If you make it to the top, you can get an incredible 360 degree view of practically all of Los Angeles. Below you to the South is Hollywood, and beyond that, on a clear day, you can see over a hundred miles of mini malls all the way to Mexico. To the West on your right go the hills until they turn into mountains and meet the Pacific Ocean. Behind you to the North stretches the entire San Fernando Valley, above which stand the gorgeous San Gabriel mountains. To the East the mountains eventually disappear above hundreds of miles of urban sprawl, and beyond that is the dessert.

I love living in a city where I can easily go hiking during the day and be home by dark. Griffith is just massive and untamed, it has a wild feel about it in places. Views of LA, the ocean, and the Hollywood sign.

I consistently spend a lot of time here. It's the most relaxing place in the city.

I grew up a few blocks from the "New Bev", the oldest revival house in Los Angeles. I was there every week in High School and watched everything from Deep End to Wings of Desire. It's no wonder I departed from mainstream cinema, early on. One night towards the end of High School, I went to see a film and wound up talking to this loud and wacky man who told me he had a film coming out called "Reservoir Dogs". Now he now is part owner. These days I go to the New Beverly for their Midnight movies and even had the chance to screen my own film there which was one of the greatest feelings in the world.

Home to an incredibly programmed slate of classic, cult, and indie films, this little spot on Fairfax is a cinema-buff's paradise. Parking is a bit miserable, so park for free at Canter's Deli. Put a Hot Pastrami on Rye with Matzo Ball Soup down your neck, then just walk a couple blocks to the theater. Trust me, you'll need to walk a bit after that meal anyway. I've seen a number of special events here, including a screening of Fantastic Planet with sound and dialogue entirely performed by a live experimental orchestra, which made my list of top movie-going experiences ever! There's also a patio out back for intermissions, post-film receptions, barbecues and occasional outdoor-screenings where you can crack open an ice cold PBR or Tecate! Check their website for movie listings www.cinefamily.org