The Hollywood sign was not meant to be permanent, and it deteriorated over time. In 1978, a public campaign to restore the landmark was initiated by Alice Cooper, shock rocker extraordinaire (he donated a missing O). As a result of his prompting, the Hollywood Chamber took action, and other donors came forward, including Gene Autry and Hugh Hefner.

Los Angeles has many fabulous gourmet restaurants. But if you've recently moved into a nearly new home there and you don't want to splash out too much, you can also get delicious food from the superb farmers' market at Third and Fairfax. This Los Angeles institute is famous for its traditional dishes.