GriffithPark Archives

Circa Hits the Trail: Explore LA’s Scenic Nature Hikes

Summer is officially here, and now is the perfect time to get out and commune with nature. According to recent research, experiencing the natural world has a powerful effect on our well-being, including reducing stress, improving cognitive abilities, and boosting creativity. And you don’t have to travel far to explore the great outdoors. LA is home to a wealth of scenic trails and nature preserves that are easily accessible from Circa, where you’ll discover everything from lush flower blooms to rugged woodlands, refreshing waterfalls, and a wide variety of wildlife. Bring plenty of water and snacks, wear sturdy shoes and protective hiking attire, and don’t forget your sunscreen!

Fern Dell Trails Cafe LA’s scenic hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Griffith Park 4730 Crystal Springs Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

With over 4,210 acres of both natural chapparal-covered terrain and landscaped parkland and picnic areas, Griffith Park is one of the largest municipal parks with urban wilderness areas in the United States. Activities include hiking, biking, horseback riding, picnicking, and more. The park is also home to numerous iconic attractions including the Greek Theatre, Autry Museum of the American West, Griffith Observatory, L.A. Zoo, and L.A. Equestrian Center. Within the park, you’ll also discover hidden gems, such as Fern Dell and Amir’s Garden.

Amir's Garden LA Trail Hikers LA’s scenic hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Amir’s Garden 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027

After a fire destroyed this Griffith Park hillside in 1971, hiker and Iranian immigrant Amir Dialameh spent more than three decades transforming it by hand, planting pine, jacaranda trees, geraniums, oleander, rose bushes, and other flowers and plants. The roughly 5-acre garden features enclaves with picnic tables and benches, as well as meandering wooden staircases that wind down the hillside. Amir Dialameh passed away unexpectedly in late 2003, leaving behind a verdant gift to the citizens of Los Angeles. Today, his garden is maintained by volunteers and volunteer groups, with assistance, when possible, from the City of Los Angeles Park Rangers and park maintenance workers.

Hollywood Sign Hollywood Sign Trust LA’s scenic hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Hollywood Sign Hiking Trails

Have you ever hiked up to the Hollywood Sign? There are several routes to choose from, ranked from easy to difficult. The Mt Hollywood Trail, the Brush Canyon Trail, and the Cahuenga Peak Trail offer options for intrepid seekers, stragglers, dreamers, beginners, children, and the moderately well-conditioned. ‍Authorized hiking trails are open the same hours as Griffith Park, from Sunrise to Sunset, 365 days a year. Please note that trespassing is illegal and the sign is protected by a fence and security cameras.

Earnest E. Debs Regional Park LA’s scenic hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Earnest E. Debs Regional Park 4235 Monterey Road, Los Angeles, CA 90032

Ernest E. Debs Regional Park is 300 acre urban oasis on old ranch land in the Arroyo Seco neighborhood just northeast of downtown L.A. The fourth largest park in Los Angeles, the area is home to walnut-oak woodland, grassland, coastal sage scrub, and over 140 species of birds. A five mile loop meanders through almost every section of this dog-friendly park. Along the way, you’ll discover a pond where you can actually go fishing.

Audubon Center at Debs Park near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Audubon Center at Debs Park 4700 Griffin Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90031

The Audubon Center at Debs Park is a natural jewel in the heart of Los Angeles with something for everyone. They are a community hub located in Montecito Heights, less than 5 miles from Downtown LA. Nestled within the 282-acre Ernest E. Debs Regional Park, the Center has inspired a love of nature in over a quarter of a million residents of Los Angeles. The park is home to over 140 species of birds, including American Kestrels, Great-horned Owls, Northern Flickers and Yellow-rumped Warblers. Look for birds, but not sure where to start? Check out their birding tips or attend a Community Bird Walk.

Elyria Canyon Park LA’s scenic hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Elyria Canyon Park 1550 Bridgeport Drive, Los Angeles 90065

Nestled on the southwestern slopes of Mount Washington, Elyria Canyon Park is a 35-acre nature park that provides a glimpse into the native habitat that once thrived in the hills near downtown Los Angeles. The park boasts one of the finest examples of California black walnut woodland in Southern California, with lovely trails that lead to vistas of the Los Angeles River, Griffith Observatory, and DTLA. The main entrance is located off Wollam Street in Glassell Park. Leave the paved road for a dirt path through thickets of sumac and bay laurel trees. Keep zigging and zagging until you reach a grassy bowl, where you’ll find a bench and a welcoming drinking fountain. Walk a bit farther and to see a totally unexpected little red farmhouse.

Eaton Canyon Fall Wikipedia Scott Medling LA’s scenic hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Eaton Canyon Falls Eaton Canyon 1750 N Altadena Dr. Pasadena, CA 91107

Eaton Canyon Trail is a scenic hike to the 40-foot Eaton Canyon Falls, with beautiful views of the San Gabriel and Santa Monica Mountains. The trail has only a few hundred feet of elevation gain, but there are several stream crossings and areas of boulder-hopping and rock climbing on the way to the falls. Eaton Canyon Natural Area is a 190-acre zoological, botanical, and geological nature preserve situated at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, seasonal stream, rocks and minerals, various natural habitats, native plants, and wildlife.

