Los Angeles is a bustling city filled with interesting things to do. If you’re looking for a unique experience or some lesser-known things to do in the city, look no further. Here are 10 quirky and memorable things to do or places to visit in the city of angels.
1. Explore the Los Angeles Underground
Los Angeles isn’t just home to movie stars and beaches – it’s also home to a network of now abandoned tunnels under the city. The tunnels were historically used for a variety of purposes, including hosting speakeasies during prohibition. They now sit empty. You can see them yourself with a guided tour, such as the one offered by Cartwheel arts, and learn all about their interesting – and sometimes illicit – past.
2. Visit Venice of America
Here’s one of the most memorable and unique places to go see in California. Built in the early 20th century and inspired by the actual Venice canals, this neighborhood in Los Angeles features a system of canals instead of roads. You can look forward to not only viewing the canals but also enjoying a stroll through the gorgeous neighborhood or heading to a nearby beach.
3. Stop by St. Vincent Court
If you’re looking for a taste of Europe without leaving Los Angeles, check out St. Vincent Court! This quirky street features storefronts designed to look European-esque. You can look forward to checking out some interesting shops, grabbing some coffee, or even stopping for a full meal at one of the street’s restaurants.
4. Enjoy a Picnic at an Abandoned Zoo
Experience a zoo from a unique perspective at Old Zoo Picnic area. Located in Griffith Park, the picnic area consists of now abandoned zoo enclosures. The ruins were the original site of the Los Angeles Zoo, and were converted into a picnic area when the Zoo moved to its new location in the 1960s. Great for a family outing, picnic, or even fun photoshoot, you’ll definitely want to consider adding this stop to your trip to Griffith Park.
5. See the Entrance to The Bat Cave
Another fun stop in Griffith Park, Bronson Cave is a tunnel that has been featured in numerous Hollywood films and television shows. It is perhaps most notable as the entrance to the Bat cave in the classic 1960s Batman TV Series. Just a short hike away from other attractions, this is a great option for those looking for a quick hike or a memorable sightseeing adventure.
6. Stop by the Philosophical Research Society
Browse rare philosophical and occult books with a visit to the Philosophical Research Society. This library opened its doors in 1934 and is now home to over 50,000 books. The society also frequently hosts classes on mystical or occult subjects, such as tarot reading, but has recently suspended in-person classes for the time being due to the pandemic. The library itself is still welcoming visitors, with face coverings required.
7. Enjoy a drink at Tiki Ti Bar
Grab a drink at this iconic tiki-themed bar! Located on Sunset Boulevard, this bar quickly became a well-loved landmark in Los Angeles. Potential visitors should keep in mind that there is frequently a wait due to the bar’s popularity, and plan their schedule with some extra free time to accommodate that possibility!
8. View Fossils at The La Brea Tar Pits
Get a glimpse into history with a visit to the La Brea Tar Pits and museum. The tar pits feature the fossilized remains of ice age-era animals such as mammoths that fell into them thousands of years ago. Visitors can also enjoy learning even more about their history with a stop by the museum. Both the tar pits and museum are currently open. Masks are required to be worn when in indoor sections of the park.
9. Browse The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore is home to hundreds of new and used books – so many, in fact, that it holds the title of being the largest store of its kind in California. This is a great option for collectors and book lovers alike. The store is currently open with normal operating hours, but face masks are required when inside.
10. Swing by The Time Travel Mart
This quirky shop describes itself as the only shop in L.A. to offer goods from “the past, present, and future”. Part bookstore, part eclectic shop, the time travel mart is actually the headquarters of book publishing company Barnacle & Barnacle. They currently have two locations in L.A. – the original shop in Echo Park and a secondary location in Mar Vista. Both shops are currently open to the public, with face masks required inside.
