As a local of L.A., I wanted to share some of my favorite hidden gems of Los Angeles to visit that are FREE! (Or are super cheap!) Los Angeles is world-famous as the Hollywood block-buster mecca of the world. Tourists from all over flock to this wonderful city to catch a glimpse of a movie star or tour the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame or similar. But…..there is WAY more to L.A. than just the typical Hollywood Sign! Los Angeles is full of incredible hidden gems that are educational, fun, unique and just plain odd. If you’re interested in trekking away from the mundane tourist attractions of Los Angeles, then follow me for some of the best secret spots that L.A. has to offer. Pick and choose your favorite spots for your own itinerary.
Due to the 2020 Covid-19 restrictions, some locations’ status may vary. Closures and hours of operation may be different from their regular schedule. Please check websites for any of the listed locations for the most up-to-date information. Stay safe, healthy and Happy Travels!
Oct. 2020 Update: Just added two new locations to the list! Check them out!
The Spadena Witch House in Beverly Hills – Free
The Mosaic Tile House in Venice Beach – $20pp
Ride on the Angel’s Flight Railway
This cute little landmark of Los Angeles is over 100 years old. Known as the world’s shortest railway, Angel’s Flight is a little known tourist spot located in the Bunker Hill District. It operates two funicular rail cars that run in opposite directions. It is 100% free to visit the site and take photos, however it costs only $1 round trip to ride in one of the rail cars. Tickets can be purchased from their website or by phone. Angel’s Flight is a popular Hollywood Icon that can be seen in many films or tv-shows. Make sure to visit this Instagrammable Spot for some Los Angeles nostalgia.
If you would like to enjoy this site as part of a Hollywood Movie Experience Guided Tour of Los Angeles, here is a very reasonably priced tour available with great reviews.
Map Location of the Angel’s Flight Railway
Drop by the Stunning Bradbury Building
The Bradbury Building is absolutely stunning and a must-see in Los Angeles. It is 100% free to visit the building as long as you stay below the second floor. We chose this site for our engagement photos almost 15 years ago and it still wows me every time I see photos of this place.
It is an architectural landmark built over 125 years ago. “Behind its modest, mildly Romanesque exterior lies a magical light-filled Victorian court that rises almost fifty feet with open cage elevators, marble stairs, and ornate iron railings.” It is regularly seen in films such as BLADERUNN and 50 DAYS OF SUMMER. It definitely makes my Top 3 Instagrammable Spots of Los Angeles.
Map Location of the Bradbury Building
Quick Stop at the “Pope of Broadway” Mural
Just around the corner of the Bradbury Building is an incredible 70-ft mural. It was painted by artist Eloy Torrez over 30 years ago and depicts a portrait of famous Latino Actor and Writer, Anthony Quinn. Los Angeles is known for street art that constantly changes, but The Pope of Broadway remains a staple icon of Downtown Los Angeles and was recently restored in 2017. It remains one of my favorite works of street art to this day.
Map Location of the Pope of Broadway Mural
Browse the Hollywood Costumes at the FIDM Museum & Galleries
The FIDM stands for the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. It is an educational institute popular among the Hollywood industry of costume designing and fashion. However, it also has its own Museum and Library that is 100% Free to visit when a particular event is being hosted. Make sure to check their website for their most up-to-date event information and their hours of operation.
They often have the most incredible costumes and designs on display, used in the Film and TV industry. If you are fascinated by costume design, fashion and art, then this secret spot in Los Angeles is definitely for you. I have visited on two different occasions when they had the costumes from the hit TV-series OUTLANDER on display. And also GAME OF THRONES, AMERICAN HORROR STORY. Plus films such as BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY, the Marvel-verse films BLACK PANTHER and CAPTAIN AMERICA and even the DC film AQUAMAN.
Map Location of the FIDM Museum & Galleries
Enjoy a Date at The Getty Center
The infamous Getty Center is a popular tourist attraction in L.A. and is technically not considered a secret spot in Los Angeles. It is a beautiful modern architectural museum located on lovely grounds hosting collections of art from all over the world. It is Free to visit The Getty and a great place to spend the day. HOWEVER…what most people DO NOT know about is its sister location, The Getty Villa, which I much prefer over the main Getty Center.
