Go off the beaten path with these 12 hidden gems in Los Angeles

The quest for hidden gems in Los Angeles uncovers layers of the city that are sometimes overshadowed by major sights like Universal Studios, the Hollywood Sign, and Disneyland. Sneak off the tourist path, and you’ll find secret places like Richard Nixon’s Presidential Library, Theatre Row, and Echo Park that invite you to delve deeper into the essence of LA.

If you’ve been to Los Angeles before and want to go beyond LA’s most famous attractions, or if this is your first visit and you crave something off the beaten path, this guide peels back the glossy exterior to reveal 12 of the best underrated attractions in LA.

LA’s must-see hidden gems at a glance

Off-the-beaten-track places for history lovers: The preserved Victorian houses at the Heritage Square Museum

Hidden gems for kids and families: LAPD Museum and the Los Angeles Arts District

Lesser-known cultural attractions: The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and the Egyptian Theater

1. Skip Universal Studios to discover where the movie premiere was born

The Egyptian Theatre was built by Sid Grauman in 1922, who later built the more popular Chinese Theatre. Although less well-known than its grander cousin and the more modern Universal Studios, this historic theater offers a fascinating perspective on Hollywood history. Catch an electric mix of silent films to the latest indie flicks, enveloped in the ambiance of Hollywood’s golden age.

Highlights:

Take some time to appreciate the theater’s stunning Egyptian Revival architecture, including the grand courtyard.

Address and opening hours:

6712 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90028. Screening times vary.

2. Explore LA’s Arts District for an alternative to Venice Beach

The Los Angeles Arts District is an underrated attraction, often missed in more popular neighborhoods in LA like Venice Beach. Let your creativity flow as freely as the coffee in its cozy cafes. Immerse yourself in art at Fluid Bears, where you can roll up your sleeves and make something personal to take back home.

Insider tip:

Go beyond the main galleries and huge murals to discover more street art in the hidden alleyways. Visit on the second Thursday of the month for the Downtown LA (DTLA) Art Walk, with pop-up exhibitions and food trucks.

Address and opening hours:

801 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90021. Open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 3:00 PM-9:00 PM, and Friday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-9:00 PM. Reservations recommended.

3. See real-life getaway cars at the Los Angeles Police Museum

Tucked away in the Highland Park neighborhood is a museum dedicated to the history of the LAPD, featuring exhibits on famous crimes and vintage police cars.

Highlights:

Check out the North Hollywood shootout exhibit which details the events of and actual artifacts from the notorious 1997 battle with the police.

Address and opening hours:

6045 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042. Open Weds-Sat, 10:30 AM-3:30 PM.

4. Skip the celebrity tours for Richard Nixon’s Presidential Library

At the Richard Nixon Presidential Library, you can learn about the complex legacy of America’s 37th president in a uniquely immersive setting. Explore Nixon’s life and presidency through exhibits on his achievements and controversies, including a detailed account of the Watergate scandal.

Highlights:

The meticulously recreated Oval Office and the extensive archives bring the United States Capitol to you, offering a deep dive into Nixon’s political career and era. It’s a captivating journey for any history buff.

Address and opening hours:

18001 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda, CA 92886. Open 10:00 AM-5:00 PM every day.

5. Swap the Walk of Fame for LA’s star-studded history at the Grammy Museum

The Grammy Museum not only honors Grammy winners but also explores music-making’s creative and recording processes, from songwriting to production. It provides an interactive journey through the evolution of music, celebrating not just the stars of entertainment but the artistry behind the hits.

Highlights:

Attend intimate performances and interviews with renowned artists at the Clive Davis Theater. Check the schedule on the Grammy Museum website.

Address and opening hours:

800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015. Open Wednesday-Monday, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM, and Saturday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

6. Instead of Rodeo Drive, experience LA’s multi-cultural side in Chinatown

Traditional Chinese architecture blends with modern city life in LA’s colorful Chinatown. Here, you can get a taste of LA culture, trying some of the best dishes in Los Angeles while also feeling like you’ve traveled abroad. Along with restaurants, storefronts, and markets selling authentic Asian goods and cuisine, landmarks like the Chinese American Museum showcase the rich history and contributions of the Chinese community to Los Angeles.

Highlights:

Give thanks and receive blessings by burning incense at the Thien Hau Temple, a Taoist temple with intricate sculptures, ornate architecture, and a longstanding presence in the community.

Address and opening hours:

Chinatown, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Open 24/7.

7. Catch a show on Theater Row

Theater Row is the name given to a section of Santa Monica Boulevard that includes over 10 theaters, from Hudson Theatres to Sacred Fools Theatre Company. Here, the spotlight shines on the raw, unedited talent of actors, playwrights, and directors, providing an intimate experience that blockbuster movie sets can’t quite replicate.

Insider tip:

Take advantage of the low ticket prices on Theater Row — you could watch the next big star for as little as $20.

Address:

Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90038.

