CuddlyNest is the world's largest vacation rental search engine, comparing millions of accommodations across 200+ booking sites. Our editorial team of seasoned travelers and local experts shares insider tips, destination guides, and travel inspiration to help you plan the perfect trip — whether you're booking a cozy cabin, a beachfront villa, or an apartment in the heart of the city.
Sure, Santa Monica Beach and the Venice Beach Boardwalk are great, but what if you’ve had your fill of sand and surf? Los Angeles has a wild, quirky side waiting to be explored! Whether you’re chasing Hollywood history, diving into street art, or uncovering hidden city gems, it’s time for you to try these unusual adventures in Los Angeles. From abandoned sunken cities to stand-up comedy nights, we’re spilling all the secrets of Los Angeles County—plus, we’ve got the perfect CuddlyNest stays to make your adventure even better.
LA is one of the world’s best places for street art lovers. Wander through Downtown LA’s Arts District, where vibrant murals, graffiti-covered alleyways, and massive installations turn the city into an open-air museum. For a deeper dive, join a guided street art tour to learn about the history behind these works and their legendary artists.
Barnsdall Art Park
🕒 Open: Fri–Sun, 11 AM – 5 PM
💲 Free entry, Hollyhock House: $7
A hidden gem sitting atop a hill, Barnsdall Art Park is the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon. You’ll find the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Hollyhock House, stunning views of Hollywood Boulevard, and plenty of open space for a picnic or an artsy stroll.
The Getty Center
🕒 Open: Tue–Sun, 10 AM – 5:30 PM
💲 Free (parking $20 per car)
More than just an art museum, The Getty Center is an architectural masterpiece with iconic landmarks, breathtaking gardens, and panoramic views of Los Angeles County. Even if you’re not an art buff, the serene environment and stunning design make it a must-visit.
🛏 Stay at: The Hoxton, Downtown LA – A stylish, artsy hotel with a rooftop bar and creative vibes.
🎬 Skip the Crowds & See Hollywood Differently
Hike to the Hollywood Sign
🕒 Open 24/7 (best early morning or sunset)
💲 Free
Trade the crowded tourist spots for an adventure on the Griffith Park trails, leading to one of Southern California’s most famous landmarks—the Hollywood Sign. With multiple routes ranging from easy to challenging, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Downtown Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and beyond.
Hollywood Wax Museum
🕒 Open: Daily, 10 AM – 10 PM
💲 Tickets: $30 (kids $20)
Always dreamed of posing next to Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, or the Avengers? The Hollywood Wax Museum offers a chance to get up close with lifelike celebrity figures—no awkward run-ins required.
Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour
🕒 Open: Daily, 9 AM – 10 PM
💲 Tickets start at $109
Go beyond the screen and onto the real movie sets of some of the biggest films ever made. This legendary tour takes you through Walt Disney concert hall, Hollywood’s backlots, thrilling encounters, and behind-the-scenes secrets. Afterward, grab a bite at Grand Central Market in Downtown Los Angeles for an authentic taste of LA’s diverse food scene.
TCL Chinese Theatre & Hollywood Walk of Fame
🕒 Open: Daily, 10 AM – 10 PM
💲 Tours start at $16
Step into the heart of Hollywood Boulevard at the TCL Chinese Theatre, where stars have left their handprints for decades. Then, stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, spotting tributes to icons from Walt Disney to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
End the Night at Santa Monica Pier
🕒 Open: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
💲 Free entry (rides & attractions vary in price)
After a day of exploring, unwind at the Santa Monica Pier—a perfect blend of classic Southern California fun. Enjoy carnival games, street performers, and a sunset over the Pacific Ocean, just a short drive from Beverly Hills.
🛏 Stay at: Dream Hollywood – A stylish stay in the heart of Hollywood, close to all the action, with easy access to Beverly Hills, Downtown LA, and Santa Monica.
🍽 Feast & Party Like a Local
Grand Central Market
🕒 Open: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM
💲 Meals start at $10
A food lover’s paradise, Grand Central Market has been serving up LA’s best flavours for over 100 years. From Eggslut’s famous breakfast sandwiches to Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, this is the place to try LA’s diverse food scene in one spot.
Dinner Cruise at Marina del Rey
🕒 Open: Fri & Sat, 7 PM – 10 PM
💲 Starts at $120 per person
Want to experience LA from the water? A dinner cruise in Marina del Rey offers a luxurious evening with gourmet dining, city lights, and scenic views of the Pacific Coast Highway.
If you’re into craft beer, Angel City Brewery in Downtown LA’s Arts District is the place to be. With a rotating selection of creative brews, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a local favorite for a night out.
Stand-Up Comedy in West Hollywood
🕒 Open: Varies (most shows start at 8 PM)
💲 Tickets $15 – $30
Want to laugh until your stomach hurts? West Hollywood’s comedy clubs like The Comedy Store and Laugh Factory are known for their surprise celebrity guests and non-stop entertainment.
Step back in time at this famous attraction, where bubbling tar pits have preserved prehistoric fossils for over 50,000 years.
Griffith Observatory & Park
🕒 Open: Tue–Sun, 12 PM – 10 PM
💲 Free (Planetarium shows: $10)
A perfect blend of science, nature, and city lights, Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of Los Angeles, hands-on space exhibits, and an up-close look at the iconic Hollywood sign.
South Coast Botanic Garden
🕒 Open: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
💲 Tickets: $15 (kids $5)
For a lush escape in Southern California, head to the South Coast Botanic Garden. With acres of rare plants, floral gardens, and serene walking trails, it’s a dream for nature lovers.
Sunken City in San Pedro
🕒 Open 24/7
💲 Free
One of LA’s most fascinating hidden gems, the Sunken City is an abandoned, crumbling neighborhood that slid into the ocean in the 1920s. Now, it’s a graffiti-covered paradise for urban explorers.
🛏 Stay at: Terranea Resort – A scenic, oceanfront retreat along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Why Book with CuddlyNest?
Why settle for the usual when you can stay somewhere truly unique? 🏠 With CuddlyNest, you’ll find one-of-a-kind stays in every neighbourhood—whether it’s a chic loft in Downtown LA, a cozy retreat near Beverly Hills, or a trendy spot steps from the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Plus, with our best price guarantee, you can spend less on your stay and more on the fun things you actually want to do! 💰✨
So, if you’re ready to swap the beaches for LA’s coolest hidden gems, book your perfect stay with CuddlyNest and let the adventure begin! 🚀🌟
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