Tour Stories Blog
Have you ever stopped to wonder just how many National Days there are celebrating everything under the sun? From the whimsical to the wellness-oriented, these special days offer unique opportunities to highlight different aspects of our lives and the world around us. In the vibrant world of Los Angeles tours, we're always on the lookout for creative ways to enhance our clients' experiences and sprinkle in delightful surprises that make their adventures unforgettable. Today, in the spirit of National Vitamin C Day, we've orchestrated a zesty little detour that promises to invigorate and refresh our guests in the most delightful way.
Exploring the Best of Los Angeles: Why Private Tours Elevate Your LA Adventure
Navigating through the vast and dynamic cityscape of Los Angeles, with its iconic landmarks and hidden gems, offers a world of discovery at every turn. From the legendary Hollywood hills to the sun-drenched beaches that line the Pacific, the list of "things to do in LA" is as endless as it is diverse. Not all Los Angeles Tours are the same!
Los Angeles is not just famous for its sunny skies, sprawling beaches, and star-studded sidewalks. It's also a paradise for health enthusiasts and smoothie lovers, boasting an array of spots that serve up some of the most delicious and nutritious blends you'll ever taste. At Elite Adventure Tours, we're excited to combine the thrill of exploring LA with the delight of sipping on the city's finest smoothies. Join us on a Signature Private Los Angeles Tour, and we promise to include a smoothie stop that will refresh and energize you for the adventure ahead!
Los Angeles is not just a bustling urban jungle; it's also a treasure trove of hiking trails that offer everything from panoramic city views to tranquil nature escapes. Here's a list of 20 hikes in Los Angeles, complete with descriptions, length, and effort level. Each hike is linked to AllTrails for more details, and don't forget to check out the luxurious tour options withElite Adventure Toursto complement your hiking experience.
A favorite among Hollywood residents, this 2.7-mile loop trail offers a moderately challenging hike with an elevation gain of 757 feet. You'll enjoy views of the Hollywood Sign and a bustling social scene. Explore on AllTrails
Griffith Park boasts a variety of trails, including the popular Hollywood Sign via Canyon Drive, a 6.0-mile trek with an elevation gain of 1,174 feet. The park offers trails for all levels, from easy strolls to challenging hikes with significant elevation gains. Explore on AllTrails
Malibu Creek State Park is a hiker's paradise with its dramatic geology and scenic trails like the Malibu Lake Trail, a 6.4-mile journey with an elevation gain of 367 feet. The park features 21 trails with varying difficulty levels. Explore on AllTrails
Experience the beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains with trails that offer stunning ocean views. The park's trails range in length and difficulty, providing options for every hiker.Explore on AllTrails.
This family-friendly 3.5-mile trail leads to a 40-foot waterfall and is considered easy to moderate in difficulty. It's a perfect hike for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty without a strenuous climb. Explore on AllTrails.
For a more challenging hike, the Los Liones Trail offers an 8.3-mile out-and-back route with an elevation gain of 1,577 feet. The trail rewards hikers with one of the finest views of the Pacific Ocean. Explore on AllTrails.
This hidden gem in Beverly Hills features a 2.3-mile loop trail that's easy and suitable for all skill levels. The park offers a peaceful lake and a chance to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Explore on AllTrails.
Hike to the highest waterfall in the Santa Monica Mountains on this 3.8-mile out-and-back trail. The hike is rated as moderate and is a popular spot for nature lovers. Explore on AllTrails.
Discover the ruins of a historic ranch and a scenic waterfall on this easy 3.2-mile loop trail. It's a great hike for families and those looking for a leisurely walk with a touch of history. Explore on AllTrails.
Explore a variety of trails in this park, including a 2-mile loop to Inspiration Point with easy to moderate difficulty. Enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean and the LA Basin. Explore on AllTrails.
Conquer the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains on this 3-mile loop trail. Rated as moderate, it offers 360-degree views and a memorable climb. Explore on AllTrails.
This historic 5.4-mile out-and-back trail leads to the ruins of a mountain resort. With a moderate rating, it provides a great workout and a glimpse into LA's past. Explore on AllTrails.
