Eighteen Los Angeles Area Gems Beyond Tourist Spots
Source:
@losangeles.residents
18 places on the map
Explore the map in the DocentPro app18 attractions in California: Venice Canals, SRF Lake Shrine (Reservation Required), and 16 more. Every place is verified on Google Maps, featured in an Instagram post by Los Angeles Residents | LA City Guide.
Venice Canals
Historical landmark
4.6
• Canals inspired by Venice, Italy • Walk along the waterways and enjoy the charming scenery
SRF Lake Shrine (Reservation Required)
Health
4.8
• Peaceful lake with a hidden windmill • Part of the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine temple grounds
The Huntington Chinese Garden - Garden of Flowing Fragrance
Garden
4.9
• Authentic Chinese garden design, inspired by Suzhou • Part of The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
The Getty Villa
Museum
4.8
• Roman country house with ancient art and beautiful gardens • Overlooks the Pacific Ocean
Descanso Gardens
Botanical garden
4.7
• Botanical garden with camellias, roses, and oak forests • Features a Japanese garden and an Enchanted Railroad
Los Angeles County Arboretum
Botanical garden
4.8
• Victorian-era structures amidst lush gardens • Home to diverse plant collections and free-roaming peacocks
Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center
Park
4.8
• Unique geological rock formations, popular for hiking • Known filming location for movies and TV shows
El Matador State Beach
Point of interest
4.7
• Beautiful beach known for its sea caves and rock formations • Great spot for photography, especially at sunset
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
Park
4.7
• Park offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the ocean • Features a Japanese garden, a lake, and various walking trails
Korean Friendship Bell
Cultural landmark
4.8
• Historic bell and pavilion with panoramic ocean views • Gift from South Korea to the US • Great spot for sunset photography
Greystone Mansion & Gardens: The Doheny Estate
Historical landmark
4.6
• Historic English estate with formal gardens • Popular filming location for movies and TV shows • Check for event closures before visiting
Old Los Angeles Zoo
Zoo
4.6
• Abandoned zoo cages within Griffith Park • Popular spot for picnics and exploring urban ruins • Part of a larger trail system for hikers
Saint Vincent Court
Place
• Hidden European-style alleyway in Downtown LA • Features cafes and small shops with outdoor seating • Offers a unique architectural experience
Heritage Square Museum
Museum
4.6
• Collection of restored Victorian-era homes • Offers a glimpse into 19th-century Los Angeles • Check for tour schedules and special events
Point Fermin Lighthouse
Landmark
4.7
• Historic lighthouse built in 1874 with Victorian architecture • Offers guided tours of the interior • Located in a park with ocean views
Malibu Hindu Temple
Hindu temple
4.7
• Intricately carved Hindu temple in the Santa Monica Mountains • Dedicated to Venkateswara and other deities • Open to visitors, respecting religious customs
Placerita Canyon Nature Center
Nature preserve
4.8
• Site of California's first gold discovery in 1842 • Nature center with walking trails under oak trees • Offers educational programs and exhibits
Devil's Punchbowl
Natural feature
4.5
• Geologic formation with dramatically folded rock layers • Hiking trails available, ranging from easy to strenuous • Visitor center provides information on geology and wildlife
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More featured places in California
Explore LA's Hidden Gardens, Canyons, and Estates
Descanso Gardens, Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens, The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Four Free Los Angeles Attractions
Brand Park, 6th Street Viaduct, Travel Town Railroad
Iconic Los Angeles Landmarks and Attractions
Universal Studios Hollywood, Hollywood Boulevard, Griffith Observatory