Planning to move to Los Angeles soon? While it’s famed for its various entertainment spots, the City of Angels has plenty of hidden gems—including outdoor recreation, local restaurants, coffee shops, family-friendly activities, and more. This guide covers the top local places to visit in Los Angeles!
Los Angeles Essentials for Newcomers
Before you dive into the local favorites below, these iconic LA destinations are must-visits for anyone new to the city!
- Dodger Stadium: Home of the Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB) and perfect for an easy, affordable summer night out. Skip the parking lots and take the Dodger Stadium Express bus.
- The Getty: European art, modern pieces, and global photography across two sites—the Center in Brentwood and the Villa in Pacific Palisades. Admission is free, but parking runs about $25.
- Griffith Observatory: Features free exhibits, plus hourly shows in the 290-seat Planetarium. Bring the whole family, and go near sunset for stunning skyline views.
- LACMA: The largest art museum in the Western U.S., with over 155,000 objects spanning global cultures. Free for LA County kids and teens (17 and under)—and all LA County residents can get free entry after 3pm on weekdays.
- Universal Studios Hollywood: Rides, a working studio, and the behind-the-scenes Studio Tour. Buy timed tickets online to avoid long lines, especially in summer.
Outdoor & Nature Spots in Los Angeles
Nature enthusiasts will thrive in Los Angeles, thanks to the abundance of gardens, parks, trails, and other outdoor activities across the metro area. Check out these must-visit outdoor places in Los Angeles!
Angeles National Forest
Whether you’re searching for the best hiking spots in Los Angeles or a destination for your next camping trip, Angeles National Forest boasts plenty of outdoor activities just north of the city! You’ll find trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, plus plenty of space to bike, hike with friends or family, go horseback riding, or simply enjoy the area’s vast, stunning nature.
Descanso Gardens
Located near Downtown Los Angeles, residents call Descanso Gardens a must-see for nature lovers. Descanso Gardens sits on 150 acres of land, offering mountain views and access to various trails and paths. This site is home to multiple gardens and collections—including the Japanese Garden, Oak Forest, and Camellia Collection—where visitors can view stunning flowers and plants. Plus, residents can catch a glimpse of wildlife like the green heron, California sister butterfly, and American bullfrog in the garden’s Wildlife Habitat.
Franklin Canyon Park
Looking for a nature escape that feels far from the city without the drive? Franklin Canyon Park is the spot. Tucked into the Santa Monica Mountains between Beverly Hills and the San Fernando Valley, this hidden gem offers oak woodlands, a small lake, and quiet walking trails perfect for a peaceful hike or an afternoon picnic. Birdwatchers and wildlife lovers will appreciate the park’s calm, unhurried pace—it’s the kind of place locals return to again and again, without ever running into a crowd.
The Huntington
Want to see both native and global plant species in beautiful LA gardens? Check out The Huntington! Home to 16 themed gardens that span nearly 130 acres, The Huntington is a local favorite. The botanical garden area has plenty to offer, from trees and shrubs in the Australian Garden to the teahouse and stunning lake views in the Chinese Gardens. Locals also love the 16,000-square foot conservatory, where you can explore the cloud forest, lowland tropical rainforest, bog gallery, and more!
Paramount Ranch
Immerse yourself in film history while enjoying nature at Paramount Ranch! Leased by Paramount Pictures in 1927, Paramount Ranch has been the site of classic films and TV shows like Westworld, Caught in the Draft, and Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. Today, Los Angeles residents can enjoy its multi-use trails, perfect for picnicking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and more. Keep an eye out for wildlife like coyotes, red-tailed hawks, and acorn woodpeckers!
Vista Hermosa Natural Park
Don’t want to stray far from Downtown LA to get your nature fix? Vista Hermosa Natural Park has you covered. This compact urban park features meadows, streams, an oak savannah, and a nature-themed playground for the kids, all just a short walk from the city center. It’s also home to one of the best skyline views in Los Angeles, making it a favorite lunch-break or golden-hour spot for residents who want a quick reset without ever leaving downtown.
