Coastal views from Santa Monica Pier, palm tree-lined streets, and a plethora of coffee shops—do these come to mind when you think of Los Angeles? There's so much more to visiting this incredibly diverse city, that's home to a number of ethnic enclaves. If you’re seeking to explore Los Angeles, below you'll find 10 hidden gems that are worth a visit:
Malibu Hindu Temple
Malibu Hindu Temple is a traditional South Indian style temple nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains. If you plan to visit during the weekend, stop by their kitchen to try their vegetarian food!
Location: Calabasas, CA
Cost: Free
Museum of Jurassic Technology
The Museum of Jurassic Technology is one of my favorite hidden gems in the city. It’s an unassuming museum that houses quirky and eclectic exhibits, and features a rooftop garden... with doves!
Location: Culver City, CA
Cost: Click here for admission prices.
Palos Verdes Sea Cave
The Southern California coast is lined with sea caves, and Ranchos Palos Verdes has no shortage of them. Visit the Palos Verdes Sea Cave near Portuguese Point, and take a dive in its natural swimming hole... or if you're like me and can't swim, then enjoy the view from above!
Location: Palos Verdes, CA
Cost: Free
Paramount Ranch
Visiting Paramount Ranch feels like you’ve stepped into an Old West film, and that’s because it has served as a film set for famous shows like HBO’s Westworld.
Location: Agoura Hills, CA
Cost: Free
Quail Run Ostrich Ranch
Have you ever wanted to get up close to an ostrich? Okay... maybe you haven’t, but you should add it to your list! Quail Run Ostrich Ranch is a family-owned farm that’s home to over a dozen ostriches. Enjoy a guided tour, including an opportunity to feed the world's largest birds!
Location: Lake Hughes, CA
Cost: Click here for admission prices.
Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine
Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine is a lakeside oasis offering a meditation garden and a hilltop temple—it’s the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Location: Pacific Palisades, CA
Cost: Free
Spadena House
Spadena House is a storybook cottage that's nicknamed "The Witch's House." It features whimsical details like a lopsided rooftop and tiny windows.
Location: Beverly Hills, CA
Cost: Free
Vasquez Rocks Natural Area
Discover otherworldly rock formations at Vasquez Rocks Natural Area where films such as Star Trek and The Flintstones have been filmed.
Location: Agua Dulce, CA
Cost: Free
Wayfarers Chapel
Wayfarers Chapel is a glass church perched atop a hill overlooking the ocean, and is nestled in a grove of redwood trees.
Location: Ranchos Palos Verdes, CA
Cost: Free
Wisdom Tree
Visit the Wisdom Tree where a steep hike will take you to a lone-standing tree with sweeping views of Los Angeles.
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Cost: Free