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Hahamongna Watershed Park: The Place to Go for Disc Golf

By Sharyn Crown Things to Do Leave a comment

There are a whole lot of parks between the Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center and Pasadena, so you probably don’t have Hahamongna Watershed Park on your list of places to visit, but maybe you should. Pasadena is only 15 miles away, and the locals will tell you that this is the place to go for disc golf. You don’t have to throw around a Frisbee to fall in love with this park though.

About Hahamongna Watershed Park

Nestled at the base of Arroyo Seco Canyon, and just to the north of Devil’s Gate Dam, lies the 300-acre natural space of Hahamongna Watershed Park. The entrance right is off of Oak Grove Drive, and it is open from sunrise to sunset every day.

The lower eastern area is a debris and sediment basin due to the erosive nature of the San Gabriel Mountains. Johnson Field is also here, which is an inactive spreading basin.

An Oak Grove area is in the western portion. It is divided into upper and lower areas, and where you find the most opportunities for recreational activities. Pretty much anywhere you are in the park, you are awarded with amazing views of the magnificent San Gabriel Mountains, so be sure to have your camera ready for some great photo opportunities.

March 16, 2015

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Wattles Garden Park: Rich in Punk Rock History

By Sharyn Crown Things to Do Leave a comment

Most people who visit the area assume that Wattles Garden Park is simply another hidden gem preserving a chunk of natural land. However, true punk historians know this is not the case. This was a hotspot in the 1980s, and there are even old photos floating around somewhere of Tomata DuPlenty of the Screamers there on his birthday party. Another thing that you would no know by visiting the grounds and mansion today is that the tea house was readily used by drug pushers and junkies well into the late 1980s. It was heavily vandalized, and there were even a couple fires. You would not know it by looking at the estate today though.

About the Estate

The estate was once called Jualita. It was built in 1907, and is the area’s only remaining example of Hollywood estates preceding the film industry. Elmer Grey and Myron Hunt designed the mansion for Gurdon Wattles to use as his winter home.

His wife and son continued to live in the mansion after he passed in 1932. In 1968, his son sold the estate to the city for $1.9 million. As mentioned, this beautiful mansion and grounds became very run down, but dedicated volunteers worked for years to return the estate to its original state.

Mansion

The mansion is glamorous and breathtaking inside. Its elegant beauty makes it a hotspot for weddings, so if you are staying at the Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center to plan a wedding in the area this may be a location you want to consider.

March 12, 2015

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Salsa & Beer: Two Things You Love Under One Roof

By Sharyn Crown Uncategorized Leave a comment

There are a lot of trendy fine dining restaurants with well-respected chefs near the Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center. You probably already have several on your list to check out during your visit. However, when you have that day when you want to wear flip-flops, relax in a casual atmosphere, get stuffed on hearty food, and wash it down with great brews, Salsa & Beer is where you go.

Don’t Expect Sophistication

Some people have it in their mind that all restaurants in Hollywood have crisp tablecloths, chandeliers, and formal place settings. Salsa & Beer does not fit this description. This is a place you can definitely go to while you are out sightseeing in jean shorts and a pair of sneakers.

The restaurant is huge, but be warned; it does get packed during lunch and dinner. Inside, the venue screams 1970s. Some of the walls are brick and the bar is dark wood. It is all a little drab, but you won’t notice the dated interior once you start eating. The one thing the interior does really have going for it is that there are a lot of booths, many of which are more than big enough to comfortably accommodate a large family.

March 9, 2015

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Enjoy Oak Forests and Tropical Plants at Descanso Gardens

By Sharyn Crown Things to Do Leave a comment

If you have always wanted to know what it must feel like to be a character in a fairytale, take a 10-mile drive to the enchanted Descanso Gardens. From cascading waterfalls to oak forests, everything about this natural space is magical.

It does not matter what season you are visiting the area because Descanso Gardens offers year-round beauty. These 160 acres of chaparral, woodland, and gardens were preserved back in 1953 by E. Manchester Boddy, so future generations would have the opportunity to appreciate the natural heritage of Southern California.

Highlights of Descanso Gardens

Descanso Gardens is one of those places where you will not be able to put your camera away. The second you do, you will miss a great photo opportunity. If you are a frequent visitor to the Los Angeles area, you should return to the gardens during different seasons, so you can enjoy an entirely different display.

Japanese Garden – Cross the arched bridge to the Japanese Garden. Stroll along a koi-filled stream to enjoy tea at the Full Moon Tea House. In the spring, the plum and cherry trees bloom and highlight the blue tile roof, which were imported from Japan. These trees also make this garden smell amazing.

March 5, 2015

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You Haven’t Experienced Los Angeles Until You Visit Chinatown Central Market

By Sharyn Crown Burbank Food Food and Drink Nightlife Things to Do Leave a comment

There are Chinese-populated areas in most major cities across the county. So, you might be thinking that if you have seen one you have seen them all. Well, in some cases, you might be correct, but this does not apply to Los Angeles. Chinatown Central Market is a must to visit during your stay at the Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center. The environment is about as close to the real thing as you are going to get.

History

Many decades, generations, and immigrants have gone into making Chinatown Central Market the authentic and unique place it is today. It was 1832 when the first Chinese person was recorded as a resident in Los Angeles. Settlement started to increase around 1857, and by 1870, there was a community of around 200 people. This was comprised primarily of men who worked as agricultural and ranch workers, market gardeners, and laundrymen.

In 1910, Old Chinatown had grown to occupy about 15 streets and nearly 200 buildings. Institutions were founded, and the intriguing shops, “strange” entertainments, and delicious food made the area attractive to the American tourist.

