Exploring the City of Angels: 11 Unique Things to Do in Los Angeles for New Locals

From off-the-beaten-path attractions to famous tourist spots, you will find something truly unique and special to do in LA. Whether you’re checking out apartments for rent in Los Angeles or you just moved to the city, discover the best of the city’s culture, food, art, and history, and make your new home in LA a truly unforgettable experience.

11 Unique things to do in Los Angeles

1. Visit Hollywood Blvd

Hollywood Blvd is one of the most iconic streets in the world. It is filled with various attractions and activities, making it a great destination for visitors. From celebrity sightings to iconic landmarks, Hollywood Blvd has something for everyone. 

There are several unique things to do on Hollywood Blvd that you won’t find anywhere else. Enjoy a bite to eat at the world-famous Hollywood and Highland Center, get up close and personal with your favorite stars at Madame Tussauds Hollywood Wax Museum, or explore the vibrant nightlife. 

Stop by the iconic TCL Chinese Theater for a tour of the hand and footprints of your favorite celebrities, or take a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame. For a truly unique experience, take a private tour of the world-famous Paramount Pictures Studios. No matter what you choose to do, Hollywood Blvd is sure to provide you with memories that will last a lifetime.

2. Take a historic Downtown LA tour

A historic downtown Los Angeles tour can offer a variety of sights and attractions. Depending on the tour, visitors can expect to see the iconic landmarks and attractions of downtown, such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Los Angeles Central Library, the Bradbury Building, the Grand Central Market, the Fashion District, and many others. Additionally, visitors can also learn about the rich history and culture of downtown Los Angeles, as well as explore the diverse neighborhoods and street art.

3. Take a hike through the Santa Monica Mountains

Hikers of all levels can explore the Santa Monica Mountains, which boast over 500 miles of trails ranging from easy to difficult and short to long. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the great outdoors in the Los Angeles area. The Trav Nav shares, “hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains is one of my favorite free activities in LA. You can enjoy the stunning views of the California coastline any time of the year. To make your hiking experience extra special, join one of the many organized groups for a full moon hike.”

4. Explore the La Brea Tar Pits

Los Angeles boats a number of truly amazing museums, but the La Brea Tar Pits are extraordinarily unique. They are located near the corner of Wilshire Boulevard and Curson Avenue in Hancock Park. The tar pits contain large numbers of fossils from ancient animals and plants preserved in asphalt-like material. 

“A visit to the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is one of the most unique things to do in Los Angeles with kids,” shares Bridges and Balloons. “The genuine tar pit is a spectacular sight to behold – visitors can watch as it bubbles away. Additionally, they can observe paleontologists as they investigate their discoveries. Fun shows are presented to help educate visitors about the Ice Age. This experience is sure to be adored by aspiring naturalists.”

5. Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the Griffith Observatory

A public observatory, planetarium, and science museum, The Griffith Observatory is an iconic landmark in LA, perched atop Mount Hollywood. Since its opening in 1935, the observatory has been a popular tourist destination and a key learning center for astronomy and astrophysics. 

The observatory offers a range of exhibitions, educational programs, and events, including star parties and lectures. There are also several impressive telescopes and high-power binoculars that can be used for viewing celestial objects. The observatory is a great place to visit for anyone interested in astronomy, science, or Los Angeles history.

6. Take a movie star homes tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the city of Los Angeles, why not take a movie star homes tour? You’ll get an inside look at some of the most luxurious homes in the area, owned by some of the biggest names in Hollywood. 

These tours typically take place on a luxury bus, with knowledgeable tour guides providing insight into the properties you’ll be seeing. You’ll get to see some of the most iconic homes in Los Angeles, as well as learn about the celebrities who own them. You might even get to enjoy some fun movie trivia along the way. 

7. Learn about the arts at the Getty Center

The Getty Center is an art museum and cultural center founded by the late oil tycoon J. Paul Getty. It houses an impressive collection of European paintings, drawings, photographs, manuscripts, and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the present day and an extensive collection of American and European photographs. The Getty Center also includes a research library, an education center, gardens, and numerous outdoor sculptures.

Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, take in the breathtaking views of Los Angeles from the terraces, and learn more about art history through the educational programs offered. The Getty Center also offers a variety of free public programs throughout the year, ranging from musical and theatrical performances to lectures and family activities.

