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.

7 places · Updated Oct 2026

Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round

Classic 1926 Spillman carousel with 68 hand-carved horses, right in the heart of Griffith Park. $3 per ride. The adjacent pony rides ($5) are a Griffith Park tradition since 1948. Combine with the nearby Train Rides and a picnic at the park tables for a low-cost afternoon.

4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027Weekends & holidays 11am–5pm. Summer: daily 11am–5pm.Ages 0+
$3–$5/ride
El Capitan Theatre

Disney's own 1926 movie palace showing first-run Disney, Pixar, and Marvel films with live pre-shows, 4D effects, and character meet-and-greets. VIP admission includes reserved balcony seats and free popcorn. A genuinely special moviegoing experience for kids — worlds apart from a multiplex. Check the schedule for themed events tied to new releases.

6838 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028Opens 1hr before first showAges 0+
$20–$35
Annenberg Community Beach House

A unique public beach facility with a swimming pool, splash pad, playground, volleyball courts, and community events. The pool is open seasonally with affordable admission. The grounds include a historic Marion Davies guest house gallery. Free to visit the grounds; pool and some programs require a fee.

415 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica, CA 90402Daily 8:30am-5:30pm (seasonal hours vary)
$10
Highland Park Bowl

LA's oldest bowling alley (est. 1927), beautifully restored with original woodwork, a full Italian restaurant, and craft cocktails. Eight lanes in an intimate setting — feels more like a speakeasy than a bowling alley. All ages before 8pm daily. Reservations strongly recommended on weekends.

5621 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042Mon–Thu 5pm–12am, Fri 5pm–2am, Sat 12pm–2am, Sun 12pm–12am
$25/person
Two Bit Circus

38,000-square-foot micro-amusement park in the Arts District featuring VR experiences, story rooms, classic arcades, and experimental games. Pay-per-experience model — entry is free, individual attractions $5–$35. Great for groups and date nights who want something beyond dinner and a movie.

634 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90021Thu–Fri 6pm–12am, Sat 1pm–12am, Sun 1pm–8pm. Closed Mon–Wed.
$5–$35/attraction
The Escape Game

Top-rated escape room in Los Angeles with Hollywood-quality set design and production value. Multiple themed rooms ranging 60 minutes each, accommodating 2–8 players. Great for date nights, friend groups, and team outings. Book online in advance — popular time slots sell out.

10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Space 2945, Los Angeles, CA 90067
$43–$47/person
El Capitan Theatre

Disney-operated 1926 movie palace on Hollywood Boulevard showing first-run Disney, Pixar, and Marvel films with extras you cannot get anywhere else — live pre-shows, 4D effects, themed photo ops, and occasional character appearances. A genuinely magical moviegoing experience for all ages.

6838 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028Opens 1hr before first show, closes 30min after last show
$20–$35