Los Angeles Entertainment

Best Free Rock Show: Why wrestle with the bouncers at Hollywood clubs when the best show in town can be seen from between rows of DVDS and CDs. Amoeba Records (6400 W Sunset Blvd; tel. 323/245-6400) continues in Hollywood the hippy traditions that were born in Berkeley. Their in-stores are legendary and since there's no age limit, you can prove to the kids how cool their folks are.

Best Summer Concerts: Summers in L.A., means hot, dry days, cool nights and free concerts downtown from Grand Performances (350 S. Grand Ave; tel. 213/687-2159: www.grandperformances.org) at the California Plaza. The international performancers range from Afro-Cuban dancers to Samba drummers, who light up the stage surrounded by playful water fountains, a reflecting pool and the twinkling lights from the city's skyscrapers.

Best Free Museum: Some come for the art, others come for the gardens, still other come to see the spectacular views. Whatever the reason, Angelenos and visitors still flock to The Getty Center (1200 Getty Center Dr.; tel 310/440-7300) to take in the architecture, view an exhibit or, listen to a weekend concert. Insiders, ride their bikes or take the bus to avoid the $10 parking charge.

Best Cheap Date: Every Friday night, rain or shine, music lovers can enjoy some of the best jazz SoCal has to offer and it won't cost them a dime. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), 5905 Wilshire Blvd.; tel. 323/857-6014) will be packed with jazz and art lovers crowding into the central court for some free-flowing music. Afterwards, since you can "pay what you wish" for access to the galleries after 5pm, some additional culture can be had for literally a song.

Best Arts and Culture: Some of the best things in life are free and with the UCLA's Hammer Museum (10899 Wilshire Blvd; tel. 310/443-7000), it's true. Check their calendar for lunchtime art talks, lectures, screenings and "conversations" with contemporary artists and writers. Just remember that space is limited, so arrive early with a good book to wait in line for the more popular programs. Parking underneath the museum is $3 after 6.