80+ Unique Things to Do in California (Hidden Gems & Cool Places)
Published Dec. 2023 | Updated March 2026
There is no shortage of unique things to do in California, but it can be hard to find things to see and do that you’ve never heard of before, especially if you’re a local!
I’m a California native and have lived in both Northern California and Southern California. Living in California my whole life has led to lots of exploration of my home state!
Although the popular, well-known attractions in California are definitely worth a visit, I’ve collected a lifetime of unique things to do in California and compiled them in this list for you.
I hope you discover new things on this list, even if you are a native Californian!
Quick Guide: 5 Most Unique Things to Do in California
In a rush? This is my short list of the most unique things to do in California. It includes places and activities all around the state that you likely won’t find anywhere else.
Queen Wilhelmina Garden — Explore the charming tulip garden surrounding an authentic Dutch windmill, gifted to San Francisco by Queen Wilhelmina herself.
Egyptian Museum — Find real Egyptian mummies and artifacts in this San Jose museum run by a cult-like secret organization.
Mono Lake Tufas — Walk among the limestone towers, called tufas, that make up this otherworldly lakeside landscape.
Ostrichland USA — Feed ostriches and emus at this small farm just outside of downtown Solvang.
World Famous Crochet Museum — Visit this tiny museum in a giant TV-like structure in the eccentric town near Joshua Tree National Park.
Unique Things To Do in Northern California
Northern California has a fun range of unique places, from the rugged northern coastal region to the exciting, activity-filled San Francisco Bay Area. If you love redwoods, nature, and wineries, Northern California is the place to visit.
There are some incredible gardens, which are some of my favorite unique activities to do in Northern California. Whatever interests you, this region of California probably has something to offer!
Drive Through a Giant Tree in Leggett
One of my favorite memories as a kid was taking a road trip from San Francisco to Oregon, where the journey was just as important as the destination.
We stopped at all the fun roadside attractions and took our time getting to Oregon. This giant drive-thru tree in Leggett is one of my more vivid memories from the trip because of how mind-blowing it was!
Leggett is a small, forested town about 55 miles north of Mendocino. It would have probably been another town you just drive through on your way to somewhere else if not for the 315-foot redwood tree.
This tree had a large, square opening cut out of the middle of the base in 1937 to attract tourists. All these years later, you can still drive your car through it; although, your oversized, lifted pick-up truck won’t fit.
Walk Through the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes
Point Reyes is north of San Francisco in an area that juts out from the coast. It backs up to Tomales Bay, which runs diagonally from Dillon Beach to Point Reyes Station. The Point Reyes National Seashore is a protected area operated by the U.S. National Park Service.
In Point Reyes National Seashore, you’ll find two rows of Cypress trees flanking a long road and arching over it to create a tunnel. This tunnel of trees, planted in 1930, leads to an old Art Deco building that was used as a radio station.
The Wes Anderson-esque building is no longer in use, but it is a cool spot to visit and photograph! The Cypress tree tunnel is a cool photo spot as well.
Have a Glass with a View at Domaine Carneros
Napa Valley is a world-renowned wine-making region, with some of the best wines in the world. Though I’m not a big fan of wine, I couldn’t resist getting a glass to drink while overlooking the sprawling vineyards at Domaine Carneros.
Domaine Carneros is a grand house set atop a hill in Napa Valley. They specialize in sparkling wines, and I had a delicious rosé.
If you want to do a tasting and order food, you must book ahead of time. They do not accept walk-ins for tastings. Alternatively, you can order a single glass of wine to enjoy inside or while walking around the property (outdoor seating is for tastings only).
Not a fan of wine? No problem! You can still visit the winery and explore the grounds without a reservation — no need to order any wine.
Ride the Napa Wine Train for a Meal
The Napa Valley Wine Train is a restored Pullman railcar with different train cars, all exquisitely decorated. It offers a variety of experiences during the daytime and in the evening, including multi-course lunches, a full-day tasting, afternoon tea, and multi-course dinners.
If you’re taking a day trip to Napa Valley, consider getting lunch or dinner on the wine train!
Tour Jack London’s Abandoned Dream House
While Napa Valley’s neighbor to the west, Sonoma Valley, is also a popular area to visit wineries, it also has a unique state park.
Jack London State Park is a preserved area of land that Jack London once owned. He and his wife, Charmian, are buried on the property. Today, you can still visit some of the houses they built during their time here!
Wolf House is possibly the most interesting building on the property, as it was never actually lived in by Jack or Charmian. Jack London had the house constructed to be his dream home and primary residence. Unfortunately, it caught fire and burned down before they could ever move in.
You can visit the ruins today and get an up-close look at what is left of them.
Admire Floating Houses in Sausalito
Sausalito is a small town across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco. It has delicious seafood restaurants, stunning views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, and a community of houseboats floating in the bay!
Each houseboat is uniquely designed, painted, and decorated — one is even painted like a Mondrian artwork!
Rock Climb in Mount Diablo State Park in Alamo
The East Bay has a decent amount of parks and hiking trails, but Mount Diablo State Park is one of the best. It takes longer to get to than other hiking trails nearby since you have to drive up the mountain, but the landscape is spectacular. I especially love the unique rock structures.
Watch a Movie with a Live Orchestra in San Francisco
The San Francisco Symphony isn’t just for purely musical performances! I attended a showing of Pirates of the Caribbean with a live orchestra, and it was one of the most magical experiences.
