Unusual Things to Do in Los Angeles

Dog park for pets and their owners featuring a public restroom. People say this dog park offers a spacious beach area where dogs can run off-leash, play in the sand, and swim in the ocean. They highlight the friendly atmosphere, the sense of community among dog owners, and the availability of poop bags and trash cans. They also like the convenient parking and accessible restrooms.

A zombie-themed event at the Queen Mary, one of Southern California’s strangest historic backdrops. Great for visitors exploring unusual things to do.

Jousting, horsemanship & falconry plus a 4-course, utensil-free meal served in a castle-like space. Family-friendly medieval-themed show featuring knights jousting and sword fighting, along with a 4-course meal. People say this dinner show offers an entertaining and immersive experience with thrilling jousting, impressive horsemanship, and engaging performances. Visitors highlight the delicious and hearty food, especially the roasted chicken, and appreciate the friendly and attentive staff. Guests also mention the fun atmosphere, making it a great outing for families and groups.

This is one of the city's strangest easy outings: a former zoo from 1912, now left as a scatter of old enclosures, picnic areas, and trails. You can wander inside some of the stone structures, then continue into the wider Griffith Park path network. It suits curious walkers, families with kids who like exploring, and anyone drawn to slightly eerie local history. Go in cooler morning light or late afternoon, and pair it with a picnic.

Beach house with historic home, swimming pool, fitness classes, gym, cafe & beach equipment rentals. Community-run venue featuring an open-air pool, playground and beach access. People say this beach offers a clean environment with a heated pool, volleyball courts, and a playground for kids. Visitors also highlight the convenient and affordable parking, as well as the spotless restrooms and outdoor showers. They also like the friendly and helpful staff, and the overall family-friendly atmosphere.

For an unusual indoor plan, Wi Spa stands out for its round-the-clock feel and mix of saunas, soaking pools, and Korean food under one roof. It's especially good on a foggy day, after a long flight, or when you want something distinctly local to Koreatown rather than touristy. The appeal is the pacing: you can soak, sweat, eat, and stay unhurried. If you're looking for calm rather than sightseeing mileage, this is a strong pick.

Hollywood Forever feels unlike almost anywhere else in the city: quiet paths, famous graves, old trees, and a strong sense of film-era Los Angeles. It works well for travelers who enjoy atmospheric places more than conventional attractions, and it can be especially memorable if you’re curious about the city’s mythology as much as its landmarks. Outdoor screenings and concerts add another layer when scheduled, but even a simple daytime wander has a reflective, very LA mood.

The Queen Mary is best approached as a piece of living maritime theater. You come for the preserved ship interiors, exhibits, guided access, and the pleasure of spending time somewhere that feels completely unlike mainland Los Angeles. Fans of history, design, and mildly spooky stories will get the most from it. If you're building a day in Long Beach, this is the anchor attraction that adds texture and narrative rather than just another viewpoint.

The Tar Pits are unusual even by Los Angeles standards: an active fossil site surrounded by city traffic and museums. You can explore the outdoor pits and park, then head inside for skeletons, excavation context, and the bigger Ice Age story. It works well for families, museum fans, and anyone who wants a break from celebrity-centric sightseeing. If the weather is gray, even better; the moody atmosphere suits the place.

For a classic but still slightly gritty LA night, Whisky a Go Go remains one of the city's essential live-music rooms. The appeal isn't polish; it's the intimacy, strong sound, and the sense that this Sunset Strip institution still belongs to working bands and dedicated fans. Come if you'd rather swap rooftop cocktails for a proper club set. It's best for night owls, rock listeners, and anyone interested in music history that still feels active rather than preserved behind glass.

Pooch-friendly beach spot providing surfing waves & doggie drinking fountains & waste bags. Clean beach featuring dog-friendly areas and volleyball courts, along with walking paths and surfing waves. People say this dog beach is a beautiful, clean, and well-maintained spot where dogs can run off-leash and play in the water. Visitors highlight the friendly dogs and owners, creating a welcoming and social atmosphere. They also mention the convenient parking, though it can be challenging on weekends.

