US Travel Guide - La Jolla

La Jolla Entertainment

La Jolla draws countless travelers from around the globe each year, with picturesque terrain, incredible views and charming culture. The citys entertainment scene consistently pleases the growing tourist population as well, catering to a remarkable range of tastes. Art patrons are astounded by the extensive list of prestigious galleries found here, while night owls can relax at casual comedy clubs. Meanwhile, La Jollas cooperative weather allows for numerous outdoor adventures. Whether your preference is for upscale culture or outdoor action, you'll easily find entertainment in this seaside community.

Art

La Jolla flourishes with distinguished art galleries. The community celebrates an extensive array of artistry, yet most galleries seem to favor contemporary pieces. Quint Gallery highlights modern art, featuring paintings in oil and watercolor, as well as photography and sculptures. The gallery holds a particular focus on abstract works. Another modern art venue, known as the SOMA Gallery, represents contemporary artists from around the globe, showcasing works of art in various mediums. This gallery is also well known for locating hard-to-find pieces for the private collections of art patrons.

Cosmopolitan Fine Art also represents modern artists, specializing in French impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. Meanwhile, Gallery La Jolla celebrates various European and American contemporary artists, hosting both paintings and sculptures. Just down the street from Gallery La Jolla, the Carlton Gallery, which is strictly devoted to sculpture, showcases an Oriental flavor of artwork. Novel artwork is also represented at Artists Gallery, where monthly, one-person exhibitions provide opportunities for patrons to meet the talented artists.

The Alcala Gallery hosts an interesting combination of painted landscapes from contemporary artists along with ancient treasures from Egypt and Rome. Private viewings are available at this gallery as well.

While paintings and sculptures seem to dominate many of La Jollas galleries, fans of modern photography will appreciate Thomas D. Mangelsens works on display at the Images of Nature Gallery. View animals in their natural habitats, with photographs featuring animals in California, Alaska and other locations throughout the globe.

In addition to this plethora of galleries thriving in La Jolla, the community holds various festivals to honor the arts. Every September, two downtown streets become an outdoor gallery for the annual Art Festival in the Village of La Jolla. Also, throughout the year, one of La Jollas professional artists offers complete art instruction, hosted at a well-known San Diego landmark. The class allows participants to combine sightseeing with a hands-on art experience.

Music

While art clearly dominates La Jollas cultural atmosphere, music is certainly not neglected. A variety of venues bring music alive to La Jollas residents and tourists. Athenaeum Music and Arts Library has a vast collection of books and other pieces devoted to the musical arts. This establishment also hosts concerts, ranging from chamber to jazz music.

During the summer months, Concerts by the Sea are popular among La Jolla locals and tourists. Located at La Jolla Cove, this annual concert series presents live music in an oceanside atmosphere. In addition, many residents escape the workday with Mini-Concerts-At-Noon, a weekly presentation featuring classical musicians and touring ensemble groups. Furthermore, fans of classical music will adore concerts presented by the La Jolla Chamber Music Society.

Theater & Film

La Jolla Playhouse is the most popular theater in this community. Originally founded by Hollywood stars and located on the University of California at San Diego (UCSD) campus, the theater is now known for championing new plays. Meanwhile, in the film world, Cove Theater is an old-fashioned movie house, showing independent and foreign language films that are often ignored by mainstream movie theaters. In addition, film critics flock to La Jolla each year for the annual San Diego International Film Festival 2001.

Research Institutes & Exhibits

While La Jolla residents enjoy countless art-related venues, this community is also famous for world-renown scientific institutions. Salk Institute, named for the world famous polio vaccine inventor, draws spectators from long distances. In addition, the highly respected Scripps Institute of Oceanography offers incredible displays of marine life at Birch Aquarium, located along the La Jolla shoreline.

Nightclubs

Nightlife in La Jolla is upbeat and energetic. The Spot is a happening nighttime venue, located in the heart of La Jolla Village. Another popular hangout is Humphreys La Jolla Grill. For those seeking humorous entertainment, The Comedy Store is a highly recommended spot. This popular nightclub has showcased entertainment from such famous comedians as Robin Williams and Whoopi Goldberg.

Outdoor Activities

Sunny La Jolla abounds with outdoor activities as well. See a panoramic view of San Diego County from Mount Soledad or climb through mysterious caverns in the La Jolla Caves. Golf fanatics can't miss the luxurious Torrey Pines Golf Course, the only public course on the PGA circuit. Lastly, adventurous souls may view La Jolla from the sky with an airborne experience from Torrey Pines Gliderport.

Whether your preference is for notable art galleries, upbeat nightlife or daring outdoor adventures, La Jolla's entertainment scene offers countless choices. Picture these enticing entertainment options in a luxurious oceanside community and you'll see why a growing tourist population returns to La Jolla year after year.

Rebecca Miller