They have multiple movie showings paired with a live orchestra throughout the year, in addition to their other orchestral performances.
You can dress up or stay casual — we saw outfits across the full spectrum! Arrive early so you have enough time to explore the gorgeous interior, order a drink or snack, and find your seats.
Visit Baby Reindeer at the Cal Academy
Every year for the holidays in San Francisco, the California Academy of Sciences brings in pairs of adorable baby animals that you can visit up close. The animals are related to the theme of the season, with camels, yaks, and reindeer!
Each pair of animals is there for two weeks, so be sure to check the schedule to see which animals will be there and when!
The first pair of animals usually arrives at the end of November, with the last being there until the first week of January. In 2024, the reindeer were the first animals to arrive at Cal Academy, and boy, were they cuties.
Walk Andy Goldsworthy's Wood Line in San Francisco
Andy Goldsworthy is a well-known installation artist who creates works from natural materials that sit within an environment. San Francisco is home to Wood Line, which is a 1,200-ft line of eucalyptus tree trunks laid in a line along a walking path.
Find Tulips at Queen Wilhelmina Garden in San Francisco
Upon walking into Queen Wilhelmina’s Garden, you’ll be transported to Denmark with its authentic Dutch windmill and blossoming tulip gardens.
The windmill was donated to San Francisco in 1902 by Queen Wilhelmina herself! The tulips are in peak bloom in the spring, which draws in large crowds on weekends.
It’s one of the best places to visit in California in the spring!
Tour the Inside of San Francisco’s Painted Ladies
Did you know that you can tour inside one of the iconic Painted Ladies in San Francisco?! George, the owner of the blue house, gives tours of his house at 4 p.m. every single day!
I recommend booking ahead of time to ensure there’s space on the tour, but if you didn’t plan ahead, no reservations are required. It’s $30 per person, and the tour lasts about 1-2 hours, depending on how engaged the group is.
You’ll get a tour of the whole inside, interesting history about the house and area, as well as fun, personal anecdotes from George about all the unique opportunities he’s gotten because of the house he lives in!
Hike the Flag Hill Trail in Sunol
After some rain, the hills of Sunol become a gorgeous, vivid green. The end of winter and early spring is my favorite time of year to hike the 3.9-mile loop trail. The last stretch is a bit steep and takes more energy, but it’s worth it to make it to the top for the amazing aerial views of the green hills! It truly looks like Ireland.
Eat at the Most Beautiful Taco Bell in the World
It may sound ridiculous, but this Taco Bell in Pacifica is truly the most beautiful in the world. It’s set right on the beach with incredible views of the ocean in Pacifica, just north of Half Moon Bay.
This building has been here since the 1960s, when it was an A&W. At some point between the 60s and 1970s, it changed to a Taco Bell. Prop 20 passed in 1972, disallowing any more buildings on this side of Highway 1, making Taco Bell a unique structure.
I grew up in Half Moon Bay and made numerous visits to this Taco Bell throughout my childhood. It became even more popular once it turned into a cantina location and started selling alcoholic beverages — margarita with a burrito on the beach, anyone?
The Taco Bell was closed for a period of time for a remodel, but reopened in April 2025! They’ve got a wide selection of alcohol, the best views, and the menu you know and love.
Picnic at the Pulgas Water Temple in Woodside
The Pulgas Water Temple was built as a monument to celebrate the Hetch Hetchy Project, which brought water 160 miles to the Bay Area from the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
It’s just next to my favorite place in the Bay Area, Filoli Historic House & Garden. The grassy area in front of the temple is a great spot to picnic on a sunny day!
The Pulgas Water Temple is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day and is completely free to enter. The parking lot is closed on weekends, so only pedestrians, bikers, or equestrians can enter.
Explore Filoli Historic House & Garden in Woodside
As mentioned above, my favorite place in the Bay Area is Filoli Historic House and Garden. It’s a large property with many well-maintained gardens and a gorgeous estate.
It was once a private residence lived in by a family, but is now open to the public to tour both the gardens and the mansion. The house and gardens completely transform from season to season, with new flowers and decor every month!
Note: You must buy tickets online in advance to reserve your day and time of visit.
Walk Through a Cactus Garden at Stanford University
Stanford University has a large campus with many areas open to the public to explore and enjoy. The cactus garden, although small, is a lovely spot to visit and has a wide variety of cactus types.
It’s also within walking distance to the Stanford Mausoleum and Stanford Sculpture Garden (where you can find the Gates of Hell!).
View Mummies at the Egyptian Museum in San Jose
If you want to travel back in time to Ancient Egypt, check out the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum in San Jose! It’s a well-done museum with many Egyptian artifacts, coffins, and yes, real mummies.
Aside from the real artifacts and mummies, they also have replicas of famous statues, artifacts, and an entire tomb you can walk through.
Tour the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose
Sarah Winchester, the widow of a firearms business owner, once lived in this mansion, which now hosts public tours.
The Winchester Mystery House is believed by many to be incredibly haunted, although others disagree. So much lore surrounds the house, and it seems many tales may not be true, but they are interesting and make for an exciting tour.
Visit a Massive Rose Garden in San Jose
My favorite part of San Jose is the magnificent Rose Garden in the Rose District. This sprawling park, filled with thousands of rose bushes, instantly transports you to Europe.
Why is it like Europe? For one, it’s a large piece of land with gorgeous blooms, but it’s also free! Something this beautiful and grand is rarely free in this country. It’s just there for the public to enjoy without tickets or entry fees!