Bridge to Nowhere Instagram @lahikes LA’s Scenic Hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Bridge to Nowhere East Fork Trailhead, Camp Bonita Rd, La Verne, CA 91750

The Bridge to Nowhere is a 120-foot high concrete arch bridge that was built in 1936, located north of Azusa in the San Gabriel Mountains. The bridge spans the East Fork of the San Gabriel River and was meant to be part of a road connecting the San Gabriel Valley with Wrightwood. The East Fork Road was still under construction when it was washed out during the great flood of 1938 and the project was abandoned, leaving the bridge forever stranded in the middle of what is now the Sheep Mountain Wilderness. The hike starts at the East Fork Trailhead in Angeles National Forest, about an hour away from central Los Angeles. The trail features multiple river crossings, plenty of opportunities to swim, and historic sections of visible roads and tunnels.

Will Rogers State Historic Park LA’s Scenic Hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Will Rogers State Historic Park 1501 Will Rogers State Park Rd. Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Will Rogers was one of the most popular and highest paid actors in Hollywood and “America’s most beloved citizen.” During the 1920s, he bought land in Santa Monica, where he developed a ranch. Eventually, Rogers owned about 359 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in what is now Pacific Palisades. After Rogers passed away, his widow Betty donated the ranch to California State Parks in 1944. Casual hikers can enjoy a moderate 2-mile loop to and from Inspiration Point, and more adventurous hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians can tackle the Backbone Trail National Trail into the Santa Monica Mountains, which can take you all the way to Point Mugu.

Escondido Canyon Park LA’s Scenic Hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Escondido Canyon Park 27200 Winding Way, Malibu, CA 90265

At 150 feet, Escondido Canyon Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Santa Monica Mountains, accessed by a lovely and shaded trail through beautiful sage scrub. Starting from Pacific Coast Highway about a mile south of Kanan Road in Malibu, take the Edward Albert Trail through Escondido Canyon Natural Area. The trail leads hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians 4.2 miles through oak woodland, riparian woodland, and coastal sage scrub to the spectacular, multi-tiered waterfall.

Malibu Creek Rock Pool LA’s Scenic Hikes near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Malibu Creek Rock Pool Malibu Creek State Park 1925 Las Virgenes Rd. Calabasas, CA 91302

Malibu Creek State Park, just 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, features hiking, fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding opportunities. A beautiful oasis hidden in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Malibu Creek Rock Pool is a fairly large body of water surrounded by green trees and tall rocky, porous cliffs. The rocks are situated above and around the pool, hence the name, the Rock Pool. You can also roam the surrounding area of the Rock Pool to see other parts of Malibu Creek, where you’ll find some good spots to relax and enjoy the tranquil sounds of the water as it flows by.

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center Instagram @vasquez.rocks near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center 10700 W. Escondido Canyon Rd. Agua Dulce, CA 91390

Located in the high desert near Agua Dulce Springs, Vasquez Rocks features 932 acres of spectacular rock formations and a seasonal stream. The rocks’ history began in prehistoric times when the sandstone rocks were uplifted at a picturesque angle, showing their jagged red features. In 1874 Tiburcio Vasquez, one of California’s most notorious bandits, used these rocks to elude capture by law enforcement. His name has since been associated with this geologic feature. The park is a popular hiking, picnicking, and equestrian area, and has been seen in many hit movies, commercials and television shows, including Star Trek and Star Trek: Picard.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Bridge to Nowhere / Instagram @lahikes

Photo #2: LA Parks / Griffith Park

Photo #3: LA Trail Hikers

Photo #4: Hollywood Sign Trust

Photo #5: Earnest E. Debs Regional Park

Photo #6: Earnest E. Debs Regional Park

Photo #7: Santa Monica Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority

Photo #8: Wikipedia / Scott Medling

Photo #9: Bridge to Nowhere / Instagram @lahikes

Photo #10: California State Parks

Photo #11: Santa Monica Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority

Photo #12: California State Parks

Photo #13: Instagram @vasquez.rocks

Pedal to the Metal: Circa’s Guide to Cycling in LA

Spring has sprung! And we can’t think of a better way to celebrate the season than hopping on a bike and tooling around LA on two wheels. If you’re looking for bike lanes and bike paths near Circa, check out the LA County Bikeways Map. We’ve also rounded up some great resources, including bicycle shops, bike rentals, bike repair and maintenance, and scenic bike paths and trails. And mark your calendars for some epic bike rides around town to put your pedal to the metal.

Finish The Ride and Run Griffith Park near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Finish The Ride and Run Griffith Park Autry Museum 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, CA 90027

April 6-7 Finish the Ride and Finish The Run supports the life-saving strategies of Streets Are For Everyone to make roads safer for all road users. This event has been making roads safer since 2014, when Damian Kevitt finished his ride to Griffith Park, a year after losing his leg and almost his life, in a hit-and-run collision while cycling there. By participating in these events, you are supporting this mission. You can access the Autry by biking (they’re right by the LA River bike path). If you plan to drive, there is plenty of parking at the Autry and surrounding lots

CicLAvia

April 21 CicLAvia is a nonprofit organization that catalyzes vibrant public spaces, active transportation, and good health through car-free street events. CicLAvia engages with people to transform our relationship with our communities and with each other. Inspired by Bogotá’s weekly ciclovía, CicLAvia temporarily closes streets to car traffic and opens them to Angelenos to use as a public park. Free for all, CicLAvia connects communities to each other across an expansive city, creating a safe place to bike, walk, skate, roll, and dance through LA County. There are eight CicLAvia Sundays in 2024. Check website for full schedule.

