There's No Better Place To Spend Your Summer Than These 7 Hidden Southern California Spots
By Danielle Schwartz
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Published July 13, 2022
Looking for something interesting and new to do this summer? We’ve got a great list of options for you when you’re planning a fun day trip to some hidden spots in Southern California. Whether you prefer staying right in the city or enjoying the great outdoors, there is something for everyone to do in our beautiful region.
1. Fullerton Arboretum - Fullerton
Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton, 1900 Associated Rd, Fullerton, CA 92831, USA
Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton, 1900 Associated Rd, Fullerton, CA 92831, USA
Hidden away in Cal State Fullerton lies a beacon to sustainability that will inspire you to live off the land. Come for the Summer Stroll series and enjoy live music, refreshments, and a meandering stroll through the garden. You can also take a walking tour of the garden featuring rare plants, ficus trees, and other special flora if you’re a member of the Arboretum. If you prefer to support from afar, you can sponsor a tree as well. This beautiful place is a great choice if you’re looking for kid-friendly activities in Southern California too. Find out more about
the Fullerton Arboretum.
2. The Mosaic Tile House - Venice
Mosaic Tile House Venice, CA, 1116 Palms Blvd, Venice, CA 90291, USA
This fascinating house in Venice is an amazing sight! Cheri Pain and Gonzalo Duran are a couple who has owned and decorated this work of art for over 25 years. Over time, it has developed into a gorgeous color scape that attracts visitors from all over the place. You can explore the house yourself too. Read more about
the Mosaic Tile House and make reservations on
the Mosaic Tile House website.
3. Palm Canyon - Balboa Park
1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
While Balboa Park is much-beloved by tourists and locals alike, many people have never been to Palm Canyon, a gorgeous oasis filled with dozens of palm species! Kate Sessions, a famous horticulturalist from the San Diego area, planted many of these plants and others in Balboa Park. It’s a little tropical world all its own in the middle of the sprawling downtown park. Check out more about
Balboa Park.
4. Revival Store - Palm Springs
Revivals Stores - Palm Springs, 611 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264, USA
This thrift and consignment store is the ideal place to find "new" furniture to spice up your home. You can also donate furniture to Revivals to give it a new life. When you buy from this store, you’re also supporting DAP Health, a local health center that provides the community with all kinds of healthcare services. Do good while you shop! Learn more about
Revivals Stores.
5. Baldwin Park Scenic Overlook - Culver City
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, 6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232, USA
Also known as the Culver City Stairs, this pretty spot gives you a magnificent view over the city of Los Angeles, and is less well-known than other overlooks. It’s an easy place to get to as well, although stairs are involved. It’s worth the climb to get to see downtown LA from high up. Be sure to bring your camera for this one! See more about
Baldwin Park Scenic Overlook.
6. The Korean Friendship Bell - Angels Gate Park
Korean Friendship Bell, 3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731, USA
This monument honors Korean War veterans and was a gift to Los Angeles from Korea in 1976. The vibrant colors and beautiful structure are the main draws, but there is also a lovely park surrounding it. Angels Gate Park features a pretty lawn and walking paths that you can stroll along to enjoy the outdoor atmosphere. Learn more about
The Korean Friendship Bell.
7. San Dimas Canyon Nature Center - San Gabriel Valley
San Dimas Canyon Nature Center, 1628 Sycamore Canyon Rd, San Dimas, CA 91773, USA
San Dimas Canyon Nature Center is a great place to learn all about the beautiful natural environment in the canyon and surrounding area. Take a hike along the nice loop trail once you’ve learned all about it. You’ll be able to have an extra appreciation for the beauty you see! Check out more about the
San Dimas Canyon Nature Center.
Which one of these fantastic hidden gems is your favorite? We’d love to hear about your experience with these lesser-known places in Southern California in the comments.
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