See World-Record Waves at Mavericks Beach
Half Moon Bay is a small town on the peninsula known for its annual pumpkin festival, gorgeous beaches, and world-famous big waves at Mavericks Beach.
Winter is the best time to see the big waves and brave surfers taking them on. Mavericks has some of the largest waves in the world, with the largest reaching over 60ft!
Growing up in Half Moon Bay, I remember going to the beach to watch the surfers with my dad and being in awe of how giant the waves were. They may look giant now, but they seemed colossal when I was so little!
Though they don’t hold their annual Titans of Mavericks surf contest anymore, you can still go to the beach and check out the waves. Pillar Point Bluffs gives you some views of Mavericks Beach and has lovely walking trails.
Visit the Tiny Jail in Half Moon Bay
If you’re already planning to visit Half Moon Bay for the giant waves or are heading to Pacifica for the beautiful Taco Bell, make sure to stop in downtown Half Moon Bay to see its tiny two-cell jail.
Once a real jail, today, it’s a historical landmark with a lovely museum behind it. The museum has all kinds of historical information about Half Moon Bay, and the jail itself is adorable.
A stop at the jail is included in the highly rated e-bike tour!
You may not want to make a trip out just to see the jail, but Half Moon Bay is a perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway!
Hold Baby Goats at Harley Farms in Pescadero
Each spring, Harley Farms is bursting with more than 100 baby goats at their goat dairy in Pescadero, just south of Half Moon Bay.
You can pet and hold the baby goats on one of their farm tours, while also learning about their working dairy farm and shopping for fresh cheese in their farm store.
It’s one of the most joyful experiences to see the week-old goats jumping around and have them jump all over you!
Unique Things To Do in Central California
Central California is arguably the most beautiful region in the state (at least along the coast). It has the gorgeous Monterey Bay with charming towns, jaw-dropping beaches, and an abundance of wildlife.
Get Dizzy at the Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz
A ball rolling upwards, people leaning sideways, and inexplicable dizziness are all part of the unique area in the Santa Cruz Mountains dubbed the Mystery Spot.
While you can Google what is actually happening at the Mystery Spot, it’s much more fun to go on the tour and play along with the demonstrations!
Walk Under a Mudstone Arch at Natural Bridges
When the tide is low enough at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz, you can walk under the giant rock arch that gives this beach its name.
Natural Bridges State Beach once had three natural mudstone “bridges” that formed over a million years ago. Only one arch still stands today, with the other two falling in 1905 and 1980.
Sadly, the last standing arch is also at risk of collapsing, so visit while you can! The natural bridge can be seen at any time, but super low tide is when you can walk out to the arch (and go tidepooling!).
Lounge Next to Colorful Cottages in Capitola
Capitola is a lesser-known beach town just south of Santa Cruz. It has an adorable, small downtown with some shops and restaurants, a pier that was repaired in 2024 after storms destroyed it in 2023, and a nice beach.
The most identifiable area in Capitola is the iconic colorful cottages right on the beach! They’re a quaint sight to see and can even be rented for your next weekend getaway.
Ride a Steam Train at Roaring Camp in Felton
Head to Roaring Camp and hop on a steam train from 1890 for a ride through the gorgeous redwoods!
There are two routes you can take: one goes to the summit of Bear Mountain and the other takes you to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I recommend the first one, as you’ll also get a narrated history of Roaring Camp and the redwood forest.
Roaring Camp is right next to Henry Cowell State Park, which is worth a visit while you’re there!
Walk Through a Beach Tunnel at Sharkfin Cove
In the middle of the beach at Shark Fin Cove is a giant, shark-fin-shaped rock. It’s immediately recognizable to those who have been to the beachy town of Davenport.
Davenport is a tiny town just north of Santa Cruz with some beautiful beaches, a few restaurants, a hotel, a tiny church, and an old jail.
Park alongside the highway and take the steep trail down to Sharkfin Cove, where you’ll be greeted by the giant rock. To the left is where you will find the tunnel that you can walk through when the tides are low!
Walk up a Sand Dune at Lake Ct. in Marina
On a small road away from the main streets is a small parking area at the base of a sand dune. You can park here and walk up the “trail” to the top of the sand dune, where you will have ocean views.
This area is also where paragliders launch off, and I got to watch one during a visit to the sand dune!
Parking area: 36°40'58.7"N 121°48'34.4"W
Go Whale Watching in Monterey
Whales can be seen year-round in Monterey Bay, with a variety of whale species migrating through it at different times of the year. The best way to see these whales is on a whale watching boat tour departing from Fisherman’s Wharf.
You will also likely see dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, and seabirds!
Find the Butterfly House in Pacific Grove
The neighborhoods in Pacific Grove are fun to walk around and look at all the cute houses. One of the most unique Pacific Grove houses is called Butterfly House and is painted in bright colors with hundreds of butterfly designs and art.
What makes this house special—in addition to the unusual design—is the reason behind the colors and artwork. When a couple moved into this house, the wife was going blind but could still see colors.
Her husband went to work, turning it into the whimsical butterfly house you see today, as a way to bring joy and color to his wife as her eyesight degenerated.
Cruise the 17-mile Drive To Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is an adorable, quaint seaside town on the Monterey Peninsula that makes for a lovely day trip from San Francisco. It’s home to a mission, beaches, storybook buildings, and one end of the scenic 17-Mile Drive.
