Angelenos should be proud that one of the first images that comes up when you Google search “Los Angeles” isn't a picture of the Hollywood Sign (although those show up, too) but a majestic, wide-angle shot of downtown's skyscrapers in the foreground, with the majestic, snow-capped San Gabriel Mountains in the background. This picture — and many a similar photo — was taken from the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Center near Baldwin Hills. Often overlooked by people north of the 10, Kenneth Hahn offers much-needed green space in South L.A. With beautiful views of the city, plenty of picnic tables to hang out at, spaces where California woodland oaks grow, a gentle flowing rock stream and the occasional sighting of a rabbit or a fox, the park is lively but rarely crowded, and a wonderful example of the importance of maintaining open green spaces for all — not just affluent white communities. Oh, and if it's your first time, and something about the park seems familiar, parts of the video for Dr. Dre's “Nuthin' But a G Thang” were filmed there.

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