For something a litter further off the beaten path but well worth the drive, Huntington Gardens just outside of Pasadena to the east of downtown L.A. features 120 acres of botanical gardens that are truly breathtaking. With a desert garden, a Japanese garden, an herb garden, a jungle garden a palm garden and a rose garden, the grounds here are a real celebration of nature in all its forms and offer a way to add some refinement to your trip. Founded in 1919 by businessman Henry E. Huntington, the gardens are actually part of a larger museum featuring works of art and rare books, but the gardens themselves are the highlight. Enjoy finger sandwiches and fresh fruit at the Rose Garden Tea Room.