Stroll the Italian Estate of The Getty Villa
One of the secret hidden gems in Los Angeles and the Getty’s sister location is the Getty Villa. Located about 20-minutes away from The Getty depending on traffic, the Getty Villa is located in the hills of Pacific Palisades. It is a slightly smaller location but it has a much more intimate environment reminiscent of a large Italian Estate. The property is gorgeous and manicured with stunning gardens decorated with sculptures and fountains. It is also a lot less crowded unless they are hosting a special event. Make sure to visit their website to reserve Free Tickets for your visit.
Map Location of the Getty Villa
Sunset and Star Gazing at the Griffith Observatory
Everyone knows about the Griffith Observatory. So I cheated, it’s technically not a secret or hidden gem of Los Angeles. But….there’s always a but…not a lot of people know that it is FREE to visit the site! Parking is a pain in the butt though so be prepared to arrive early or late in the evening for primo parking. Or I suggest using their Hollywood Shuttle System.
I also recommend visiting about 2-hours before sunset for the best photo opportunity. You will have ample time to visit the interior of the observatory and check out their incredible science and astronomy displays. And when sunset makes an appearance, you’ll be gifted with an amazing view of the Los Angeles cityscape.
Map Location of the Griffith Observatory
If you’re interested in the famous Hollywood Sign hike that is located near the Griffith Observatory, the below are some great locally guided hikes that includes a visit to both!
Browse some Novels at The Last Bookstore
Known as one of the largest book stores in the state of California, The Last Bookstore is a two-story fully stocked book shop that will wow your visual senses. It has a whimsical aesthetic interior that attracts Instagrammers for the ultimate bookworm photos.
In addition to selling the latest best selling novels, they also buy and sell used reading material, comic books, journals, DVDs, Art, Collectibles and music records. If you’re enjoy a good read, then this is the perfect secret spot in Los Angeles for any book lovers.
Map Location of the Last Book Store
Steamy Romance Novels at Ripped Bodice Book Shop
Similar to the Last Bookstore but smaller in scale, this little book shop is exclusively dedicated to romance novels! That’s right, the Ripped Bodice sells ONLY books all about the romance genre, from historical romance to mystical shape-shifting romance. They also have a small upstairs area completely reserved for old-school used romance novels that practically dates back to the 1970s. It’s a cute little shop with its own tea and smoothie cafe located inside. And they often host special events. Located in the heart of Culver City’s Main Street, you can while away a couple of hours here perusing their collection of steamy romance novels.
Map Location of the Ripped Bodice
Stay at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel
Staying a night in a luxury hotel in the heart of Los Angeles Pershing Square costs a pretty penny. But it costs nothing to just visit the hotel and stroll through the magnificent hallways of the Millennium Biltmore Hotel. This gorgeous luxury hotel is a hidden historic gem of L.A. and was designated a historical monument in 1969. Built almost 100 years ago, it has been the home to Hollywood Elites and even affiliated with the dark history of Los Angeles past such as the murder of Black Dahlia.
Among other special events, it is host to the most incredible annual Masquerade Ball event that I attend every year as you can see from the photos below. The hotel is extremely extravagant in its design and decor and I highly recommend an evening visit to enjoy some drinks at their hotel bar, and the occasional live music in their grand atrium.
If you would like to splurge and stay at the grand Millennium Biltmore Hotel and experience a luxurious Los Angeles vacation, click here to check on their availability.
Map Location of the Millennium Biltmore Hotel
Museum of Jurassic Technology
If you are looking for something extremely odd and unique to experience in Los Angeles, then I highly recommend this hidden gem. The Museum of Jurassic Technology is the strangest place I have ever visited. We’re not allowed to take photos inside but I snuck in a few on their roof top patio area. I’m not even sure how to describe this place.
It’s a hole in the wall and it costs about $10 for an entry fee. It houses a collection of the strangest…“artifacts”? Some of which I still don’t know if they were real or not. The interior space is packed with displays and can be a bit cramped, but there is so much to see. The best article I found that best describes this place is at the Smithsonian website which they were kind enough to provide photos. So if you like the weird and peculiar, then this place is for you!
Map Location of the Museum of Jurassic Technology
Learn about Mexican Culture at Olvera Street
Experience authentic Mexican culture as part of the Los Angeles’ founding history. Olvera Street (Calle Olvera or Placita Olvera) is a historic district in downtown Los Angeles, and a part of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, obtaining its current name in 1877. Many of the Plaza District’s Historic Buildings are on Olvera Street, as well as some of the oldest Los Angeles monuments, some as early as 1817! It is Free to visit the tree-shaded, pedestrian open marketplace which is lined with craft shops, restaurants and roving troubadours making it another popular hidden gem in Los Angeles.
