Escape the Tourist Traps: 15 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in LA

Escape the Tourist Traps: 15 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in LA - Underground Bars Offer Speakeasy Vibes

Lights down low, jazz tunes humming, drinks flowing - LA's underground bar scene channels the mystique and revelry of the Prohibition era. While classic speakeasies operated illegally behind false storefronts or in basements, LA's modern haunts are licensed venues that mimic the vibe of secreted away social clubs. Those in the know can gain access to these hidden gems, but they remain off the beaten path, retaining an aura of exclusivity.

The Varnish is an old standby on the underground LA bar circuit, marked only by an inconspicuous door in the back of Cole's French Dip restaurant downtown. The vintage salvage decor transports drinkers back to the 1920s, when cocktails and camaraderie provided a respite from the pressures of the day. While you won't need a secret knock or password to get in, locating the unmarked entrance remains a rite of passage for LA nightlife aficionados.

Newcomer Redbird offers a more polished take on the speakeasy aesthetic with upscale furnishings housed behind the facade of a generic office building next to the 10 freeway. Critics have hailed it as one of LA's best new bars, lavishing praise on inventive cocktails like the smoking pear sour and cuisine celebrating local ingredients. It's a destination for those looking to escape the ordinary and experience LA's evolving food and drink scene.

No vacay agenda is complete without a stop at The Wolves in Hollywood. It's situated behind a wall of antlers and deer skulls within the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, where the first Academy Awards took place. Sip inventive libations from bowler hat-clad mixologists while cozying into leather banquettes or playing a round of pool. With its dim lighting, prohibition-style posters, and treasures tucked throughout, The Wolves offers a invitingly moody atmosphere.

The Edison in downtown LA's Higgins Building takes the speakeasy vibe to industial-chic heights. Housed in a former power plant, its Machinery Hall barroom features soaring 36-foot ceilings and antique electrical equipment. Grab a drink surrounded by turbines and other relics of LA's roaring 20s past. Or opt for a more intimate experience in one of the Edison's several themed bars, lounges, or hideaways.

Escape the Tourist Traps: 15 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in LA - Hidden Hiking Trails With Stunning Views

LA is famous for its beaches, palm trees, and Hollywood glitz. But venture away from the bustling boulevards and you’ll discover a whole different side to the city: rugged canyons, peaks, and secluded trails offering jaw-dropping vistas. These hidden hiking gems prove you don’t need to travel far to find adventure in LA.

Just a 15 minute drive from the Santa Monica Pier, Temescal Canyon’s lush trails feel worlds away from the crowds. The loop to Skull Rock is ideal for soaking up ocean views, meandering past wildflowers, and spotting hawks circling overhead. “I accidentally stumbled upon Temescal during an aimless weekend drive. Now it’s become my go-to spot to recharge without leaving LA,” says local hiker Claire S. “The fresh air and ocean breezes instantly relax me.”

For a more challenging trek, head to Runyon Canyon in Hollywood. This popular park gets crowded on weekends, but come during off-peak hours and its steep trails will make you feel alone in nature. Push yourself to Inspiration Point for sweeping views of downtown and the Hollywood sign. “I avoid Runyon on weekends and go before work instead,” advises early bird hiker Robin T. “Catching the sunrise from Inspiration Point with the city waking up below is unbeatable.”

In Pasadena, Eaton Canyon offers a taste of forest seclusion within city limits. Its trails traverse a refreshing creek shaded by sycamore trees before ascending to waterfalls. “Eaton Canyon is my hidden gem when I need a quick escape from urban life,” says Pasadena local Claire R. “It feels so remote even though it’s just minutes from my house.”

For a longer adventure outside the city, seek out Sandstone Peak via the Mishe Mokwa Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains. You’ll traverse Carlisle Canyon’s oak groves before a steep final push to the highest coastal peak in the range. “The solitude and sweeping vistas from Sandstone Peak make the difficult hike worth it,” raves Malibu hiker Nate D. “It’s the perfect LA staycation when I want to pretend I’m far from civilization.”