Urban Light turns vintage Los Angeles street lamps into a luminous outdoor grid that feels both cinematic and oddly intimate. By day it reads as design history; after dark it becomes one of the city’s most recognizable photo spots. Free, central, and genuinely worth seeing in person.

Frank & Son is less a normal store than a full subculture under one roof. You come here to browse deep vendor inventories, compare finds, and tap into the energy of collectors chasing comics, action figures, trading cards, anime goods, and sports memorabilia. Even if you aren't shopping seriously, it's entertaining for the sheer volume and nostalgia. Best for pop-culture fans, resellers, and anyone who enjoys unusual retail worlds more than polished malls.

Cliffs of Id is a good answer to the question of what to do in LA that isn't passive. The gym covers bouldering, top rope, and lead climbing, so it works for different experience levels, and the overall feel is spacious and welcoming rather than intimidating. For visitors, it's a nice change of tempo between big meals and long drives. Choose it if you like social, skill-based activities and want something more local than tourist-focused.

A hands-on Korean barbecue stop where the meal is part feast, part activity. Diners cook all-you-can-eat selections at the table, with halal meat, plenty of banchan, and a robot delivery system that adds a little novelty between rounds. Service can vary, but the format keeps the experience lively.

People say this bubble tea store serves up delicious jasmine milk tea, with many raving about the premium jasmine milk tea and white champaca milk tea. They also highlight the efficient service, quick wait times, and aesthetically pleasing store design.

A low-key cafe where matcha takes center stage, from straightforward preparations to richer house favorites like the double matcha. The room is clean and pared back, making it a good reset stop in Koreatown if you want something quieter than the usual cafe buzz. Parking can be tricky.

Point Vicente pairs dramatic coastline views with a working lighthouse and just enough mythology to make it memorable. The grounds are ideal for a slow walk, picnic, or whale-watch in season, and monthly open days add WWII history and ghost-story intrigue to the visit. It feels scenic first, eerie second, and better for that mix.

This staging of The Revolutionists turns the Reign of Terror into a witty, irreverent collision of a playwright, an assassin, a spy, and a queen. The tone is brisk, funny, and knowingly modern, finding room for big ideas and bigger laughs inside a famously bloody chapter of history.

Actresses Sharon Tate & Rita Hayworth are among the stars buried at this landmark hillside cemetery.

The Rock 'N' Roll Flea Market Great for visitors exploring unusual things to do.

The Petersen is big, glossy, and deeply Los Angeles: engineering history, design spectacle, and movie-car mythology in one stop. Inside, you’ll move from polished antiques to race machines and recognizable vehicles from film, with enough variety to keep even casual car fans engaged. Its nonprofit mission and educational programming add substance beyond the showroom shine.

Wacky, Minion-inspired play zone with 80 water features, plus rides, arcade games & a souvenir shop. Elaborate playground with rides and water features inspired by the “Despicable Me” movie.

Sloping lawns with sweeping city views, plus tranquil spots like the Mission-style Rainbow Chapel.

Creatively topped dogs (some named for celebrities) draw long lines at this historic roadside spot. Iconic LA eatery, open since 1939, famous for its chili dogs and burgers in a no-frills atmosphere. People say this hot dog restaurant serves flavorful and creative hot dogs, including chili dogs and bacon burrito dogs, as well as burgers and onion rings. They highlight the iconic, classic, and nostalgic vibe, and the fast service. They also like the friendly staff.

Wat Thai combines two things Los Angeles does especially well: multicultural everyday life and destination-worthy casual eating. The temple grounds feel serene and welcoming, while the food draws people for Thai staples, skewers, and desserts. What makes it unusual is the combination of spiritual setting and informal culinary outing. It's a smart pick for food-minded travelers who prefer neighborhood discoveries to trend-chasing reservations.

Popular path through a national forest & ruined wilderness resort to a waterfall at a a deep gorge. Forest featuring shaded trails, a waterfall and serene vistas as well as picnic areas. People say this hiking area offers scenic trails with beautiful views of waterfalls and natural pools. They highlight the shaded paths, multiple stream crossings, and the opportunity to see wildlife. They also like the easy access from Los Angeles and the availability of parking with a daily pass.

