Tour the Architecture of Historic Downtown Los Angeles
Downtown Los Angeles weaves a tapestry of history, and the stories of its past are intricately woven into the very fabric of its architecture. In this blog, we embark on a captivating journey through the heart of the city, where every building and every structure tells a unique tale of Los Angeles' rich and vibrant history. I'll also pepper in some recommended tours to help you delve even deeper into this fascinating urban history.
Top Downtown LA Architecture Tours
Downtown Los Angeles boasts an abundance of remarkable historical buildings. For a deeper understanding of their significance, taking a guided tour is a fantastic way to gain historical insights while exploring these architectural gems. Here are a few that are highly rated on Get Your Guide.
You can also consider purchasing the book Secret Walks (Amazon), which offers several downtown strolls for exploring the architecture of Downtown L.A. My husband I took many walks here during COVID to see more of our own city.
Grab food and drinks at Grand Central Market
Photo by Stephanie Plomarity
Grand Central Market is a vibrant culinary haven that embodies the city's diverse and dynamic food scene. Established in 1917, this historic food hall has evolved into a thriving hub where cultures and flavors converge. With over 30 eclectic vendors offering an array of delicious cuisines, it's a food lover's paradise.
Really into the food part? Try this Los Angeles: Downtown Food Tour by Get Your Guide.
Ride Angel’s Flight
Angel's Flight is a historic funicular in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Known as "the world's shortest railway," this iconic funicular has been ferrying passengers up and down Bunker Hill since 1901. Riding Angel's Flight is like taking a step back in time, as its charming, orange-colored cars offer a delightful glimpse into the city's rich history.
Visit the Bradbury Building
Photo by Stephanie Plomarity
The real magic of the Bradbury Building lies within its ornate, light-filled atrium, which boasts a breathtaking wrought-iron grillwork, intricate marble staircases, and a sense of timeless elegance. Built in 1893, it's a masterpiece of Victorian-era design.
Visit the Los Angeles Central Library
Designed by architect Bertram Goodhue, the library is a stunning blend of art deco and ancient Egyptian revival styles, creating a unique and captivating facade. What truly sets this library apart is the magnificent, iconic Rotunda and its mesmerizing ceiling mural painted by Dean Cornwell. The murals depict the history of California, adding a cultural and artistic dimension to the library experience.
Walt Disney Concert Hall
The Walt Disney Concert Hall was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. The building's iconic stainless steel curves and fluid lines make it a true masterpiece. Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the concert hall's acoustics are as impressive as its exterior, providing a world-class venue for musical performances.
The hall's exterior, with its gleaming metallic surfaces, creates a captivating interplay of light and reflections, making it a popular spot for photographers and visitors.
The Broad Museum
The Broad Museum designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, is a striking example of modern design with its honeycomb-like facade, which allows natural light to filter into the galleries. Inside, visitors can explore a remarkable collection of contemporary art, featuring works by some of the most influential artists of our time, such as Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama.
One of the highlights is Yayoi Kusama's "Infinity Mirrored Room," an immersive experience that transports you to a world of endless reflections and mesmerizing colors.
Union Station
Union Station, built in 1939, is an Art Deco masterpiece featuring a stunning blend of Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival, and Streamline Moderne architecture, making it a visual delight for visitors. Its iconic "Last of the Great Railway Stations" status has earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places.
Beyond its architectural splendor, Union Station serves as a vital transit hub for Amtrak, Metrolink, and the LA Metro, connecting travelers to destinations across Southern California. The station's grand waiting hall, with its towering palm trees and intricate tile work, is a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere.
Olvera Street
Olvera Street is a historic and vibrant cultural treasure that offers a taste of the city's rich Mexican heritage. Often referred to as the "birthplace of Los Angeles," this colorful and bustling street is lined with charming shops, restaurants, and artisan stalls, all reminiscent of a Mexican marketplace. You can explore a diverse array of Mexican and Latin American goods, from handcrafted pottery to traditional textiles and delicious street food like tacos and churros.
The historic Pueblo de Los Angeles surrounds Olvera Street, providing a compelling backdrop to the experience. El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, a collection of historic buildings and museums, further immerses visitors in the city's Spanish and Mexican roots.
Built in 1884, the Old Plaza Firehouse is one of the oldest surviving fire stations in the city. The building's striking red-brick façade and ornate detailing harken back to the Victorian era, adding to its architectural appeal. Since 1960, it operates as a firefighting museum.
Old Plaza Firehouse built in 1884
Built in 1870, this Italianate-style edifice was the brainchild of Pío Pico, the last Mexican governor of California. Its grand, three-story structure with ornate balconies and exquisite detailing was once the most opulent hotel in the city, hosting numerous luminaries of the time.
Pico House was completed in 1870
Historic Buildings
The Hall of Justice in downtown Los Angeles is a historic and imposing structure that has played a significant role in the city's legal and criminal justice history. Completed in 1925, its Beaux-Arts architecture is a striking blend of grandeur and classical design.
Los Angeles City Hall was completed in 1928, this majestic building boasts a striking Art Deco design with a distinctive pyramid-like tower that stands 454 feet tall. It was the city's tallest building until the 1960s and remains an enduring part of LA's skyline.
The Times Building was completed in 1935, this striking Art Deco building was the longtime home of the Los Angeles Times, one of the most influential newspapers on the West Coast.
From the historic landmarks like Los Angeles City Hall to the modern marvels like The Broad Museum, this urban landscape tells a compelling story of growth, innovation, and cultural diversity. Whether you're strolling through the historic Olvera Street or admiring the futuristic design of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, one thing remains clear: downtown LA's architecture is a dynamic reflection of the city's spirit. So, the next time you find yourself in this bustling metropolis, take a moment to look up, and you'll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of styles, eras, and narratives that define the captivating beauty of downtown Los Angeles.