Escape the Tourist Traps: 15 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in LA - Undiscovered Neighborhoods Full of Charm

Beyond the glitzy boutiques of Rodeo Drive and the Walk of Fame lie LA neighborhoods with an allure all their own - if you know where to look. Venture off the beaten path to uncover vibrant cultural enclaves, indie arts scenes, and architectural treasures, with nary a tourist in sight.

In Historic Filipinotown, the country’s only designated Little Manila celebrates Philippine history and culture. Stroll through shady plazas adorned with colorful murals depicting folklore heroes and historical figures. Browse authentic handicrafts and feast on sisig and pancit at eateries like Seafood City Supermarket. “Most people have no idea this slice of Manila exists in LA,” shares resident Leilani S. “From the music to the food, it transports me back home.”

Just south lies West Adams, home to some of LA’s most exquisite Victorian, Craftsman, and Colonial Revival mansions. “West Adams is an architectural wonderland frozen in time,” says local Mel A. Meander down tree-lined streets ogling the extravagant estates of yesteryear. The restored mansions now house trendy cafes, galleries, and recording studios.

In Leimert Park, dubbed “the soul of Los Angeles,” African American arts, music, and culture pulse with vibrancy. “Leimert Park reminded me of the epicenter of the Harlem Renaissance,” muses visitor Jamal T. Watch artists create masterpieces before your eyes. Savor Southern comfort food at neighborhood cafes. And don’t miss the weekly jazz festival in the central plaza.

Escape the Tourist Traps: 15 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in LA - Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants Worth Finding

LA’s world-class food scene goes far beyond Hollywood hotspots and beachside menus laden with kale Caesar salads. Ask a local about their favorite eats and you’re likely to get pointed toward an unassuming hole-in-the-wall specializing in authentic ethnic cuisine or hyper-regional comfort staples.

Part of LA’s charm lies in stumbling upon these hidden mom-and-pop gems tucked away in gritty strip malls, bustling Chinatown alleyways, and suburban strip centers far from Rodeo Drive. Tracking down these covert culinary stars offers the ultimate insider experience, letting you taste LA’s diversity and neighborhood character in every bite.

Jonathan Gold, the late legendary LA Times food critic, made seeking out the city’s hidden epicurean treasures his life’s work. “Finding a great hole-in-the-wall restaurant is what gives me the most joy,” he professed. “To me, they are the soul of LA, embodying the spirit of immigrants and dreamers from around the world who make this city so vibrant.”

His 101 Best Restaurants list sends explorers on a culinary scavenger hunt from Monterey Park to South LA in search of unpretentious ethnic enclaves serving regional Chinese favorites, Oaxacan moles, and Salvadoran pupusas. LA Weekly editor Erin Brereton agrees. “Finding Jonathan’s latest obsession ignites my sense of adventure. These family-run spots let me feel part of LA’s diverse communities through their soulful cooking.”

Critics unanimously name Howlin’ Ray’s Nashville-style hot chicken as some of the city’s most craveable fare. But good luck joining the hours-long lines at this Chinatown walk-up. Fans won’t be deterred. “Howlin’ Ray’s chicken is worth the wait,” effuses regular Josh L. “Each tender juicy bite packs an addictive cayenne wallop that keeps me coming back.”

East LA's Mariscos Jalisco food truck draws similar devotion for life-changing shrimp tacos. “These tacos are magical — you'll never want to eat shrimp any other way again,” declares enthusiast Sofia M.

Escape the Tourist Traps: 15 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in LA - Outdoor Murals Showcase Local Artists

Splashes of color transforming drab walls and facades across LA aren’t graffiti – they’re stunning murals by local artists, showcasing everything from cultural pride to calls for social justice. Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros pioneered the outdoor mural movement in LA in the 1930s. Their influence endures in the city’s designation as the mural capital of the world. Today over 1,500 murals by homegrown talents like Shepard Fairey adorn alleys, underpasses, and buildings from Venice to East LA.

Wandering these open-air galleries lets you glimpse LA’s creativity, diversity, and resilience. Murals give voice to communities, connecting us to the city’s past, highlighting its issues, and visualizing its hopes. They turn blighted neighborhoods into vast canvases celebrating heritage.

