Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis with so much to offer beyond its famous landmarks and tourist attractions. As a local, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring some of the city’s hidden gems that many visitors may not know about. Here are 20 of my favorite hidden gems in Los Angeles, each with a brief description of what makes them special and their address.
- The Last Bookstore: This sprawling bookstore in Downtown LA is a must-visit for book lovers. It’s housed in a historic bank building and has a unique selection of new and used books, vinyl records, and art installations. Address: 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013.
- Murphy Ranch: Tucked away in the Pacific Palisades, this abandoned Nazi compound is now a popular hiking spot with beautiful views of the city. Address: 15500 Sunset Blvd, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272.
- Bradbury Building: This iconic Downtown LA building has been featured in many movies, including Blade Runner. Its stunning atrium and ornate details make it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Address: 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013.
- Echo Park Lake: This beautiful lake in the heart of the city is surrounded by walking paths, a boathouse, and picturesque views of the Downtown skyline. Address: 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026.
- Watts Towers: These towering sculptures in Watts were created by artist Simon Rodia over 30 years and are now a National Historic Landmark. Address: 1765 E 107th St, Los Angeles, CA 90002.
- The Museum of Jurassic Technology: This museum in Culver City is an eclectic collection of art, science, and history exhibits that will leave you feeling both curious and confused. Address: 9341 Venice Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232.
- Griffith Observatory: While not exactly hidden, this iconic LA landmark is often overlooked by visitors. Its stunning views of the city, planetarium shows, and telescope exhibitions make it a must-visit. Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027.
- The Bradbury Murals: These beautiful murals in the City National Bank building in Downtown LA depict scenes from California history and are a hidden gem for art lovers. Address: 555 S Flower St, Los Angeles, CA 90071.
- The Huntington Library: This beautiful library and botanical garden in Pasadena is home to an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and art. Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108.
- Descanso Gardens: These stunning gardens in La Cañada Flintridge are home to a variety of plant collections, hiking trails, and a historic mansion. Address: 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011.
- The Original Farmers Market: This iconic market in the heart of LA has been around since 1934 and is a great place to grab a bite to eat, shop for groceries, or people-watch. Address: 6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90036.
- The Getty Villa: This beautiful museum in Pacific Palisades is modeled after a Roman villa and houses an extensive collection of ancient art and artifacts. Address: 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272.
- Venice Canals: These picturesque canals in Venice were built in 1905 and are a popular spot for walking, biking, and kayaking. Address: 205 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291.
- The Bradbury Building: Located in the heart of downtown LA, the Bradbury Building is a stunning example of Victorian-era architecture. Its ornate details and stunning atrium have made it a popular filming location for movies and TV shows. Address: 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013.
- Barnsdall Art Park: This beautiful park in Hollywood is home to the historic Hollyhock House, as well as a variety of art exhibits and events. Address: 4800 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027.
- The Hollywood Forever Cemetery: While visiting a cemetery may not be the first thing on your LA itinerary, the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is worth a visit for its beautiful grounds and famous residents, including Judy Garland and Cecil B. DeMille. Address: 6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038.
- The Gamble House: This beautiful craftsman-style home in Pasadena was built in 1908 and is a stunning example of the architecture of the era. Guided tours are available. Address: 4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103.
- The Annenberg Space for Photography: This museum in Century City features rotating exhibits of photography from around the world. Admission is free. Address: 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067.
- The Comedy Store: This iconic comedy club in West Hollywood has been a launching pad for many famous comedians over the years. Catch a show and experience the history of stand-up comedy. Address: 8433 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
- The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden: This beautiful garden in Arcadia features a variety of plant collections, including a Japanese garden and a tropical greenhouse. Address: 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007.
These hidden gems are just a small sample of the many unique and interesting places to explore in Los Angeles. As a local, I encourage visitors to take the time to discover the city’s lesser-known attractions and neighborhoods, and to always be on the lookout for the unexpected. You never know what hidden gem you might stumble upon next!