Airoma Cafe is worth the drive if your idea of a treat involves precision rather than gimmicks. Matcha regulars gravitate toward drinks like the Matcha Einspanner and Double Matcha, while coffee drinkers can veer into more unusual territory with pandan and banana. Service moves quickly even when lines build, so it works well as a focused beverage stop rather than a long linger.

The Malibu Hindu Temple is one of those places that shifts your sense of where you are. Its South Indian design, carved details, and peaceful grounds create a complete change of atmosphere from the freeways and boulevards below. It suits travelers who like architecture, spiritual spaces, or simply quieter corners of the region. A visit can be contemplative, scenic, and culturally enriching all at once, especially if you're already heading toward the coast or the canyons.

Cocktails & shared plates are served at this lively gay lounge with outdoor terraces & dance floor. People say this bar offers delicious food, including must-try nachos, and a wide variety of drinks. They also highlight the lively atmosphere, great music, and friendly staff and dancers. Some reviews mention the atmosphere can be loud.

Scenic spot where street performers, artists, and vendors can be found. Visitors say this boardwalk offers diverse food, unique shops, and talented street performers, alongside beautiful beach views and iconic spots like Muscle Beach and the skate park. They also highlight the vibrant, energetic, and artistic atmosphere, making it great for people-watching. Guests mention the option to rent bikes or scooters for exploring and appreciate the free access to the boardwalk and beach.

Guests can enjoy a full meal in reclining seats at this dine-in theater showing football on Sundays. Roomy theater with reclining seats and a bar, plus a range of eats. Moviegoers praise this theater for its clean screens, excellent sound and picture quality, and friendly staff. Additionally, they appreciate the convenience of the in-seat food delivery service. Some reviews mention the seats can be old.

Simple oceanfront RV campground offering showers & laundry facilities, plus picnic tables & hookups. Flights overhead, but also ocean views and bike paths at this basic beachfront RV park with hookups. Visitors say this RV park offers unbeatable beachfront access with stunning ocean views and a convenient bike path. They also highlight the affordable rates and the friendly staff. Some reviews mention communication can be poor.

The Hollywood Wax Museum is unapologetically kitschy, and that’s exactly why it works on an unusual-things list. You move through rooms of celebrity figures, strike poses with props, and surrender to the goofy pleasure of a very Hollywood form of fandom. It’s not subtle, and it may not be cheap, but if you want a classic boulevard experience after dark, it delivers that flashbulb silliness.

Funeral home Great for visitors exploring unusual things to do.

Aviation-themed steakhouse offers views of planes landing at nearby LAX, plus a champagne brunch. Visitors say this aviation-themed food hall offers a wide variety of food options, including BBQ and burgers, and features stunning views of planes landing at LAX. They also highlight the family-friendly atmosphere with a large outdoor play area for kids, ample free parking, and clean restrooms. Some reviews mention the service can be slow.

This iconic, opulent theater hosts movie premieres & immortalizes hand- & footprints of the stars. Ornate 1927 theater known for its concrete forecourt where stars have left hand and footprints in the cement. People say this movie theater offers a unique experience with its iconic architecture, celebrity handprints, and IMAX screen. They also highlight the historic and cinematic atmosphere, and the friendly staff. Some reviews mention the area can be crowded.

Even if you are not sports-obsessed, the Coliseum tour has real character. Over about 75 minutes, you get the history, recent updates, skyline views from the rooftop deck, and access to spaces that make the building feel alive rather than ceremonial. Running through the Players Tunnel onto the field is the standout detail, but the Peristyle and Court of Honor give the visit its depth. Pick this if you enjoy places where Los Angeles history, architecture, and spectacle all meet in one stop.

Scenic wilderness areas & developed campgrounds, plus trails for hikers, horses & off-road vehicles. Expansive natural park, home to creeks, streams, rivers and hiking trails winding through pines and redwood forests. Visitors say this national forest offers great hiking, camping, and scenic views, with opportunities for wildlife spotting and winter sports. They also highlight the abundance of fresh air and the proximity to Los Angeles, making it a convenient escape from urban life.