The drive takes you along the coast from Pacific Grove to Carmel-by-the-Sea, with 17 different spots to pull over, park, and get out to see the sights!
Discover a Waterfall That Flows into the Ocean
This isn’t a hidden gem or secret spot, but it is still a unique thing to see in California!
McWay Falls in Big Sur is a famous 80-foot waterfall that flows from a creek, down the side of a cliff, and onto the beach. During high tide, the McWay Falls flows directly into the Pacific Ocean, making it a “tidefall” instead of a waterfall.
The best views are from the McWay Falls View Point at the end of the short trail. The viewing area is tiny, so you may need to wait for your turn if you visit on a busy summer weekend.
See Elephant Seals at the Beach in San Simeon
Stop along Highway 1 in San Simeon to spot the elephant seals who lounge along the beach! Depending on the time of year you visit, there will be varying numbers of seals, and sometimes there are babies too!
Elephant seals are named for their long, squishy snouts that look like short versions of elephant snouts.
Go back to the 1930s at The Darling Hotel in Visalia
Although central California isn’t a top destination, The Darling Hotel is a hidden gem in Visalia. It is an art deco-style boutique hotel in a 1930s building that used to be the Tulare County Courthouse Annex.
The rooms are luxurious with high ceilings, giant windows, and velvet pillows. There is also a rooftop restaurant with incredible food and unique cocktails. It’s worth visiting Visalia just to stay at this hotel!
Tip: Bring earplugs as this is in the middle of downtown, and the road is noisy.
Tour the Architecture Graveyard, San Luis Obispo
Cal Poly SLO is known for its leading architectural program.
The architecture graveyard, also known as Poly Canyon, began in the 1960s. The Dean of the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at that time had students use the area to build their architectural projects.
Since then, generations of students have used this area to build projects. It is now a place you can visit to see the existing structures.
Stick Gum on the Wall in Bubblegum Alley
Seems gross, doesn’t it? Well, it is! Bubblegum Alley is exactly what it sounds like: an alleyway filled with chewed bubble gum stuck on the 15-foot-tall walls.
Though the origins of Bubblegum Alley are unclear, Bubblegum Alley was a well-known tourist attraction by the 1970s. Despite multiple cleanings, with one as recent as 1996, Bubblegum Alley is still thriving today.
It may be gross, but there’s something so fun about chewing gum just to stick it on a wall with thousands of other people’s chewed gum. All the different colors also make the alley an unusually cool spot to snap some photos!
Go Off-Roading in Sand Dunes in Pismo Beach
If you’re looking for some thrill and adventure, look no further than Pacific Adventure Tours in Pismo Beach. They offer one-hour tours of the vast sand dunes via Humvees with an expert driver.
We had such a blast ripping around the sand dunes! It was like a real-life Indiana Jones ride, zipping up the dunes before sliding down in the Humvee — sometimes sideways! It’s not necessarily scary, but if you don’t like roller coasters, you probably won’t like this.
It’s on the more expensive side at $60 per person, but it’s a fun and unique experience!
Unique Things To Do in Eastern California
As you head east towards the mountains and forests, away from the shimmering coastline, you reach California’s more remote region. Eastern California has a few national parks, the snowy Eastern Sierra Mountain range, and former Gold Rush mining towns.
It feels like a completely different state compared to the sunny, warm beaches along the coast. Among other things, you’ll find a region famous for fall apple-picking and otherworldly landscapes formed by limestone towers.
Walk Among Giants at Big Trees State Park
Arnold is a small town, about 100 miles southeast of Sacramento. It’s surrounded by dense forests and is a cool place to visit in winter.
The most notable and unique things in Arnold are the Giant Sequoias at Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Aptly named, Big Trees State Park is home to the largest sequoia ever recorded. Though it is no longer standing or alive, the tree was named Father of the Forest and is well-preserved in the park.
There are also many still-standing Giant Sequoias in Big Trees, whose scale can only be truly understood by standing at the base.
Attend Victorian Christmas in Nevada City
Almost exactly between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe is the California town of Nevada City. Yes, it’s in California! Said to be one of the best-preserved gold rush towns in the state, Nevada City may just be a hidden gem.
If you’ve heard of Nevada City, it’s likely because of its famous annual Victorian-themed Christmas street fair! They hold it every year on the streets of the historic downtown on Wednesdays and Sundays throughout December.
I visited on a Wednesday for the Victorian Christmas, expecting it to be completely overrated. Wow, was I wrong! The town is just as charming, if not more, than every video and photo I had seen of it prior to visiting.
Not only are the perfectly preserved, historical buildings beautiful, but the locals are some of the kindest and most welcoming people I’ve met. They’re so happy to share their town with you!
Walk Across a Suspension Bridge in Nevada City
One of the best trails near downtown Nevada City is the Nisenan Tribute Site Trail Head, which takes you to the Deer Creek Tribute Trail and across the Angkula Seo Suspension Bridge. You can take Wyoming Road from downtown to reach the trailhead.
The suspension bridge crosses over Deer Creek and connects to a series of winding trails. It is a true suspension bridge and bounces quite a lot as people walk across it! There aren’t any gaps in the bridge, which makes it feel much safer than bridges with planks.
Visit a Gold Mine in Grass Valley
The charming town of Grass Valley is just 10–15 minutes from Nevada City. It has a lovely, historic downtown area and a gold mine that has been turned into a state park.
