It’s hard to believe, but right in the middle of Los Angeles, you can still find a wild area - the Santa Monica Mountains. This urban/rural park is the perfect getaway from the city, and it offers everything from hiking and biking to museums, to music festivals and cultural events.

Coming up May 18 is the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest, held on the Paramount Ranch in the park. Enjoy bluegrass and folk music on a real Hollywood movie set, complete with a dance barn and area for the kids.

So, even if you live in LA, you can still enjoy the big, beautiful outdoors in the Santa Monica Mountains!