Local Restaurants & Coffee Shops in Los Angeles
On the hunt for the best local places to eat in Los Angeles? Whether you’re looking for a spot to grab a bite with friends or want a place for date night, these Los Angeles restaurants and coffee shops offer a wide selection of dishes and fun atmospheres!
Angelini Osteria
Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Angelini Osteria has been a beloved restaurant in the city’s food scene since 2001. Owned by Elizabeth Angelini and award-winning chef Gino Angelini, Angelini Osteria allows residents to experience the flavors of Italy from the comfort of their own city. Choose from a variety of paninis, antipastis, and secondi like Alaskan Halibut in Guazzetto. It’s a perfect spot for large families or friend groups!
Bludso’s BBQ
Owned by award-winning chef and television personality Kevin Bludso, Bludso’s BBQ has been a staple of the Los Angeles-area food scene since 2008. This Texas-style BBQ spot serves fan-favorites like Brisket Sandwiches and Pulled Pork Sandwiches, as well as Loaded Nachos and LA Rib Tips. Plus, they offer a variety of protein options, from Jackfruit to Dinosaur Beef Rib. Don’t forget to save room for dessert options like the Blackberry Cobbler or Banana Pudding!
Good Clean Fun
If you’re looking to kick back and relax after a long day, head to Downtown Los Angeles wine bar Good Clean Fun. This natural wine bar in LA offers organic, all-natural wines internationally sourced from Slovakia, Chile, Hungary, and more. But Good Clean Fun is not just a wine bar—it also partners with local coffee shop Canyon Coffee to provide coffee and pastries to DTLA residents!
Met Her at a Bar
Searching for a great Los Angeles cafe with amazing breakfast and brunch options? Met Her at a Bar is the place to go! This Mid-Wilshire hidden gem is known for its extensive waffle selection, including the Fried Chicken & Waffle, Oreo Fudge Waffle, and I Miss You Waffle & Lox. The Met Her at a Bar menu also includes lunch options and a variety of drinks, from coffee to beer and brunch cocktails. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite and meet up with friends!
Pastina Trattoria
One of the best Italian restaurants in Los Angeles, Pastina Trattoria is a family-owned and operated spot that’s been in business since 1993. This West LA restaurant serves up hearty pasta like the Fettuccine alla Bolognese and Penne all’ Arrabbiata, as well as fresh seafood dishes like Spaghetti al Cognac and Linguine al Frutti di Mare. When you’re there, be sure to say hello to friendly owners Frank and Nancy—and save room at the end of your meal for Tiramisu!
Arts & Culture Things to Do in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is often referred to as Tinseltown, and for good reason! Thanks to its influence on TV and film, the city has plenty of arts and culture to immerse yourself in. These local Los Angeles art spots offer eclectic photography, fun exhibits, film history, and more!
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
Want to experience your favorite films in an immersive way? Stop by the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures! One of the largest museums in the world devoted to art and film, it aims to educate and inspire the public through its diverse, immersive selection of programs and exhibitions. This seven-floor museum, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano, features exhibitions inspired by iconic actors and films, such as Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon, Studio Ghibli’s PONYO, and The Godfather Photo Experience. You can also check out screenings in the theater, including movies on 35mm or 70mm film.
Autry Museum of the American West
Dig into both the real and imagined history of the American West at the Autry Museum of the American West, located in Griffith Park. Home to more than 600,000 pieces of art and artifacts, the museum houses one of the most expansive Native American collections in the country, alongside Western paintings, film memorabilia, and historic firearms. The Autry also hosts community events throughout the year, like the American Indian Arts Marketplace and National Day of the Cowboy & Cowgirl, making it a great pick for both first-time visitors and returning locals.
