Torrance

About TorranceStretching a little over one mile and beneath Malaga Cove and the hills of Palos Verdes is the city locals call their “best-kept secret.” Although 10 miles south of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), one of the world’s busiest, you won't find much congestion here—only pristine beaches, parks and shops.

Madrona Marsh is a nice space to enjoy nature and wildlife. Navigate the paths using a map you can get at the nature center, 3201 Plaza Del Amo; phone (310) 782-3989. Birds, butterflies, ducks, raccoons, skunks, squirrels and various insects make the marsh their home, and a variety of foliage and colorful flowers enhances the scenic views. Guided nature hikes are offered fairly regularly. The site is open Tues.-Sun. except holidays 10-5, but phone ahead before you visit to confirm.

The city hosts a really good Oktoberfest each year.

Visitor Centers Discover Torrance 21250 Hawthorne Blvd. Suite 500 Torrance, CA 90503. Phone:(310)802-7777 or (855)310-7878

ShoppingDel Amo Fashion Center, 3525 Carson St. at Hawthorne Boulevard, features more than 250 specialty and department stores, including JCPenney, Macy's and Nordstrom. To find local food and crafts, locals head to the Torrance Certified Farmers Market, held Tuesday and Saturday at Wilson Park, 2200 Crenshaw Blvd. Vendors begin arriving about 7 a.m., but it opens for shopping around 8 a.m. and continues until 1 p.m.

Things to Do Western Museum of Flight