The Empire Mine State Park is home to one of the richest gold mines in California. You can explore the mine equipment, go underground to see the mine itself, and tour the gorgeous “cottage” of the mine owner, William Bourn II.
If the name Bourn sounds familiar, it might be because William Bourn II was also the original owner of Filoli Historic House & Garden. The house at Filoli and the cottage at Empire Mine were both designed by the same architect!
Swim in a Waterfall at Rainbow Pool in Groveland
Along Highway 120, outside of Yosemite National Park, is a natural pool and waterfall called Rainbow Pool. It’s a great spot to visit on a hot day to cool off, admire the waterfall, and watch people jump off the top (I don’t recommend this!).
Rainbow Pools is a peaceful area, even on busier days, and is a nice stop on the way to or from Yosemite National Park.
Pick Apples in Apple Hill
One of the best fall getaways in California is a visit to the region of Apple Hill, located near Placerville and Camino. It’s a collection of apple farms offering U-pick apples, fall treats, and more. I always thought I didn’t like apples much, but tasting freshly picked apples changed my mind.
Apple-picking is best in September at the beginning of the season when the trees are still loaded with fruit. If you visit in October, there may be some remaining apples, but the pumpkin patches are the main attraction.
We stayed at the Extraordinary Camino Hotel and loved it!
Visit a Viking’s Castle in Lake Tahoe
Sounds random, right? It may seem out of place, but the 38-room mansion in South Lake Tahoe fits right into the gorgeous surroundings at Emerald Bay.
Despite the name, this castle wasn’t built by or for a Viking. It was built by a California woman, Lora Josephine Knight, who was once the richest woman in America.
The home was built with inspiration from her travels to Scandinavia and, as such, is one of the most Scandinavian buildings you can find in California. This massive castle consists of six different buildings, all with stone facades and carved wooden accents around the doors and windows.
Today, it’s part of Emerald Bay State Park and can be toured seasonally starting in May of each year. Tickets are $18/pp at the time of writing and can be purchased on-site at the visitor center. There are two trails to get there from the parking lot; both are over 1 mile long.
Pull Over at That House on 395
If you’re road tripping down Highway 395, you’ll pass this tiny house set in a field with the stunning Eastern Sierra Mountains behind it.
The “abandoned” house doesn’t have a dot on the map, but it’s known to travelers as That House on 395, The 395 House, or Old 395 House. The original owners were Frank and Betsy Sam, and the Sam Family still owns the house today!
It’s falling into disrepair and isn’t the most exciting thing on its own, but the old house, combined with the breathtaking backdrop, is worth pulling over for.
Location: 37°53'59.6"N 119°05'37.7"W
Walk Among Tufas at Mono Lake in Lee Vining
Step into another planet at Mono Lake, which is known for its Tufas — towers of limestone. These look similar to stalagmites and are made of the same material, but form in different processes.
Mono Lake is an exceptionally salty lake and consequently has salty shores instead of sand. The tufas are in a couple of different areas and are incredible to view up close!
Drive the Scenic June Lake Loop
The June Lake Loop is a stunning detour that should not be missed on a Highway 395 road trip. The almost-16-mile loop passes by four different lakes and through the charming June Lake community.
You can choose to just drive the loop and continue onto your next destination—likely Mammoth Lakes—or stop in June Lake for the day or overnight to hike the trails, enjoy the lakes, and take in the fall colors (seasonally, of course).
When we visited, the snow melt created a rushing waterfall near Silver Lake that was impressive to see! Another stop on this loop is Gull Lake, which has a mirror effect in the right conditions.
Stand Between Two Lakes on Twin Lakes Bridge
Another lake with a mirror effect is actually two lakes that sit back-to-back, aptly named Twin Lakes. These lakes have a beautiful backdrop of snowy mountains and a bridge that runs between them.
Standing on the bridge, you can look at one lake while the other one is behind you. It’s pretty unique to stand between two lakes at the same time!
There’s a small parking lot for these lakes with some walking trails around them. If it has snowed recently, the trail to reach the bridge will be covered in snow. We still tromped through the snow with our regular trail shoes to get to the bridge, and it wasn’t too bad.
Soak at Wild Willys Hot Springs in Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is known for its different hot springs, but Wild Willys is a favorite! It has multiple pools of varying temperatures and is surrounded by the majestic eastern Sierra mountains.
Visit in summer once all the snow has melted for the easiest access! The best time to check out the hot springs is at sunrise. There will likely be a few people there, but it won’t be crowded. Apparently, things get more exciting if you visit at night, with people partying in the nude.
Take in the Views at Hot Creek Geological Site
There are tons of unique things to do in Mammoth Lakes! Hot Creek Geological Site is another otherworldly spot to visit in the Eastern Sierras. It has bubbling pools of opaque aqua blue water (not safe for swimming), a winding creek, and a backdrop of striking mountains.
Hot Creek Geological Site looks completely different in each season: dry, yellow grass in summer/fall, white snow in winter, and lush, green grass in late spring/early summer.
The best time to visit Hot Creek Geological Site is after the snow has melted and the roads/parking lot are accessible, though photos of it covered in snow look incredible!
Want to visit Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, Bodie State Historic Park, and Mammoth Lakes all in one trip? This 4-day trip includes visits to all those places, hotels included!
Find the Nightmare Rock in Alabama Hills
Alabama Hills is a vast landscape of mostly dirt, rocks, and stones, surrounded by majestic mountains. It’s an unincorporated area next to Lone Pine, which is a tiny town that feels miles away from civilization (probably because it is!).