LA Critical Mass

L A Critical Mass is a community of cycling enthusiasts who ride through the land of cars and spread the joy of bicyclism. The night rides are held on the Last Friday of every month. Meet at the Purple Line Station, Western and Wilshire at 6:30 pm. Ride rolls at 7:29 pm. You don’t need gasoline, just adrenaline.

DTLA Bikes bike store near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

DTLA Bikes 425 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

What started as an underground basement shop on Broadway has grown into the premier bicycle store in Downtown Los Angeles. Located in an 18,000 square foot facility spanning three floors, DTLA Bikes is a cycling destination for fixed gear messengers, urban commuters, weekend warriors, hard core roadies, and leisure riders alike. The shop has over 500 bicycles in stock, along with thousands of accessories. Their knowledgeable staff, who love to ride to work, includes skilled mechanics and service techs.

Just Ride LA bike store near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Just Ride L.A. 1626 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

LA-made and family-owned, Just Ride L.A. is more than just a cycling shop, it’s a lifestyle. Established in downtown Los Angeles in 2008, Just Ride has been the go-to destination for Los Angeles’ active city cycling community. From small-scale repairs to the highest quality bikes on the market, this award-winning store is a one-stop shop for all of your cycling needs.

Hoopty Bikes mobile bike repair near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Hoopty Bikes 305 E 9th St. #219 Los Angeles, CA 90015

Hoopty Bikes is a mobile bike repair shop for all types of bicycles. Whether it’s an ebike, classic 10-speed, basic commuter, or beach cruiser, they’ve got you covered. For a fast, free estimate, text 310-308-0252 with a photo of your bike and your zip code, and the best mobile mechanic in LA will schedule an appointment at your home or office. No shop visit required. They also specialize in restoration of vintage road bikes.

Glendale Narrows Elysian Valley Bicycle Path bike path near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA River Bikeway

Along the 51 miles of the L.A. River, you’ll find a series of disconnected paved paths everywhere from Canoga Park to the Port of L.A. But the most bike-centric activity is along the Glendale Narrows/Elysian Valley Bicycle Path, which cuts through cafe and restaurant-filled Frogtown. The bike path runs from Victory Boulevard and Riverside Drive to Elysian Valley’s Egret Park, with various notable entry points like Lewis MacAdams Riverfront Park and Rattlesnake Park.

Griffith Park Trails

Take a trek by bike through the mix of native chaparral and landscaped paths that cover Griffith Park. For a flat ride, you can stick to the perimeter and the L.A. River Bike Path, take a detour onto Crystal Springs Drive for a bit of an elevation change, or really get adventurous with a challenging climb up Mt. Hollywood Drive. Those cycling to Griffith Park and Observatory must use paved park roads and may park and bike from public spaces around the park. The Observatory has several bike racks.

Spokes ’N Stuff Bike Rentals 4730 Crystal Springs Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Located on Crystal Springs Drive in Griffith Park, you can choose a bicycle to rent and enjoy hours in the sun while getting some exercise and seeing the sights. Parking is available in the Rangers Station Parking Lot.

Spinlister Bike Rentals

Spinlister is a global bike rental and sharing service that provides a platform to connect bike owners with active people looking to rent or borrow around the world. Through their service, owners list their bikes, renters search for a bike in whatever area they want, and complete the rental process easily through their website, mobile app, or in-store kiosks. Spinlister offers various protection options and delivery services for your peace of mind.

Topanga Creek Outpost bike store near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

9 Amazing Bike Rides In Los Angeles

From the mountains to the beach, and everywhere in between, you can pedal your way across the city and enjoy almost endless biking opportunities. Take a ride along the coast on the Marvin Braude/Pacific Coast Bike Path or venture up to Cogswell Dam, tucked up in the San Gabriel Mountains above Azusa. Closer to home, you can peel the Arroyo Seco Bike Path from Ernest E. Debs Regional Park all the way up to the Rose Bowl, where you’ll find a loop of protected lanes. These great rides take place on roads that are entirely car-free or have light traffic — and they work for folks of all fitness levels.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Hoopty Bikes

Photo #2: Streets Are For Everyone

Photo #3: CicLAvia

Photo #4: LA Critical Mass

Photo #5: DTLA Bikes

Photo #6: Just Ride LA

Photo #7: Hoopty Bikes

Photo #8: Glendale Narrows Elysian Valley Bicycle Path/Wiki Commons Junkyardsparkle

Photo #9: Hollywood Sign/Hollywood Sign Trust

Photo #10: Griffith Park Observatory

Photo #11: Spinlister Bike Rentals

Photo #12: Topanga Creek Outpost

Celebrate Earth Day Cycling in LA

April 22 is Earth Day, dedicated to creating a prosperous and sustainable future, restoring nature, and building a healthy planet. And we can’t think of a better way to celebrate Earth Day than hopping on a bike and tooling around LA on two wheels. If you’re looking for bike lanes and bike paths near Circa, check out the LA County Bikeways Map. Ready to ride? We’ve rounded up some great resources, including bicycle shops, bike rentals, bike repair and maintenance, and scenic bike paths and trails to put your pedal to the metal.

