Looking for something totally spontaneous and out of the ordinary to surprise that special someone? Whether it’s your anniversary, birthday, or just another date - a helicopter tour of the city is a fantastic experience that’s sure to be a hit (assuming of course that your significant other isn't afraid of heights).
Los Angeles is home to about a half dozen helicopter charter companies that would be more than willing to help you plan that perfect evening. Packages vary from a simple 25-minute tour of popular Los Angeles landmarks and/or Pacific Coast to something a little more elaborate such as a limousine ride, tour, and dinner.
The cost is a little hefty so it’s not the most practical idea if you’re working with a budget. Prices vary based on the charter company but can expect to spend about $150/each for a 30-minute tour and upwards of $200/each for a 45-minute run. Add dinner and a limousine ride and you'll be in for a $1,000 evening.
Here are a few of the companies offering tours in Los Angeles (listed alphabetically):
Located in Santa Monica along 4th Street, Magicopolis first opened its door in March of 1998 with magicians Penn & Teller performing its very first show. The shows at Magicopolis aren't what you'd normally expect from a traditional magic show…you won't find tuxedos, top hats, and rabbits here. Instead, you'll enjoy a highly entertaining live performance featuring comedy, magic, music, illusions, and best of all – audience participation.
The shows at Magicopolis run about 90-minutes and public performances are held Friday through Sunday. Magicopolis also holds shows for private parties, events, and tapings on other days of the week.
Visit their website for up-to-date show time information and/or to purchase tickets.
Parking
Metered parking may be a little hard to come by in Santa Monica, but if you're lucky enough to find a spot, make sure to read the signs carefully. Alternatively, there is a parking structure (#5) between Broadway and Santa Monica Blvd (same block as Magicopolis). Parking is free for the first two hours if you're entering before 6pm, otherwise, there's a flat-rate of $3 if you enter after 6pm.
An authentic Southern Brazilian Churrascaria, the Fogo de Chao location in Beverly Hills opened its doors in March of 2005 along La Cienega Blvd. The restaurant is really hard to miss – the prominent blue tower at its entrance helps it stand out among other restaurants along the Boulevard. The blue tower also offers an excellent view into the authentic Brazilian process of roasting meats. For about $50 per guest, you’ll enjoy continuous tableside service of fifteen different succulent cuts of beef, pork, lamb, and chicken.
The Food
Traditionally referred to as Churrasco, a Gaucho (a Southern Brazilian Cowboy) would skewer large pieces of meat and then grill them over open flame pits. This Gaucho way of roasting meats has been passed down over the centuries and is an essential element of the Gaucho culture. It is also the foundation of the Fogo de Chao concept.
The Fogo de Chao concept features continuous tableside service by Gaucho chefs bringing you a variety of delicious meats. You’re provided with a small coaster (3rd picture below) – one side is red and the other is green. When you’re ready to be served, signal the Gauchos by flipping your coaster over to the green side. Alternatively, if you need a break, flip the coaster over to the red side and they’ll skip your table. Let the Gaucho know how you like your meat cooked and they’ll slice you a piece right there at the table.
I’ll admit that I was a little skeptical when I first heard about Fogo de Chao. As a huge fan of beef, it was hard to imagine that an all you can eat concept could actually deliver on quality. The first meat to arrive at my table (the meat doesn’t arrive in any particular order) was the Beef Ancho…a succulent and tender piece of rib eye. Next came the Filet Mignon which was just as good (if not better) than the rib eye.
Another fantastic cut of meat (one of their most popular) is the Picanah…a prime cut from the top sirloin. If you’re not a fan of beef, the lamb chops and pork ribs are excellent. They also serve a variety of chicken cuts but I was pretty full by the time those came around.
The Ambiance
As you step inside Fogo de Chao, the first thing you’ll probably notice is the 27-ft tall wine cellar…it’s really an amazing sight. Adorning the walls are colorful murals depicting the scenes of the Gaucho lifestyle and Brazilian culture. The Beverly Hills location seats 280 people and it also offers both semi-private (80 guests) and private (20 guests) dining areas.
The Service
For a restaurant of this size, I was really surprised with the quality of service. The staff and Gauchos were all knowledgeable, attentive and they really strive to ensure that you have a fantastic dining experience.