Lone Pine is a starting point for climbing Mount Whitney, venturing into Death Valley, heading up to Mammoth Lakes, or driving west to King Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. Long story short, it’s the perfect stop for a California road trip in this area.
The Nightmare Rock is a large boulder, visible from the road, that is painted with a face. It once had a menacing face with jagged teeth and angry eyes, but the graffiti changes occasionally, and it was a lovely-looking lady rock when we saw it.
Take Photos at Movie Road in Alabama Hills
If you’re willing to get up before sunrise, you will be rewarded with dreamy pink mountains set as the backdrop to a famous dirt road known as Movie Road in Alabama Hills.
Due to hundreds of movies being filmed here over the last century, this particular area of the road has become a popular destination for photographers and directors.
Visit the Lowest Point in North America
Death Valley National Park is home to Badwater Basin: the lowest point in North America, at 282ft (86m) below sea level. The vast, salty landscape is an unusual sight, with a long wooden deck leading out into it.
Badwater Basin is a salt flat that stretches almost 200 square miles across the desert floor. Despite the park’s name, there is still life in Death Valley! Some plants, and even a snail species, thrive in the saltwater pool.
There’s a parking lot right at the edge of the basin, making it easy to park, hop out, look around, and hop back in your car. This is especially convenient when average temperatures from May to September are over 100ºF, reaching 120ºF+ at the peak.
See the Striped Cliffs at Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon State Park is kind of in the middle of nowhere. It’s not a popular enough park for people to visit this area just for the park, but it’s cool enough to stop if you’re passing through on a Highway 395 road trip.
Because of its location, the park doesn’t get a ton of visitors, and you will likely have it mostly to yourself! The mountains that make up the park are the El Paso Mountains.
What’s most striking about this park is the dramatic striping on the desert cliffs. You don’t have to hike to see these cliffs, as they’re within walking distance of the parking lot on flat ground.
Like most of California, this area was once inhabited by Native Americans, and petroglyphs from that time can still be seen today. There’s a rich history of people coming to this area for survival, to stop along on a mule-wagon freight route, and even for mining.
There is a $6 vehicle entrance fee for the parking lot and picnic tables, which are open during daylight hours. If you just want to stop briefly for some photos, you can stop at the Hagen Canyon Trailhead parking area right after you turn off the freeway.
Unique Things To Do in Southern California
Most people know Southern California from its famous beaches and the giant city of Los Angeles. But there’s much more to see if you know where to look.
The coastal towns between San Luis Obispo and San Diego have all kinds of unique things to do and see, from dinosaurs to the world’s largest outdoor bookstore.
If you’re heading to Southern California, don’t miss these weird sights!
Discover a Giant Troll in Solvang
The Danish artist Thomas Dambo creates giant troll sculptures from recycled wood, which can be found all over the world. Each one has its own story and purpose.
California is lucky to have two permanent trolls, one at Filoli Historic House & Gardens and one at the California Nature Museum in downtown Solvang.
The troll in Solvang is said to have come overseas as a tiny troll, but after eating all the pastries from the trash cans behind the bakeries, she grew into a giant. Now, she’s too large to squeeze through the door and is trapped inside the tower.
Feed Ostriches at Ostrichland USA
I never knew how much I loved ostriches and emus until I visited Ostrichland in Solvang. While Solvang is well known for its Danish town, Ostrichland is a less-frequented attraction where you can feed ostriches and emus!
It costs less than $10 per person to enter and feed the giant birds.
Tip: Don’t feed the ones right at the front — instead, save the food and walk further into Ostrichland to feed the ostriches at the back, since they don’t get as much.
Find the Monarchs at the Butterfly Preserve in Goleta
Take a walk through Ellwood Butterfly Preserve in Goleta between November and February to spot monarch butterflies during their migration to and from California to Mexico.
This preserve just north of Santa Barbara has multiple dirt walking paths that lead through the Eucalyptus groves where the butterflies settle.
Tip: Continue along the trail to the bluffs, where you can get incredible ocean views and even access to the beach!
Discover Dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural History in Santa Barbara
Natural history museums are one of my favorite types of museums to visit. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History stands out among the others due to its incredible collection of animals (taxidermy), live butterfly exhibit, and dinosaurs!
The Prehistoric Forest is at the back of the property and has multiple giant, animatronic dinosaurs that move and make noise.
See Chumash Paintings on Painted Cave Rd. in Santa Barbara
Drive up into the mountains to find cave paintings by Chumash Native Americans along Painted Cave Road in Santa Barbara. The road up is narrow and windy, so ensure your car is reliable and has plenty of gas.
There is no parking lot or large area to park — there is just enough room for a couple of cars to pull over. The cave paintings are protected by an iron gate, but you can easily see them!
Get Lunch at a Tavern in the Mountains
Santa Barbara is known for its beautiful beaches and downtown, but if you head up into the mountains, you’ll find a hidden tavern serving delicious sandwiches.
From Santa Barbara, take Highway 154 into the Santa Ynez Mountains, past Painted Cave Road, and just before the Cold Spring Canyon Arch Bridge. Turn off on Stagecoach Road and drive until you see Cold Spring Tavern on your left.
Cold Spring Tavern looks like something out of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale. Mostly because it makes me think of Hansel and Gretel! It’s open Thursday through Monday for lunch from 11:30-3 p.m., serving their famous tri-tip sandwiches since 1941.
