10 Must-See Hidden Gems in Destination L.A for the Explorer in You
Los Angeles is a city that has become synonymous with Hollywood, glitz, and glamour. However, there is much more to this city than meets the eye. In this article, we will take a look at ten must-see hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered by the adventurous explorer in you.
The Griffith Observatory
Perched atop the Hollywood Hills, the Griffith Observatory is a beautiful art deco building that offers spectacular views of Los Angeles and the stars above. The observatory boasts a state-of-the-art planetarium, an impressive array of telescopes, and a museum filled with fascinating scientific exhibits.
The Bradbury Building
The Bradbury Building is a unique architectural gem that has been featured in countless movies and TV shows. This stunning building features ornate ironwork, intricate staircases, and a stunning glass roof. Visitors are welcome to explore the building’s stunning interior, but it is best to arrive early to avoid crowds.
The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore is a paradise for book lovers. This sprawling bookstore is housed in a beautifully restored downtown building and features a maze-like collection of new and used books. The bookstore also hosts frequent author events, art exhibits, and live performances.
Griffith Park
Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States and offers a wealth of activities for visitors. The park features hiking trails, a golf course, horseback riding, and even a zoo. However, the real gem of Griffith Park is the stunning view of the Los Angeles skyline from the top of Mount Hollywood.
Yamashiro
Yamashiro is a stunning Japanese restaurant that is located in the Hollywood Hills. The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored mansion and offers spectacular views of Los Angeles. The menu features a fusion of Japanese and Californian cuisine, and the sushi bar is not to be missed.
The Getty Villa
The Getty Villa is a beautiful museum dedicated to ancient Greek and Roman art. The museum is modeled after a villa in Herculaneum and features stunning gardens, fountains, and statues. The museum is also home to an impressive collection of artifacts, including ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, mosaics, and pottery.
Watts Towers
The Watts Towers are a stunning example of outsider art. The towers were built by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia over the course of 33 years and stand 99 feet tall. The towers are made from scrap metal, seashells, and other found objects and are adorned with intricate mosaic designs.
The Museum of Death
The Museum of Death is not for the faint of heart. This museum is dedicated to the macabre and features exhibits on serial killers, funeral practices, and even a collection of authentic crime scene photographs. Visitors should be prepared for a dark and unsettling experience.
The Venice Canals
The Venice Canals are a hidden oasis of tranquility in the midst of bustling Los Angeles. The canals were built in the early 1900s and offer visitors a peaceful escape from the city. Visitors can walk along the canals, admire the beautiful homes, and even take a boat ride.
The Huntington Library
The Huntington Library is a beautiful research library and museum that is home to an impressive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and art. The library also features stunning botanical gardens, including a Japanese garden, a desert garden, and a rose garden.
In conclusion, Los Angeles is a city that offers much more than just Hollywood glitz and glamour. These ten hidden gems are waiting to be discovered by the adventurous traveler who is looking for something a little bit different. Whether you are a lover of art, history, or nature, Los Angeles has something to offer everyone.