On 25 June 1938, a Grand Opening ceremony took place as Chinatown’s Central Plaza was dedicated by Governor Merriam and other dignitaries.

Dining

You are guaranteed to want to eat nonstop while you are in Chinatown. Your taste buds will be tempted everywhere you turn. Yang Chow is one of the most popular restaurants, and it has more than 1,000 Yelp reviews to prove it. If you are looking for more of a high-end venue, you can’t go wrong with Full House Seafood Restaurant. For a super budget-friendly option while you enjoy large portions and plenty of flavor, check out Philippe the Original, Regent China Inn, Golden City, and ABC Food. Make sure you try some of the findings at the outdoor food stands, as well.

March 2, 2015

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Enjoy a Variety of Holistic Services and Products at Liberate Emporium

By Sharyn Crown Things to Do Leave a comment

Whether you have heard about pranic healing and want to check it out or you typically get your psychic reading done weekly, and need a place to have it done while you are at the Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center, Liberate Emporium is a respected place to go. The venue has a large selection of candles, essential oils, books, crystals, and sage, as well as highly experienced professionals who specialize in a certain service. Being on vacation should include doing new things, so a visit to the Liberate Emporium is an experience no one should miss. Even if you don’t believe in alternative healing and psychic readings, a visit here can be fun.

Services

As mentioned, Liberate Emporium offers a wide range of to choose from. If you read through the many Yelp reviews, you will find that a number of people talk about the energy in the building. You really can feel positive energy as soon as you walk through the door. If you are not sure what service you are looking for, one of the therapists or readers can go over your options and help you decide. Below is a brief description of the available services.

February 28, 2015

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The Basement: Can You Handle the Live Experience?

By Sharyn Crown Things to Do Leave a comment

Nearly everyone has seen at least one of the “Saw” movie installments. You probably have even watched one and tried to imagine what you would do in some of those terrifying situations. Well, no one is going to physically harm you in The Basement, but it sure does feel real when you are in the moment. The Basement is just 13 miles from the Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center, and is sure to be one of the most memorable moments of your stay here.

What is The Basement?

Think of the adrenaline rush you get making your way through a haunted house or scary corn maze. Now multiply that feeling by about 10, and this is pretty close to how you will feel at The Basement. In fact, countless perfect reviews on Yelp will tell you just how exciting this place is.

February 26, 2015

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Exploring the Verdugo Mountains

By Sharyn Crown Things to Do Leave a comment

Although Los Angeles is typically associated with beaches, those who live here know that the real beauty lies within the local parks. What you may be surprised to learn is that one of the most breathtaking natural spaces is just 7 miles away from the Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center. Sun Valley is where you will find the Verdugo Mountains, and more importantly, Verdugo Mountains Park.

About the Mountain Range

Verdugo Mountains are often referred to as Verdugo Hills; because the range is rather small in comparison to the picture most imagine when they think of mountains. However, size certainly does not take away from their beauty or the views they offer. The range is surrounded by urban development, so the mountains essentially create a natural island in a sea of concrete and steel.

The highest summit is Verdugo Peak, which stands at 3,126 feet. A few slightly smaller peaks have names, as well, including Tongva Peak, Mount Thom, and Mount La Tuna. The rocks found on this range are nearly all igneous and metamorphic, consisting of quartz diorite, gneissic diorite, gneiss, granodiorite, aplite, and pegmatite. What does all this mean? Well, if you are a geologist it means you just found your candy store. Otherwise, it means you have some pretty cool things to observe during your hike.

February 24, 2015

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Hollywood Club Crawl

By Sharyn Crown Nightlife Leave a comment

If you appreciate a good DJ, love to dance, and know all the trending drinks and shots then the Hollywood club scene is definitely for you. If you rarely ever go out back at home because of work and kids, but want to let loose a little on vacation then you will want to spend the night at the clubs here, too. The biggest decision you will have to make is deciding where to go. Well, rather than go to only one club, and hope it’s a happening night there, check out Hollywood Club Crawl during your stay at the Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center.

How it Works

Hollywood Club Crawl has several clubs that it works with. Four clubs are on the lineup on scheduled nights, and you know ahead of time which clubs you will be going to. You pay one flat rate to get in all the clubs on the itinerary, which is a whole lot cheaper than paying cover charge at each venue.

February 21, 2015

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Find Tranquility in the Japanese Garden

By Sharyn Crown Things to Do Leave a comment

Considering Los Angeles is accredited for pretty much giving birth to the Western civilization’s Zen movement, it should come as no surprise that there are several Japanese gardens in the area. However, the Japanese Garden in Van Nuys is definitely considered a hidden gem. If you are longing to be surrounded by tranquility check this garden out. When you pull out of the Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center just take a left on E. Angeleno Blvd. When you see it turn to Victory Blvd, you’re getting really close. Right after the street changes names, take a left on Woodley, and the garden is right there.

February 19, 2015

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There’s plenty of time to come join us for a great Valentine’s Day dinner in the 18th floor Crystal View Lounge. 5pm-10pm

Last week from Holiday Inn Burbank's Twitter via Facebook

There is lots of time to come by for dinner in the 18th floor Crystal View Lounge. Join us tonight from 5-10 pm for… twitter.com/i/web/st…

Last week from Holiday Inn Burbank's Twitter via Facebook

Join us for Valentine’s Day dinner in the 18th floor Crystal View Lounge #holidayinnburbank #valentinesdaydinner… twitter.com/i/web/st…

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A fun afternoon of taste testing appetizers for an upcoming wedding. — at Holiday Inn Burbank-Media Center facebook.com/6479434…

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Karaoke tonight at 9 pm at the Holiday Inn’s Casting Call. Come join us!

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