One major advantage of living and studying in Los Angeles is the mild winter weather. Defined as a Subtropical-Mediterranean climate, Los Angeles rarely dips below 14?C (50?F) between the months of October and March. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just learning to play a new sport, Los Angeles makes for a great environment to stay active and to continue exercising – even in January! To assist with your active lifestyle, check out these exciting activities!
Despite the mild Southern California weather, Angelinos still enjoy winter activities such as ice skating (and even skiing! – but that’s for a different blog entry :D). Head on down to Santa Monica for a relaxing evening at “ICE.” The ice skating rink is open daily from 2pm to 10pm, and 12am on Friday and Saturday night. Ice skates can be rented for $15. All that skating can definitely build up an appetite. Thankfully, ICE offers beverages for sale and just down the street is the famous Santa Monica promenade complete with restaurants, bars and not one, but two Starbuck’s Coffee shops!
If lacing up a pair of skates isn’t your thing, worry no more! Los Angeles has many fun activities. The Jingle Bell Run, for example, draws amazing crowds every winter. On Sunday, December 14th, runners will gather in downtown Glendale (a short drive north of downtown Los Angeles) for a race start of 8am. At 10am, the Jingle Bell Run/Walk hosts a “Tot Trot” for children under 8 years old. All proceeds benefit Arthritis research and racers compete in small teams. Donations and race registration costs vary depending on the number of runners in each team.
FORE! Release some pent up energy at this state-of-the-art facility in the heart to of Koreatown. Aroma Golf Range is a rare find in the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, but, each night dozens of devout golfers make their way to this four-story driving range. Aroma is open to the public during the week from 6am-11pm and 7am-11pm on the weekends.
Located west of Westwood, Malibu Creek State Park is just a short drive away. Known mostly for it’s meandering nature trails and stunning rock pools, this park is considered the “jewel” of the surrounding Santa Monica Mountains. After a short hike, visitors have a choice of fishing, swimming and even horseback riding during the summer months. If interested in a longer adventure, Malibu Creek State Park offers over night camping options, too. Don’t forget to set time aside to watch the sunset from the southern tip of the park at Malibu Lagoon State Park!
Last on this short list is a beautiful park and recreation center located within walking distance of ELC LA. The Westwood Recreation Center has tennis courts, basketball courts, and a full size outdoor soccer field. On any given day visitors can join a soccer game, organize a pick up basketball game or enjoy a peaceful outdoor meal at one of many picnic tables. The shaded area near the west end of the park is a well-known spot for musicians, poets and artists.
