It may not have the crispest winds or reddest leaves to herald the season change, but there are plenty of fall activities in LA to celebrate the cooler weather — even on a student budget. Combining the best of beautiful scenery, nature, film and football, LA is filled with events that appeal to various interests, including those of students at the David Geffen School of Medicine.
The Lake Hollywood Reservoir
Lower temperatures make the Lake Hollywood Reservoir an ideal spot to be one with nature in the midst of a sprawling city. Walk leisurely or jog the 3.3 miles around the reservoir's perimeter for a setting that is familiar to a northeastern wood. Deer, turtles, birds and other wildlife will convince you you're in the mountains, but an amazing view of the Hollywood sign reminds you of the metro area you haven't left. Admission and parking are free.
UCLA vs. USC
Fall means football for many, and for Angelenos it prompts a traditional UCLA Bruins-USC Trojans rivalry, one of the most intense head-to-head matchups in the NCAA. Preceding the game itself during "Blue and Gold week" are activities to celebrate school spirit, such as the annual pep rally and bonfire. Tailgating with friends — complete with food, drinks and lighthearted banter — are a highlight of the day. Spend time with fellow Bruins enjoying beautiful weather and cheering for the Blue and Gold.
Behind the scenes
The end of summer may be the end of warm outdoor swimming, but it means some of the best TV shows are in the middle of filming for the season. Tickets are free, and it's an amazing opportunity to see how your favorite shows are made in studio. Daytime talk shows like Ellen and Dr. Phil, late night shows with Jimmy Kimmel and Tosh.0, as well as Dancing with the Stars, game shows, sitcoms and many more are all produced in the LA area, and all require a live audience. Those who are interested can obtain their tickets at least 30 days in advance from the TV show's website. Arrive on time to the studio and enjoy one of the classic perks of living in LA.
Halloween Carnival in West Hollywood
The quintessential fall holiday is Halloween, and Santa Monica Boulevard is home to one of the biggest street parties in the country. Wild costumes, live entertainment and amazing restaurants and bars make for an unforgettable Halloween Carnival that typically is attended by thousands. Plan your most creative costume, grab your friends and enjoy the contests, people-watching and festivities that make autumn as colorful as you expect it to be. Expect to pay to park close to the event.
Brewery Art Walk
Twice a year, the artists that work and live in the former Pabst Blue Ribbon Factory open their work spaces, which are a must-see for any art-lover. Sculpture, paintings, jewelry, design, multimedia and videos are all on display and for sale to attendees. And because the event is held in a former brewery, adult beverages are on tap, with equally appetizing foods to enhance the creative experience. The Brewery Art Walk is held in the spring and fall, and is free to attend.
Living, working and studying in LA gives you an autumn that is just as relaxing as the warm summer and temperate winter that surround it. Community activities, friendly competition and enjoyable scenery abound. Fall activities in LA are just one of the many reasons that David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA students say they love living in Los Angeles.
By Kyleigh Roessner