Located in the Pacific Palisades, Will Rogers State Historic Park is one of Los Angeles’s best kept secrets. One of the most popular and highest paid actors of his time, Will Rogers purchased this 186-acre property during the 1920’s as a retreat for his friends and family. An avid rider and horse fanatic, Will Rogers built an expansive ranch which included a 31-room ranch house, stable, corrals, riding ring, and a polo field. In 1935, Will Rogers was the victim of a tragic plane crash, and following his wife’s death in 1944, the ranch was converted into a State Park.
One of the most popular activities to enjoy at Will Rogers State Historic Park is hiking. Take the easy/moderate 3-mile trail loop up to Inspiration Point where you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking views of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and the Pacific Coast. If you’re looking for something a little more challenging, head up along the Backbone Trail into the Santa Monica Mountain. The trail offers a fantastic opportunity for mountain biking, horseback riding (BYOH – Bring Your Own Horse), and hiking – leading you as far as Point Mugu State Park in Malibu.
Will Rogers State Park is also popular for picnicking – there is tons of green space available for you to set up and enjoy picnic (first picture below).
For something completely different, head up to the park on the weekends for an exciting polo match. The polo field (second picture below) is the only regulation size field in Los Angeles County; in fact, it’s the only polo field period. During the season (April through October), the Will Rogers Polo Club holds matches on Saturday – from 2pm to 5pm, and Sunday – from 10am to 1pm. The matches are absolutely free to the public, so if you’ve never seen a game of polo in person, make sure to come by and check it out.
Getting Here
Getting to the park is quite simple. Take Sunset Blvd westbound towards Pacific Palisades and make a right on Will Rogers State Park Rd. You’ll take the road for about half a mile until you reach the park entrance. Entrance to the park is free but there is a $7 fee for parking.
The last overlook I covered along Piuma Rd in Malibu (Piuma Lookout: Part 1) was pretty easy to access and couldn’t be missed. The lookout had a couple picnic tables and a breathtaking panoramic view of the canyons. Now if you’re looking for something a little more secluded and want to get a glimpse of the Pacific Coastline, head a little further down Piuma Rd till you see a short trail that leads off the road (first picture below).
You can park your car along Piuma Rd (make sure you’re not actually on the road) and make your way up the hill. It’s a little steep and there are rocks so you’ll want to wear some comfortable shoes that you wouldn’t mind getting dirty. Although it may look difficult, it’s really not that bad getting up there…just be careful and watch your step.
Once you reach the top of the hill there will be a small dirt area where you can enjoy the view (second picture below). If you want to hang out there for a while, bring along a blanket and lay it out on the ground. Although you’re not trespassing and there are no signs prohibiting it, I can’t be certain that you’re allowed up there – so just keep that in mind before you go.
Notice: PlanJam is not responsible for any injuries and/or fines that may be incurred. If you decide to go up there…you do so at your own risk.
A local favorite since 1997, Cafe Balcony is a quaint little coffee shop located in West Los Angeles. Tucked away along Rochester Ave (right off of Santa Monica Blvd and Centinela) , this neighborhood gem takes an interesting approach in creating the perfect cup of coffee. Brewed using a unique hand-crafted Siphon (see picture below), the result is a remarkably great tasting cup of coffee that’s always made to order.
The contraption resembles a chemistry set that you may have used in High School. The Siphon is made up of three parts: a burner, a water chamber, and a brewing chamber which holds the freshly ground organic beans. The burner heats up the water and essentially creates a vacuum effect which forces the water into the brewing chamber. The coffee is brewed in the chamber for a few minutes, funneled back down into the water chamber, and then served.
If this all seems a little too scientific for you, don’t worry…they also offer some simpler alternatives. Using the finest Italian coffees from Illy, all of their espresso drinks (lattes, cappuccinos, etc.) are absolutely fantastic.
Cafe Balcony also provides free wireless internet and is open daily till midnight.
NOTE: They don't accept credit cards so remember to bring along some cash.
If you’re looking to enjoy great sushi without putting a dent in your pocketbook, you absolutely must give Sushi Dan a shot. Located on the second floor of the Sunset Plaza complex (above the Virgin Mega Store), Sushi Dan serves a plethora of Japanese specialties with an innovative twist. They have all your favorites…sashimi, specialty rolls, baked rolls, and a fantastic assortment of hot teriyaki meats and udons (Japanese noodle soups).
