Mario Lopez fondly recalls the family trips he took as a child—to see the woods and waterfalls of Yosemite and the redwood trees in Northern California—but one excursion stands out: Universal Studios Hollywood. “I remember going as a kid,” says the actor and television host. “I always loved TV and film, so the tram ride where you learn about where everything was made, and about the studio jobs and all that stuff—I loved that.”
Life has taken this California dreamer full circle, from his hometown of Chula Vista right back to Universal City, where he films his celebrity entertainment TV show Access five days a week. And the fact that he now works at the center of all that magic he looked up to as a boy? “It doesn’t get old,” Lopez says with some amazement.
The perpetually charming Lopez is an unabashed fan of all that California has to offer—check out his answers to the California Questionnaire below.
Where do you live? Los Angeles.
Why there? Because it’s the best place in the world, and geographically convenient for my business and career.
Who or what is your greatest California love? I am the No. 1 fan of California. I feel this amazing state has everything you could ever want: it’s multicultural with awesome people and beautiful beaches. You can go skiing, to the mountains, to the desert—and of course it has the absolute best climate in the world.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? That we are all surfers and just want to hang out at the beach.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? The weather is always gorgeous.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? I have a very nice barbecue, so I can grill all year long.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? We’ve taken road trips to wine country—Santa Barbara, Temecula, and Napa Valley. We’ve done beach towns up and down the coast and have taken road trips to Big Bear.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Mexican food.
How do you define California style? Cool, laid-back, edgy.
Best California song? “California Love” by Tupac, because he gives it some flavor, makes it funky, and gives us a shout-out when he says, “It wouldn’t be L.A. without Mexicans.”
How would your California dream day unfold? A perfect day would begin with an awesome mariachi brunch with my family, enjoying delicious food and drinking sangria. Then our designated driver would take us to the park, where the kids can play. After that, we would go on a great hike right by the park. Finally, we would go back to the house, enjoy a delicious barbecue, and follow it all with a bocce ball game while watching the sunset with family and friends.