Electric & Eclectic: Top 5 Only In L.A. Experiences
Los Angeles is like no other city in the world. The unique energy of this vibrant global metropolis pulses in every neighborhood - world-class performances, spectacular events and quirky hidden gems are waiting for you day and night. From the world's first Skyslide to one of the most unusual museums in the country, read on for five must-see, only-in-L.A. experiences that you will never forget.
LUCHA VAVOOM
Celebrating its Quinceañera in August 2017, Lucha VaVOOM is a wild mashup of lucha libre (Mexican masked wrestling), burlesque and standup comedy. Taking place at the historic Mayan Theatre in Downtown L.A., Lucha VaVOOM hosts alternative holiday events on Valentine's Day, Cinco de Mayo and Halloween. The L.A.-based performance troupe has sold out venues across the country and around the world. Tickets are now on sale for the next Lucha VaVOOM in L.A., two raucous Halloween events on Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 25-26.
Break Room 86
Part of the Houston Hospitality collection of nightlife spots, Break Room 86 is an '80s-themed karaoke venue hidden in the back of The Line Hotel in Koreatown. With cocktail names that will remind you of your favorite teen idol and a soundtrack like your favorite mix tape, it's always a fun time. Sing on stage with a live band, or book a private room for you and your friends, whether you're there for the karaoke or the Atari.
Whether it's steampunk, a glowing dance floor, cigars or simply a hard-to-find entrance, bars across Los Angeles have surprises waiting for you. Check out our guide to the best hidden bars in L.A. - because there's nothing better than sharing a secret.
Venice Boardwalk
The world famous Venice Ocean Front Walk (aka “the Boardwalk”) is one of the best places in L.A. for people watching, from colorful local characters to visitors from around the globe. There’s something for everyone on the concrete boardwalk - on one side there are specialty shops, restaurants and uniquely designed residences; and on the other a myriad of street performers, artists, fortune tellers and much more.
For a truly eclectic shopping experience, head to nearby Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Dubbed "the coolest block in America" by GQ, this bustling district, which stretches from Venice Boulevard to Pacific Avenue, is home to one-of-kind local goods as well as internationally recognized brands.
Museum of Jurassic Technology
Discreetly located on a stretch of Venice Boulevard that’s better known for strip malls and Indian food, the Museum of Jurassic Technology houses hundreds of fantastical and fascinating artifacts - some real, some invented. They're interspersed with no distinction between fact and fantasy - that's the museum's charm. It's a true cabinet of curiosities, stuffed with odd items like portraits of canine cosmonauts, bats that can fly through walls, and sculptures on the head of a needle. On the second floor, tea and cookies are served in the Tula Tea Room, which is next to the rooftop garden where you might spot founder David Wilson playing an obscure medieval instrument. Or maybe it's just a ukulele - you'll have to figure it out on your own.
Go beyond the Getty Center and LACMA and discover L.A.'s most unique museums. From the Bunny Museum to the Velveteria, here are the Top 10 quirky L.A. museums.