For years we have been traveling to Downtown Los Angeles for volleyball tournaments. Each time we go, we like to explore someplace new. After countless visits, I have put together a guide of our favorite places to go and things to do in Downtown L.A.!
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14 Places You Don’t Want to Miss in Downtown L.A.
Table of Contents
- Chinatown
- The Last Bookstore
- Los Angeles Central Library
- The Biltmore Los Angeles Hotel
- Grand Central Market
- Angels Flight
- The Broad
- Union Station
- Olvera Street
- The Grammy Museum
- The Bradbury Building
- LA Live
- Westin Bonaventure Hotel
- Best Restaurants in Downtown LA
Chinatown
L.A.’s Chinatown dates back to 1938, although the first Chinese immigrants settled in Los Angeles as early as 1852. Over the years, it grew into a bustling neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, temples, a theater, and residential homes.
Today, Chinatown is still a vibrant cultural hub and the best place in LA to find authentic Chinese cuisine. Although this Chinatown isn’t as big as the ones in New York and San Francisco, it’s still fun to walk around, take photos, and pick up kitschy souvenirs.
The Chinese American Museum is a great place to start your visit where you’ll gain a greater appreciation for the history of Chinese Americans in L.A..
Our favorite spot, and the most photogenic, is Central Plaza.
This is the beating heart of Chinatown with neon-lit pagodas, family-owned shops, colorful murals, and the famous Bruce Lee statue.
Traditional Chinese gates lead into the plaza, including the iconic Dragon Gate symbolizing prosperity and welcome.
Chung King Road is located near the Central Plaza and is also a great place to shop. This historic alleyway is lined with art galleries, boutiques, and traditional shops.
It’s also worth stopping by to admire the intricate architecture at the Thien Hau Temple, a Taoist temple dedicated to the sea goddess, Mazu.
If you’re a fan of the 90’s movie, Rush Hour, then you’ll want to stop for lunch at Foo-Chow Restaurant where the restaurant fight scene was filmed.
A few other recommended restaurants include Golden Tree Restaurant, Yang Chow, Pearl River Deli, and Bubble U for boba smoothies. Lunasia Dim Sum House is also the best place to go for traditional dim sum featuring small plate dishes.
Philippe’s is also a Chinatown institution. Although they don’t serve Chinese food, they claim to be the inventors of French dip sandwiches, which they have been serving since 1908. Howlin’ Ray’s doesn’t serve Chinese food either, but they do serve the best Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches around!
Phoenix Bakery is also a fixture in the community. It opened in 1938 and is considered the oldest bakery in Los Angeles. They are known for their fresh strawberry whipped cream cake.
The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore is such a hidden gem! It is the largest new and used bookstore in California, but there is so much more to this store than just books.
This two-story bookstore is housed in a historic 100-year-old bank building. You can even find bookshelves lining the old bank vault.
Lose yourself in a maze of towering bookshelves at the Labyrinth, walk through the famous book tunnel, and browse through a vast collection of new and used books inside different themed rooms.
In addition to books, this funky and eclectic space is home to several art studios and galleries, a comic book store, a record shop, a cafe, and even a yarn store.
There are unique art installations all throughout the store, it gives off Hogwarts vibes!
The Last Bookstore really is one of the coolest bookstores we’ve ever visited! It’s a great place to find the latest books, search for rare first editions, and lose yourself for a few hours.
Los Angeles Central Library
Speaking of books, the 8-story Los Angeles Central Public Library is the third largest public library in the US.
This beautiful Beaux-Arts style library was built in 1926 and features a soaring rotunda with murals depicting California’s history.
Remarkably, this library has survived two different arson attempts and remains standing as one of the prettiest libraries in America. Even the drinking fountains in this library are beautiful!
A few of the library’s main highlights include the Getty Gallery and Annenberg Gallery, the Taper Auditorium, the Central Library Video Wall, a library store, the 1.5-acre Maguire Gardens, and the KLOS Story Theater for puppet shows and children’s programs.
Just outside the northeast exit, you’ll find the Bunker Hill Steps. This historic area was once nicknamed “Cardiac Hill” due to the strenuous uphill walk connecting the downtown business district to the residential neighborhoods at the top of Bunker Hill.
This 103-step staircase and tiered garden was modeled after Rome’s Spanish Steps. It was designed by Lawrence Halprin, the same architect who designed Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco and collaborated on the FDR Memorial in Washington DC.
