Los Angeles

Los Angeles, often known by its initials LA, is the largest city in California and the second most populous city in the United States. It's famous for its Mediterranean climate, ethnic diversity, Hollywood entertainment industry, and sprawling metropolis.

Los Angeles was officially founded on September 4, 1781, by Spanish governor Felipe de Neve. It became a part of Mexico in 1821 following the Mexican War of Independence. In 1848, at the end of the Mexican–American War, Los Angeles and the rest of California were purchased as part of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, and thus became part of the United States. Los Angeles was incorporated as a municipality on April 4, 1850, five months before California achieved statehood.

Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, with large Hispanic, Asian, and African American populations, as well as a significant number of immigrants from around the world.

• Los Angeles is home to the largest number of museums per capita of any city in the world.
• The Hollywood sign originally spelled out 'Hollywoodland' and was created as an advertisement for a local real estate development.
• Los Angeles has more than 80 districts and neighborhoods.
• Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world.
• LA is the only city in North America to have hosted the Summer Olympics twice.
• Los Angeles has the largest historic theater district on the National Register of Historic Places.
• In-N-Out Burger, a popular fast-food chain, started in Los Angeles in 1948.
• The LA County Library has over 6 million volumes, making it one of the largest publicly funded library systems in the world.
• The Port of Los Angeles is the busiest container port in the Americas.
• The first motion picture theater opened in Los Angeles on April 02, 1902.
• The famous Sunset Strip is known for its boutiques, restaurants, rock clubs, and nightclubs.
• LA's Griffith Park is the largest municipal park with urban wilderness area in the United States.
• The city's subway system is the ninth busiest in the United States.
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the fourth busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic.
• The Watts Towers are a collection of 17 interconnected sculptural towers, architectural structures, and individual mosaics created by Simon Rodia.

• Plan your visit around traffic; LA is known for its heavy traffic congestion.
• Pre-purchase tickets for popular attractions to save time.
• Consider staying in a central location to minimize travel time.
• Rent a car if you plan to explore beyond downtown LA.
• Use the Metro Rail system for a convenient and affordable way to get around.
• Always carry water and sunscreen, as it can be sunny and hot.
• Try to visit some of LA's diverse neighborhoods for a fuller experience.
• Check out the free admission days for museums and galleries.
• Make reservations for high-end restaurants or popular eateries.
• Explore the outdoor activities available, from hiking to beach visits.

• Take advantage of free museum days and public beaches.
• Eat at food trucks or local eateries instead of high-end restaurants.
• Use ride-sharing apps to share rides and save on transportation.
• Stay in budget accommodations or consider areas just outside the main tourist spots.
• Buy a reusable TAP card if using public transportation frequently.

• Dial 911 for police, fire department, or medical emergencies
• Non-emergency police number: 1-877-ASK-LAPD
• Los Angeles Fire Department non-emergency: 1-213-978-3800
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
• Nearest hospitals can be found using the 'LA Hospital Map' online

Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 68°F (20°C) to 84°F (29°C).

The best time to visit Los Angeles is from March to May and between September and November, when the air is more breathable and the crowds are less overwhelming.