Winter Escape: Escape the Crowds in Burbank, CA

With miles of sandy beaches, spectacular sunsets, and some of the mildest weather on earth year-round, there's truly no bad time to visit southern California. Because there are so many excellent options from San Diego to Los Angeles and everywhere in between, choosing when to go and where to stay can prove to be a bit of a challenge.

To get an authentic taste of the legendary laid-back SoCal vibe that attracts so many visitors, put Burbank at the top of your list. Burbank is right in the middle of all the action in L.A., but it also embraces its Southern California roots with a distinct charm and welcoming vibe.

Burbank Beckons

As far as when to visit Burbank, the less-busy season in January and February is a fantastic time. This sweet spot between the end of the holiday travel season and the start of spring break in March is ideal because almost everything is less crowded, from restaurants and roads to beaches and major attractions. Plus, with 284 sunny days each year and an average high temperature hovering just below 70 degrees in the winter months, you really couldn't ask for better weather.

The Hollywood Burbank Airport is far more manageable than Los Angeles International and it is served by many major rental car companies and airlines, plus it's much closer to most major attractions including Hollywood, downtown L.A. and the Staples Center, Dodger Stadium and the Rose Bowl. Metrolink is also directly across the street for travelers who won't have a car.

Whether you visit for a long weekend or an entire week, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Burbank. From eclectic shopping and urban hiking to getting a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood movie-making or watching a live taping of Ellen, Burbank truly has something for everyone. Here's a closer look at some of its top attractions.

Warner Bros. Studio

An extremely busy working film studio, Warner Bros. Studio offers visitors the opportunity to explore the sets and soundstages where popular shows like The Big Bang Theory were created. Being that Warner Bros. is a live studio, no two tours are ever alike. The Studio Tour is one of the most popular things to do in Burbank, providing not just a behind-the-scenes perspective, but also the chance to hold an Oscar, ride a Bat-pod through Gotham, or create a video in front of a green screen.

Universal Studios Hollywood

If you're looking for things to do in Burbank, few will beat a trip to Universal Studios, a wildly successful working studio — the largest and busiest film and television studio in the world, in fact. The theme park is just as popular with out-of-towners as it is with locals, and for good reason. Thrillseekers and families alike will love the action-packed entertainment Universal Studios offers, from Harry Potter-themed treats to 3-D roller coasters. With the Ultimate Movie Experience, visitors get early park admission, exclusive up close and personal looks at live movie sets, and may even spot a celebrity.

Hollywood & Highland

The heart of the Los Angeles entertainment center, Hollywood & Highland is home to the famed one-mile Hollywood Walk of Fame, red carpet premieres at the TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Dolby Theatre, where the Academy Awards are held. Many visitors discover that this is one of the best free things to do in Burbank. After searching for your favorite celebrities' stars, check out the area's abundance of high-end shopping and dining options.

Photo Courtesy of Ken Lund | Hollywood Walk of Fame, Hollywood, California

Off the Beaten Path Activities

There isn't much in L.A. that remains a hidden gem for long, but there are some fun things to do in Burbank that are lesser-known attractions.

• Magnolia Park: Eclectic, shop-lined Magnolia Boulevard offers up a number of one-of-a-kind boutiques and eateries and is widely considered to be the destination for anything vintage. Check out Previously On or It's a Wrap for items that appeared in a TV show or movie, and treat yourself to some legendary baked goods at the renowned Porto's Bakery.
• Los Angeles Equestrian Center: While the Hollywood sign itself is certainly not a local secret, most people hike up to it. The LAEC offers horseback tours of Griffith Park and its 50+ miles of trails, which includes rides to the sign. Just 10 minutes from Burbank, the views of sprawling Los Angeles from the top of Mount Lee are spectacular.

• Burbank Aviation Museum: Los Angeles has a rich aviation history, and the Burbank Aviation Museum pays it homage with the 75-foot tall Portal of the Folded Wings Shrine to Aviation. Fifteen aviation pioneers are buried here and the museum is open only on Sundays, making it one of the most unique free things to do in Burbank.

Where to Stay in Burbank

Located just blocks away from the hottest attractions, the Coast Anabelle Hotel Burbank is a modern boutique hotel with top-level service. All guestrooms have complimentary wi-fi, large LED TVs and luxurious massaging showerheads. To ensure you can spend your time exploring all the things to do in Burbank, there is free parking at the Coast Anabelle Hotel, and guests are also provided with a complimentary shuttle to the airport and nearby theme parks.

After a busy day of sightseeing, guests can unwind at the outdoor swimming pool with spacious sundeck (located at the adjacent sister property) or take advantage of the nightly happy hour at Olive's Bistro & Lounge. While there are numerous excellent restaurants nearby, Olive's is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.

Some of the premium amenities provided at the Coast Anabelle Hotel Burbank include:

• Oversized showers with dual massaging showerheads
• Hypo-allergenic down comforters
• In-room Starbucks coffee
• Posh bathrobes
• Complimentary parking, as well as a complimentary shuttle to the Burbank Airport and popular area attractions

If you're looking to experience one of Burbanks more historical landmarks, stay just down the street at the Safari Inn, a Coast Hotel. The Safari Inn will give you a true taste of what it was like the glory days of Old Hollywood. The spacious, yet well-appointed, rooms feature retro flair with modern amenities. Top amenities you can enjoy include:

• Outdoor swimming pool and deck
• Fitness facility
• Complimentary shuttle service
• Pet friendly
• Complimentary parking, as well as a complimentary shuttle to the Burbank Airport and popular area attractions

Burbank is an incredible basecamp for a trip to Los Angeles this winter with an endless amount of things to do, comfortable weather and beautiful scenery. The Coast Anabelle Hotel Burbank is ideally located with convenient access to the airport and in the heart of local dining and nightlife hotspots, as well as renowned theme parks Universal Studios and Warner Bros. Studios. Escape the crowded tourist destinations and book your stay today!