Weird and Wild Day Trips from LA
There’s more to LA than Disneyland and Universal Studios. In fact, things can get pretty weird. Kangaroo burger, anyone? Or how about a trip to the Museum of Death? Whatever your poison, these wild day trips in California‘s biggest metropolis are sure to break the mold.
1. The Museum of Death
Cemetery, Museum
2. Old Los Angeles Zoo
Hiking Trail, Park, Zoo
3. Annie’s Canyon Trail
Hiking Trail, Natural Feature
For one of the wildest hikes in the state, tackle Annie’s Canyon Trail. This 2mi (3.5km) trek near Solana Beach will provide panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the San Elijo Lagoon. Try not to think of 127 Hours (2010) as you squeeze through a tight sandstone canyon. The narrowness may be claustrophobic, but the smooth, natural eroded rock makes for incredible photography. And it’ll be well worth holding your breath to slip through the corridors when you see the views at the end.
5. Whaley House
Museum
6. Madonna Inn
Hotel
7. East Jesus
Building
8. Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
Amusement Park, Park, Natural Feature
You want to get wild? How about zooming down Magic Mountain on a bobsled? This adrenaline-filled activity in Big Bear Lake provides wagons of fun all-year round. Begin with a scenic chairlift ride to the top, then hop on a sled (well, more of a plastic tray on wheels) and navigate down two quarter-mile-long cement tracks filled with high-banked turns and long straights. The only thing stopping you from catapulting off the edge is the brake lever in between your legs. Use it wisely.
9. Medieval Times
Theater
Hear ye, hear ye! All the princes and princesses are welcomed to dine at this medieval-themed banquet with Middle Age entertainment on display. There will be jousting, horse shows and acrobatic moves, all while tucking into a four-course dinner the old-fashioned way – with your hands. Prepare for spirited competitions, loads of singing and all the fun of the theater.
Matt Mills contributed additional reporting to this article.
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