People say this airport offers a splendid spot for watching planes land and take off, with an upper deck providing superb vantage points. Visitors also highlight the quiet and calm experience, making it a tranquil escape. They also mention the clean and welcoming atmosphere.

Retro veteran boasts traditional steakhouse staples, cozy booths & happy hour with free buffet. Elegant eatery featuring salsa-dance lessons, live music, and a wide range of steaks. Diners say this steak house serves up delicious prime rib, drinks, and live music. They also highlight the friendly and attentive service, romantic ambiance, and affordable prices. Some reviews mention the meat can be overcooked.

Bustling public beach offering a hang gliding training park, bonfires & views of departing aircraft. Beach, dog-friendly option for strolls, sunbathing and bonfires, plus waves for surfing. People say this beach is a great spot for bonfires, with many fire pits available, and offers stunning views of planes taking off from LAX. Visitors highlight the convenient and ample parking, as well as the clean restrooms and overall peaceful atmosphere. They also mention it's a perfect place for families and friends to relax and enjoy the sunset.

Hollywood Forever feels unlike almost anywhere else in the city: quiet paths, famous graves, old trees, and a strong sense of film-era Los Angeles. It works well for travelers who enjoy atmospheric places more than conventional attractions, and it can be especially memorable if you’re curious about the city’s mythology as much as its landmarks. Outdoor screenings and concerts add another layer when scheduled, but even a simple daytime wander has a reflective, very LA mood.

The Getty Villa stands out because it drops Greek and Roman art into a setting modeled after a first-century Italian villa, just off Pacific Coast Highway. That contrast alone makes it memorable. Go if you want something quieter and more transportive than a busy big-name attraction; the architecture, fountains, and gardens are as much the draw as the collection. It’s a strong pick for a foggy morning or a slower afternoon on the west side.

Universal City Overlook is one of those places locals treasure because it delivers the view with very little fuss. You get wide sightlines over the city, valley, and surrounding hills, plus an easy stop for photos around sunset. What makes it feel unusual is its low-key nature: it’s not a grand attraction, just a well-placed overlook that rewards timing and mood. Good for road-trippers, short-stay visitors, or anyone who wants scenery without a big itinerary.

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium wins on specificity: instead of a giant spectacle, it zeroes in on local marine life, tide pools, and educational exhibits tied to the Southern California coast. That makes it feel more personal and a bit more offbeat than the city’s headline attractions. It’s a smart pick for families, curious kids, or anyone heading toward San Pedro who wants a worthwhile stop with nearby beach time built in. Free admission helps, but the real appeal is the grounded, neighborhood feel.

The Venice Canals are memorable because they flip expectations: you’re near one of LA’s most animated beach zones, yet the atmosphere here is calm, residential, and almost hushed. The pedestrian bridges and waterside paths make it ideal for a short meander, especially if you enjoy odd urban history and neighborhood details. It’s not a major attraction in the blockbuster sense, which is exactly why it belongs on an offbeat list. Come for a peaceful reset between louder Venice stops.

Walt Disney Concert Hall earns its place here because it feels sculptural from every angle, not just functional. The building itself is the attraction for many visitors, with a tucked-away garden and a free audio tour adding depth if you have time. If you do catch music here, the acoustics are part of the experience; if not, it still works as a compact downtown detour with real visual impact. It’s especially good on a foggy or cooler day when beach plans feel less appealing.

The Japanese Garden is one of those places that feels unusual simply because of how thoroughly it changes the pace of the day. Instead of noise and motion, you get water features, stonework, benches, and a contemplative walking route. It suits visitors who prefer low-key experiences, photographers looking for composed scenery, or anyone needing a breather after busier city stops. Free admission and parking make it easy to add, but the real draw is the sense of order and calm.

You don’t need to skate to enjoy Venice Skatepark. The appeal is in watching the flow of the place: experienced riders, beginners, the beach backdrop, and the loose rhythm of the boardwalk around it. It’s an unusually good stop for people-watching and casual photography, especially near sunset when the setting becomes part of the show. If standard sightseeing feels flat, this is the kind of place that gives you a slice of LA culture without needing a ticket or schedule.