Frida Kahlo still watches over Pilgrim Hill in East LA, where Judith F. Baca’s Las Tres Grandes honoring prominent Latinas was recently restored. Thirty years after its creation, the mural remains beloved. “Seeing women who made history larger than life reminds me I can change the world,” shares admirer Carla G.

Nature bursts to life across buildings in South LA’s Leimert Park, where artist Ben Caldwell’s flowers beautify streets. “Ben’s murals uplift our community with joy,” says resident Tasha P. “They show the transformative power of creativity.”

Venice’s sprawling Venicefaith47 pieces blend global inspiration with haunting social commentary. They push viewers to reflect on the fragility of our environment and connections. “I’m awestruck by how Venicefaith47 can inspire deep introspection through art,” muses passerby Kate S.

Shepard Fairey’s iconic Andre the Giant stickers morphed into Hope graphics backing Obama’s 2008 campaign. His murals now spotlight lesser-known LA social justice heroes like Cesar Chavez. “Seeing faces from our past reminds me of sacrifices made so we can vote and have rights at work,” notes teacher Placida V.

Escape the Tourist Traps: 15 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in LA - Secluded Beaches Without the Crowds

LA’s beaches are world-famous, drawing sunseekers from around the globe who envision Baywatch lifeguards and beach balls along the sparkling shores. The unfortunate reality is often traffic-jammed PCH, impossible parking, and shoulder-to-shoulder crowds lined up like sardines on the sand. But savvy locals know how to escape the masses and claim a stretch of shoreline all to themselves.

Venture beyond bustling Venice and Santa Monica to discover peaceful patches of coastline seemingly tailor-made for social distancing. Trade kids building sandcastles and volleyball players spiking balls for having an entire swath of surf and sand all to yourself.

“I stumbled upon El Matador Beach while looking for somewhere quiet to read my book. I couldn’t believe I had this secluded shoreline all to myself,” says introvert Isaac D. This beach’s remoteness north of Malibu rewards those who make the trek down the cliffside trail. You’ll be greeted not by crowds but by caves, rock formations, and waves crashing on the sand.

For a similarly solitary experience closer to LA proper, head to Torrance Beach. “I can always find a spot to spread out at Torrance without bumping elbows,” shares local sunbather Michelle P. “It has beautiful views without the scene of Santa Monica.” Torrance tends to attract more wading than tanning. Stand up paddleboarders glide peacefully as the Palos Verdes cliffs loom in the distance.

Dockweiler State Beach lets you bask in 70 degrees and sunshine without battling for beach space. “Dockweiler is my go-to when I want to read on the sand, not socialize,” says introvert Raj K. The three-mile shoreline has plenty of room to roam away from boisterous barbecues and volleyball matches. Pets can play off-leash, and hang gliders take flight overhead.

For an ultimate escape, pack a kayak and paddle to a deserted island off the coast. “Paddling out to Little Corona del Mar made me feel like I’d landed on a remote tropical paradise,” exclaims adventurer Jessica A. This hidden gem offers a peaceful pocket of sand in the shadow of glitzy Newport Coast. Come during the week and even high summer crowds thin.

Venture down the coast to Crystal Cove Beach for 2.5 miles of blissful solitude. “I stumbled on the secret beach beyond Crystal Cove and couldn’t believe I had it all to myself,” enthuses introvert Naomi S. Traverse the tunnels under PCH to a protected polka-dot paradise, home only to swaying palms, crashing waves, and scuttling sand crabs.

Escape the Tourist Traps: 15 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in LA - Offbeat Museums Fly Under the Radar

Beyond the Getty's marble halls and LACMA's Urban Light installation lie unique museums that let you dive into LA's eclectic art, cultural, and historical treasures. Venture off the beaten path to find galleries dedicated to everything from neon sign design to lawn ornaments. While they may lack big budgets and crowds, their singular focus spotlights both the famous and obscure. As VALET magazine notes, "LA rewards those willing to hunt for its quirky collection of museums spotlighting singular passions."

