We're sensing rumblings around the city of news-related fatigue. People, we hear you. On the one hand, you have to know every last deet about election day, while on the other hand, you just can't take another poll, another projection, another pundit bloviating. The answer? Tune out. Unhand the remote and stuff the paper under the couch. Really.
Here's where we'd like to head on this rainy/sunny election day (just after we read one more editorial...):
Will Rogers State Historic Park: Trek the bird-chirpy three-mile loop up to Inspiration Point, then circle back down for a tour of the ranch house, on today at 11AM, 1PM and 2PM. The park's great namesake found a lot to laugh about in our political scene way back when, so making a pilgrimage to his beloved homestead just feels like the right thing to do. 1501 Will Rogers Park Road, Pacific Palisades. 310-454-8212.
Leo Carrillo State Beach: Leo Carrillo, just before Ventura County, feels remote for SoCal. It's never too crowded (and on a chillyish day like today, it may be positively empty). Grab a few blankets, a pulpy paperback (not a news magazine!) and let the tensions melt. Bonus: Neptune's Net is nearby, and fried clams are always a delicious pick-me-up during emotional times. 35000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. 818-880-0363
Los Angeles Arboretum: We're fond of the charmingly screech-y peacocks and the quaint Queen Anne mansion (okay, we'll just call it what everyone else does -- the "Fantasy Island" house, which was used in the original series). Sit by the lake and watch reflections in the water. Seriously, this pastime clears a clouded mind in a snap. Admission: $7 adult. 301 North Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia. 626-821-3222.
