A while back my cousin and I toured the Los Angeles Times buildings (there are two: the printing press on Olympic and the staff offices on 1st). I had “won” the tour at a silent auction and was excited to explore this city landmark (first paper was printed in 1881). After missing the parking garage entrance and circling the block a couple of times (signage people!), I cruised into a parking space and sauntered over to the Times’ lobby.

I was anticipating a buzz of energy, reporters racing against the clock, editors shouting commands, wondering “is this the day they miss their deadline?” Yeah, not so much — but it was really interesting.

The tour led my cousin and me through the inner workings of the Times. She is a perfect partner for adventures — game for almost anything (except crossing against a signal — won’t happen), knows a lot of odd facts (I always love that), and is a naturally passionate person (happy, and ready, to share her opinion of things).

Here are some fun facts we learned:

The LA Times has their own testing kitchen to ensure the recipes they recommend are delicious.

They have won 41 Pulitzer prizes as of 2014.

The Times’ printing facility is one of the largest in the country.

Operations on their printing floor are largely manned by robotic “taxis” — hello future!

Visit their website to arrange your own tour, www.latimes.com.