As someone who used to live in the LA area for nearly a decade, I loved finding unique places to visit in Southern California.
And if you’re planning a trip, then there are the obvious places you’ll wanna visit like Venice Beach, LACMA, or The Walk of Fame. And that’s great, put those things on your list, there’s nothing wrong with those locations and activities. They’re pretty fun to do!
But, I’m gonna give you a few more ideas that you might wanna add to your list of things to do in Southern California (just in case).
They’re some of my personal favorites and definitely worth the trip.
So before you start traveling around California, check out these new spots and fun attractions that are worth the trip and that’ll make your vacation a bit more memorable.
1. South Pasadena
I really love South Pasadena, and yep, it’s a separate city from Pasadena.
It still has that nice old-town feel with its soda shop that serves up amazing cheese fries and milkshakes, pretty shaded parks and streets, relaxed coffee houses, and cute shops.
It’s such a hidden gem and perfect for family outings if you want a more relaxed day for your trip.
Also, I honestly think it’s worth the stop if you’re gonna be on Colorado Boulevard anyway.
2. Echo Park
This spot is something I’ve enjoyed since I was eleven, and if you’re looking for fun places to go, then this is a unique experience you don’t wanna skip.
Echo Park is a pretty place to have a picnic, enjoy the lotus flowers, and have fun on the cute swan paddle boats.
Also, it has a great view of the Los Angeles skyline which makes it a pretty place to be around sunset.
The neighborhood can be a fun place to explore and it’s one of my favorite places for photography. So if you’re looking into what to do in Southern California, then definitely don’t sleep on this location!
Side Note: If you’re visiting mid-July, see if you can make it for the Lotus Festival. It’s pretty fun!
3. Silver Lake
Silver Lake is pretty close to Echo Park and a pretty neighborhood where you can explore cute streets, stop at one of their many cafes, and appreciate the beautiful murals.
Another couple of great ideas: Have a picnic by the Silver Lake Reservoir or check out Elysian Park nearby and have a picnic (super beautiful spot!).
4. The Americana
This is one of my favorite places to go in Southern California
And if you’re wanting to shop, then definitely head to Glendale.
They have a beautiful outdoor shopping spot called The Americana where you can get some great coffee, tasty food, read some books, and listen to music playing.
It’s a really relaxed and fun place to go if you have the time!
5. Huntington Gardens
While this spot is last on the list, I think it should probably be at the top of your list for places to visit in California
I love the Huntington Gardens.
Previously owned by Henry Edwards Huntington (an American railroad magnet), the grounds are filled with amazingly beautiful gardens.
You’ll find a Japanese garden which has been featured in movies, a beautiful Chinese garden (my personal favorite), desert gardens, and so much more.
And on top of that, you can go into the main home and see the art gallery filled with amazing pieces, and their beautiful library.
This is definitely worth your time if you’re visiting Southern California. 👌
Grace Moser is the author and founder of Chasing Foxes, where she writes articles to help women create a life they love in big and small ways. She's been a full-time traveler since 2016 and loves sharing her experiences and exploring the world with her husband, Silas. Her lifestyle and travel advice can also be seen on sites such as Business Insider, Glamour, Newsweek, Huffpost, & Apartment Therapy.