The Last Bookstore
This isn’t your average bookshop. The Last Bookstore has become a downtown landmark known for its wonderfully whimsical environment. You’ll find the former bank building decked out in an Alice in Wonderland theme, with displays made from books, a sculpture of books seemingly toppling over, and even a cozy book tunnel! Admire the location’s beautiful architecture while browsing over 250,000 books ranging from $1 bargain finds to priceless first editions and collector’s items. While The Last Bookstore may be off the beaten path compared to LA’s most famous sights, its unique vibe and artistic ambiance are well worth the stop. Cherish the magic of getting lost in the stacks of books or fuel some Instagram wanderlust with shots in this literary oasis.
Address: 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Phone: (213) 488-0828
The Museum of Jurassic Technology
This place earns the “jurassic” in its name by providing exhibits packed with bizarre, antiquated objects that’ll spark your sense of childlike wonder. From bygone scientific oddities and intricate carvings to an in-depth look at trailer park life, you never know what you’ll encounter at the Museum of Jurassic Technology. Don’t expect much in the way of typical museum plaques or descriptions either. Half the fun is pondering each exhibit’s inexplicable origins. As much an artistic experience as it is educational, a visit to this tucked-away Venice spot is sure to leave your group fascinated, slightly perplexed, and eager to speculate about the museum’s many curiosities. Just don’t forget to pay respects to the kitschy gift shop on your way out!
Address: 9341 Venice Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232
Phone: (310) 836-6131
The Broad
On the hunt for museums without breaking the bank? You simply can’t miss The Broad! Home to over 2,000 pieces of contemporary art, this downtown gem offers free general admission to its permanent collection galleries. You can gaze upon influential works from heavy-hitters like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Yayoi Kusama without spending a dime. Even the building itself is a work of art, with its honeycombed exterior created by architects that gives way to The Broad’s architecturally stunning “vault” displaying large-scale installations. With free admission and its central DTLA location, it’s a definite must for artsy groups in LA looking for a cultural experience without tourist crowds or fees. Don’t sleep on visiting during evening hours either – fewer people coupled with the skyline glimmering through The Broad’s glass walls makes for magical photo ops!
Address: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 232-6200
La Brea Tar Pits
What was once a tragic fate for prehistoric creatures is now one of LA’s most unique attractions. The La Brea Tar Pits provide a one-of-a-kind glimpse into life during the Ice Age through countless fossils trapped in its sticky prehistoric puddles. As you wander through this museum/excavation site, you’ll come face-to-face with the remains of woolly mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and ground sloths frozen in time millions of years ago. Be sure to catch a live demonstration of paleontologists hard at work uncovering skeletal specimens from the pits themselves. It’s simply awe-inspiring to witness this outdoor fossil lab where science comes alive to reveal these ancient beasts of LA. Before you wrap up your visit, don’t miss the bubbling pits themselves and perhaps catch that iconic whiff of natural asphalt – SoCal had some pretty funky smells even then!
Address: 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Phone: (213) 763-3499
Korean Friendship Bell
When it comes to hidden LA landmarks, the Korean Friendship Bell stands tall as one of the most serene. A short trek leads you to the massive 17-ton bell perched in San Pedro’s Angels Gate Park, offering panoramic vistas of the harbor and Pacific Ocean. Along with admiring the exquisite structural craftsmanship of this monument itself, you’ll find an adjoining garden with crashing waves and palm trees as your tranquil backdrop. Take a moment to relax in this lush oasis and escape the bustling city life all around. It’s hard to believe this gem even exists right here in LA! Save some energy after the short hike up to give the bell a satisfying ring – its resounding chimes are just one part of an unbeatable sensory experience amidst this seaside poetry.
Address: 3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731
Phone: (310) 548-7705
The Gamble House
They just don’t build homes like this anymore – and the Gamble House is the finest surviving example of American Craftsman architecture. This architectural treasure was designed by famous Arts & Crafts pioneers Greene & Greene, who pulled out all the stops in woodwork, art glass, and other intricate details throughout the entire house. While modest from the outside, the interior contains true artistry in every beam, fixture, and furnishing that’ll have design aficionados drooling. As you take the docent-led tour through this 1908 masterpiece, you’ll gain an appreciation for the Craftsman philosophy of simplistic, functional style. The Gamble House alone is enough reason to detour away from the Hollywood hills and into idyllic Pasadena for an afternoon.
Address: 4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103
Phone: (626) 793-3334
The Bunny Museum
The name says it all! Residing in a quaint Altadena neighborhood, The Bunny Museum is…well, a museum overflowing with all things bunny rabbits. But what you’ll find inside this unique spot goes well beyond Easter decor and fluffy tails. You’ll encounter thousands of intricate rabbit-themed pieces ranging from fine porcelain figurines to offbeat pop art. Overall, the museum celebrates the rabbit’s significance in literature, films, commercials, and various cultures across history through some seriously impressive (and often bizarre) displays. So if you find yourself making your way towards the San Gabriel Mountains, hop on over and experience this quirky place – it’s truly a hidden gem like no other for bunny buffs!
Address: 1933 S Santa Anita Ave, San Gabriel, CA 91776
Phone: (626) 798-8848
The Watts Towers
When Italian immigrant construction worker Simon Rodia began assembling public sculptures in his own backyard, little did he know these towering artistic spires would become iconic LA landmarks. With Rodia’s simple tools and found objects like green bottles, rebar, and seashells, the Watts Towers stand today as a remarkable example of preserving a truly unique piece of the city’s history. Rodia’s brilliant folk art environment creates an atmosphere unlike anything else in the City of Angels. Tour the grounds to marvel at the intricately structured sculptures reaching up to 100 feet in the sky – it’s even more spectacular against the backdrop of the Los Angeles skyline. Where else can you experience such awe-inspiring craftsmanship born out of one man’s tireless passion project? The Watts Towers are a must for artsy groups looking to uncover a truly offbeat side of LA.
Address: 1727 E 107th St, Los Angeles, CA 90002
Phone: (213) 847-4646
Plan Your Trip With Party Buses Los Angeles
Ready to explore LA’s most captivating off-the-beaten-path sights and sounds? Party Buses Los Angeles is here to make sure your group can experience these unique gems in supreme comfort and ease. Our team is available 24/7 at 310-943-9118 to hear about your ideal itinerary and pair you with the perfect bus rental. We’ll customize amenities for entertainment, refreshments, and more while your professional team handles all the transportation logistics. Don’t settle for overpriced tours showing the same old tourist traps. Let us provide an immersive local experience to hidden destinations that’ll leave your group with lasting memories around every tucked-away corner of this vibrant city. Put your trip in our hands and discover why Party Buses Los Angeles is the premier way to celebrate all the amazing gems LA has to offer!