Greystone Mansion & Gardens
Formerly known as The Doheny Estate, the nearly 19-acre Greystone Mansion & Gardens has quickly become a beloved hidden gem in Los Angeles. The mansion is known for its appearances in iconic films like The Princess Diaries, The Big Lebowski, and The Social Network. Greystone Mansion & Gardens host Greystone in the Movies, a monthly event showcasing films with a connection to the mansion. Visitors can also go on a self-guided tour of the mansion or enjoy the Los Angeles views from the terraced garden, a perfect weekend activity for larger groups.
Japanese American National Museum
Head to the Japanese American National Museum (JANM) in the heart of Little Tokyo to explore LA’s Japanese American history and culture! Founded in 1992, JANM covers more than 130 years of history through powerful exhibits, including a deeply moving look at the World War II incarceration of Japanese Americans. As a Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum also hosts rotating exhibitions on Japanese American art, identity, and culture, making it a meaningful stop whether you’re learning this history for the first time or revisiting it.
The Museum of Jurassic Technology
Nestled in the Palms District on Venice Boulevard, The Museum of Jurassic Technology is not your typical museum. Residents consider it to be a satire of natural history museums, mixing real facts with fabrications and fun art. With quirky, unprovable exhibits like Lives of Perfect Creatures: Dogs of the Soviet Space Program, Garden of Eden On Wheels: Collections from Los Angeles Area Mobile Home Parks, and Rotten Luck: The Decaying Dice of Ricky Jay, this museum is a great Los Angeles hidden gem for those craving something a little stranger than your typical weekend outing.
Museum of Neon Art (MONA)
Want to see the LA glow up close? Check out the Museum of Neon Art (MONA) in nearby Glendale! Founded in 1981, MONA is the only museum in the world devoted exclusively to electric and kinetic art, with a collection of historic neon signs that includes pieces salvaged from the Brown Derby and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. Beyond the museum’s rotating exhibitions, residents can hop on the popular Neon Cruise, a nighttime double-decker bus tour that’s been showing off LA’s illuminated signage since 1985, or join a smaller Neon Night Walk through neighborhoods like Koreatown and Chinatown.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Los Angeles
Relocating to Los Angeles with your family? There are plenty of places to enjoy family fun in the city. Here are the some of the top family-friendly places in Los Angeles!
Bob Baker Marionette Theater
For over 60 years, the Bob Baker Marionette Theater has entertained kids and adults alike with its engaging puppet shows. The theater features over 3,000 handcrafted marionettes—with over 100 from the collection featured at each performance! Your family could even become part of show, as some puppets may approach the audience. You can also attend fun shows like Choo Choo Revue! and Hallowe’en Spooktacular with the entire family. The fun doesn’t have to stop when the show ends—you can book performers for private birthday parties or community events!
California Science Center
With a dedication to make learning about science fun, it’s easy to see why the California Science Center is one of Los Angeles’ most beloved family-friendly spots! With a diverse selection of exhibits like GAME ON! Science, Sports & Play and Mummies of the World: The Exhibition, plus Discovery Rooms for younger children, you and your entire family will never be bored! Plus, you can sign your kids up for Summer Camp—or your teens can participate in the center’s Community Teen Internship Program to keep the fun going.
Discovery Cube Los Angeles
Have a young scientist at home? Discovery Cube Los Angeles, tucked in the San Fernando Valley near Sylmar, is a hands-on science museum built for curious kids. With dozens of interactive exhibits—including the Planetary Research Station, Physics Lab, and Aquavator—there’s plenty to keep the whole family engaged. Its slightly out-of-the-way location also means smaller crowds than some of LA’s more well-known science centers, making it an easy, low-stress outing for local families.
Los Angeles Zoo
The zoo is always a top family-friendly activity, and the Los Angeles Zoo is no exception! Home to over 1,700 different animal types—including mammals, birds, and amphibians—there’s plenty to explore at the LA Zoo. Once you’re done seeing the different animals, take your kids to the play park, go for a spin on the Conservation Carousel, or take an exclusive tour of the zoo. The LA Zoo also hosts seasonal family-friendly events like Zootoberfest, an Oktoberfest-themed celebration featuring specialty root beer floats, lawn games, and a giant ribbon tunnel.
Petersen Automotive Museum
Families with car enthusiasts should stop by the Petersen Automotive Museum! Founded in 1994 by magazine publisher Robert E. Petersen and his wife Margie, the museum—located at the end of the “Miracle Mile”—spotlights the impact of automobiles on daily American life. With more than 150 vehicles and exhibitions like The American Motorcycle, A Fast & Furious Legacy, and Legends of The Dirt, there’s plenty to offer for kids and adults alike! Plus, the museum has a Discovery Center where your kids can learn about automobiles in an interactive way.
Seasonal Events & Local Festivals in Los Angeles
Curious about the festivals and events The City of Angels has to offer? From food festivals to Christmas parades, here are some of the top seasonal events and festivals in Los Angeles for year-round fun!
Hollywood Christmas Parade
Since 1928, The Hollywood Christmas Parade has been a staple in the Los Angeles community and the entertainment industry. The parade features a variety of balloons, floats, marching bands, dance groups, and cheer groups from around the country. Plus, the Hollywood Christmas Parade has historically drawn iconic celebrities, like Jimmy Stewart, Gene Autry, and Mary Pickford. It’s also a good way to spread Christmas cheer, as the parade partners with Toys for Tots to collect donations!
LA Beer Festival
Find your new favorite beer during the annual LA Beer Festival at Los Angeles Center Studios! The festival typically features a large number of breweries, local food trucks, cover bands, a DJ, and more. It’s a perfect way to connect with your community, support local vendors, and sample a variety of beers.
OutfestNEXT
Founded by Outfest, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting and celebrating LGBTQ stories on screen, OutfestNEXT is a four-day long festival spotlighting LGBTQ films and filmmakers. The festival has previously featured films from directors like Gregg Araki and Ethan Fuirst—and films starring prominent performers like Cooper Hoffman and Matthew Morrison. In addition to film screenings, Outfest hosts a series of workshops and panels led by filmmakers.
Taste of Soul
The Taste of Soul is a free festival that’s perfect for new and seasoned residents alike! The event was started with the idea to bring residents together for family fun, wellness resources, live music, and more. It also features favorite foods from local vendors, so you can get an authentic taste of LA cuisine!
West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval
Put on your scariest costume and attend the West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval! Since 1987, this festival has drawn over 100,000 participants to Santa Monica Boulevard for a mile-long celebration, making it the city’s biggest Halloween party. Residents describe it as a unique festival featuring eclectic costumes, unexpected surprises, and live music that brings the community together. It also draws visitors from across the globe!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hidden gem in Los Angeles?
There are plenty of hidden gems in Los Angeles for all interests! If you love the great outdoors, check out Angeles National Forest to enjoy vast, multi-use trails. For a unique coffee shop experience, check out Met Her at a Bar, which also serves organic tea. Locals also love The Museum of Jurassic Technology, a quirky museum that blurs the line between fact and fiction.
What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Los Angeles?
Because of its vast size and abundance of things to do, there are a variety of fun Los Angeles neighborhoods to explore! Some of the top neighborhoods to check out include Beverlywood, Echo Park, and Venice—famed for its beachfront, diverse restaurants, and number of activities. They’re also perfect neighborhoods for singles and young professionals moving to the city!
What are non-touristy things to do in Los Angeles?
While Los Angeles may be famous for its art and entertainment venues, you can find a variety of non-touristy places to visit in the city! Check out The Huntington’s vast independent research library, secure an invitation to The Magic Castle—a performance venue for magicians—or tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House. Book lovers should stop by The Last Bookstore, Downtown Los Angeles’ largest new and used independent bookstore and record store.
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