Behind the Scenes at Paley Center for Media
Similar to the FIDM Museum and Galleries, the Paley Center for Media in Beverly Hills displays costumes from film and TV as well. However, it also has an assortment of Hollywood film and TV props on display. In addition, there’s a lot of behind the scenes footage, interviews and setups on how the movie magic happens. Depending on the special event themes, they regularly change up their displays every few months. One of my top favorite hidden gems in Los Angeles, I have visited when they had the costumes and sets being promoted for OUTLANDER. As well as STAR TREK DISCOVERY costumes and props. As you can see, I have an eclectic taste in TV and film. It is 100% Free to visit the Paley Center, although they do accept donations. The location is also surrounded by popular Beverly Hills shops and eateries.
Map Location of the Paley Center for Media
Walk the Art Deco Halls of the MacArthur Hotel
Previously known as the Park Plaza Hotel, the newly named MacArthur Hotel is a historic landmark of Los Angeles. It was originally built as an Elks Lodge for the BPOE in 1926 so it is almost 100 years old! Currently undergoing renovations, it is currently closed but will soon be open to the public hopefully before their 100th birthday! It was designed by architect Claud Beelman, later to become a renowned Art Deco designer, as a memorial to World War I soldiers. The exterior features stylized Assyrian friezes, sculpted figures in military uniform, and massive cast stone warrior angels guarding the plinth and tower at every corner. It is a gorgeous hidden gem of Los Angeles and a must-see to add to your itinerary.
Map Location of The MacArthur Hotel
Shop & Eat at Saint Vincent Court
The secret alley of Saint Vincent Court has changed dramatically over the years. In the center of downtown, one of the hidden gems in Los Angeles is known as a Faux European Lane. With the shops and restaurants decorated and designed to look like a small and old European town.
Now home to mostly Middle Eastern restaurants, this quaint little alleyway still looks like it belongs in Italy rather than downtown Los Angeles. During the day, with ample umbrella-covered al fresco dining, the scene is a lively and welcoming respite from the rest of the city.
Map Location of Saint Vincent Court
Secret Stairs of Los Angeles
If you’re looking for a nice hike or trek in the city, there are several “Secret Stairs” located throughout Los Angeles, some leading to urban destinations and some leading up to a beautiful natural view point of the cityscape. I’ve selected three of my favorite secret stairs below. Keep in mind that some stairs have a lot of steps and can be quite steep, so make sure you are physically fit to handle these steps. I’ve included the map location of each in the headings below. For a full list of the Los Angeles Secret Stairs, click here.
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook Stairs
Micheltorena Silver Lake Stairs
Saroyan Stairs
Storybook Spadena Witch House
One of my favorite hidden gems in Los Angeles is this beautiful private home that looks straight out of a storybook. Known as the Witch House or officially named the Spadena House, it is located in the suburbs of Beverly Hills among other grand homes and mansions. It is listed as an official Los Angeles Landmark. It was originally built by a Hollywood Art Director to use as offices and dressing rooms for a film studio in 1921. The entire building was moved once from Culver City to its current location and has changed ownership about 2-3 times to its current real estate owner who has done a spectacular job renovating it to its current glory. It is 100% FREE to stop for a quick visit and get photos. It is a popular instagrammable location around Halloween. And a grand eventon Halloween night!
Enjoy a Concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall
The stunning architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall makes for a beautiful backdrop of any instagram feed. Concerts at this event center certainly aren’t free, but a simple visit to the venue and a walk around the exterior is absolutely Free! We chose this location as the backdrop for our 1-year anniversary photos and we got stunning results.
It is home to the famous Los Angeles Phil Harmonic Orchestra and regularly hosts concerts in its special acoustically constructed concert hall. If you have the time and would like to splurge for a concert, I highly recommend experiencing a show at this venue.
Map Location of the Walt Disney Concert Hall
*BONUS – More Unique Los Angeles Spots to Visit – NOT FREE
I’ve included a few bonus locations below that are Paid attractions that charge for entry. Some are popular tourist spots and some are hidden secret gems of Los Angeles. If you’re visiting Los Angeles for the first time, I highly recommend adding a couple of these to your itinerary.
Experience Illusions at the Magic Castle
The Magic Castle, also known as the Academy of Magical Arts, is a special exclusive venue that does not allow just anyone to visit. It is NOT open to tourists and the general public. You will need a special invitation from a Magician club member or know someone who knows someone.
One of the tricks to get an invite is to look at the list calendar events for up-coming magician performances. Then find the magician on social media or simply email them directly and ask for an invitation for a particular date. Make sure to butter up the magicians to get on their good side!
