A bit outside of the central city, Yannawa and Bangklolaem are still along the Chao Phraya River but are considered off the beaten path. Explorers may enjoy searching for good places only a local might know. The river bends east and along its length is a scattering of restaurants and bars many of which provide good untouristed venues for sunset dinners or evening after cocktails.
One offbeat attraction is the Museum of Counterfeit Goods, a collection of confiscated items which once served as evidence in prosecuting trademark violators. It may look a bit like many street vendors' booths but in a much nicer setting.
Central Plaza Rama III is the most important of the shopping complexes in this area but one of the best reasons to come here is bowling. Bowling is a hit with Thais and perhaps there is no better place to see it than the plaza's Cosmo Bowl.