Los Angeles is known to be the center for the film and television industry of the nation but also holds countless hidden gems that go unexplored.
In this article let’s look at some hidden gems that hold cultural value, history, culinary and some natural wonders that are present in this diverse and dynamic city.
Los Angeles has such a rich history and it would take you multiple lifes to explore and document all the historical stories and secrets that lay in every nook and corner of the city.
Having said that, let’s look at some of these hidden gems.
Located in a historic bank building in downtown Los Angeles, The Last Bookstore is like heaven on earth for bibliophiles, music and art lovers.
It’s not your typical bookstore where you can get a bunch of books, they also have an art studio on the second floor and sell records. This massive independent bookstore offers a vast collection of new and used books, records, and art pieces.
Wander through towering bookshelves, looking at mesmerizing art galleries hosted by artists and step into the famous “Book Tunnel.” It definitely is a place to explore if you need upliftment and inspiration.
Embark on a captivating journey through the lens of an aerial drone and explore the stunning landscapes as you travel to Los Angeles.
It won’t be wrong to call the Bradbury Building an “Architectural Gem”. This five-story building, with its ornate ironwork, marble stairs, with intricate details is a delight to one’s eyes.
This architectural masterpiece has played significant roles in various film productions, but most widely recognised in Ridley Scott’s “Blade Runner.”
You can explore the stunning architecture in the lobby, ravish the timeless beauty of the ultimate testament to 19th-century design.
While the Griffith Observatory in itself is no different gem and is one of the popular attractions in Los Angeles. It is located on the slopes of Mount Hollywood. From the Griffith Observatory, you get a breathtaking view of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign.
It is an amazing place to spend your night looking at the night sky and stargazing. There are various telescopes installed and are available for public use.
The observatory also conducts engaging exhibits about astronomy and space science which are very interesting and informative.
An overlooked factor by many visitors are the hiking trails surrounding the Griffith Observatory. Locals love the opportunity to explore these trails, which offer breathtaking views of the whole city, the iconic Hollywood Sign, and the Griffith Observatory itself. T
ake a hike on the Charlie Turner Trail ,Firebreak Trail , Dante’s View or the Hollyridge Trail to experience the natural beauty of Griffith Park.
Also Read: Celebrity Travel Addicts: Dave Levart of Dave’s Travel Corner
The Museum of Jurassic Technology is located in the Culver City of Los Angeles.The museum offers a surreal experience with the range of collections they have in store.
The collection is a balanced mix of artistic, scientific, ethnographic, and historic items, as well as some unclassifiable exhibits.
It also includes microminiature sculptures, mysterious devices, and unconventional historical narratives which are yet to be translated. The exploration may leave you questioning the truth of what you see and believe, yet a thought provoking journey nevertheless.
The Old Zoo, was a city-owned zoo in Los Angeles, California that opened in 1912 and closed in 1966 .The site is a hauntingly beautiful and forgotten relic of the city’s past.
Once a home to the caged animals is now a space with the ruins of animal enclosures, underground caves and picnic areas featuring multiple hiking trails in the surroundings. It serves as a reminder to Los Angeles’ history and evolution.
Before venturing into this fascinating space, consider checking out our comprehensive guide to hiking Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon.
Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, Grand Central Market is a food lover’s paradise. This marketplace is home to a diverse range of food from food vendors and purveyors, offering a fusion of flavors that solely represent the city’s culture.
El Matador Beach is indeed a hidden gem with its magnificent sea caves, hidden coves, and rugged coastline.
This beach is a haven for photographers and peace seeking people for a more soothing beach experience. The tide pools and rock formations on the beach provide enough opportunities for exploration and experience more serenity by the sea.
Once you are in Los Angeles, we would also recommend you to visit Costa Mesa for a wonderful beach experience.
The Mosaic Tile House has been completely transformed into a piece of art. This quirky house from the 1940’s has been completely covered inside and out with colored tiles and splintered-glasses. The photos on the internet don’t do justice to this magnificent place.
Cheri and her husband Gonzalo’s attention to detail and their artistry have a beauty that can’t be put into words. The owners are willing and eager to answer any questions you have. They don’t rush you around the house. Make sure to have reservations so you have a confirmed slot.
The Heritage Square Museum takes you back to the time of the Victorian era in Los Angeles during the late 1800s to early 1900s.
This museum is a family-friendly historic architectural buildings that serves as an educational park for the public to know about the everyday lives of people living in those times.The buildings are so stunning that you can only imagine what it would feel like living in one of those.
Not really a hidden gem, but a gem indeed is the Greystone Mansion also known as the Doheny Mansion. It is one of those places where you feel the most familiar though you have never visited it before.
It could very much be so because of all the movies that the house has appeared in like the Ghostbusters II, Indecent Proposal, Star Trek Into Darkness, X-Men, among others.
Los Angeles is a city that has so many hidden gems that are cherished by locals for its authenticity, diversity and charm. By embarking your journey to offbeat locations, you can discover unique bookstores, breweries, neighborhoods, museums, historical and artistic buildings and natural wonders that provide a sneak-peek into the vibrant culture of Los Angeles.
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