5 Free Hidden Gems of LA
Los Angeles is full of hidden gems all over the city. This list is consisted of 5 of the best fun things to do in LA spotted by locals. Did I mention that they are all totally free? Yes, you can do all of these things for free. These are also perfect secret photo locations or Instagram spots. If you’re a fan of the Downton LA skyline, you are going to enjoy this list!
1. Vista Hermosa Park
Adress: 100 N Toluca St, Los Angeles, CA 90026
If you’ve ever seen the movie ‘500 days of summer’, the first scene would be a little similar to the Vista Hermosa Park bench. You can get the view of the Downtown LA skyscrapers surrounded by the plants of Vista Hermosa through the famous bench.
This park is the perfect picnic spot to relax and enjoy while appreciating that you are right next to the busiest part of the city.
2. Ernest E. Debs
Address: 4235 Monterey Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90032
Right on top of the hill of Ernest E. Debs is a gorgeous man-made pond with a perfect frame to the Los Angeles skyscraper. You can do this hike as short or long as you want as it has a variety of trails. Some people go fishing here at the lake, watch the ducks & turtles, walk with their pets and just relax. There are benches all over the place with great views so bring your book and find your perfect spot.
3. Swing at Elysian Park (No Longer Available)
Where: Elysian Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Type in Google Maps: “The Hidden Swing, Elysian Park”
(Update: Hidden Swing is no longer there)
The hidden swing on top of the Elysian Park is something you do not want to miss. It would only take you 5-10 minutes to get to the top but make sure to have hiking shoes as the uphill can be quite steep. Once you are on top, you are in wonderland. You’ll be overlooking Los Angeles with the 110freeway traffic.
4. Elysian Park/ 110 Freeway Bridge at Park Row Drive
Where: Park Row Drive Bridge over the 110 Freeway
This point of view at the Park Row Drive bridge gives an illusion that the freeway path is leading straight to the Downtown Los Angeles skyline. Photographers come here all the time as this would be great for night shots especially if set you camera to long exposure.
5. Planespotting at In-N-Out Burger at LAX
Address: 9149 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Fast Food, Fast Views. To all the airplane enthusiasts, you can watch the airplanes at the park across In-n-Out burger by LAX. It is located right next to the runway so the planes would go extremely low. Some of the people would go on the “Flight Radar” app to check if its the bigger plane that is arriving.