Take the Museum of Neon Art (MONA) in downtown's Arts District. By celebrating the creations that light up LA's streets, MONA showcases "the highly underrated art form of neon," as described by design expert Claire D. Wander through galleries glowing with vintage signs and marquees from famed LA establishments. Glimpse neon masters creating new pieces featuring innovative shapes and colors. MONA reminds us that even the most mundane commercial art holds beauty worth spotlighting.

Just north in Glendale, the Bekins Storage Company Showcase pays homage to another functional form: the storage box. This singular salute to cardboard containers traces their evolution from basic crates to customizable units. Architectural Digest dubbed it "one of the most oddly endearing little museums you'll find anywhere." Wax nostalgic over vintage specimens from the 1940s and 60s. Admire creative contemporary incarnations covered with decoupage artworks or sporting fun themes. As aficionado Tessa R. shares, "I never thought twice about packing boxes until seeing the ingenuity at Bekins!"

For lighter fare, head to West LA's Velveteria. This plush playground houses over 3,000 velvet paintings in what Slate calls "a shockingly classy shrine." Laugh over kitschy Elvis portraits and bullfighters mid-twirl. Marvel at uncanny likenesses of celebrities like John Wayne and Marilyn Monroe. Or admire fine art renderings of spiritual figures and presidents. As fan Miles P. declares, "Velveteria made me realize velvet art is an amazing blend of tacky yet refined."

Travel back to 19th century Americana at Arcadia's Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage. Its collection spotlights lawn ornaments produced by the historic Starlite manufacturing company. Wander the museum's garden gazing at sprightly concrete squirrels, waddling ducks, and exotic gazelles. Chuckle over novelty pieces like toadstool teeter-totters. As director Joanne H. professes, "We showcase how Starlite's figurines brought whimsy to suburban lawns."

Escape the Tourist Traps: 15 Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in LA - Obscure Parks Offer Urban Oases

Nestled in neighborhoods across LA, tiny parks provide refuge from the commotion of the city, transporting you to serene natural settings far from the traffic and honking horns. Though compact, these secluded green spaces offer room to roam and remnants of wilderness to savor. Their obscurity only enhances the experience - without hordes of tourists, you can fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and solitude.

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden in Westwood Village provides a perfect pocket of tranquility near the bustle of UCLA. Winding paths meander past tropical plants and water features under the shade of soaring palms. “It’s amazing to find this tiny tropical escape steps from the big city,” says regular visitor Priya S. The jungle vibes offer the ultimate staycation for plant lovers. “I go to unwind surrounded by rare orchids, banana trees, and even vanilla vines - right here in LA!” she enthuses.

Channel literary vibes at the Garden of Oz, an enchanted microforest in the hills above Beachwood Canyon. Kurt Baumgartner lovingly created this off-the-radar ode to The Wizard of Oz books over three decades by filling a slope with miniaturized trees. “Walking the tiny trails makes me feel like I've stepped into the pages of L. Frank Baum,” shares fan Leila G. The elf-sized bench hidden among pint-sized pines only adds to the storybook atmosphere.

For a minimalist escape, head to the Annenberg Community Beach House Garden. Its sleek white pathways wind through swathes of dune grass, offering sanctuary by the sea. “With the ocean breeze rifling through the grasses, I instantly feel my stress melt away,” describes Santa Monica resident Oscar T. No crowds, no noise - just soothing negative space accented with indigenous plants.

Newberry Park in Harvard Heights brings the country to the city with rolling lawns, babbling brooks, and shady glades. “I can't believe this rustic oasis exists in the shadow of downtown,” notes visitor Daniel K. Kids splash in the creek while couples picnic under majestic oaks. The grassy fields could be miles from urban life, not just minutes.

Runyon Canyon's lesser-known companion, Trebek Open Space Park, offers equal solitude just next door. While hikers queue on Runyon's crowded trails, Trebek’s peaceful paths wind through sage scrub dotted with velvety green dudleya. “I can take in the views without the crowds at this hidden hiking gem,” says outdoorswoman Kira L. The respite from the frenzy of LA restores the spirit.