Do you ever feel like you have seen every single nook and cranny of Southern California? If you feel like you’re running out of new places to see and explore, let this list of unique destinations reignite your wandering spirit so you can go out and make some new memories in SoCal. So we present you with 11 unique things to do in Southern California.
In the mood for a day trip? Then head to one of SoCal's most quaint old-time towns for a fun experience the whole family will enjoy. Located in Ventura County, the town of Fillmore offers up some great spots to visit including a historic railway, a honey farm, and some fantastic vintage stores.
2. Explore the beauty of Meditation Mount.
Meditation Mount, 10340 Reeves Rd, Ojai, CA 93023, USA
When you want to get away from it all and escape to a serene and magical setting that will surround you with views galore and picturesque beauty in every direction then Meditation Mount is where you'll want to be. Located in Ojai at 10340 Reeves Road, this dreamy destination is centrally located for almost everyone in SoCal.
It doesn't have to be Halloween to appreciate this unique hike in Southern California. Located in Norco, CA at 2675 Vandermolen Drive, this short and sweet hike on Pumpkin Rock Trail will lead you straight to a giant orange pumpkin. It's quite unlike any other hike you'll ever experience in SoCal. To get a great look at the trail check out this video by YouTuber California Through My Lens:
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4. Dine inside a greenhouse
Openaire, 3515 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010, USA
Please note, Commissary has permanently closed. However, the same experience can still be had at Openaire, which is the restaurant located in the Line Hotel.
If you've ever wanted to dine in a greenhouse then this should go at the top of your list. Located inside THE LINE hotel in the heart of Los Angeles you'll find a tasty restaurant like no other. Commissary not only has a mouthwatering menu but it's located inside an actual greenhouse that provides a stunning and memorable setting for a fine meal.
5. Check out a 100-foot sand dune.
Sand Dune Park, 3299 Bell Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, USA
Did you know there was a massive 100-foot sand dune hiding in SoCal? Located in Manhattan Beach at 33rd and Bell Avenue, Sand Dune Park is an unexpected gem tucked inside this beachside community that you must see to believe.
One of our favorite places to go for a leisurely afternoon of shopping and strolling and browsing for antiques is located in the charming town of Orange, CA. Not only is this town a fun place to be, but you'll find a plethora of delightful antique stores packed with treasure.
7. Take a dreamy horse-drawn carriage ride through the countryside.
Julian Carriage Company, Main St & Washington St, Julian, CA 92036, USA
Located in the mountain town of Julian, you'll find a dreamy way to see the sights on a horse-drawn carriage. Julian Carriage Company offers short rides through downtown or longer rides through the countryside. No matter which option you choose it will be a memorable adventure for the whole family.
8. Stroll and play at Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park, 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Located in San Diego at 1600 Pacific Highway, Waterfront Park is an unexpected gem tucked inside the heart of the city. Splish and splash in the shallow water on a hot SoCal day or just enjoy the view and vibrant energy of this charming waterfront destination in downtown San Diego.
San Clemente Beach Trail is the perfect place to be when you want to get outside for some fresh air without straying far from the city. Whether you're walking, jogging, or biking, this is a fun and scenic trail that's nice and easy to navigate.
Editor's note: The Bacon Bar and the Saint Marc Restaurant have permanently closed.
It's impossible not to love bacon. If you're as crazy about bacon as we are then you may find yourself jumping in the car and heading straight to the Bacon Bar to get your bacon fix. You can find the Bacon Bar at Saint Marc Restaurant in Huntington Beach at 21058 Pacific Coast Hwy.
When you're looking for an adventurous hike with some fascinating history, Dripping Cave Trail is the kind of hike that you'll want to explore. Located at Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park in Laguna Niguel, this trail is tucked inside a 4,500 acre wilderness park and will lead you straight to a hidden cave that was once a popular hiding spot for robbers who were known to hijack stagecoaches.
So there you have it: 11 of the best things to do in SoCal that you may not even have thought of. What a fun list to explore in Southern California! What are some of your favorite unique things to do in Southern California? Let us know in the comments below. If you’re looking for more hidden gems in Southern California, then make sure you check out this video that showcases our state’s beautiful national parks.
For more unique places in Southern California to add to your bucket list, check out these 11 attractions that will bring out the explorer in you.
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Unique Things To Do In Southern California
Chris Dodge|July 25, 2023
What are some unique things to do in Southern California?
Here are a couple of our favorite unique things to do in Southern California: