Monday, 6/23/97 Entertainment beyond UCLA RECREATION: Westwood, surrounding cities boast of several fun attractions
By Marilyn King Daily Bruin Contributor Although Los Angeles may seem to be nothing more than movie theaters and clubs, it is actually home to fun and interesting places to spend the relaxing days of summer. Students new to UCLA are often unaware of the different attractions available to them, but fun and exciting places are plentiful right here in Westwood and the surrounding communities. For starters, everyone has the benefit of having Westwood Village to enjoy. Because it is within walking distance of UCLA, students do not have to be concerned with the dilemma of transportation. The village is a four-by-four-block stretch of clothing, speciality and novelty stores, restaurants and movie theaters. Westwood bookstores are popular hang-outs for students to study, relax and engage in book discussions. Located down Westwood Boulevard at the corner of Pico, Barnes and Noble is holding various book readings in July. For students interested in filmmaking, Alexis Krasilovsky, a pioneering camerawoman, will hold a book signing and discussion of her book, "Women Behind the Camera,"on July 13. Barnes and Noble will also hold an event called "Creating the Internet" on July 12 at 2:30 p.m. For museum lovers, there are museums in the area that broaden and stimulate the mind. The Armand Hammer Museum on the corner of Wilshire and Westwood boulevards contains varying art exhibits. Showing through June 29 is an exhibit called "Picturing Childhood." It contains more than 300 illustrated books from 1550 to 1990. The books include pop-ups, fantasies and childhood depictions. A candid exhibit called "Pun Intended" features 48 lithographs from different photographers. Every Friday night at the Armand Hammer Courtyard is the Jazz Series for those interested in jazz music and dance. In addition to the various attractions in Westwood Village, neighboring areas are also abundant with places to relax, shop and enjoy shows and exhibits. Westside Pavilion is an elaborate mall which contains famous department, retail and specialty stores. Unlike nearby Westwood Village, a trip to the Pavilion requires a ride on the Santa Monica Bus Line. Santa Monica is a lively place as well with its famous beach, stores and shops. The 3rd Street Promenade is an outdoor plaza composed of different stores and shops, which stretches out for about four blocks. The Promenade is a pedestrian walkway, a rarity in Los Angeles. It has beach stores, novelty shops, street vendors, restaurants and movies. Adjacent to the parking structure on the corner of 4th Street is a traditional indoor mall called Santa Monica Place. Containing stores, retailers and a food court, it is a great hangout near the beach. It is also accessible through the Santa Monica Blue Bus Line. Lastly, since summertime is a hot season and everyone likes to "get wet," Santa Monica is the place to go for a fabulous beach. Adjacent to 3rd Street Promenade is the Santa Monica Pier. The pier offers amusement rides and arcade games, surrounded by the sway of the tide throughout the day. For fresh produce and flowers, the popular Farmer's Market will be open every Wednesday from 9:30 to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 to 2 p.m. on Main St. and Ocean Park. For those interested in comedy, Santa Monica Pier will host two weekly events. Upfront Comedy features writers from "The Second City," "Saturday Night Live," and "Comedy Central." There is an age limit, though - attendees have to be 21 or over. Comedy Jam, which uses improvisation from the audience, will be held on the pier every Wednesday at 8 p.m. Pacific Park in Santa Monica also will hold events during the summer. The Twilight Dance Series will be held every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Also in the park, Santa Monica will host theme days, with daily events. Fiesta Friday, which will include Mexican food and a Mariachi band, is among the themes celebrated. Previous Daily Bruin Story 'Renaissance' transforms Village, March 2, 1995