Unique Things to Do in Los Angeles
LA's most unique experiences include Two Bit Circus immersive gaming arcade, Highland Park Bowl in a restored 1927 building, The Escape Game Hollywood, El Capitan Theatre's Disney premieres with live pre-shows, and Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round from 1926.
8 places · 1 free · Updated Oct 2026
1926 Spillman carousel with 68 hand-carved horses. $3 per ride. Adjacent pony rides ($5) have been running since 1948. Combine with the nearby Train Rides and a picnic at the park tables for a $15 afternoon.
Disney runs this 1926 movie palace showing first-run Disney, Pixar, and Marvel films with live pre-shows, 4D effects, and character meet-and-greets. VIP admission: reserved balcony and free popcorn. Worlds apart from a multiplex. Check for themed events tied to new releases.
Miniature train rides through a mile of Griffith Park, operating since 1948. $3.50 per ride for adults and kids (under 18 months free). The train passes through a dark tunnel that toddlers either love or hate. Near the merry-go-round and pony rides -- easy to combine all three.
605 acres of trails and nature between Beverly Hills and the Valley. The lake is where the Andy Griffith Show filmed its opening. Multiple easy trails suitable for families with young kids. The Sooky Goldman Nature Center offers free programs. Free parking, free entry. A genuinely peaceful escape from the city.
LA's oldest bowling alley, from 1927. Beautifully restored original woodwork, eight lanes, a full Italian restaurant, and craft cocktails. Feels more like a speakeasy than a bowling alley. All ages before 8pm. Reserve on weekends or you won't get a lane.
38,000-square-foot micro-amusement park in the Arts District. VR experiences, story rooms, classic arcades, experimental games. Entry is free -- you pay per attraction ($5-$35 each). Better than dinner and a movie for groups or dates.
Multiple themed rooms, 60 minutes each, 2-8 players. The set design and production value here is noticeably better than most escape rooms -- this is LA, after all. Book online in advance; popular time slots sell out.
Disney runs this 1926 movie palace on Hollywood Boulevard. First-run Disney, Pixar, and Marvel films with live pre-shows, 4D effects, themed photo ops, and occasional character appearances. Not like any other movie theater. All ages.