If you’re living in the Los Angeles area, I’m sure you’re well aware of this weekend’s special event. And if you’re not up to speed yet, get ready to slow down–way down. From the 101 to the 10, LA’s traffic-heavy 405 freeway is shutting down this weekend. That’s right, SHUTTING DOWN.
A traffic jam this big doesn’t happen every day (no, not even in bumper-to-bumper Los Angeles), and that’s why locals have taken to dubbing this car-stopping calamity Carmageddon. Sure, traffic will probably be worse and it will be harder to get around, but guess what? It’s not the end of the world. To make sure you survive the 405, we’ve made a list of fun things to do this weekend that don’t require stepping foot in a car.
1. Discover your local neighborhood. You know all those cute shops and restaurants you always pass but never go in? Now’s the time to check them out! Take a walk and see what you’re missing out on. You’d be surprised at all the hidden gems that are literally right at your door!
2. See a movie. It’s summer, and you know what that means: summer blockbusters! Head out to your local theater and catch a flick from the likes of the final Harry Potter movie, Horrible Bosses and Winnie the Pooh to the latest Transformers sequel.
3. Catch up on your DVR. With so many great shows out there, you want to record them all–but when do you get the time to watch them? Well, it looks like now is about the right time. Watch at your leisure or enjoy a marathon of your favorite show!
4. Get some exercise. It’s hard to work out when you have so many places to go, but this weekend is all yours. Lift some weights, run on the treadmill or practice yoga–there’s nothing like that feeling after a good work out.
5. Have a barbeque. It’s the weekend; it’s summer; it’s warm. Why not! You can enjoy your food the way you like it, fresh and made to order. And of course, it’s always more fun to invite others to join the party!
6. Use alternative transportation. If you have your heart set on traveling the 405 route, consider riding your bike or taking public transportation. This way you can leave the stress of traffic behind and simply enjoy your ride.
7. Read a book. How long has it been since you picked up one of those things? Every now and then a relaxing afternoon of reading in the hammock is just what you need to have a little fun!
8. Venture the great outdoors. Stroll over to your neighborhood park, explore local “nature” areas, walk to the closest beach (if it’s nearby, of course) or take a hike through some local trails. Sometimes it’s just plain better to experience the wild.
And hey, maybe after all this is over, you’ll realize you can have just as much fun without your car! (I know I do!)
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