Los Angeles: swarming streets, iconic landmarks, and glam in Hollywood. But in its shadows, on paths well worn and beaten, treasure is to be found. Home to an eclectic range of spots and places that are rarely visited—yet pack the culture and history of this town into tastes and sights—these posts are often for long-term locals and lucky passersby.
But what about the curious traveler? Don’t worry, in this guide, we are going off the beaten track and will introduce you to three unique Los Angeles experiences away from the major sights—great if you like to explore, experience the city at a local level, or anew.
1. The Sunken City of San Pedro
In the southern reaches of Los Angeles, the Sunken City of San Pedro offers a hauntingly beautiful escape. By the mid-1920s, what had once formed part of a residential neighborhood had slipped into the ocean due to a great mass movement of the earth. With it gone the streets and the foundations, not to mention innumerable ruins—graffiti now covers most evidence of them.
Today, it is one of the unofficial hiking spots where one gets to see the good views of the ocean and a bit of feeling like one had a tour of urban decay. Though mostly off-limits, guided tours are quite easily taken and sometimes offer an exciting way to visit this interesting site. It’s a reminder of nature’s unpredictable power and offers a completely different vibe from the city’s usual hustle.
2. The Great Wall of Los Angeles
The Great Wall of Los Angeles is a huge cultural monument within the city, located in the heart of the Valley Glen neighborhood. This half-mile-long mural along the Tujunga flood control channel showcases the history of California on a canvas of vivid detail. It was painted between 1976 and 1983 by over 400 young people and artists with the direction of muralist Judy Baca, a Chicana who became a UCLA professor and founder of SPARC. It contains murals considered to be some of the world’s longest.
The mural covers stories from the prehistoric times all the way to the 1950s, paying attention to the role of Native Americans, minorities, and women in their contribution to the development of the state. It is a powerful open-air gallery that transports the viewer on a visual journey through the rich history of the state.
3. The Venice Canals
Venice Beach Boardwalk draws millions of visitors each year, but just a stone throw away lies the more peaceful Venice Canals. A replica of those in Venice, Italy, the man-made canals were built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney, modeled after the famous Italian city for which it was named. Walking by the still waterways of years gone by, there are cute bungalows, beautiful gardens, and arched bridges.
It’s an idealistically picture-postcard area great for afternoon strolls or to grab a quiet moment away from the chaos of the city. The canals are also a fantastic spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Experience a Los Angeles Tour Like Never Before
Exploring Los Angeles’ hidden gems allows you to experience the city through a new lens. These Los Angeles tour spots provide a unique glimpse into the lesser-seen aspects of L.A.’s personality. Be it the ethereal beauty of the sunken city, the culture depicted in the great mural, or the casual walk through Venice along the walkways, an informed Los Angeles tour treats you to much more than the normal allures.
So, next time you think you’ve seen all of L.A., remember, there’s always something new and extraordinary to discover.