Explore unique rock formations on a 3.4-mile loop trail with an easy rating, making it accessible for all hikers. The park is a popular filming location and offers a unique desert landscape. Explore on AllTrails.
Tackle the highest peak in Los Angeles County on this challenging 11-mile loop trail with an elevation gain of 3,900 feet. It's a strenuous hike that rewards with stunning vistas. Explore on AllTrails.
Embark on an adventurous 10-mile out-and-back hike to a mysterious bridge in the San Gabriel Mountains. The trail is rated as difficult and is known for its river crossings and scenic views. Explore on AllTrails.
This popular 2.6-mile loop features a waterfall and ocean views. With a moderate rating, it's a great option for those looking for a rewarding hike without a full day commitment. Explore on AllTrails.
Take a scenic 3.3-mile out-and-back hike through Big Santa Anita Canyon to a spectacular waterfall. The trail is considered moderate and is a favorite among locals. Explore on AllTrails.
Get up close to the iconic Hollywood Sign on this 6.5-mile out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 1,100 feet. The hike is rated as moderate and offers views of the city. Explore on AllTrails.
Discover the ruins of a WWII-era compound on this 3.85-mile loop trail. With a moderate rating, it's a hike that combines history with natural beauty. Explore on AllTrails.
This challenging 3-mile out-and-back hike leads to a solitary tree with panoramic views of Los Angeles. The trail is steep and rugged, offering a workout with a view. Explore on AllTrails.
We can also add a guided hike to your personalized and luxurious tour with Elite Adventure Tours. Our signature private ground tours are the perfect way to experience the glamour and excitement of Los Angeles!
Played in the Long Beach Arena, the first game in the history of the Kings franchise took place on October 14, 1967. In this inaugural match, the Kings emerged victorious against the fellow expansion team, the Philadelphia Flyers, with a final score of 4–2. The game was played in front of an audience of 7,023 fans.
During their early days, the Kings played 14 home games at the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena while awaiting the completion of their permanent home, the Forum. This arena holds a special place in the team's history.
It's quite common for our guests who enjoy our private Los Angeles Tours to express a keen interest in attending a Kings hockey game or visiting some of the iconic sports arenas in the area, such as the Forum or Dodger Stadium. For those looking to take their experience to the next level, our private helicopter charters offer a unique opportunity to not only witness these historic sites from the air but also land in VIP style in downtown Los Angeles, making it a memorable addition to their Kings game day experience.
Helmetless, Kings play their first home game in the Long Beach Arena on October 14th 1967
Music almost always plays a part in customizing Private Los Angles Tours for our clientele! We've handpicked 16 must-visit locations across the city that have played a significant role in shaping the iconic music scene. So, buckle up and join us on this musical journey through time as we explore legendary venues, hidden gems, and everything in between.
The Troubadour: A historic venue that has hosted legends like Elton John and Joni Mitchell.
The Roxy Theatre: A Sunset Strip staple with a rich history dating back to the 1970s.
Whisky a Go Go: An iconic rock venue on the Sunset Strip that has played host to legendary acts like The Doors, Led Zeppelin, and countless others since its inception in 1964.
The Greek Theatre: An open-air venue nestled in Griffith Park with a stunning natural backdrop.
The Hollywood Bowl: The legendary outdoor amphitheater known for its distinctive band shell design.
The Viper Room: A storied rock venue that has hosted countless emerging and established acts.
The Echoplex: A hip, intimate venue showcasing indie bands and up-and-coming artists.
The Teragram Ballroom: A beautifully restored, historic theater with a diverse lineup of live music.
The Orpheum Theatre: A stunningly restored, historic theater that hosts concerts, plays, and other live events.
The El Rey Theatre: An art deco theater showcasing a mix of music, comedy, and film screenings.
The Fonda Theatre: A historic venue with a rooftop bar and a reputation for hosting cutting-edge talent.
The Mint: An intimate, legendary venue known for hosting eclectic live music since 1937.
The Moroccan Lounge: A cozy venue with an exotic atmosphere showcasing emerging artists.
The Belasco: A stunning, historic venue in downtown Los Angeles known for its ornate architecture and diverse lineup of live music, theatrical performances, and special events.
