Performance al fresco: Los Angeles, CA

The newly finished central park of L.A., Grand Park, is a parking-structure roof turned 12-acre playground. There are light shows from the high-tech fountain’s 100+ colored jets, and music, theater, and dance performances on two giant lawns, along with yoga classes and a dog run. grandpark.lacounty.gov

Best time to go: July and August, when you can cool off in the park’s fountain.

Stay: The 1920s Figueroa Hotel downtown has an Old World Moroccan vibe with lanterns, Persian rugs, and a candlelit bar by the pool. $148; figueroahotel.com