California 2025, Day 4, Shopping in Westchester, Griffith Observatory and Glendale

Westchester Culver City

Of course, a vacation in America also involves visiting a shopping mall. On this day, we headed to the Westchester Culver City Shopping Mall. Mother and Father mainly bought necessary items, while the kids got clothes and sweets.

Griffith Observatory

Afterward, we drove via various freeways (including 405 and 110) northeast to LA to the Griffith Observatory. The short (!) walk from the free parking lot slightly (!) below the observatory was completed by every (!) member of the Appenmaier family without grumbling and complaining (!) and thus we could cheerfully (!) enjoy the view over LA. A little fact for movie fans: the view over LA was also enjoyed back in 1984 by the naked Arnold Schwarzenegger. I actually wanted to recreate this scene, but unfortunately, indecent exposure in LA comes with up to 6 months of jail time and up to $1,000 in fines. It wasn't worth it for me after all. Still, for me, it was the highlight of our American trip so far.

Glendale

Since the kids declared a visit to 'Crumbl' as a must-do, we made a slight detour to Glendale on the way back to the hotel. According to Google Maps, there was supposed to be another mall with a 'Crumbl' store there. This was somewhat the case, but to get from the parking lot to the mall, you had to stroll through an elite shopping street like Rodeo Drive, which looked more like a theme park area than real life. Fitting the theme park vibe, there was also a tram that could take you down the street. And of course, private security patrolled here in smart uniforms to ensure the elite visitors feel safe at all times. In stark contrast, on our way back, we passed by several tent accommodations and along the freeways. As for the Crumbl cookies, I can only say: very American (i.e., very sweet and often very peanut butter-heavy) but also very tasty.

To be continued...

Distance covered: 11 km

Steps taken: 15,000