In the morning, take a hike to the iconic Griffith Observatory, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. For lunch, head to The Trails Cafe, which serves organic and locally-sourced food. In the afternoon, explore the park's many attractions, including the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, the Autry Museum of the American West, or the Travel Town Museum. In the evening, attend a concert at the Greek Theatre.
Spend the morning hiking one of the many trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, such as the Solstice Canyon Trail or the Backbone Trail. For lunch, stop by the Malibu Country Mart or the Malibu Pier for fresh seafood. Spend the afternoon at one of the many beaches in the area, such as Zuma Beach or El Matador State Beach. In the evening, take a sunset horseback ride with Malibu Riders.
Get an early start and head east to Joshua Tree National Park, known for its stunning desert landscapes and unique rock formations. Spend the morning hiking one of the many trails, such as the Hidden Valley Trail or the Barker Dam Trail. For lunch, have a picnic at one of the park's many picnic areas. In the afternoon, explore the park's many viewpoints, such as Key's View or Jumbo Rocks. In the evening, stargaze at the park's observatory.
For more nature experiences in the area, consider visiting the Angeles National Forest or the Channel Islands National Park. If you have time for a side trip, head down to San Diego to visit the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve or the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. To maximize your fun, consider renting a bike or a kayak to explore the area's natural beauty. And don't forget to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!
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