Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is renowned for its glitz, glamour, and iconic landmarks. While the Hollywood Sign, Walk of Fame, and Santa Monica Pier are must-see attractions, the city harbors numerous hidden treasures that often go unnoticed by tourists. In this blog post, we’ll unveil seven hidden gems that will make your LA trip truly unforgettable. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the lesser-known side of this vibrant metropolis!
1. The Sunken City of San Pedro
Tucked away in the southernmost part of Los Angeles, the Sunken City of San Pedro is a fascinating urban ruin with a mysterious past. In 1929, a landslide caused several beachfront homes to slip into the ocean, creating an eerie landscape of broken foundations, twisted streetcar tracks, and buckled sidewalks.
Today, this apocalyptic wonderland offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. While officially off-limits, adventurous souls often find ways to explore this hauntingly beautiful site. Remember to exercise caution if you decide to visit, as the terrain can be unstable.
2. The Museum of Jurassic Technology
For a truly bizarre and bewildering experience, head to the Museum of Jurassic Technology in Culver City. This quirky institution defies easy categorization, blending fact and fiction in its eclectic exhibits. From microscopic sculptures in the eye of a needle to a collection of decaying dice, the museum challenges visitors’ perceptions of reality and truth.
As you wander through dimly lit corridors filled with peculiar artifacts and pseudoscientific displays, you’ll find yourself questioning what’s real and what’s imagined. The museum’s enigmatic nature has made it a cult favorite among locals and a must-visit for those seeking an offbeat cultural experience.
3. The Venice Canals
While Venice Beach is a popular tourist destination, many visitors overlook the charming Venice Canals just a few blocks inland. This picturesque neighborhood features a network of man-made canals, lined with beautiful homes and lush gardens. Built in 1905 as part of the “Venice of America” project, these canals offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling boardwalk nearby.
Take a leisurely stroll along the walkways, admire the quaint bridges, and watch ducks and other waterfowl glide by. The area is particularly magical during sunset or in the early evening when the lights from the houses reflect on the calm water.
4. The Secret Stairs of Los Angeles
Long before cars dominated LA’s landscape, the city was connected by an extensive network of public staircases. Today, many of these hidden stairways remain, offering both a glimpse into the past and a great workout. The Silver Lake and Echo Park neighborhoods are home to some of the most scenic sets of stairs, with the Music Box Steps being a standout.
These stairs, featured in the famous Laurel and Hardy short film “The Music Box,” provide not only a challenging climb but also stunning views of the city. For those looking to explore multiple staircases, consider joining a guided tour or picking up a copy of Charles Fleming’s “Secret Stairs: A Walking Guide to the Historic Staircases of Los Angeles.”
5. The Last Bookstore
Bibliophiles and Instagram enthusiasts alike will fall in love with The Last Bookstore in downtown LA. Housed in what was once a bank building, this sprawling bookstore is a labyrinth of literary delights. With over 250,000 new and used books, plus a vast vinyl record collection, it’s easy to lose track of time browsing the shelves.
But what truly sets The Last Bookstore apart are its whimsical art installations. Don’t miss the tunnel made entirely of books, the flying book sculpture, or the penny room. The store’s second floor, known as the Labyrinth Above the Last Bookstore, features a maze of bookshelves and hidden nooks that will bring out the adventurer in every visitor.
6. The Abandoned LA Zoo
For a unique blend of history and nature, visit the Old LA Zoo in Griffith Park. Abandoned in 1966 when the current Los Angeles Zoo opened, the old zoo’s remnants now serve as an unconventional picnic spot and hiking destination. Explore the empty animal enclosures, climb through cages, and imagine what it was like when the zoo was operational.
The site offers a fascinating look at how animal welfare standards have evolved over the decades. It’s also a popular location for film shoots, so don’t be surprised if you stumble upon a production in progress. To make the most of your visit, consider taking a charter bus rental in Los Angeles to Griffith Park, which will allow you to explore other attractions in the area as well.
7. The Underground Tunnels of Los Angeles
Beneath the streets of downtown LA lies a network of underground tunnels with a colorful history. Originally built in the 1920s for transporting goods and mail, these tunnels later became instrumental during Prohibition, serving as speakeasies and smuggling routes. Today, while most of the tunnels are closed to the public, you can still access a small section near the Hall of Records on Temple Street.
Enter through an unassuming elevator in the building, and you’ll find yourself transported to a subterranean world of graffiti-covered walls and echoing corridors. While exploring, keep in mind that the accessible area is limited, and it’s best to visit during daylight hours on weekdays when the building is open.
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city of endless surprises, with hidden gems tucked away in every corner. From the haunting beauty of the Sunken City to the mind-bending exhibits at the Museum of Jurassic Technology, these off-the-beaten-path attractions offer a unique perspective on the City of Angels. By venturing beyond the typical tourist spots, you’ll discover the true essence of LA – a city that’s as diverse and eclectic as the dreams it inspires.
So, on your next trip to Los Angeles, dare to explore these hidden treasures. Each one promises an adventure that goes beyond the glitz and glamour, revealing the authentic, quirky, and sometimes mysterious heart of this incredible city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned LA traveler, these hidden gems will give you a new appreciation for the layers of history, culture, and creativity that make Los Angeles truly one-of-a-kind.
