Now that Spring is officially here, the home project or cleaning to-do list may have expanded. So, if you’re ready for a break already – or you just want to get out and enjoy all that LA has to offer, there’s a variety of things to do and places to go while at the same time taking in some cool local culture.

For example, the Japanese Garden offers more than six fantastically beautiful acres of waterfalls, trees, and eclectic plants to enjoy. This popular attraction, which is located in Van Nuys, is open Sunday through Thursday, and admission is just $5 per person.

Looking for more of an “active” activity to pursue? How about pedal boating around Echo Park Lake? This recreational area has been situated in LA for more than 100 years. Griffith Park can also be a possibility. With more than 4,200 acres to explore, you could literally spend days here enjoying music at the Greek Theatre, driving through the Toontown tunnel, or visiting the Bronson Caves.

If all the sight-seeing and activity has helped you work up an appetite, the Grand Central Market will certainly not disappoint. Open until 10:00 p.m. on most nights, this venue – which sits at 317 S. Broadway in the heart of LA – will oftentimes feature live music to enjoy with your eats.