The Perfect Valentine's Day Weekend In L.A.

Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world, famous for a constant supply of warm weather and a welcoming destination for LGBTQ travelers. And though L.A. is also a playground for the super-rich and mega-famous, there are quite a few attractions that appeal to gay and lesbian visitors without a price tag. With Valentines Day fast approaching, grab that special someone in your life and checkout these fun (and free) must-dos!

1. Head to Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank for a taping of The Ellen Degeneres Show and watch the daytime television queen as she delivers her cheeky opening monologue, scares the daylights out of an unsuspecting celebrity, or (if you're lucky) showers you with gifts during her annual "12 Days of Christmas" run. Buying tickets may require a little bit of planning, so look for availability and taping dates a few months ahead of your planned trip. There's nothing better than seeing your loved one laugh.

(www.ellentv.com/tickets)

2. Opened in 2011 in a state-of-the-art facility, the West Hollywood Public Library is a wonderful place to visit. Spend an afternoon sifting through the West Coast's largest collection of LGBTQ literature, history, and personal materials. You can also check out the extensive Ron Shipton HIV Information Center, or admire the outside murals by renowned artists Retna, Shepard Fairey and Kenny Scharf.

(www.colapublib.org/libs/whollywood)

3. If you happen to be in Los Angeles on the second Thursday of the month be sure to venture downtown toward Spring and Main Streets (between 2nd and 9th Streets) for the L.A. Art Walk. Prepare yourself for a well-attended night of gallery hopping and socializing suitable for everyone, from the casual onlooker to the serious collector. Who knows, maybe you two will find a little something to remember your trip.

(www.downtownartwalk.org)

4. Take a break from the city and excert yourself!A 130-acre park set mere blocks from the Hollywood urban sprawl, Runyon Canyon provides a web of hiking trails. The paths range in intensity, from calm and leisurely stroll to rigorous cardio workout. The payoff for your hard work? Expect to see tons of sexy Californians, perhaps a celebrity or two, and stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles. It's pretty romantic!

(www.lamountains.com/parks)

5.Does your partner have a celebrity he or she has always admired? Pierce BrothersWestwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary is tucked away behind a crop of tall buildings in Westwood. Pay your respects to the dozens of illustrious individuals who rest here, including Truman Capote, Farrah Fawcett, Merv Griffin, Janet Leigh, Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Montgomery, and Bettie Page, among others.

(www.dignitymemorial.com)

6. Any list of to-dos in L.A. wouldn't be complete if the Hollywood Walk of Fame were not included. Since 1958, when the first eight stars were unveiled, this destination has become a popular spot for visitors of all ages. Today, there are thousands of stars, from Bette Davis to Bette Midler, Neil Patrick Harris to Queen. Every month, approximately two new names are added, each with a ceremony open to the public. Besides, sometimes a cliche stroll with your other half is the thing you'll remember best.

(www.walkoffame.com)