Being the capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is known for its famous tourist sites such as Batu Caves, KL Twin Towers, and our all-time favourite shopping spot, Petaling Street. However, there are more than just temples to visit, and buildings to see in this cultural melting pot.
So read on to find out how you can ditch the touristy places and instead spend some quality time with friends and family or even alone — whatever floats your boat — in these underrated spots!
Go for live shows

© Krists Luhaers/Unsplash
So if you, like us, have a soft spot for theatrical shows, then this is the place you should be. KLPac a.k.a Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre was first created back in 1995 by two individuals, and has since then undergone multiple challenges, changes and finally reopened their doors to the public in 2005. The theatre is now located in Sentul and is able to accommodate up to 504 people at once.
The plays performed at KLPac range from your good ‘ol Shakespeare ones as well as locally-written shows, but fret not, for the latter are just as good as any other! Give it a try!
Go on a skydiving adventure!

© AirRider (Kuala Lumpur)/Facebook
Here’s one for all you adrenaline junkies! Not only is KL one of the best places for a round of good food and shopping, but it also happens to be home to some of the most adventurous activities, such as Flying Fox, Rock Climbing and ATV.
If you’re willing to take it a notch higher then head on over to 1 Utama’s all-new surfing and skydiving center FlowRider and AirRider, and experience an adrenaline rush like no other!
Dine in a revolving restaurant

© Atmosphere 360
How about taking your loved one(s) to the top of the KL Tower for a meal 282 m above ground? The splendid view of the city from the restaurant, coupled with its stunning starry fibre optic ceiling is sure to provide guests with an unforgettable dining experience.
Atmosphere 360 is open for both lunch and dinner, with a wide range of buffet, cocktails as well as a la carte meals. You can expect nothing less than perfection, as each meal is crafted to pure goodness and is certain to satisfy your taste buds.
Book shopping

© Bookxcess/Facebook
Sometimes all we need is a good book and a large cup of coffee, and BookXcess at Starling Mall is here to make that dream a reality! With several stores around the country, BookXcess is literally every book nerd’s go-to for affordable books! Where else could you possibly score such decent books at more than 50% off?
And now they’ve raised the bar with an in-house café that serves delicious cups of coffee and tea as well as cakes, pies, and waffles for all you sweet-tooths!
Visit speakeasy bars/cafes

Apart from being able to get yourself some great meals and drinks, more and more cafes in the city are opening their spaces for the artistically enlightened. Located on the second floor in Plaza Damansara -away from the usually bustling city- Gaslight KL rocks a 60’s vibe, with shadowy walls, wooden tables and all. The café is a famous spot for both amateur and experienced writers, musicians, poets, and contemporary artists to share their work of art with the audience.
So if you’d like to put your work on display then be sure to head on over to Gaslight as they hold open mic nights from Mon to Sat, 8pm onwards. However, registration is only available on site, so be quick as they only offer 3-4 slots each day.
Go for a food trail

© Joshua Anand/Unsplash
It would be absurd if you were in KL and didn’t eat till you were stuffed! We Malaysians, prefer to head on over to local coffee shops and hawker stalls as it is only there you can buy some of the most delicious food at such an affordable price.
So we suggest that you take a trip to food-centered streets like Petaling Street, Jalan Pudu, and Jalan Alor. If you’re up for some typical Chinese cuisine then we would highly recommend stopping by at the Old China Café at Petaling Street before making your way to Bunn Choon for some scrumptious desserts.
This article originally appeared on Shopback