8. Hollyhock House

“I highly recommend visiting the Hollyhock House in Los Angeles – a beautiful construction designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright located in Barnsdall Art Park,” shares Sea to Sequoia. “Before your tour, which you’ll need to purchase tickets for online beforehand, why not treat yourself to a takeaway lunch at HomeState – a personal favorite close by? Once you’ve got your lunch, settle down with a picnic blanket and take in the amazing views of the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory while you eat.”

9. Check out Los Angeles’ storybook architecture

The Storybook style, also known as the “Teddy Bear” style, is an architectural style prevalent in Los Angeles, CA, during the 1920s and 1930s. Characterized by its whimsical and fantasy-like appearance, the Storybook style often combines elements of Tudor, Mediterranean, and Spanish Revival architecture. 

Notable examples of Storybook architecture in Los Angeles include the Ennis House and the Tam O’Shanter in Los Feliz. Passport Symphony also recommends checking out “The Witch’s House of Beverly Hills, Charley Chaplin’s Cottages, The Snow White Cottages, and The Hobbit House.”

10. Experience the Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is an amphitheater in the Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles, CA. It is known for its band shell, a distinctive set of concentric arches that graced the site from 1929 through 2003. It is a popular destination for various music events, including summer concerts and special events, such as the Fourth of July fireworks show. With its natural setting, stunning views, and unique design, the Hollywood Bowl is an iconic destination for music lovers and a great place to experience the best of Los Angeles culture.

11. Take a cooking class at the Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market is a historic landmark located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. It is a multi-cultural market hall featuring over 100 vendors selling a variety of food, drinks, and products. Grand Central Market is a great place to visit for a unique shopping and dining experience. With a wide variety of vendors and cuisines, one can find everything from traditional Mexican tacos to artisanal coffee and pastries. It is also a great place to explore and experience the diverse cultures of Los Angeles. 

Additionally, Grand Central Market hosts events and activities throughout the year, giving visitors a unique experience and the chance to explore the market and its vendors. The market offers a variety of cooking classes that feature different cuisines and cooking techniques. Classes are held throughout the year and cover topics such as Mexican, Italian, and Asian cuisine. The classes are taught by experienced chefs and are suitable for beginners and those with more advanced cooking skills.

Unique things to do in Los Angeles with kids

“Kids can have a great time in Los Angeles,” says Simply Wander. “With activities such as exploring the La Brea Tar Pits for fossils, taking a spin on the Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel, swimming in the historic Annenberg Beach House Pool, and viewing the Dominator shipwreck at Lunada Bay. Little ones will also love catching crabs at Abalone Cove tide pools, swimming in the manufactured saltwater lagoon at Redondo Beach, and riding the Angel’s Flight funicular.”

Unique date nights in Los Angeles  

“Love is always in the air when you’re dating in LA. From cozy basement dates to stunning rooftop dates with amazing skyline views, our hospitality scene can help you tame the wildest of hearts,” shares DTLA weekly. 

If you’re new to Los Angeles, there are plenty of great date night locations. For a romantic dinner, try one of the many amazing restaurants in the city, such as Spago, Providence, or The Bazaar by José Andrés. For a unique experience, explore the vibrant streets of Little Tokyo. If you’re looking for something more low-key, take a stroll through one of the city’s many beautiful parks, such as Runyon Canyon or Echo Park. There’s something for everyone in Los Angeles, and you’ll surely find the perfect date night spot.

Consider booking a tour

Booking a professional tour of Los Angeles is a great way to get a comprehensive and in-depth look at the city. A professional tour guide will be able to provide you with detailed commentary and stories about the city’s history, culture, and attractions. You will also have the opportunity to visit some of the most popular and iconic locations in the city. Additionally, you will have the chance to explore some of the lesser-known gems that Los Angeles has to offer.

“Explore Los Angeles in a novel way with Sunny Day Scoot. Take a self-guided tour in one of their cartoonish mini-cars and visit the most iconic spots in the city. Tours are available all day, so there’s plenty of time to experience the best of LA.”

Endless possibilities and unique attractions

LA is a great city to visit with its diverse attractions, vibrant culture, and unique things to do, and one of the many reasons to move to Los Angeles. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening under the stars, a fun day out with friends at local Los Angeles breweries, or an unforgettable family adventure, Los Angeles is sure to have something to offer you. LA will leave you with a lifetime of memories.

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