10 Non-Touristy things to do in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has the largest Thai population. It is one of the best places in the world to sample the country’s famous eats, from hole-in-the-wall spots like Sapp Coffe shop. That hip’s modern takes like Night and market song. If you wish to have a true weekend experience, you are recommended to head to the Wat Thai Temple in North Hollywood. Each weekend, the parking lot in front of the Buddhist temple comes alive with street vendors hawking green curry, larb, boat noodles, and more.

5. Visit the New Beverly Cinema 

This old theatre was previously known for its candy factory, beer parlor, Jewish community center, and Vaudeville house. It hosted the likes of Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. The New Beverly Cinema is among the coolest places to see a flick in Los Angeles. 

Quentin Tarantino is the owner. He selects the movies from his collections and is all shown on 35mm Film. It is a great window into Hollywood’s art-house scene and one can glimpse the Oscar-winning filmmaker.

6. Watch a movie at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Hollywood Cemetery, photo Mike Jirochi Wikimedia Commons

Most people flock to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. They go to see the final resting places of Hollywood legends like Judy Garland and Chris Cornell from Sound garden. Locals know to come on summer nights for the outdoor movie screenings. It is recommended to bring a blanket, snacks, and drinks just before sunset and watch movies under the stars, from classics like Casablanca to modern-day favorites. There’s a DJ that plays before and after, and there are often fun events like dance parties and sleepovers at the scenic cemetery. We recommend buying your tickets early if you plan on going to a screening.

7. See the Santa Monica Camera Obscura

Santa Monica Camera Obscura Santa Monica California, photo by Lorie Shaul Wikimedia commons

Santa Monica is the camera obscura is one of the best-kept secrets in Palisades Park on Ocean Avenue. Visit the Adult Recreation Center about a block from the pier, and you’ll find a ‘50s-style building with an office where you’ll leave your ID in exchange for a key. The key is for a room at the top of the stairs with a large white disk in the middle, onto which the camera obscura projects a life, moving image of the beach-goers on Ocean Avenue.

The old-school photographic device was donated to the city in 1907 and is one of only a handful open to the public in the U.S. It makes for a quick, fun escape from the bustle on the boardwalk, and is a must if you’re a fan of photographs

8. Have a twenty-minute tandem para-gliding experience 

 By Soaring above the azure blue waters of the Pacific with this unforgettable 20-minute tandem paragliding experience. As likely to appeal to daredevils as to wildlife fans, the instructor – who will be connected to the paraglider with you – will take full responsibility for steering your flight. This will leave you free to savor the feeling of the wind rushing through your hair while keeping an eagle eye out for much spectacular wildlife from above – from whales to sharks. Those who opt for this flight will also be able to opt for their take-off location as well. So whether you wish to set off and land on the sands of the beach at Malibu, or take to the skies from a 3000ft mountaintop, you’ll be all set for a truly memorable experience.

9. Get private surf lessons 

SURFER, PHOTO BY Analogous pixaby

The California coast is known to be the spiritual home of surfing. It is the best location to have an impressive sports whirl. For beginners, get and half hour and two hours tutorials that give them a memorable induction into a mesmerizing and immensely fun activity.

 The professional instructor tends to give you one-on-one tuition and introduce basics to them. During the intermediate level, they are accommodated and matched to an instructor’s suit. The session is usually available between 6amand 6 pm.

10. Enjoy a three-hour electric bile tour of Santa monic and Venice

When tackling the sun-kissed Californian coast by bicycle sounds appealing, then this three-hour tour will be right up your street. Also, it’s perfect for all levels of cycling abilities thanks to the bikes’ electric motors. You can choose to use pedal power, rely solely on the electric charge, or use both, depending on the terrain. This means you’ll get exactly the amount of exercise out of the tour as you choose.

Those who opt for the tour will ride on bike paths along the award-winning beach at Santa Monica, and pass beneath the pier to reach Venice’s skatepark and canals. During your fun journey, you get to learn about the area’s history, architecture, and art from the informative guide.