When a young Steve Guttenberg left the East Coast behind in 1976 to pursue an acting career in Hollywood, he knew he was in for big changes—and challenges. Luckily, he had a secret weapon to help him in his bold adventure: His father Stanley’s unflinching support. “My dad always said, ‘Believe in yourself. You can do anything in the world.’”
Guttenberg followed that advice and went on to score role after role in such high-profile films as The Boys From Brazil, Diner, and Short Circuit, as well as franchises like Police Academy, Cocoon, and Three Men and a Baby. The actor’s recent book, Time to Thank: Caregiving for My Hero, now details how he humbly paid his late father back for all of his support through the years, driving back and forth from L.A. to Arizona to help care for Stanley in his final years.
While it’s a touching tribute to the man he calls his hero, Guttenberg promises the memoir is also a great read for both fans of his films and road-trip junkies, and the actor was eager to share some his favorite experiences in the Golden State.
Where do you live? Los Angeles’ Pacific Palisades neighborhood.
Why there? It’s where the mountains meet the sea. And it’s such a friendly town filled with good neighbors.
Who or what is your greatest California love? I am in love with the laid-back attitude that has been the signature of California. The easy style, the western adventure, and the Spanish influence. The food, the opportunity to enjoy life.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? One of the biggest misconceptions about Californians is that they are all laid-back, surfer types who live near the beach and spend their days lounging in the sun. While California is famous for its beaches and surf culture, the state is incredibly diverse in both its geography and its people.
California has many different regions, from the tech hubs of Silicon Valley and San Francisco, to the agricultural heartland of the Central Valley, to the desert communities in the east, to the bustling cities of Los Angeles and San Diego. Its population includes people from a wide range of backgrounds, professions, and lifestyles. The misconception often oversimplifies or overlooks the complexity and diversity that actually defines California and its residents.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? The desire to let everyone be themselves.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? To drive 17-Mile Drive, a scenic road that winds through the stunning Monterey Peninsula offering breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline, lush forests, and picturesque golf courses.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? To San Diego and La Jolla! If you want to take the scenic route from Los Angeles to San Diego, drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. This route offers stunning ocean views, charming coastal towns, and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? To be in every farmers’ market the state has to offer! I especially like the Santa Monica Farmers’ Markets for the fruit and veggies. The Palisades Village market has fresh eggs and Santa Barbara’s has the honey!
What is your favorite way to play in California? Enjoying the Pacific Ocean, especially at Will Rogers State Beach. Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia! San Simeon and Solvang. Disneyland and Rodeo Drive! La Jolla and the San Diego Zoo!
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? The Century City Shopping Center and the town of Pacific Palisades. Plus, Rodeo Drive and the outlets in Palm Springs.
Best California song? “California, Here I Come” by Al Jolson. It brings the excitement and hope that symbolizes the Golden State.
How would your California dream day unfold? I’d wake up at the Getty Villa, take a swim at Topanga Beach. Then lunch at the Reel Inn in Malibu. I’d take a quick hop to San Francisco for dinner at Mastro’s with a nightcap at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills.