They have a surprisingly large selection of food items and beverages, considering the location. In addition to their tri-tip, they have chili, salads, and sandwiches with veggie options. You can also get a cocktail, beer, or glass of wine here!
Meditate at The Sacred Space in Summerland
Just south of Santa Barbara is the small, peaceful town of Summerland. It has many fancy home and garden stores, both indoors and outdoors, that are nice to stroll around.
The most unique thing in Summerland, though, is The Sacred Space.
It is a meditation garden with Buddhist statues, a gift shop full of crystals and other spiritual items, and a few huts where you can sit and meditate.
It’s completely free to enter, but you can also purchase items at the gift shop or throughout the garden, as many of the statues and outdoor decor are for sale.
Witness the Pink Moment in Ojai
The “Pink Moment” is a well-known phenomenon among Ojai locals and visitors. It’s when the surrounding Topa Topa Mountains glow pink as the sun sets, before fading to purple, and then a deep blue.
The Ojai Meadows Preserve is an ideal spot to watch the Pink Moment, since there are wide views of the mountains and nice trails to stroll. Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset so you don’t miss it!
Explore the World’s Largest Outdoor Bookstore in Ojai
Bart’s Books is said to be the world’s largest outdoor bookstore, with more than 100,000 used books for sale. The shelves are all outdoors, filled from top to bottom with books. They’re all well organized into sections, as you would see in any regular bookstore.
The open-air aisles let you explore the vast selection of books while enjoying the practically year-round sunshine in Ojai. There are also plenty of shaded areas for a reprieve from the sun on hot days.
Watch a Movie at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles
Have you ever watched a movie in a cemetery? That’s exactly what you can do at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery!
They have occasional showings of movies, particularly around Halloween, as well as early screenings, special movie/TV events, and musical performances.
I was lucky enough to snag tickets to the viewing of the Breaking Bad series finale way back in 2013. The cast and crew were all there and watched it with us!
I met Aaron Paul and saw Bryan Cranston speak, along with other main actors from the show. It was magical!
Explore Artwork at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles
California is home to hundreds of art museums, all unique and special in their own way. The Getty Center was built on a giant piece of land that overlooks much of Los Angeles.
The architecture is what landed it on this list of unique things to do in California, not only because of the wavy roof lines, but also because of the manicured gardens next to the buildings. The art collection is incredible, too, of course.
Step into Stars Hollow at Warner Bros Studios
You can visit the real-life Stars Hollow for just a few weeks each year at Warner Bros Studios in Burbank!
Each December, the set of Stars Hollow is resurrected and opens to visitors wanting to step into the world of Gilmore Girls. Tours of the set are included with the regular Studio Tour ticket during “Holidays Made Here.”
After a guided tour of the backlot in an open-air cart, you’ll be dropped off at Central Perk, where you can grab a coffee and check out the Friends Sets.
From there, you can head to Stars Hollow and freely explore the magical town on your own!
You can take photos at the central gazebo, get a coffee at Luke’s, try whatever they’re serving at Al’s Pancake World, enjoy tea at The Dragonfly Inn, walk through Kim’s Antiques, and even shop at Doose’s Market!
Read my full guide to visiting Stars Hollow for all the details and tips to plan your visit.
Experience Hogwarts at Universal Studios Hollywood
Gilmore Girls not your thing? Instead, explore the world of Harry Potter just 5 minutes from Warner Bros at Universal Studios Hollywood!
Universal Studios Hollywood is home to the town of Hogsmead, Hogwarts Castle, and Hagrid’s Hut. Though it’s just one area of the park, it feels like you’ve been transported to the magical world of Harry Potter in real life.
It has all the well-known shops like Honeydukes and Ollivanders, and restaurants like the Three Broomsticks. The ride in the castle is thrilling and high-tech — definitely my favorite of them all!
A regular ticket to Universal Studios Hollywood gets you access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, as well as the rest of the park.
Want an extra special experience? Get the VIP tour tickets for your own guide, access to closed areas, and much more!
Go inside a Dinosaur in Cabazon
Somehow, dinosaurs ended up twice on this list, and that’s probably because it’s not often you get to see giant dinosaurs! The ones in Cabazon are almost life-sized and regularly get repainted in different colors, patterns, and outfits.
You can even go inside one of the dinosaurs to shop in the small gift shop. It’s much larger inside than you would expect it to be!
Visit the World-Famous Crochet Museum in Twentynine Palms
World Famous and Crochet Museum aren’t phrases you would expect to see together, but that is what you will find in the extremely eclectic town of Twentynine Palms next to Joshua Tree National Park.
The World Famous Crochet Museum is a small box filled with crochet artworks and was created by artist Shari Elf, who also has a small shop next to the museum where they sell their work.
You can go inside the museum, despite its small size (it fits 1-2 people at a time).
Climb a Rock in Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is well-known, but the rocks inside the park are what make it so unique! The entire area has an eerie vibe to it in a good way that makes the park feel that much more extraterrestrial.
From a giant arch to a skull rock, there is no shortage of unique rock formations to explore in Joshua Tree NP.
Explore the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum
Though at first glance it may look like abandoned pieces of industrial trash, up close, the fascinating structures are unique, carefully built artworks.
Noah Purifoy, an African-American artist, created this outdoor museum in the Mojave Desert, not far from Joshua Tree National Park. It’s free to visit, but donations are welcome.