DTLA Bikes near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

DTLA Bikes 425 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

What started as an underground basement shop on Broadway has emerged into the premier bicycle shop in Downtown Los Angeles. Located in an 18,000 square foot shop spanning three floors, DTLA Bikes is a cycling destination for fixed gear messengers, urban commuters, weekend warriors, hard core roadies, and leisure riders alike. The shop has over 500 bicycles in stock, along with thousands of accessories. Their knowledgeable staff, who love to ride to work, includes skilled mechanics and service techs.

Just Ride L.A near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Just Ride L.A. 1626 S Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

LA made and family-owned, Just Ride L.A. is more than just a cycling shop, it’s a lifestyle. Established in downtown Los Angeles in 2008, Just Ride has been the go-to destination for Los Angeles’ active city cycling community. From small-scale repairs to the highest quality bikes on the market, this award-winning store is a one-stop shop for all of your cycling needs.

Hoopty Bikes near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Hoopty Bikes 305 E 9th St. #219 Los Angeles, CA 90015

Hoopty Bikes is a mobil bike repair shop for all types of bicycles. Whether it’s an ebike, classic 10-speed, basic commuter, or beach cruiser, they have you covered. For a fast free estimate, text 310-308-0252 a photo of your bike with zip code and the best mobile mechanic in LA will schedule an appointment at your home or office. No shop visit required. They also specialize in restoration of vintage road bikes.

Topanga Creek Outpost near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Topanga Creek Outpost 1273 N Topanga Canyon Blvd. Topanga, CA 90290

Topanga Creek Outpost has been building quality custom bicycles since opening their shop over fifteen years ago. They offer customized bicycles crafted with the highest standards based on your needs, budget and style to make each bike uniquely yours. The friendly staff will help guide you through the entire process, from initial design to component specification to work completion, with a straight approach and open communication. They are also an authorized Los Angeles dealer for complete bicycles, bicycle frames, parts and accessories.

The 8 Best Bike Rides In Los Angeles

The 7 Best Mountain Bike Trails in Los Angeles

Savvy Angelenos know there’s more to our fair city than beaches and Hollywood film sets. Though the City of Angels is home to nearly four million people, it’s also central to plenty of green space – even the iconic Hollywood Sign sits in a public park. With all those parks and trails, it’s no surprise that there’s a ton of phenomenal mountain bike trails near Downtown L.A. See Los Angeles in a whole new light with these seven incredible MTB rides.

Glendale Narrows Elysian Valley Bicycle Path near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

LA River Bikeway

Along the 51 miles of the L.A. River, you’ll find a series of disconnected paved paths everywhere from Canoga Park to the Port of L.A. But the most bike-centric activity is along the Glendale Narrows/Elysian Valley Bicycle Path, which cuts through the increasingly cafe and restaurant-filled Frogtown. The bike path runs from Victory Boulevard and Riverside Drive to Elysian Valley’s Egret Park, with various notably entry points like Lewis MacAdams Riverfront Park and Rattlesnake Park. Discover the full LA River route HERE

Hollywood Sign near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Griffith Park Trails

Take a trek through the mix of native chaparral and landscaped paths that cover Griffith Park by bike. For a flat ride, you can stick to the perimeter and the L.A. River Bike Path, take a detour onto Crystal Springs Drive for a bit of an elevation change, or really get adventurous with a challenging climb up Mt. Hollywood Drive. Those cycling to Griffith Park and Observatory must use paved park roads and may park and bike from public spaces around the park. The Observatory has several bike racks. Plan you trip HERE

Griffith Park Observatory near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Spokes ’N Stuff Bike Rentals 4730 Crystal Springs Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Located on Crystal Springs Drive in Griffith Park, you can choose a bicycle to rent and enjoy hours in the sun while getting some exercise and seeing the sights. Park in the Rangers Station Parking Lot.

Spinlister Bike Rentals 12575 Beatrice St. Los Angeles, CA 90066

Spinlister is a global bike rental and sharing service that provides a platform to connect bike owners with active people looking to rent or borrow around the world. Through their service, owners list their bikes, renters search for a bike in whatever area they want, and complete the rental process easily through their website, mobile app, or in-store kiosks. They even offer various protection options and delivery services for your peace of mind.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: DTLA Bikes

Photo #2: DTLA Bikes

Photo #3: Just Ride L.A.