Santa Monica Pier earns an offbeat nod because it mashes together several moods at once: fishing pier, amusement strip, promenade, and street-performance stage set over the Pacific. That layered, slightly eccentric atmosphere is what makes it memorable. It works well for first-timers, families, and anyone who likes a place with a bit of motion and spectacle. Even if you don’t linger for rides, the people-watching and ocean backdrop make it an easy, characterful stop.

Urban oasis featuring hiking & equestrian trails, plus city views, the Greek Theatre & the L.A. Zoo. Free hilltop observatory offering telescopic stargazing, exhibits and a planetarium. People say this park offers beautiful views of the Hollywood Sign and the city, as well as hiking trails, an observatory, and a planetarium. They highlight the relaxing and tranquil atmosphere, and the family-friendly environment. They also like the free access to the observatory and the reasonable cost of the planetarium tickets.

Scenic spot where street performers, artists, and vendors can be found. Visitors say this boardwalk offers diverse food, unique shops, and talented street performers, alongside beautiful beach views and iconic spots like Muscle Beach and the skate park. They also highlight the vibrant, energetic, and artistic atmosphere, making it great for people-watching. Guests mention the option to rent bikes or scooters for exploring and appreciate the free access to the boardwalk and beach.

Landmark hiking trails known for sweeping city views & people watching, plus an off-leash dog park. Outdoor hot spot for hiking the area's hills. The park has 3 trails, ranging in difficulty. People say this park offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the Hollywood Sign, and the ocean, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. Visitors also highlight the dog-friendly atmosphere and the availability of water stations. They also mention the free access and the opportunity for a great workout.

Popular path through a national forest & ruined wilderness resort to a waterfall at a a deep gorge. Forest featuring shaded trails, a waterfall and serene vistas as well as picnic areas. People say this hiking area offers scenic trails with beautiful views of waterfalls and natural pools. They highlight the shaded paths, multiple stream crossings, and the opportunity to see wildlife. They also like the easy access from Los Angeles and the availability of parking with a daily pass.

Open since 1966, the Los Angeles Zoo pairs broad, walkable grounds with botanical-garden plantings. The campus includes more than 270 animal species, around 1,400 animals in total, and 800 plant species, plus a tram for covering more ground. It’s an easy fit if you want a low-effort wildlife stop inside Griffith Park. Practical upside: free parking and room to linger. One caveat before you go: some exhibits may be closed or temporarily empty.

Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more. Trampolines, foam pits and other play areas in a sprawling amusement park with zip lines, a toddler zone and slides. People say this amusement park offers a variety of fun activities, including trampolines, slides, a zip line, and a foam pit. They also highlight the friendly and attentive staff, and the clean and safe environment. Some reviews mention the food selection can be limited.

Landmark pier known for scenic oceanfront dining, shopping & nightlife, plus music & festivals. Family-friendly boardwalk featuring ocean views and an arcade, along with seafood eateries and shops. People say this pier offers a wide variety of fresh seafood restaurants, unique shops, and opportunities for fishing and boat rides. Visitors highlight the beautiful ocean views, especially at sunset, and the lively, family-friendly atmosphere. They also appreciate the convenient and ample parking options.

Pacific Ocean dwellers on display at this large aquarium with touch tanks & behind-the-scenes tours. Spacious aquarium with jellyfish and sea otter displays, as well as a shark lagoon, touch pools, penguin exhibit and a sea lion show. People say this aquarium features a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, sea otters, and penguins, with many interactive touch pools and educational exhibits. Visitors also highlight the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are passionate about conservation. They also mention the clean, well-maintained facilities and convenient parking with validation.

Disney California Adventure Park trades old-school fantasy for a more contemporary mix of thrill rides, themed lands, live entertainment, and highly engineered atmosphere. Standouts include high-profile attractions like Radiator Springs Racers and Incredicoaster, along with immersive zones such as Cars Land and Avengers Campus. It’s not obscure, but it is undeniably a world apart: a compressed, meticulously choreographed version of California spectacle. If you want one day of full-scale sensory overload, this is the obvious candidate.