular residential areas as well as favorite filming locations for the studios where it is quite possible to encounter film, TV, or other production activity, especially on weekends.

Los Angeles International Airport's Paul Williams designed Airport Theme Building (1961) houses a restaurant with huge plate glass windows, giving diners spectacular views of airport operations. This world famous landmark has been seen in countless films and TV shows to establish the city location as Los Angeles. Contrary to popular belief, the restaurant never did revolve. The easiest way to get to the airport is by taking the Green Line train. Get off at the Aviation Station then take a free green shuttle bus into the airport.

The Hollywood Sign is the world's largest freestanding sign measuring 450 ft. across with it's nine 50 ft. tall letters. When it was built in 1923 the sign spelled out HOLLYWOODLAND as a temporary ad for a new residential development. It was made of wood planks. Weather and time took it's toll on the landmark as the elements ate away at the wooden letters. In 1941 severe winds toppled the letter H which was then rebuilt with the damaged planks. As the letters became more unstable, the LAND was demolished in the mid 40's leaving only HOLLYWOOD. Letters were rebuilt in 1978. To view the sign take Metro Rail subway and exit at the Hollywood/Vine station. Most streets in the area provide clear views of the sign.