Top Weird And Captivating Attractions To See In LA

When it comes to destinations that are unique and quirky, Los Angeles might not be at the top of your list. But considering how large it is, it’s no surprise that there are hidden pockets of the city with out-of-the-ordinary attractions. There are some bizarre LA spots that are perfect for locals and tourists alike, no matter what type of activity you’re interested in — you just have to know where to look.
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If you want to go on a hike: The Abandoned Zoo in Griffith Park

Approximately two miles away from the standing Los Angeles Zoo lie the remains of its predecessor. This zoo closed in 1966 and many of the animal enclosures and cages have been left as ruins. With large metal bars to climb, dark spaces to explore and graffiti covering much of what is left, this is a perfect daytime adventure.

If you want a drink: Good Times at Davey Wayne’s

‘There’s beer in the fridge.’ Well, actually, there’s quite a lot more in the fridge here. You enter this themed bar through a vintage refrigerator in a garage sale set up in Hollywood. Inside, you’re surrounded by 70s decor, kitsch and memorabilia, complete with a faux lawn out back and a trailer serving spiked slushies. Arrive before 8pm on weekdays (or 6pm on weekends) to beat the crowd and get a drink in for happy hour.

If you want to check out a museum: Museum of Death

Hold off on lunch and make a stop here to see a serial killer artwork, images from the Dahlia murder and even filmed deaths and executions, as well as endless other morbid artifacts and displays. This small museum is packed full of everything related to death and dying, and once inside you’ll find the exhibits that resonate most with you. Regardless of whether you spend most of your time at the celebrity deaths area, the death row section or the infamous Traces of Death video at the end, you’ll find yourself equally disgusted and fascinated.

If you want to spot celebrities: Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Johnny Ramone bronze tombstone in Hollywood Forever

Although you can’t see these Hollywood stars in the flesh, view the final resting places for stars like Mickey Rooney, Darla Hood, Charlie Chaplin, Jr., Estelle Getty, Toto (from The Wizard of Oz) and more in this famous cemetery. While it’s not open after regular business hours, film screenings do happen here during the summer months as part of Cinespia’s movie events.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd, LA

If you want to see a show: California Institute of Abnormal Arts

Part nightclub, part freak show, part museum, the California Institute of Abnormal Arts (or CIA) is home to some of the best underground art, music, magic, puppetry, burlesque and independent film. Oddities are scattered throughout the venue creating an eerie but cool atmosphere you just won’t find anywhere else in Los Angeles. Whether you go to enjoy some of the offbeat performances or do a little singing yourself during their karaoke night (cleverly dubbed ‘Scaryoke’), it’s sure to be an unusual and one-of-a-kind evening.

About the author

Luke Bradshaw

Sports Editor

Luke was born and raised in various parts of south London, before studying Politics and Social Psychology at Loughborough University. His time in the midlands was limited to his study and upon his return to the capital (via the obligatory travelling in between), wrote for a number of different local and national publications, before moving into the editorial side of things. Aside from the obvious interest in sport, he loves food, travel, reading and film, but if any can somehow incorporate sport in the process, then all the better.