10 hidden gems of Los Angeles

North America

Feb 27, 2024By Polina Galkina

Quick Getaways

Last updated February 2024

If you've visited Los Angeles before, you've likely checked out the more common tourist attractions like the Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, Hollywood Sign, and Griffith Observatory.

Sunset view of Downtown Los Angeles. Purple sky, tall buildings, skyscrapers and city roads. This spot located at Los Angeles City Hall — View from Los Angeles City Hall

I did the same when I used to come here for quick getaways. But since moving to Los Angeles, I've been continuously exploring and falling more in love with the city.

Today, I want to share 10 spots I discovered randomly as an Angeleno. They were love at first sight.

1. Spadena aka Witch House

Walden Dr, Beverly Hills

The Spadena House, also known as The Witch's House

Many people associate Rodeo Drive with Beverly Hills, envisioning palm tree-lined avenues and luxury stores. If you've seen Pretty Woman, you might even dream of having your own "Big mistake, huge!" moment. (:

However, I highly recommend that after you finish strolling down Rodeo, you head over to Walden Drive, just a few streets away, to discover a gorgeous structure that will transport you to a fairytale movie set. This is The Spadena House, also known as The Witch's House.

From this unique spot, check out the Lily Pond to see the 100+ year-old Moreton Bay Fig Tree, one of the largest of its kind in the USA.

Then, take a walk in Beverly Hills Garden Park to marvel at the various art pieces and the beautiful cactus park as you explore.

If you still feel like continuing exploring, stop by the Will Rogers Memorial Park – it's a beautiful place for a picnic! These are my go-to spots in Beverly Hills, and I love coming back here.

2. Unconventional Architecture

The Hayden Tract in Culver City

A girl is standing in front of unique architectural structure, she is wearing a hat and a long dress with a jacket.

Beehive-like house during the sunset. A girl is sitting on the lawn in front of it.

I never heard about Culver City when I first visited L.A. I only got to explore this part of Los Angeles a few years after I moved here. There are several cool-shaped buildings right next to each other, and for any architectural admirer, I highly recommend checking them out.

As a little bonus for venturing to this part of town, there are two of my favorite murals nearby that are fun backgrounds for photos: Love Wall (8549 Higuera Street) and California Dreaming (3423 S. La Cienega Blvd.).

3. The Peterman Museum

6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles

Honestly, I wanted to include this building because I don’t think it has enough recognition among tourists. People usually head straight for the LACMA lights, which are pretty much across the street, but I believe The Petersen Museum is also worth checking out. And don't forget to explore the museum itself – it's very fun for anyone who loves cars!

4. Venice Canals

Venice holds a cherished spot in my heart. From the vibrant beach and its carefree atmosphere to the eclectic scene on Abbot Kinney Blvd., filled with charming coffee houses and eateries, Venice always feels like home.

Sunset at Venice Canals. Water has a clear reflection on palm trees, plants, bridge, boats and purple sky. — Venice Canals

During my time in Marina Del Rey, Venice became my ultimate go-to spot. One day, while wandering towards the beach from a free parking spot, I stumbled upon the Venice Canals entirely by chance.

It was like stumbling upon a hidden gem, reminiscent of the real Venice. The serene ambiance of the canals is so tranquil and peaceful that it's easy to forget you're in the heart of a bustling city.

5. The Last Bookstore

453 S Spring St, Los Angeles

Who would think that a bookstore could be such a captivating attraction? Just wait until you step foot in this one. Not only does The Last Bookstore offer every book imaginable, but you'll also find art pieces adorning every corner of the store.

A girl is standing in a bookstore, holding a book. — The Last Bookstore

The level of creativity that went into crafting these decorative creations from paper and books is truly astounding. It's so easy to lose track of time in this enchanting place.

6. Lake Shrine

17190 Sunset Blvd, Pacific Palisades

If you're seeking a piece of Zen, head over to the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine. Walking through this serene garden, watching graceful swans glide across the tranquil lake, and breathing in the sweet fragrance of magnolia flowers will envelop you in the peace and tranquility you've been searching for. Did you know that the Lake Shrine also houses a Gandhi World Peace Memorial and a replica of a 16th-century Dutch windmill, adding to its charm and spiritual significance? Make sure not to miss this serene spot when you're in LA!

7. Bradbury Building

304 S Broadway, Los Angeles

A beautiful hall of 19th-century building with several staircases. — Bradbury Building

I had visited Downtown LA many times before stumbling upon this beautiful building.

While I had explored iconic spots like The Broad, Walt Disney Theatre, and MOCA like many other tourists, discovering this architectural gem was extra special. It felt like stepping back in time to 1920s Los Angeles, and let me tell you, it was quite a spectacular sight.

Fun Fact: The Bradbury Building has been prominently featured in numerous films, TV shows, and literature, especially in the science fiction genre. One notable example is its appearance as a setting in the 1982 film Blade Runner, where it serves as the workplace for the character J.F.

8. Pacific Palisades Bluffs Park

301 N Mt Holyoke Ave, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Perched above the Pacific Palisades coastline, Bluffs Park offers panoramic ocean views and tranquil green spaces. Ideal for a leisurely stroll or peaceful picnic, it's the perfect escape into coastal beauty.

9. Great Wall of Los Angeles

12900 Oxnard St, North Hollywood

If you've ever seen the murals of Los Angeles, you've probably encountered stylish Melrose wall art like The Pink Wall and The Wings. While they're cool, nothing compares to the classic Great Wall of Los Angeles. This mural tells a powerful story and stands as one of Los Angeles' true cultural landmarks, as well as one of the country's most respected and largest monuments to interracial harmony. Be sure to stop by next time you're in North Hollywood.

10. Eaten Canyon

1750 North Altadena Drive, Pasadena, CA 91107

This trail is another example of Los Angeles' diversity, and I'm recommending it especially for you, nature lover. Eaton Canyon Trail offers a relatively easy 3.5-mile round trip to a stunning 40-foot waterfall, making it the perfect day activity if you're craving a true nature hike.

Eaton Canyon: A person standing next to a big waterfall. — Eaton Canyon

I hope you enjoy your stay in Los Angeles and have the chance to explore some of these unique locations for yourself. If you have your own favorite hidden gem in the City of Angeles, please share it with us in the comments below!