The gated and enclosed Lacy Park in swank San Marino is designed for anyone wanting to escape the frustrations of urban life. Run the outer path (about one mile in distance) encircling the park. Or take your racket and partake of some tennis on one of the park's six courts. Put a couple teams together and utilize the baseball field. Take a lover to the gorgeous rose garden located in the southwestern portion of the park. Despite having all these things to do, if you come here to walk your dog (doggy bags provided) or just people-watch, the park's 30 acres and its canopy of lush trees provide enough shaded areas and space to just sit and soak up the scene. Just be aware that on weekends, non–San Marino residents must pay $2 to gain entrance — and it's worth it. 1485 Virginia Road, San Marino. (626) 300-0790, ci.san-marino.ca.us/lacy.htm.

—Ontay Johnson