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Los Angeles Part of the Places of a Lifetime series from Traveler magazine

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Photograph by Ian Shive/Aurora

“Welcome to the Jungle,” famously sang the band Guns N' Roses. Situated on a wide, dry plain speckled with canyons, mountains, rivers, and beaches, vast and beautiful Los Angeles, California, is anything but a jungle in topography. And even though some jungle-like qualities can emerge, such as during rush hour on the 405, to a visitor the city is a sunny, friendly place, filled with its own rich lore—stories that range from the days of the Spanish missions to the latest gossip about Hollywood stars. History oozes from the streets and buildings of L.A. All you need do is look around and listen.

Read My Los Angeles by Mark Miller

Best of Los Angeles

Photo: Hotel room Best places to stay in Los Angeles sorted by price range.
Photo: Salad plate Your dining guide from budget eats to four-star restaurants.
Photo: Los Angeles nightlife Explore Los Angeles after dark with these great nightlife spots.
Photo: Los Angeles concert hall From theater to jazz, be entertained by Los Angeles.
Photo: Santa Monica pier Don't miss these must-see sights in L.A. including Malibu.
Photo: Dancers Key dates for local festivals, including the Rose Bowl parade.
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Los Angeles Multimedia

Know Before You Go: Los Angeles

All About Los Angeles

All Places of a Lifetime

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L.A. City Map

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Exploring Los Angeles is as easy as unfolding this sturdy laminated map, combined with practical travel information.

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Sacred Places of A Lifetime

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Visiting 500 of the most sacred destinations, this book answers the call of the spiritual traveler.