There are so many amazing things we want to do in Los Angeles and greater Southern California that realistically the only way to have a chance at doing them all is to make a bucket list. We have a huge California bucket list and from there we choose some for our yearly list just to make sure we remember to actually get to them all.
Now that 2023 has arrived are you ready to start crossing out items from your LA bucket list? We are here to support your cause. And no better time than the start of the year so you can make your list for all the coming months.
In this article we decided to suggest some fun, unique, diverse and not to difficult to achieve bucket list items for you. We hope it helps you get inspired and make these experiences happen once and for all.
Have fun, take your friends, and satisfy your sense of adventure and curiosity as you experience these activities or places you may have intended to for a long time. After you check these off it’s time for a new bucket list because you will never run out of fun adventures in and near LA!
1 – Take a Selfie at Sunken City
Description:
In the beautiful Point Fermin area of San Pedro, is a hidden gem that when explored with caution, can provide a cool experience as well as some great pictures.
Sunken City is a unique destination that is known for its “Mad Max like” landscape and interesting history. The area was once a neighborhood that was destabilized by a landslide and subsequently abandoned.
Today, it is a popular spot for photographers and Instagrammers who come to take pictures of the abandoned houses and the graffiti-covered walls, nestled against the ocean and cliffs. If you’re visiting Sunken City, be sure to bring your camera and snap a selfie or two to commemorate your visit. Just be sure to stay safe and respect the area, as it is still considered private property. Expect spectacular views, and graffiti to fill the backdrop of your pics.
If you haven’t been here yet, be aware that its the site of a natural landslide that occurred towards the end of the 1920s. Although the panorama is gorgeous, and the hike is fun, be aware the ground is not stable in all spots and you should proceed with caution and be very careful when visiting this historical spot.
And its also technically trespassing and you could even be ticketed! We have always gone on early weekdays (before 9AM) and have not had an issue but be on the lookout if you decide to risk it.
Location: San Pedro, CA 90731
Pic Credit: @lifeofvic
2 – Visit The Last Bookstore
Description:
This one of a kind bookstore carrying new and used books and lots of interesting things to see. The Last Bookstore is housed in a hundred year old bank building and it’s massive, at 22,000 sq feet to be precise.
It’s a great opportunity for creative pictures here as the vintage building has so much unique character. There is so much to see around every nook and cranny including a mammoth head on a wall, a book tunnel and a giant vault.
Of course its not just about the aesthetics as there are tons and tons of shelves with endless treasures and books. You can also find some really hard to find and valuable treasures and one of the rooms displays wonderful collections, first editions, and unique art pieces. You can also sell or trade books here.
This very special place is more than books as the massive building also has a vinyl shop and comic and graphic novel store.
If you’re in the Downtown Los Angeles area and are looking for a fun and interesting place to visit, consider stopping by The Last Bookstore and knocking this off your bucket list.
You never know what treasures you might find!
Location: 453 South Spring Street Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013
PIC Credit: @magicteachingmel
3 – Get into the Magic Castle
Description:
Sometimes there are spots are so exclusive it makes people wonder how to even get in there. The Magic Castle is one of them. This century old Victorian mansion built in 1908, is home to the Academy of Magical Arts. It’s a very intriguing and historical place surrounded by mystery and fun, and it’s members only magician club-house makes it very exclusive.
So how do you get in? If you don’t want to pay the $750 a year in membership plus additional requirements, there are a few other ways to get in. Current members can hand out guest passes, so the easiest way is knowing a member that can let you in or invite you. Maybe your brother in law’s best friend’s sisters uncle knows a member? The point is to start asking around because you never know who might have the hookup.
Spending the night at the Magic Castle Hotel is another way to access the castle. Magic Castle Hotel is an apartment style building right next to the Castle and totally worth it if you really want to get in. The hotel can book you a reservation at the club based on availability so its not a 100% guarantee but a pretty good bet.
We got one last hack for you! Attend a magic show, and ask for an invitation to the Magic Castle. If you already know a magician and you attend his/her show, you can approach them at the end of the performance, and ask politely for an invitation to Magic Castle.
Listen to this episode of the LifeHacksLA podcast with Magician David Minkin where he revealed some more tips for getting in to the Castle.
And remember if you do get luckily enough to snag a ticket remember to check their dress code before you attend because its very strict.
Location: 7001 Franklin Avenue Hollywood, CA 90028
PIC Credit: @magiccastlehotel
4 – Climb to the Baldwin Hills Overlook
Description:
Its the start of a New Year, a time many people decide to get in better shape as part of their New Year’s resolution. So many Angelinos scramble to find the next spot for working out, including beaches, hiking trails, gyms and so forth. But many of us haven’t done one of the best out door workouts in LA and that’s the long climb up the stairs at Baldwin Hills Overlook.
This intense climb features over 280 uneven steps, leading up to the top of the Baldwin Hills Overlook. The outcome? Well if you finish the climb you will most definitely burn out all those extra calories you gulped down during the holidays.
But also you will be rewarded with some of the most marvelous views of the city once you reach the top. Plus you can proudly cross off one of the cities best workouts off your LA bucket list and maybe show off to friends with a few selfies posted to Instagram from the top.
Location: 6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232
PIC Credit: @val_di_martino
5 – Throw a Hibachi Party
Description:
An amazing LA activity, fun for the whole family and you don’t even need to leave the house? Hibachi is a Japanese style of cooking using an open flaming grill, and it has become one of the most sensational at home party options in Los Angeles thanks to Let’s Hibachi! Not only is it fun to watch the creative chefs cooking delicious dishes right in front of you, they also put on a fun, entertaining and interactive show that gets the whole party involved.
There are huge flames, egg toss into the hat, zucchini mouth catches, sake squirt guns, very fun and entertaining chefs and that is just part of the show! Whether its a more adult oriented bachelorette party, a graduation or a little kids party they adjust to the environment and get all the party goers involved and having fun. Not only is the food delicious but the sake also goes around non stop, making these parties a fun hit for people celebrating special occasions and looking to let loose with family and friends in the comfort of their own homes.
Another cool thing is Let’s Hibachi has just launched Let’s Sushi right here in LA. So if you’re looking for a professional chef to come over and give your party a more upscale or elegant experience this is it! Delicious sushi, sashimi and sake severed to you and your guests from an excellent sushi chef with over 20 years experience. You can click here to find out more and book Let’s Sushi. http://letssushila.com
Location: Your House
PIC Credit: @hibachicalifornia
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!