8. Escape the glitz and glam in the middle of LA at Echo Park

Besides being home to Dodger Stadium, Echo Park showcases a beautiful lake and a natural retreat for anyone wanting a break from LA’s fast-paced city atmosphere. With plenty of nearby food options, pedal boats, and live music at the Echo just steps away, you can quickly rejoin the city bustle when you’re ready.

Highlights:

Step back in time at the Time Travel Mart, a quirky store selling vintage-themed merchandise.

Address and opening hours:

Echo Park, 1632 Bellevue Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026. Open Mon-Fri 10:00 AM-9:00 PM, and Sat 9:00 PM-5:00 PM. Reservations are required for pedal boats.

9. Uncover what life was like in Victorian-Era Los Angeles

Journey back in time at the Heritage Square Museum, an open-air museum in Los Angeles with beautifully preserved and restored 19th and 20th-century buildings from California’s first 100 years of statehood.

Highlights:

The residences each showcase different styles of Victorian and early 20th-century architecture, from the Italianate home of Mount Pleasant House to the Greek Revival style of Perry Mansion.

Address and opening hours:

3800 Homer St, Los Angeles, CA 90031. Check the website for monthly updates on opening hours.

10. Swap the Hollywood Hills for a visit to the Los Angeles Arboretum

The LA County Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a natural escape at the base of the San Gabriel mountains, a less-frequented alternative to the celeb-spotting area of Hollywood Hills. Wander through meticulously 127 acres of landscaped gardens and flora, spotting the free-roaming peacocks as you stroll.

Highlights:

The gardens have some standout features, like the Queen Anne Cottage, the Meyberg Waterfall, and the Bamboo Forest, which you shouldn’t miss.

Address and opening hours:

301 N Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, CA 91007. Open daily, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM, with the last entry at 6:30 PM.

11. Trade the city for the stunning coastline at Point Dume

Head down to Malibu to Point Dume, a must-see spot in LA County for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The sandy beaches are met with high, rocky cliffs, the perfect vantage point for sunset lovers and wild whale-watching.

Insider tip:

If you love hiking, there is a hidden trail down to the beach at Point Dume, where you can find tide pools. Parking is limited, so arrive early.

Address and opening:

Malibu, CA 90265. Open 24/7.

12. Find a hidden bookstore in Downtown LA

The Last Bookstore in LA is a hidden spot in the busy city for book lovers. Come here to find a mix of new and used books, vinyl records, and to walk through tunnels made of books

Insider tip:

The bookstore is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Little Tokyo, a Japanese cultural district brimming with unique shops and tasty food.

Address and opening hours:

453 S Spring St Ground Floor, CA 90013. Open every day, 11:00 AM-8:00 PM.

FAQs

What are some lesser-known attractions in Los Angeles that are worth visiting?

For a unique slice of Hollywood history, consider visiting the Egyptian Theatre. The Grammy Museum is a perfect place to deep-dive into music’s past and present. Fluid Bears in the Arts District offers a unique art-making experience. Don’t forget to check out the neighborhood while you are there—you’ll find the best local shops and street-side eateries that emanate LA’s local vibe.

Are there any hidden or secret gardens in Los Angeles that I can explore?

The Kyoto Gardens and SuihoEn Japanese Garden are great options if you’re looking for gardens off the beaten path. The Richard Nixon Presidential Library, a hidden gem, also features beautifully maintained gardens that provide a tranquil escape from the city. The James Irvine Japanese Garden is another garden worth checking out for a less-crowded oasis.

Can you recommend any hidden or secret viewpoints in Los Angeles with great views of the city?

The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook in Culver City provides a panoramic vista of the LA basin, stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the downtown skyline. The secret swing at Elysian Park offers a whimsical way to see the city from above, while you can find unconventional viewpoints among abandoned zoo enclosures at the Griffith Park Old Zoo.

What are some lesser-known neighborhoods in Los Angeles that are worth exploring?

San Pedro is one of the lesser-known beachfront districts with plenty of green spaces and ocean vistas. Los Feliz, which features Spanish-style architecture, is worth a visit if you’re looking for places to explore that are less frequently on the tourist path. LA’s Chinatown and Little Tokyo are the perfect place to explore the city’s diverse culture.

Can you recommend any hidden architectural gems in Los Angeles that are not as crowded as the famous landmarks?

The Mosaic Tile House is a less well-known architectural landmark. Other gems include the Shakespeare Bridge, the Sunken City, and the Underground Tunnels of Los Angeles.

What is the best way to avoid crowds at the major landmarks?

Visit major landmarks during off-peak hours and on weekdays if possible. For example, the Griffith Observatory is less busy in the morning, and beaches are more spacious on weekdays. Try to avoid peak traffic by taking the metro or cycling. Make reservations in advance.

Are there any hidden gems for food and drink in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles’ restaurant scene offers an exceptionally diverse range of cultural foods, found off the beaten path. For authentic Southern Thai cuisine, there are some well-kept secret local food spots in East Hollywood. For Mexican seafood, look in Boyle Heights. For drinks, look for the barbershop in Highland Park that transforms into a speakeasy after dark, just one of the epic things to do in Los Angeles at night.