1. The Museum of Death: Hollywood’s Macabre Curiosity
A Haunting Glimpse Into the Dark Side Tucked in Hollywood, the Museum of Death (founded in 1995) isn’t for the faint-hearted. Its chilling exhibits include serial killer artwork, autopsy tools, and crime scene photos from infamous cases like the Manson Family murders.
Confronting Mortality Head-On This controversial museum invites visitors to reflect on life’s fragility. While unsettling, it sparks conversations about forensic science and criminal psychology.
Plan Your Visit Entry costs $20 (ages 13+). Note: The graphic content may disturb young children or sensitive guests.
The Old Zoo in Griffith Park: Where Nature Reclaims Ruins
Abandoned Enclosures Tell Stories Griffith Park’s original zoo, operational from 1912 to 1966, now stands as a haunting relic. Crumbling cages and ivy-covered grottos offer a eerie backdrop for photos or picnics.
A Surreal Picnic Spot Locals love this free attraction for its mix of history and tranquility. Kids climb empty enclosures while photographers capture its post-apocalyptic vibe.
Hidden Hiking Trails Nearby trails like the Fern Dell Nature Walk connect to the zoo, making it a perfect pit stop during a Griffith Park adventure.
3. The Last Bookstore: Downtown LA’s Literary Wonderland
Books as Art in a Bank Turned Bookstore Housed in a 1914 bank building, The Last Bookstore (opened in 2005) boasts towering book tunnels, floating shelves, and a vault-turned-horror section.
More Than Just Books Browse vinyl records, local art, and attend poetry nights. Don’t miss the “Book Hedgehog” sculpture—a fan favorite.
Free to Explore, Hard to Leave Entry is free, but you’ll likely leave with a stack of $5 used books. Over 250,000 titles await!
4. The Bunny Museum: Pasadena’s Hopping Obsession
H3: Guinness World Record Holder With over 45,000 rabbit-themed items (plush toys, teacups, and lawn ornaments), this museum in Pasadena holds the record for “most bunny collectibles.”
A Family-Friendly Oddity Founded by Candace Frazee and Steve Lubanski, the museum ($12 admission) even houses live bunnies! Kids adore the whimsy, while adults marvel at the dedication.
Celebrate All Things Fluffy Visit on Easter for egg hunts or year-round for a dose of quirky joy.
5. Sunken City: San Pedro’s Coastal Ghost Town
A Neighborhood Lost to the Sea In 1929, a landslide sent 40,000 tons of land into the Pacific Ocean near San Pedro. Today, fractured sidewalks and rusted pipes create an apocalyptic scene.
Urban Exploration Hotspot Though technically off-limits, adventurers flock here for graffiti art and ocean vistas. Wear sturdy shoes—the terrain is uneven.
Sunset Magic Stay for golden-hour views of the Catalina Islands. Just avoid rainy days, as the cliffs remain unstable.
Conclusion: Embrace LA’s Quirky Side Los Angeles thrives on contrasts—where else can you picnic in a ghost zoo or wander a sunken neighborhood? These five weird places in Los Angeles prove the city’s magic lies beyond its postcard-perfect facade. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, dive into these hidden gems and discover why LA’s strangeness is its greatest charm.