The Missing Persons were largely right: Nobody walks in LA. Which is a real shame because it's such a great idea. LA is much more walkable than you might think. Don't believe me? Check out this website listing LA's most walkable neighborhoods. If you live in a green area, congrats! You have a prime spot in a dense, destination-full locale. Make the most of it! If you live in a red area, our apologies. Moving to a new neighborhood is probably out of the question, but no reason why you still can't make the effort to be more pedestrian. Let's all prove Dale Bozzio wrong. Here's the why and the how.

The only thing worse than driving in LA is parking in LA. If you walk, you won't need to park at all. See our series on public transportation to get you closer to the fun without having to spend half your night and most of your cash circling the block and then succumbing to the overpriced valet. Or if you park a number of blocks away, parking will invariably be cheaper and more plentiful. Factor in wasted gas and it's hard to look back.

To give you a slight guilt trip, ever look toward downtown and see that lovely layer of brown haze resting so gently on the skyline? Let's not add to that.

Walking is also a great way to explore the city. Each neighborhood has its own charm and personality, and it's so much more apparent when you explore on foot. We're blessed with all manner of public art, notable architecture, and weirdo curiosities. Your local bookstore has a shelf-ful of walking guides to Los Angeles, and you can't go wrong with any of them. The city of Beverly Hills posted this handy walking guide to some of their local landmarks and your area may have one too. Check your neighborhood's website, information desk, or visitors bureau to find out more. A walking tour is a great free way to spend time with your friends and relatives when they come to visit.

And let's not forget the health benefits. That thing your grandmother says about fresh air is all true. If you sit around at home waiting for auditions or interviews all day, you could stand to stretch your legs. Ditto if you can't afford a gym. Then take your phone with you and call grandma while you stroll. She'll be so pleased she might even chip in for shoes without holes.