Autumn is likely the best time to visit the Desert Southwest. The temperatures are ideal, and sunshine is plentiful. Arizona and Southern California offer fantastic opportunities for hiking in stunning landscapes and experiencing vibrant city culture.
The White Pocket Recreational Area stands out as one of the Desert Southwest's most extraordinary and remarkable sites. Once a seabed, this area boasts some of the most captivating geological features in the world. The route to this remarkable destination is highly treacherous and necessitates a robust four-wheel-drive vehicle for a safe expedition.
The Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is among the most secluded regions, boasting two extraordinary recreational sites: White Pocket and The Wave. Each site is a minimum of 2.5 hours away from either Kanab, UT, or Page, AZ, and necessitates hard-to-obtain permits and/or specialized vehicles.
Visiting the Desert Botanical Gardens is one of the top activities in Phoenix, offering an experience akin to an open-air museum adorned with exotic plants and splendid art exhibitions. Enjoying brunch at Gertrude's further enhances a delightful day.
Joshua Tree National Park, situated just north of Palm Springs, draws campers and rock-climbing aficionados alike.
A visit to Palm Springs isn't complete without dining at Sherman's Deli & Bakery. The generous portions make it challenging to save space for one of their scrumptious desserts.
Downtown Los Angeles has evolved into a cultural hub with an increasing number of museums opening over the years. The Broad, one of the newest additions, boasts an impressive collection of contemporary art featuring works by Warhol, Koons, Basquiat, and Lichtenstein, among others.
The Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry, serves as the residence of the Los Angeles Philharmonic (LA Phil) and is a landmark structure in Downtown Los Angeles.
The LACMA, renowned for its iconic forest of light posts call Urban Light, and the La Brea Tar Pits are two must-visit attractions along Wilshire Boulevard. Located on the same block, the pits release the scent of petroleum with each bubble that bursts.
The Getty Center is an exceptional destination for an afternoon visit. It boasts stunning, timeless architecture, ever-evolving beautiful gardens with stunning views, and a superb collection of art and antiquities.
Hollywood draws visitors globally to its Walk of Fame. Additionally, two metro stations nearby are remarkable and merit a visit.
Los Angeles is home to several Frank Lloyd Wright structures, with the Hollyhock House standing out as one of the most well-preserved and stunning examples. This residence, surrounded by invaluable land, serves as a cultural hub and park, offering easy public access.