Guests will be able to dine and see world-class illusion at the regal, Edwardian-era mansion in historic Hollywood. You will still need to pay for the inclusive dining and show. They have a strict dress code and reservations will need to be made at least a month in advance.
Map Location of The Magic Castle
MODS – Museum of Dream Space
If you are familiar with teamLab in Tokyo Japan, then the MODS Dream Space Museum is very similar to its aesthetics. It is a unique digital art mini museum in the United States. Inspired by Yayoi Kusama’s infinite rooms, the museum provides an immersive art experience. It has two locations in the Los Angeles area. It is much smaller in scale and tickets are a bit costly at $30 per person for the size of the installation. But instead of traveling all the way to Tokyo Japan, $30 is easier on the wallet.
Map Location of the MODS Museum
Mosaic Tile House
This beautiful private residence in Venice, CA is the work of art that took 26 years of creation. One of the ultimate hidden gems in Los Angeles that not many peoplek now about. Husband and Wife team, Gonzalo and Cheri have completely transformed their home into a vibrant and eclectic masterpiece. The unique and funky vibe is full of wonder and amazement. Every surface is intricately covered with small tile, glass, bottles, figurines, toys, knick-knacks and just about anything you can think of. Everywhere you look, you’ll see something new. The home is only open to the public for visitors on Saturdays between 12-3pm by appointment only. And it costs $20 per person. Make sure to visit their website for the most updated schedule.
I hope you found my long list of hidden gems of Los Angeles helpful. I wanted to make sure I packed it with all the L.A. goodies that I love around the city. Don’t feel like you need to do it all, not everything on the list is to everyone’s preference. The best way to plan a perfect itinerary is to pick a couple of your favorite spots and locate them on a Map, and check to see how close they are to each other. If you have any questions about traveling to Los Angeles, always feel free to email me or comment below.
Happy & Safe Travels! ~ Patti
What great things to do in LA and the fact that they are free is incredible. The photos are so colorful I want to visit everything. I love the secret stairs.
Wow there are so many things to do here it must be hard to plan a trip! Would end up with an awesome, jam-packed itinerary
Love this guide! Had no idea there were so many fun and unknown things to do in LA
I had no idea LA had so many beautiful places to see. I only had a weekend in the city when I visited once but looking forward to exploring it more next time.
The Bradbury Building looks wonderful!
This is such a GREAT post! I’d most like to ride the Angel railway and find the hidden stairs. I’m pinning this for the next time I’m in LA because I want to do ALL these free things and hidden gems!
WOW! Such a great information. I love discovering the less touristic places. I’ll definitely check these places in my next visit!
Eeeee you’ve made me want to head back to LA! I visited a few of these places when I was there but there are some great gems on here that I missed that I’d love to explore! FIDM Museum & Galleries looks amazing! I enjoy dressmaking but I’m always in awe of the intricacies of costumes so it would be right up my street! Also, MODS looks magical…I’m gutted I missed this! Thanks for the wonderful guide!
Wow! This is such an awesome and in-depth post. Now I’m truly inspired to get back to LA and see all these awesome things I missed!
Thank you so much! I hope you get to check out a couple of them.
I absolutely love LA but haven’t spent enough time. I am dying to see the Getty Villa, Griffth Observatory. Great post covering some hidden spots!
Thank you so much!
We live in California and have yet to do some of these! We will have to one day for sure! Thanks so much for sharing : )
Oh you’re welcome! I love finding new places for people!
I had no idea that there were so many FREE things to do in LA. I will have to put these items on my bucket list. Many of these places I’ve never hear of, but want to see in person!
I love finding places people don’t know about.
So many free things to do in Los Angeles! Who knew? Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome! I hope you find them helpful!
I love hidden gems in LA! I miss heading into Downtown. I need to check out the Micheltorena Silver Lake Stairs! Also I once stayed at the Biltmore for about $125 for the night. I was awesome!
$125 a night is not bad at all!
Wow…these are fabulous hidden gems. I so want to visit LA right now! Especially love those secret stairs, that short railcar, the bookstores…actually everything!
Great list!
I recently heard The Last Bookstore was in financial trouble. I certainly hope this isn’t true. It’s one of my favorite places in DTLA.
So many great places. I love the Last Bookstore, Angels Flight, and The Bradbury Building when it comes to lesser known spots in LA. But I’ve lived in LA for the last 24 years and even I discovered something new from this list.