The Bootleg Theater: A performance space that features a mix of live music, theater, and dance.
The Palladium: A legendary music venue located in Hollywood. It has hosted performances from artists like Prince, The Rolling Stones, and Nirvana.
There you have it! Our diversified list of 16 must-visit locations for an unforgettable private tour of Los Angeles' most legendary music venues. Whether you're a casual music fan or a die-hard enthusiast, we love to showcase all-things-music on our Private Los Angeles Tours!
Happy kids, happy tour. It’s as simple as that. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. That's where a private tour comes in! Not only will you have the convenience of transportation, but your tour guide will help you make the most of your time in the City of Angels.
Here are some fun and kid-friendly activities to consider on your private tour:
Universal Studios Hollywood: If your family loves theme parks, then Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit destination. From thrill rides to kid-friendly attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, there's something for everyone here. Trust us and do the VIP Tour!
The California Science Center: If your family loves science, then the California Science Center is the perfect destination. With interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages, including the Space Shuttle Endeavour, your family will have a blast exploring the wonders of science.
Griffith Observatory: For families who love space and astronomy, the Griffith Observatory is a must-visit destination. With stunning views of the city, interactive exhibits, and telescopes for stargazing, your family will be able to explore the wonders of the universe in a fun and engaging way.
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens: The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a great destination for families who love animals and nature. With over 1,400 animals from around the world and a botanical garden with over 800 plant species, your family will have a wild time exploring the wonders of the natural world.
Santa Monica Pier: The Santa Monica Pier is a classic destination for families. With carnival games, rides, and attractions like the Pacific Park amusement park and the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, your family will have a blast spending the day at the beach.
The Getty Center: For families who love art and culture, the Getty Center is a must-visit destination. With a vast collection of European and American art, beautiful gardens, and stunning views of the city, your family will have a blast exploring the world of art.
The Petersen Automotive Museum: Car enthusiasts of all ages will love exploring the Petersen Automotive Museum. With over 300 vehicles, ranging from classic cars to modern supercars, your family will have a blast exploring the world of automobiles.
Kidspace Children's Museum: The Kidspace Children's Museum is a great destination for families with young children. With hands-on exhibits and activities designed for kids ages 1-10, including a climbing wall, water play area, and interactive exhibits about nature and science, your family will have a blast exploring the world of play.
Griffith Park: For families who love the outdoors, Griffith Park is a must-visit destination. With miles of hiking trails and stunning views of the city, as well as attractions like the Griffith Observatory and the Los Angeles Zoo, your family will have a blast exploring the wonders of nature.
The Aquarium of the Pacific: Located in nearby Long Beach, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a great destination for families who love marine life. With over 12,000 animals from over 500 species, as well as interactive exhibits and touch tanks for kids to explore, your family will have a blast exploring the wonders of the ocean.
No matter what your family's interests are, Los Angeles has something for everyone. With a private tour, you can make the most of your time in the city and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Book your private tour today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
On our private Los Angeles tours, politics inevitably come up! Oh what fun! As tour guides, the name of the game is always staying politically neutral. You know, like at Thanksgiving dinner! So, in that spirit, we shall leave no star unturned, especially when it comes to the hilariously contentious saga of Donald Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! Join us on a side-splitting journey through the wacky world surrounding this infamous piece of sidewalk real estate. You'll laugh, you'll cry (from laughter), and you'll wonder how a star could cause so much chaos.
The Unlikely Rise to Stardom
Once upon a time, in the far-off land of 2007, real estate mogul and reality TV star Donald Trump received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his role in producing and starring in "The Apprentice." Little did anyone know, this seemingly innocuous chunk of brass and terrazzo would go on to generate more drama than an entire season of the show itself!
Fun Fact: The Hollywood Walk of Fame spans over 15 blocks and has over 2,600 stars. That's a lot of brass and terrazzo!
A Star's Life of Crime
Despite its glitzy appearance, Trump's star has had a life filled with crime and misdemeanors. It's been vandalized, smashed, and defaced more times than we can count. The star has endured everything from pickaxes to spray paint, and even a tiny border wall. It's a living testament to the age-old adage: fame comes at a price.