Photo #4: Hoopty Bikes

Photo #5: Topanga Creek Outpost

Photo #6: Topanga Creek Outpost

Photo #7: Topanga Creek Outpost

Photo #8: Glendale Narrows Elysian Valley Bicycle Path/Wiki Commons Junkyardsparkle

Photo #9: Hollywood Sign/Hollywood Sign Trust

Photo #10: Griffith Park Observatory

Photo #11: Spinlister Bike Rentals

Have Yourself a Spooktacular Halloween

Halloween is creeping near. So what are you going to do this year? Residents of Circa have everything to fear – from fiendish festivals to ghoulish ghost tours – welcome to your nightmare. If you’re stumped for costume ideas, why not try your hand at creative face painting. Party City carries a great selection of make up kits. Ready to go full on? Hollywood Toys & Costumes, the go-to for movie studios, tourists and locals for over 50 years, offers an extensive inventory of costumes, masks, jewelry, make up, and novelties. So now that you’re all tricked out, it’s time for a treat!

Hey Circa residents! Join us for the Freak Show in the 8th Floor Clubhouse. Wear your best costume for our costume contest with prizes. Enjoy little bites, libations, and live music. Friday October 29th from 7PM – 10PM.

Olvera Street Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Dia de los Muertos Olvera Street Los Angeles, CA 90012

For over 35 years, the merchants on Olvera Street have celebrated Dia de los Muertos. The event has evolved to incorporate the pre-Columbian, Aztec, Mayan and Catholic rituals surrounding death and a celebration of life. Dia de los Muertos at Olvera Street is the only event of its kind in Los Angeles – a nine day festival, with a nightly procession, community altars on display, and entertainment.

Grand Park Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Grand Park Dia de Los Muertos 200 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Grand Park pays tribute to the cultural tradition of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), with a free 12-day public art installation from October 22 through November 2. Presented in partnership with Self Help Graphics & Art, the ninth annual Día de los Muertos invites visitors to stroll through the park to view 20 altars made by professional artists and local community organizations, including East Los Angeles Women’s Center, Community Power Collective and Eastside LEADS, among others.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Halloween Organ, Film & Music: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. This Halloween, organist Clark Wilson performs a haunting score for John S. Robertson’s 1920 silent film classic Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, starring John Barrymore. Film critic Leonard Maltin has described Wilson as a “master of silent film and showman of the first order” for his organ accompaniments of silent films.

Haunted Little Tokyo Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Haunted Little Tokyo Brunswig Square 360 E 2nd St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Just in time for spooky season, the Little Tokyo Ghost Club is transforming the community for the 5th annual Haunted Little Tokyo, a fun-filled Halloween celebration with three frightfully fun events that are perfect for ghosts and ghouls of all ages. The festivities culminate with the Haunted Little Tokyo Block Party, held at a secret outdoor location. The event will include all the favorites from previous block parties including DJs, drinks, food, and a costume contest.

Spooky Tea at the Wayfarer DTLA Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Spooky Tea at the Wayfarer DTLA 813 Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Drink up witches! Get in the Halloween spirit at The Wayfarer DTLA’s first annual Spooky Tea. Inside the basement of the Wayfarer lies Lilly Rose, an eclectic bar and lounge with interior design straight out of Alice in Wonderland. This October, Spooky Tea is hosted every Thursday to Sunday, with a set menu full of seasonal treats like salted butter caramel oolong tea and pumpkin bread tea sandwiches. Costumes are welcome.

Theatre at Ace Hotel Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Get Out Theatre at Ace Hotel 929 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90015

This Halloween, see the groundbreaking horror film Get Out like you’ve never heard it before. Composer Michael Abels conducts his disconcerting “gospel horror” original score, performed live by the LA Opera Orchestra and the amazing DC6 Singers. According to Modern Vinyl, it’s a very compelling score with loads of atmospheric dread coupled with the constant feeling of claustrophobia. LA Opera has safety protocols in place.

The Nightmare Before Christmas Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

The Nightmare Before Christmas Banc of California Stadium 3939 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90037

Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas live-to-film concert experience features Danny Elfman singing the songs of Jack Skellington, plus special guests Billie Eilish, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Ken Page, and Paul Ruebens. The event includes on-site trick-or-treating and a pre-show costume contest.

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride 4730 Crystal Springs Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride is back at Griffith Park. And did we mention that Griffith Park is widely regarded as one of the most haunted places in LA? Haunted Hayride has transformed the park grounds into Midnight Falls, an eerie and mysterious fictitious village set in 1985, where time stands still and it is always Halloween. Within the foothills of Midnight Falls, the Haunted Hayride leads to a thrilling adventure of horrors afflicting the town, including the Town Square, Midnight Mortuary, and Dead End Diner.

Halloween Horror Nights Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Halloween Horror Nights Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608

Halloween Horror Nights is back with a vengeance at Universal Studios Hollywood. You’ll want to bring plenty of friends with you to share the screams and watch your back as you all make your way through terrifying mazes, face nightmarish creatures in sinister scare zones, lose yourselves in outrageous live entertainment, and escape to some of the park’s most exhilarating attractions. Just as in horror films, where the first to wander off meets a terrible fate, there’s one thing to remember at Halloween Horror Nights: Never Go Alone.

Strange Science The Huntington Library 1151 Oxford Rd. San Marino, CA 91108

Enter a dark Victorian landscape and explore peculiar pastimes and creepy characters through live theatrical performances, electrifying presentations, and special displays of rarely seen objects from The Hungtonton’s vaults. LA Opera performs highlights from Stephen Sondheim’s macabre musical, Sweeney Todd. Spine-tingling tales and poems are brought to life by the Guild of St. George in the Edgar Allan Poe Theatre. Thrill to Steam, Dreams, & Screams: The ‘Dreadful’ Collections, featuring unusual Victorian-era objects, books, and prints from the Library Vaults. Dine (if you dare) in the Blood and Velvet Lounge and be mesmerized by a magical performance by CirqueSanity.

