Los Angeles isn’t just a sprawling metropolis full of traffic and high-rise buildings. It actually hosts a myriad of unique spots that are often overlooked. Many people aren’t even aware these places exist, making them some of the city’s best-kept secrets. So, if you’re seeking to uncover the unique side of Los Angeles, make sure to check out these hidden gems for a truly different experience.
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
Locals often refer to this spot as the Culver City Stairs due to its location. Found in the southwest of downtown Culver City, it offers stunning views of Los Angeles, the Pacific Ocean, and the Hollywood sign. While you’re there, keep an eye out for local wildlife like rabbits, snakes, and birds.
Box Canyon
Although there are many Box Canyons across the USA, the one in Los Angeles stands out for its unspoiled natural beauty. This remote location is hard to reach, which means fewer tourists visit it. The canyon is surrounded by hills with narrow ravines, oases, slot canyons, and vibrant badlands, making it a dream for nature photographers.
Bubble House
Designed by architect Wallace Neff, the Bubble House is the only remaining Airform house in the U.S. Its unique construction technique involved inflating a giant balloon and spraying it with concrete. Once the concrete set, the balloon was deflated, leaving behind a quirky and iconic structure.
California Institute of Abnormal Arts
Commonly abbreviated as CIA, this isn’t your typical museum. It’s a nightclub and exhibition space that hosts a variety of live events, musical performances, and quirky displays like preserved animals and a mummified clown. The bizarre collection always leaves visitors curious and entertained.
Mosaic Tile House
One of the most unique places in Los Angeles, this house is covered in colorful, broken glass mosaics and tiles. Designed by artists Pann and Duran in the 1940s, the home is both a romantic expression and a philosophical statement about art and nature. Its unusual beauty is sure to captivate anyone who visits.
Museum of Neon Art
This small museum is dedicated to neon art and is a true hidden gem. It houses intriguing installations like the Brown Derby rooftop sign and other roadside Americana signs. In addition to its exhibits, the museum offers nighttime bus tours of historic neon sights in Glendale.
The Korean Bell of Friendship
This monumental bell was a gift from South Korea to Los Angeles in 1976. Rich with traditional imagery and symbolism, it stands as a beautiful example of harmony and cultural exchange. Many people visit the site to take in its intricate beauty and use it as a backdrop for stunning photographs.
The Museum of Jurassic Technology
Despite what its name might suggest, this museum isn’t about dinosaurs or modern technology. Instead, it showcases obscure and peculiar scientific achievements that many have never heard of. Its eclectic collections include everything from ethnographic artifacts to historical oddities.
The Old Zoo
Abandoned in 1966, the old zoo has since become a favorite spot for locals to picnic and explore. The area still has some of the old animal cages, now painted with colorful graffiti. It’s a fascinating place to get a sense of the zoo’s history from the perspective of the animals that once lived there.
The Sunken City
Once a neighborhood, this area slipped into the ocean during a landslide in 1929. Today, it continues to move about 11 inches per year. Visitors can explore the remnants of buildings and vehicles that give the area a haunting, yet intriguing atmosphere. This unique spot has even been featured in various movies and TV shows.
So, what do you think of these hidden gems in Los Angeles? If you’re up for more adventures, JoinMyTrip offers great deals for exploring many destinations worldwide with the help of dedicated travel buddies. You’ll never have to feel lonely on your adventures with JoinMyTrip. Book a trip now to discover the world!