Hilarious Anecdote: Trump's star once had a street artist place a gold-plated toilet next to it, inviting the public to "Take a Trump!" We can't make this stuff up!
The Great Wall of Trump's Star
In 2016, street artist Plastic Jesus erected a miniature concrete wall, complete with barbed wire and tiny "Keep Out" signs, around Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The 6-inch-high wall was a tongue-in-cheek nod to Trump's promise to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. It quickly became a viral sensation, drawing crowds and sparking discussions on social media.
Fun Fact: The tiny wall was left in place for several hours before being removed, giving passersby ample time to snap photos and appreciate the satirical statement.
The Battle for Trump's Star
Trump's star has become the center of a great debate: should it stay or should it go? The arguments on both sides have led to an endless stream of internet memes, comedic skits, and viral videos. It's become the ultimate pop culture battleground, and everyone's got an opinion – even the pigeons who occasionally make their mark on the star.
LOL-worthy Quote: "If Trump's star gets removed, can we replace it with a more accurate representation? Like a dumpster fire?" – Anonymous
The Star-struck Entrepreneurs
As with any internet phenomenon, there's always someone looking to make a quick buck. A plethora of Trump star merchandise has emerged, from t-shirts to coffee mugs, keychains to bumper stickers, and even replica stars for those who dream of creating their very own Walk of Fame. It's a strange, hilarious world where capitalism and comedy collide.
Comedic Product Review: "This Trump star coffee mug is perfect for sipping your morning covfefe. Highly recommended!"
Summing it up
The tale of Donald Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a bizarre, hilarious, and undeniably entertaining rollercoaster ride. From its contentious origin to the endless debate surrounding its existence, it's a story that keeps on giving. So, the next time you find yourself strolling down Hollywood Boulevard, take a moment to marvel at the star that launched a thousand memes – and don't forget to snap a selfie!
While booking a tour with us would be the most fun way to see Donald Trump’s star, it would be rude for us not to tell you where it is located since you read this far!
Donald Trump star on the Walk of Fame: 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, near the Hollywood and Highland Center.
Wow! This has been an unavoidable conversation on our private Los Angeles tours. We are ready to talk about it! Or are we? Wanting to remain objective as professionals in the tourism industry, we have to look at this as - the good, the bad, and the “who knows?” So, as we see it….
The Good (maybe)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is already having an impact on Hollywood and the entertainment industry, and its influence is likely to continue growing. Here are some areas that we see as “good.” Maybe.
Better audience analysis: AI can be used to analyze data from social media, streaming platforms, and other sources to gain a better understanding of audience preferences and behavior. This information can be used to make better decisions about what movies to make and how to market them. A quicker way to give the people what they want!
Improved special effects: AI can be used to create more realistic and sophisticated special effects. For example, deep learning algorithms can be used to create computer-generated imagery (CGI) that is indistinguishable from real life. A long as it stays in the movies and we know the difference going in, a good thing!
Streamlined production: AI can help streamline the production process by automating certain tasks such as scheduling, budgeting, and even scriptwriting. Mostly good. Call us old-fashioned but we like our stories written by good old human beings.
Personalized content: AI can be used to create personalized content based on individual viewer preferences. For example, Netflix is already using AI to recommend movies and TV shows to its users based on their viewing history. This changes the entire concept of “other people also watched” to a much more robust function.
New storytelling techniques: AI can be used to create new and innovative storytelling techniques, such as interactive movies or choose-your-own-adventure-style content. Maybe good. Maybe weird.
With a big “maybe” stamped on it, there is good potential for AI to revolutionize Hollywood. However, just like the devil that sits on the opposite shoulder, there are concerns.
The Bad (without question)
Elon Musk has expressed concerns about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence (AI) and has called for caution in its development. Musk believes that if AI is not properly regulated, it could pose an existential threat to humanity. One of the reasons why Musk wants to pause AI development is the potential for AI to become superintelligent and develop goals that are misaligned with human values. This could lead to scenarios where AI takes actions that are harmful to humanity, either intentionally or unintentionally. Musk has referred to this as the "AI control problem" and believes that it is crucial to solve this problem before AI becomes too advanced. He has also expressed concerns about the potential for AI to be used as a weapon in warfare, as well as the potential for AI to exacerbate wealth inequality and other social issues. Musk's concerns about AI stem from a belief that it is a powerful technology that could have unintended consequences if not properly regulated and controlled. By pausing AI development, he hopes to create a space for researchers and policymakers to carefully consider the ethical implications of AI and ensure that its development proceeds in a way that benefits humanity as a whole.