Carved Descanso Gardens Halloween near Circa apartments in downtown Los Angeles

Carved Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens is aglow with festive pumpkins this fall. For three weeks in October, hundreds of carved pumpkins will line a 1-mile walk through the Camellia Forest and Oak Grove. Along with pumpkins, there are exciting new oversized sculptures made of sticks and other natural materials. The popular Pumpkin House, a hay maze, and themed food and beverage will all help to create a fun harvest festival ambiance.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Descanso Gardens

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Olvera Street

Photo #4: Grand Park

Photo #5: LA Phil

Photo #6: Haunted Little Tokyo

Photo #7: Wayfarer DTLA

Photo #8: Theatre at Ace Hotel

Photo #9: Banc of California Stadium

Photo #10: Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

Photo #11: Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo #12: The Huntington Library

Photo #13: Descanso Gardens

Celebrate Spring By Communing with Nature

The 2021 Vernal Equinox is March 20, marking the first day of Spring. Now is the perfect time to get out and commune with nature. According to recent research, experiencing awe in nature has a powerful effect on emotional well-being, including less stress in our daily lives and boosting healthy feelings of compassion and gratitude. One of the most coveted features at Circa is the two-acre private rooftop park and amenity collection, offering residents plenty of greenery and spaces to retreat, gather and entertain. But beyond the comfort of home, we’ve rounded up some wonderful ways to add some awe to your routine, including bird watching trails, a butterfly pavilion, outdoor art installations, and a bounty of spring blooms. We even found some apps to enhance your experience of nature. Check websites for hours, advance ticket sales, and health guidelines.

Descanso Gardens Cherry Blossoms near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Descanso Gardens Bloom Boom 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Experience Descanso’s bloom boom! Descanso Gardens celebrates all nature has to offer in the late winter and early spring. Currently blooming you’ll find Descanso’s iconic cherry blossoms, camellias, crabapples, daffodils, tulips, California poppies, and lilacs. Colorful flowers are a sure sign of spring, but not the only one. The birds of Descanso mark spring by making their homes in the garden. As you explore Descanso, look for special areas from the Promenade to the Oak Woodland marked with the Signs of Spring logo. There you will find displays both educational and artistic, including works by artist David Lovejoy. They’ll invite you to explore birds, nests, blooms, and all the signs of spring. Advance tickets required for non-members.

NHM Butterfly Pavilion near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Butterfly Pavilion at NHMLA 900 W Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007

Butterflies are taking flight at the Natural History Museum. Walk among beautiful butterflies in the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion. This springtime exhibition features hundreds of butterflies, colorful native plants, and plenty of natural light to help you see these creatures shimmer. With lots of flight space and a variety of resting spots, you’ll have one of the best views in Los Angeles of these amazing insects. Enter through the North Entrance and enjoy a stroll through the beautiful Nature Gardens on the way to the Butterfly Pavilion. All guests are required to reserve all tickets in advance for the Butterfly Pavilion and parking.

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens 3500 W Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018

Need to unwind your mind? Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens was established by the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness as a non-profit center dedicated to peace and spirituality. Called a “Spiritual Oasis in the City,” its purpose is to provide a place for people to take time out of their busy lives to visit, reflect, and be rejuvenated by the peace and solace of nature. The centerpiece of the property is an outdoor stone labyrinth, using the same design as the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth. The spectacular Asian-themed meditation garden presents sixteen water features, a koi pond, and intimate seating areas tucked away to reflect, repose, meditate, while a pergola and courtyard gardens offer additional areas to enjoy.

Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary 2900 N Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Nestled in a wooded canyon with a small stream, the Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary and Trail offers views of many species of birds in their natural habitat. This short hike offers great views and connects to a wider system of trails. The bird community represents most of the rich diversity found in the Santa Monica Mountains. More than 200 species have been recorded over the years, and around 150 are seen every year. From March through June, nearly 70 species may nest, particularly in the many small canyons that drain off the slopes into the Los Angeles River.

Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK Featuring Kronos Quartet in Griffith Park

Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK is a free, GPS-enabled work of public art that uses music to illuminate the natural environment of L.A.’s Griffith Park. Created by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and sound artist Ellen Reid, the experience is guided by the listener: the path you choose dictates the music you hear, and no two visits will be exactly the same. After downloading the free app and putting on your headphones, you can explore the park, triggering musical cells that are carefully crafted to harmonize with the park’s landscape and attractions. SOUNDWALK can be experienced while following social distancing guidelines and will be available free of charge to park visitors through 2023. Get the free app HERE

South Coast Botanic Garden near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Hide & Seek Art: Meets Nature South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

Embark on an artful adventure at South Coast Botanic Garden and explore 87 acres of lush habitat and manicured gardens. Hiding amid colorful blooms and luscious flowering trees are eight exquisite works of sculpture just waiting to be found at the Garden’s newest exhibit: Hide and Seek: Art Meets Nature. The exhibition features two contemporary pieces owned by South Coast Botanic Garden and six modern works from the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The sculptures have been carefully placed throughout the Garden as a way to encourage nature exploration with an artful game of hide and seek. The Garden’s vast nature space provides an exquisite opportunity for each sculpture to express its own artistic character. The interplay of nature and art will add a whole new level of appreciation for the Garden’s botanical collections.

