My husband, 18 month old son and myself are touring SoCal in May. Forget Disneyland, what are the must do's for people who want to see the "natural sites" the area has to offer, and maybe a great museum or two. And if you know of decent hotels within a twenty minute driving distance of the airport, lay them on me please...by the way, where is the airport?

Thank you all.
Jennifer

jennifer, would it be too much to ask you to do a bit of research on your own??? We are not travel agents here, just plain folks who can respond too an occasional question. We really can't plan your entire trip. THat's up to you.

ww
thank you for your kind reply, I really and truly appreciate your insightfulness.
Jennifer

"ww" has obviously had a bad day. Forgive him or her.
Which airport, Jennifer? LAX, Orange County, Burbank?
Everyone's favorite museum at this point is still the Getty, just north of Sunset Blvd off the 405.
See the beach along Palisades Park/Santa Monica.
What price range for your hotel?
I assume you'll have a car. Why do you specify within 20 minutes of the airport?
(The more specifics you can give the better replies you'll get as people figure out exactly what you're after).

THank you Helen
Airport is LAX
I have an 8:30 flight and am fearing LA's morning rush hour/freeway system.
I would like to spend no more than 100 per night for a hotel.
I have researched and researched. Am leaning towards the Santa Monica area for hotel. Any thoughts are appreciated in advance.
Thank you.

Just what "natural sites" did you have in mind? There is nothing "natural" left in LA. There are millions of people, nasty freeways and a few beaches - and even those are not "natural".

Good Nearby National Park/Recreation areas.
Basically, boat tours of the coastline, hikes.......etc........

Thanks

The Getty Center is a must visit for you if you're looking for a great museum. Plus it's a good museum for taking young children since there's plenty of outdoor areas.

I'd also recommend taking a day trip over to Catalina Island. While the boat ride itself isn't real scenic, the island itself is a fun getaway.

The La Brea Tarpits are pretty cool--now there is one natural site that hasn't been paved into a parking lot.

The Getty is indeed a "must."

Santa Monica is a fine place to stay. You will enjoy an afternoon on the pier.

If staying in the Santa Monica area, where does the boat depart for Catalina. I only know of the Long Beach and Dana Point docks. Thanks. And the cost?

Not to be rude either but ww is right - do a search of los angeles and of santa monica - including hotel searches and you will find lots of information. Have a great time in my home town.