Moon
Los Angeles is more than just Hollywood glamour and celebrity sightings; it’s a city filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
As a passionate traveler with a love for photography, I’ve explored the diverse neighborhoods and landscapes of LA to uncover some lesser-known but truly Instagram-worthy spots. Here are 10 unique places that will add a touch of magic to your feed:
1. Micheltorena Heart Stairs
Tucked away in the vibrant neighborhood of Silver Lake, the Micheltorena Heart Stairs are a delightful surprise.
These colorful, heart-shaped mosaic tiles adorn a staircase leading up the hill, creating a whimsical and romantic backdrop for your photoshoot. As you climb the stairs, each step reveals a new burst of color and creativity, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
- Price: Free
- Accessibility: Be aware that the Micheltorena Heart Stairs involve climbing
- Dog friendly: Yes, but leash laws apply
- Description: Colorful staircase adorned with heart-shaped mosaic tiles, offering a whimsical and scenic backdrop for photos.
- Photo Tip: The colorful tiles and overall design create a vibrant and unique backdrop for Instagram pictures. Take photos as you climb to capture the different sections of the stairs
Location: The Micheltorena Stairs, also known as the Silverlake Heart Stairs, are located at 3324 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026.
2. The Last Bookstore
Nestled in the heart of Downtown LA, The Last Bookstore is a paradise for book lovers and Instagrammers alike. Housed in a historic bank building, this sprawling bookstore is a maze of bookshelves, hidden alcoves, and whimsical art installations.
Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo in the famous “Book Tunnel,” where thousands of books create a mesmerizing archway that seems to go on forever.
- Price: Free admission
- Hours: Open daily from 11am to 8pm (closed Thanksgiving & Christmas)
- Parking: No on-site parking, but nearby lots available (expect to pay ~$10)
- Public Transportation: Pershing Square metro station is one block away
- What to Expect: A historic bank building transformed into a massive bookstore with:
- New and used books
- Vinyl records
- Graphic novels
- Art installations
- Shops on the mezzanine level
- Instagrammable Spots:
- The famous “Book Tunnel” – a towering archway made entirely of books
- Unique art installations throughout the store
- Dramatic architecture of the historic bank building
Location: The Last Bookstore is located at 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
3. The Bradbury Building
Step into a piece of LA history at The Bradbury Building, a stunning architectural gem located in Downtown. This iconic building, featured in movies like “Blade Runner,” boasts a breathtaking interior with ornate ironwork, marble staircases, and a soaring glass ceiling.
- Price: Free to enter, some tours may have a charge
- Hours: Open weekdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (check for exceptions as hours may be subject to change)
- Accessibility: Limited wheelchair accessibility due to the historic nature of the building
- Photography: Allowed in most areas, but tripods and flash photography are generally not permitted (check for any updates on their website)
- Website: Check their website for current hours and information on tours
- Architectural Style: Renaissance Revival, Romanesque Revival, Chicago School
- Famous For:
- Ornate ironwork railings and staircases
- Skylight atrium with a glass ceiling
- Featured in many films including “Blade Runner”
- Instagrammable Spots:
- The grand staircase
- The skylit atrium looking up towards the glass ceiling
- Ornate details throughout the building
Whether you’re capturing the intricate details of the staircase or gazing up at the mesmerizing light filtering through the atrium, The Bradbury Building offers endless opportunities for stunning photos.
Location: The Bradbury Building is located at 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
4. The Getty Villa
Transport yourself to ancient Greece and Rome at The Getty Villa, a cultural oasis nestled in the Pacific Palisades. This stunning museum is dedicated to the arts and cultures of ancient civilizations, with beautifully curated galleries and lush gardens inspired by ancient Roman villas.
Wander through the outdoor theater, meander along the reflecting pools, and marvel at the classical sculptures—all while capturing moments of timeless beauty for your Instagram feed.
- Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday and Monday holidays from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm (closed Mondays except holidays)
- Parking: $17 for cars, $25 for buses/oversized vehicles
- Public Transportation: Metro bus 464 stops near the Getty Villa
- Instagrammable Spots:
- Classical sculptures throughout the galleries
- Reflecting pools
- Outdoor theater
Location: The Getty Villa is located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, at 1800 Pacific Coast Hwy, Los Angeles, CA 90404
5. Pink Wall at Paul Smith
For a pop of pink perfection, head to the famous Pink Wall at Paul Smith on Melrose Avenue. This vibrant, Instagram-famous mural has become a must-visit spot for influencers and creatives.
Strike a pose against the bright pink backdrop and let the bold color make your photos pop. Just remember, cameras are not allowed inside the store, so be sure to snap your shot from the sidewalk.
- Price: Free to take photos
- Accessibility: Sidewalk location
- Photo Tip: The bright pink wall is perfect for colorful photos.
- Camera Policy: Photos allowed from the sidewalk, but no photography inside the store.
- Additional Information: The Pink Wall is part of the Paul Smith clothing store. It’s a popular spot for social media photos, so expect crowds, especially during peak tourist times.
Location: 8221 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
6. California Dreaming at Chinese Laundry
Step into a dreamy world of typography and color at the California Dreaming mural behind Chinese Laundry on La Cienega Boulevard. Created by artist JGoldcrown, known for his Bleeding Hearts murals, this colorful masterpiece is a visual delight.
Pose against the vibrant backdrop of hearts and whimsical phrases, and let the cheerful energy of the mural brighten up your Instagram feed.
- Price: Free to view
- Artist: JGoldcrown (known for the Bleeding Hearts murals)
- Description: A large-scale mural featuring vibrant colors, whimsical phrases, and hearts.
- Photo Tip: The mural is a great spot for eye-catching Instagram photos.
- Parking: Street parking is available, but it can be limited. There is also a public parking lot located at 3440 S La Cienega Blvd for ~$10 per day.
- Public Transportation: Metro bus 20 stops near the mural.
Location: 3423 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
Each of these unique spots offers a glimpse into the diverse and eclectic charm of Los Angeles.
So grab your camera, venture off the beaten path, and let these hidden treasures inspire your next Instagram adventure!