Desert X near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Desert X DX 2021 Coachella Valley, CA

Ready for a road trip? Desert X is a site-specific exhibition that first took place in Spring 2017. Artists from different parts of the world are invited to create work in response to the unique conditions of the Coachella Valley and project their vision based on the extraordinary natural and social history, matchless spectacle of the geologic epic, radical abstraction of the surrounds, and the singular incursions of humans into the seemingly barren landscape. Free and open to the public, but health and safety guidelines apply. Timed tickets are required at select sites. Download the Desert X app HERE

The Living Desert WildLights of Spring near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Living Desert WildLights of Spring 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is excited to announce that WildLights is returning to the Zoo – with a spring twist! WildLights of Spring will take guests on an illuminated journey around the Zoo with vantages of select animal habitats including the emus of the new Australian Adventures, and new for Spring, a portion of the African Safari loop will be open for guests to see cheetahs, zebras, African wild dogs, and more. Plus, there will be new music for the light zones – including the Tunnel of Lights, Dazzling Gift, and Discovery Center. Guests can take a spin on the carousel and make s’mores around a fire, for an additional fee. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Advance reservations required.

iNaturalist App

Do you want to contribute to science? The iNaturalist app allows you to connect with nature and record your observations of the natural world, such as birds, plants, forests, butterflies, marine life, and wild bees. You can share your observations with fellow naturalists, discuss your findings, and create your own projects. Every observation can contribute to biodiversity science, from the rarest butterfly to the most common backyard weed. iNaturalist shares your findings with scientific data repositories like the Global Biodiversity Information Facility to help scientists find and use your data. All you have to do is observe. iNaturalist is a joint initiative of the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society.

Picture This app nature near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Picture This – Plant Identifier App

Have you ever encountered a beautiful, unknown flower during your walk and wondered what it was? Or do you need advice on how to care for your plants? Simply take a photo of the plant and PictureThis answers all the questions for you. PictureThis® identifies 1,000,000+ plants every day with 98% accuracy – better than most human experts. The app’s revolutionary artificial intelligence engine is constantly learning from experts and specialists – and now it’s all at your fingertips. Picture this plant, and discover a new appreciation for nature.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens

Photo #2: Descanso Gardens

Photo #3: Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Photo #4: Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens

Photo #5: Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Photo #6: Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK

Photo #7: South Coast Botanic Garden

Photo #8: Desert X

Photo #9: The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Photo #10: iNaturalist App

Photo #11: Picture This – Plant Identifier App

Discover LA’s Urban Hikes & Secret Spaces

Celebrate the New Year communing with nature and discovering some of the city’s best kept secrets! You don’t have to travel far to start your adventure – LA contains a wealth of urban parks, hidden hiking trails, meditative environments, and obscure places. Did you know that Griffith Park holds the key to many of LA’s most iconic mysteries? The Los Angeles River, our original source of life, continues its epic revitalization, creating diverse opportunities to enjoy our one of our most valuable local resources. And for the intrepid hiker, the hills are alive with meandering paths, scenic canyons, and delightful dells, all waiting to be explored. Feeling inspired? It’s time to get off the beaten path and discover LA’s urban hikes and secret spaces.

Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens 3500 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90018

Mysteries of Griffith Park

One of the largest urban parks in North America, Griffith Park is the jewel of Los Angeles. But its beauty hides many secet locations as well as its curses. This tour will take you on an exploration of everything that Griffith Park tries hard to conceal. Your journey starts with a leisurely stroll down the most beautiful trail in Griffith Park, Fern Dell Trail, transforming you to a serene oasis. On the way past the Griffith Observatory and the Greek Theater, you’ll visit the Griffith Park Tunnel,seen in many films including “Back to the Future” and “Roger Rabbit.” Other attractions Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece, the Ennis-Brown House, the enchanting Witches Whimsy, and a hidden cave used in countless films and TV shows, including the Bat Cave for the Batman series. You’ll also have incredible photo opportunities to capture the Hollywood sign from different locations, so make sure to have your camera ready and wear comfortable clothing.

The Abandoned Zoo Ruins of Griffith Park

Roam the grounds and explore the abandoned animal haunts of the Old Zoo at Griffith Park, which closed over 50 years ago. Serving as the city zoo from 1912 to 1966, the L.A. Zoo contained thousands of animals and hosted tens of thousands of visitors each year at its peak. The site under Griffith Park’s Bee Rock Trail is now filled with fascinating ruins, empty animal enclosures, “natural” habitats, secret stairways, and hidden paths. You’ll hear tales of individual animals, such as the murderous polar bear, Ivan the Terrible, and Topsy, the camel with two broken humps, as you hike around the site, visiting the forgotten enclosures and breathing in fresh Griffith Park air!

