Los Angeles is a city of dreams, glamour and diversity, but also of hidden gems and surprises. If you want to explore the less-known side of LA, here are 10 under-the-radar experiences and attractions that will make your trip unforgettable.
The Museum of Jurassic Technology
This quirky museum is a spoof on private museums that were common in past centuries, featuring exhibits that are either real, fake, or somewhere in between. You’ll find displays of pre-scientific medical cures, decaying antique dice, microscopic sculptures, and more. The museum is also home to a tea room and a rooftop garden with live doves.
Live Music on Monday Nights
LA has a vibrant music scene, and you can catch some of the best up-and-coming bands playing residencies at clubs like The Echo and Bootleg Theater every Monday night. These shows are usually cheap or free, and you might discover the next big thing before they hit the mainstream.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery
This historic cemetery is the final resting place of many Hollywood legends, such as Rudolph Valentino, Judy Garland, and Johnny Ramone. But it’s also a popular venue for outdoor movie screenings, concerts, and cultural events. You can watch classic films under the stars, surrounded by tombstones and mausoleums, or enjoy live music and performances in a unique setting.
Barnsdall Art Park
This park is a cultural oasis in the heart of Hollywood, featuring a gallery, a theater, a library, and an art center. It’s also the site of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House, a masterpiece of modern architecture that you can tour for a fee. The park hosts free art workshops, wine tastings, yoga classes, and family-friendly events throughout the year.
Greenbar Distillery
If you’re a fan of craft spirits, you’ll love Greenbar Distillery, the first organic distillery in LA. You can take a tour of their facility and learn how they make their award-winning products, such as gin, vodka, whiskey, and liqueurs. You can also sample their creations at their tasting room or join one of their cocktail classes or events.
Santa Catalina Island
For a change of scenery, hop on a ferry or a helicopter and head to Santa Catalina Island, a beautiful island off the coast of LA. You can enjoy activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkeling, and zip-lining, or just relax on the beach or at a spa. You can also visit the charming town of Avalon, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Catalina Casino and the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden.
Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre
If you’re looking for laughs, look no further than Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, one of the best comedy venues in LA. Founded by Amy Poehler and other comedians, this theater showcases improv, sketch, and stand-up comedy shows every night of the week. You can see famous performers like Aziz Ansari and Sarah Silverman, as well as rising stars and new talent.
The Last Bookstore
This is not your ordinary bookstore. The Last Bookstore is a massive space that houses over 250,000 new and used books, as well as records, art, and collectibles. You can browse through the shelves or explore the labyrinth upstairs, where you’ll find books arranged by color, a tunnel made of books, and a secret vault. You can also attend events like readings, signings, concerts, and workshops.
Galco’s Soda Pop Stop
If you’re thirsty, head to Galco’s Soda Pop Stop, a store that sells over 700 kinds of soda from around the world. You can find rare and exotic flavors, such as cucumber, bacon, rose, and birch beer, or make your own custom soda at their Soda Creation Station. You can also buy candy, beer, wine, and other snacks.
Explore the Bradbury Building
The Bradbury Building is the oldest commercial building in LA and one of the most beautiful ones. It was built in 1893 and features a stunning interior with iron railings, marble stairs, ornate elevators and a glass skylight. The building has been featured in many movies and TV shows, such as “Blade Runner”, “The Artist” and “500 Days of Summer”. You can visit the lobby and the first floor for free.