This large plot of land has all kinds of art installations made from found objects. Art pieces include an archway spelling “welcome” made from car tires, a wall of TVs stacked upon one another, and a wooden wall with two bikes on the slanted roof.
While Noah Purifoy passed away in 2004, his legacy lives on in this unique outdoor desert museum.
Become a Western Movie Star at Pioneertown
You can’t visit Joshua Tree without stopping at the old western town nearby called Pioneertown.
Although it was and still is used as a movie set, Pioneertown is a real town where real people live! They have shops, a restaurant, a post office, and even a hotel that you can visit. Just be respectful of the people who live there.
Have Drinks at the Trixie Motel in Palm Springs
As a big fan of famous drag queen Trixie Mattel, I was delighted when she created the Trixie Motel in Palm Springs. It’s a small motel that has been fully redesigned into a Barbie-like paradise with pink paint, loud patterns, and custom furniture.
You must be a motel guest or purchase a pass to use the pool and sit in the pool chairs, but anyone can visit the lounge to order drinks and snacks!
Spot the Volkswagen Spider Sculpture in Palm Springs
A creepy sight for anyone with arachnophobia (hi, me), this 28-foot-tall sculpture sits in front of an old auto shop along the desert highway heading into Palm Springs. It’s realistic enough to give me shivers down my spine just looking back at photos of it!
The now-closed auto shop was run by Robert Miner from the 1970s to the 1990s, during which time he created this car-spider hybrid. Though the auto shop isn’t open anymore, the sculpture continues to guard it.
Park in the parking lot next door if you want to get out and get a good look at the sculpture! You won’t be able to enter the gate, but you can take photos through it.
Note: This is private property — don’t trespass.
Take a Tram to San Jacinto Mountain Peak in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is known for its desert climate and scalding hot summers, but take a 10-minute tram ride up to San Jacinto Peak, and you will be greeted by much cooler temperatures, and sometimes even snow!
We visited in March, and although the weather in Palm Springs was in the high 60s, San Jacinto Mountain had just received 6 feet of snow. It was a winter wonderland!
It’s a must-do while visiting Palm Springs!
Tip: Book online to avoid a long wait when you’re there (standby can take 2+ hours).
Search for Art Installations at Desert X in Palm Springs
Desert X arrives in Palm Springs every other year (odd years) in spring (March-May) with art installations scattered throughout the county.
It’s like a real-life treasure hunt to track down each art installation, which ranges from giant sculptures to interactive pieces you can walk through.
The art installations made for Desert X are completely different each year, which makes it that much more fun!
Tour Cabot’s Pueblo Museum in Desert Hot Springs
Desert Hot Springs is a small community north of Palm Springs. Though the accommodations tend to be cheaper than in Palm Springs, I don’t recommend staying here.
There isn’t much to do in Desert Hot Springs, but Cabot’s Pueblo Museum is a unique place to visit, tucked away in a neighborhood. The pueblo has artifacts and artworks that give visitors insight into the Native American and Alaska Native cultures.
The exterior almost looks like something you could find in Disneyland, or even in a Star Wars movie. It’s quirky, imperfect, and full of charm!
You can explore the outside of the pueblo for free, or pay $5 to see the museum inside.
Smell the Ranunculuses at the Flower Fields in Carlsbad
Spring and summer in Carlsbad bring crowds from all over to see the stunning flower fields in bloom.
The ranunculuses are planted in all different colors throughout the giant fields and are a great spot for photos.
Book tickets ahead of time to ensure entry and even buy some planted ranunculuses from their greenhouse shop to take home with you!
Explore Sculptures at Queen Califia Magical Circle
This outdoor sculpture garden is a unique sight in Escondido, an inland town in North County San Diego. It features large sculptures, fully covered in colorful mosaic tiles by late artist Niki de Saint Phalle.
Saint Phalle was a French, multi-talented female artist who created sculptures all around the world. Her later works were influenced by a visit to Parc Güell in Barcelona, which can be seen in her pieces at Queen Califia Magical Circle.
Queen Califia Magical Circle was one of the last artworks she created, and it didn’t open until after her death in 2002. It’s free to visit this sculpture garden, with 10 large sculptures, a maze, and a large wall that surrounds the garden.
Learn About Cannibals at the Museum of Us
Balboa Park is a lovely place to visit in San Diego, where you can visit gorgeous gardens, the world-famous San Diego Zoo, and over a dozen museums.
Among these museums is the Museum of Us, which is an anthropological museum with a variety of exhibits, including one about cannibals. It’s not as macabre as it sounds! Though it is definitely about cannibalism, it’s “gore-free” and educational.
The museum has almost a dozen different exhibits, and the cannibal one is just a part of the larger collection. It dives into the history of cannibalism, highlights infamous stories of survival, and removes some of the taboos through education.
If you’re visiting Balboa Park, give the Museum of Us a visit!
Get the Printable Checklist
This is a digital, printable list of the 80+ most unique things to do in California. You won't find the usual tourist activities on this list.
From steam trains through redwood forests to desert museums and otherworldly landscapes, this printable checklist is full of unique sights, activities, art, and more!
Whether you're a local Californian or planning your first trip to California, this PDF makes it easy to find unique spots and check them off as you go.
Also included with your checklist is access to an interactive map with organized pins of all the unique things to do in California from the PDF checklist. You can load it into your Google Maps app to access on the road or view it on your computer to plan your trip.
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80+ unique things to do across California
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Last updated: March 2026
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