Earnest E. Debs Regional Park 4235 Monterey Road Los Angeles, CA 90032

If you’re like most Angelenos, you’ve probably zoomed past this park just off the 110 Arroyo Seco Parkway countless times and never knew it was hiding in plain sight! Ernest E. Debs Regional Park, a 300 acre urban oasis on old ranch land in the Arroyo Seco neighborhood just northeast of downtown L.A., is the fourth largest park in the city of Los Angeles. More than half of the park is covered in walnut-oak woodland, grassland, and coastal sage scrub, and over 140 species of birds have been recorded. A five mile loop meanders through almost every section of this dog-friendly park; along the way you’ll discover barbecue pits, picnic tables, a bike path, and a pond where you can actually go fishing. Stop by the Audubon Center at Debs Park, which opened in 2003 as an environmental education and conservation center and was the first LEED platinum certified building in the country.

Corralitas Rail Path Allesandro Way & Lake View Avenue, Echo Park 90039

The Corralitas Rail Path is a little known urban hike that follows an abandoned Pacific Electric Red Car Trolley line that used to run between downtown Los Angeles and the city of Glendale. Abandoned in 1955. this mile-long strip has been reclaimed by nature and is now a verdant woodland in the densely populated Los Angeles suburb of Silver Lake-Elysian Valley. The trail begins on a modest street corner, where Allesandro Way makes a sharp left hand turn at the intersection of Lake View Avenue. There is a small sidewalk that continues along the canyon running parallel to the Glendale Freeway. In just under a tenth of a mile, the sidewalk approaches the end of Corralitas Drive, where a small open space reveals the first visible stretch of the old rail line, leading into a wooded canyon and eventually opens up on the hill behind the Arco station at Fletcher and Riverside Drives. Along the way, you’ll see remnants of a 100-foot tall trestle bridge, old water/sewer infrastructure, abandoned stair platforms, and a steep hill covered with strange cement obelisks. Not recommended for night hiking!

Elyria Canyon Park 1550 Bridgeport Drive Los Angeles 90065

Nestled on the southwestern slopes of Mount Washington, Elyria Canyon Park is a 35-acre nature park that provides a glimpse into the native habitat that once thrived in the hills near downtown Los Angeles. A network of trails meanders through lush groves of coastal sage scrub, chaparral, grassland and purple needlegrass. The park boasts one of the finest examples of California black walnut woodland in Southern California, with lovely trails that lead to vistas of the Los Angeles River, Griffith Observatory, and DTLA. The main entrance is located off Wollam Street in Glassell Park. Leave the paved road for a dirt path through thickets of sumac and bay laurel trees. Keep zigging and zagging until you reach a grassy bowl, where you’ll find a bench and a welcoming drinking fountain. Walk a bit farther and to see a perfectly charming and totally unexpected little red farmhouse!

Los Angeles River Center & Gardens 570 W. Avenue 26 Los Angeles, CA 90065

The Los Angeles River Center & Gardens is located near the confluence of the Los Angeles River and the Arroyo Seco, close to Elysian Park and downtown Los Angeles. Its beautiful mission-style grounds and conference facilities serve as a focal point for the renewal of the Los Angeles River, and a prime location for community gatherings, educational conferences, and special events. In addition to the beautiful gardens, visitors can enjoy an exhibit hall that celebrates the eleven miles of natural river where reeds, willows, mulefat, and native riparian plants have returned. The self-guided exhibit describes the history of the Los Angeles River, its current status, and a vision for the River’s future. Located in the California Building, the exhibit hall is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., although it may be closed to the public for private events.

Elysian Park 929 Academy Road, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Elysian Park is the city’s oldest public park, and at 575-acres, the second largest after Griffith Park. It is home to numerous historic sites, including the Los Angeles Police Academy and Barlow Hospital, which are linked by miles of walking trails. Founded in 1886 by the Elysian Park Enabling Ordinance, the park has a rich history that includes hosting the shooting competition for the 1932 Summer Olympics. Visitor amenities include a bike path, hiking trail, horseshoe pits, and a jogging path.

Chavez Ravine Arboretum Chavez Ravine Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Chavez Ravine Arboretum in Elysian Park, just north of Dodger Stadium, contains more than 100 varieties of trees from around the world, including what are believed to be the oldest and largest Cape Chestnut, Kauri, and Tipu trees in the United States. The Arboretum was founded in 1893 by the Los Angeles Horticultural Society, and planting of rare trees continued through the 1920s. Most of the original trees are still standing. The Arboretum was declared a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 1967. Admission is free.

Los Angeles Police Academy Gardens 1880 North Academy Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Los Angeles Police Academy’s history in the Chavez Ravine area of Elysian Park goes back more than seventy-five years to when the Los Angeles Pistol Club was founded on more than twenty acres of leased city land. Today, that organization is known as the Los Angeles Police Revolver and Athletic Club. The city took over training duties from the club in 1936, with the LAPD officially moving in and maintaining the site (the club is still there). In 1937, the club hired landscape artist Francois Scotti to design the beautiful public rock garden. replete with waterfalls, meandering flagstone paths, and carved stone benches. You might recognize the Police Academy and Rock Gardens as the location for many movie and TV filmings. This picturesque site is also popular for events such as weddings and reunions.