The Sunset Plaza location can get a little dark in the evening; it’s great for intimacy but not too helpful when you’re trying to read through the menu. The restaurant is broken up into three sections – an indoor dining area, sports bar, and a heated outdoor patio. Parking is available at the complex but make sure that you get your ticket validated at the restaurant before leaving (otherwise, the parking fee can be pretty hefty).
Sushi Dan currently has two locations in the Los Angeles area. The location shown above (Sunset Plaza) is in West Hollywood while the other is nestled along Ventura Blvd in Studio City. Both locations sport an upbeat vibe, attentive service, and sushi that is surprisingly affordable.
If you’re in the mood for a little drive, head up along Piuma Rd in Malibu for a breathtaking experience. The drive up to the lookout is exceptionally charming; you’ll enjoy picturesque views of the Pacific Coastline as you traverse the windy road. There are quite a few spots along Piuma Rd to take in a view, but there are two that I am particularly fond of. The first one, which will be discussed in this post, is a large dirt area overlooking the canyons. The other spot is a little more secluded and does require a little more effort to get to.
Once you reach the overlook, you can park your car on the dirt area. There are two large picnic tables available so feel free to bring along some food or even a board game. I strongly suggest that you take a warm sweater or coat with you because it does tend to get a little breezy up there.
Getting Here
You can get to the overlook from either Calabasas or Malibu. If you’re headed from Malibu, travel eastbound along Malibu Canyon Rd and make a right on Piuma Rd. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Calabasas, go westbound along Las Virgenes Rd and make a left on Piuma Rd.
Once you’re on Piuma Rd, you’ll drive for about 10 minutes until you reach a large dirt area which overlooks the canyons. Since there are no cross-streets on the way up, you’ll have to just keep your eyes open. The overlook will be on your left side as you come around the bend (click here for a map) and you’ll also be able to see it above you as you’re coming up Piuma Rd.
Located in the Pacific Palisades, Temescal Gateway Park covers over 140-acres of terrain and is one of the most popular of the Santa Monica Mountain parks. The park offers ample opportunities for picnicking, panoramic views of the coastline, large grassy areas, and access several hiking trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty. You can also access additional hiking trails into Topanga State Park and Will Rogers State Historic Park.
Parking is available at the park entrance for $5 per day. The parking lot is a haven for parking enforcement so make sure that you follow all the rules. Also, make sure to watch your speed and come to a complete stop when necessary; the forest rangers are always on the prowl and they won’t hesitate to give you a citation. By the way, failure to come to a “complete” stop will run you about $100 (this comes from experience).
Alternatively, you can skip the parking fee and park along Temescal Canyon Rd or Sunset Blvd for free; just make sure to read the signs before heading up to the park. Also, if you’re coming here for the hike, make sure that you bring plenty of water along with you…there are no water fountains along the trails.
Getting Here
Getting to Temescal Gateway Park is really simple. If you’re taking PCH, turn onto Temescal Canyon Rd and head up about 1 mile until you reach Sunset Blvd…the park will be directly in front of you. If you’re taking the streets and are headed westbound along Sunset Blvd, you’ll make a right turn into the park at Temescal Canyon Rd.
Located in the eastern portion of the Santa Monica Mountains, the 10-acre San Vicente Mountain Park offers access to an expansive network of trails for hiking and mountain biking, several picnic areas, and breathtaking 360-degree views of the city.
Interestingly enough, San Vicente Mountain Park was once used as a missile launch site during the Cold War (from 1956-1968). That explains the Nike-Ajax anti-aircraft structure and radar tower; both are no longer operational but the radar tower is an excellent spot from which you can enjoy a spectacular sunset.
Getting Here
Getting to the park is fairly simple. If you’re taking the freeway, take the 405 North and exit on Skirball Center Dr. Turn left onto Skirball Center Dr and then make another left on Mulholland Dr. As you’re heading east along Mulholland Dr, you’ll notice a dirt road on your left side…turn onto that road and head up the unpaved trail. The physical address is 17500 Mulholland Dr, but the nearest cross street to the park entrance is Canyonback Rd.
You can either park your car immediately on the right or continue a little further till you reach the parking lot. Once you park your car, there is a short 10-minute walk up to the park along a wide dirt road.
Note: The unpaved road is extremely bumpy and there are tons of rocks. If you have low profile tires, there is a chance that you may damage them.
When a romantic dinner just won’t cut it…