The “Who Knows?” (just for fun)
Who knows, maybe private Los Angeles tours will be conducted by robots that escort you around major cities and have evolved into being able to give a good hug.
When we have a Marilyn Monroe fan on a private Los Angeles tour it’s pretty exciting for us because there is no shortage of stories and places to showcase. We have several tricks up our sleeve! One famous Los Angeles celebrity story involves Marilyn Monroe and her iconic white dress from the movie "The Seven Year Itch." In the film, Monroe famously stands over a subway grate, with the wind blowing up her dress. The scene became an instant classic and has been referenced and parodied in countless films and TV shows over the years.
What many people don't know is that the scene was actually filmed in New York City, not Los Angeles. However, when the film premiered in Los Angeles, the city went wild for Monroe's performance and the iconic dress. The dress itself was designed by William Travilla, a Hollywood costume designer who was known for his glamorous and sexy designs.
After the film's premiere, Travilla kept the dress in his personal collection, and it eventually ended up in the hands of a private collector. In 2011, the dress was auctioned off for a staggering $4.6 million, making it one of the most expensive pieces of film memorabilia ever sold.
The dress remains a beloved piece of Hollywood history and a symbol of Monroe's enduring appeal and beauty.
Sept. 9, 1954 file photo Marilyn Monroe re film: “The Seven Year Itch.” (AP Photo/Matty Zimmerman, File)
Craig’s Los Angeles
With more than half of our private Los Angeles tours being customized before our guests arrive at LAX, securing reservations for our clients at the most popular restaurants is something we are happy to do. Craig’s has been at the top of the list for a long time, and for good reason. This hot-spot has been in operation since 2011. It is known for its upscale American cuisine, celebrity sightings, and a trendy atmosphere. The restaurant is owned by Craig Susser, a longtime restaurateur who previously co-owned Dan Tana's, a popular Italian restaurant in West Hollywood. Susser opened Craig's Restaurant in the same location as Dan Tana's after the latter restaurant moved to a new location. Craig's Restaurant has since become a hotspot for celebrities and locals alike, with its classic American menu featuring dishes like steaks, chops, and seafood, as well as a bar serving signature cocktails. In recent years, Craig's Restaurant has also become known for its philanthropic efforts, hosting events and fundraisers for various charitable causes.
Photo: Jim Bartsch
We get a lot of questions about the Playboy Mansion on our private Los Angeles Tours and helicopter charters. The Playboy Mansion is a large estate located in the Holmby Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. It was built in 1927 by architect Arthur R. Kelly for Arthur Letts Jr., the son of the founder of the Broadway department store. The mansion was designed in the Gothic-Tudor style and features 29 rooms, a wine cellar, a screening room, a game room, a gym, a tennis court, and a swimming pool.
In 1971, the Playboy magazine founder Hugh Hefner purchased the mansion for $1.1 million and made it his home. The mansion became the headquarters of Playboy Enterprises and was also used for many of the company's events and photo shoots.
Over the years, the mansion became known for its lavish parties and celebrity guests, and it became a symbol of the Playboy lifestyle. Many famous celebrities, including actors, musicians, and athletes, attended parties at the mansion, and the Playboy bunnies became an iconic part of the brand's image.
In 2011, the mansion was put up for sale, but Hugh Hefner continued to live there until his death in 2017 at the age of 91. The mansion was eventually sold to Daren Metropoulos, the son of a billionaire investor who had previously bought the neighboring property in 2009.
Since the sale, the mansion has undergone renovations, and it is now primarily used as a private residence. However, the iconic swimming pool and other parts of the estate have been used for events and photo shoots, continuing the legacy of the Playboy Mansion as a symbol of glamour and luxury.