The Biltmore Los Angeles Hotel
Step back in time with a visit to the Biltmore Hotel, a historic landmark that exudes old Hollywood glamour.
The Biltmore is one of the most iconic hotels in LA. It was built in 1923 and was the largest hotel west of Chicago.
If you are fascinated by Hollywood history and beautiful architecture, then step inside to marvel at the hotel’s lavish interiors adorned with ornate chandeliers, marble floors, and intricate woodwork.
The Biltmore has played an integral role in LA’s history and its storied past has helped shape the city’s cultural landscape.
Take a walk down the Historic Corridor lined with photos and plaques detailing the history of the hotel over the past 100 years.
A few significant moments in history include a luncheon at the Crystal Ballroom where the idea of the Academy Awards was first conceived. The ceremony was then held at this hotel from 1931-1942.
The Oscar Statue was even first sketched on a napkin here!
The 1960 Democratic National Convention was also held at The Biltmore and was a pivotal starting point for JFK’s presidential campaign.
During the Prohibition Era, several hidden speakeasies could be found here. During WWII, the second floor of the hotel served as a military rest facility.
One of the most infamous unsolved murders is even linked to this hotel. In 1947, actress Elizabeth Short was last seen in the lobby of The Biltmore before being brutally murdered a few hours later. The hotel is now rumored to be haunted.
The Biltmore continues its legacy today and has been featured in movies like Ghostbusters, Rocky III, Spiderman, The Italian Job, National Treasure, Independence Day, and more.
Several music videos have also been filmed here, including videos for songs by Taylor Swift, Britney Spears, Ed Sheeran, John Legend, Jennifer Lopez, and Janet Jackson.
The hotel has also made cameo appearances in TV shows such as Mad Men, Scandal, ER, Alias, The West Wing, and 24.
The interior of the Biltmore Hotel even inspired the fictional Hollywood Tower Hotel at Disneyland’s Tower of Terror ride!
Famous guests at the hotel include the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Judy Garland, Nelson Mandela, The Beatles, and numerous US presidents. Al Capone even stayed in the presidential suite!
You may want to consider booking a room at The Biltmore so that you can swim in the indoor pool. The swimming pool was inspired by the lost city of Pompeii and still maintains the original 1920s lavish details.
You can also make reservations for afternoon tea at the Rendezvous Court and enjoy a sophisticated spread of delicate finger foods with champagne and a selection of teas.
Whether you’re a history buff or just love gawking at beautiful architecture, the Biltmore Hotel is a must-see destination in Downtown L.A.!
Grand Central Market
No visit to Downtown L.A. would be complete without a stop at Grand Central Market.
This bustling food hall and open-air market has been serving up delicious fare for over a century. It has been in continuous operation since 1917 and boasts over 40 vendors.
From gourmet tacos to artisanal coffee, you’ll find a wide variety of vendors offering cuisine from around the world.
I recommend ordering a slice of lemon meringue pie from Fat+Flour, a grass-fed burger on a toasted potato roll from For The Win, and fried chicken & homemade biscuits from Lucky Bird.
The chow mein and fried rice from China Cafe are also delicious. This restaurant is one of the oldest in the market and has been in continuous operation for over 50 years.
Grand Central Market also hosts several events throughout the year, including comedy shows, a market bazaar, and art nights.
I also recommend catching a show at the historic Million Dollar Theater located right next door to Grand Central Market.
Angels Flight
Angels Flight, often referred to as “the shortest railway in the world,” is a historic narrow gauge funicular railway that has been around since 1901.
It originally served as a mode of transportation for residents traveling between the bustling commercial district below and the upscale residential neighborhoods at the top of Bunker Hill.
Its distinctive orange cars, named Olivet and Sinai, have become beloved iconic symbols of the city.
In 1969, the railway was dismantled and relocated due to redevelopment efforts in the area. However, in 1996, Angels Flight was lovingly restored and reopened to the public.
Angels Flight is located at the intersection of Hill Street and 4th Street in Downtown LA, adjacent to Grand Central Market.
The railway operates daily from 6:45 am to 10:00 pm. The fare is only $1 and the short nostalgic ride will take visitors to the top of Bunker Hill.
The Broad
The Broad is a really great contemporary art museum in Downtown L.A..
The best part is that admission is free! However you will need to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance.
When you reserve the tickets, make sure to choose the one that includes the Infinity Mirrored Room. When you visit this cool art installation, you’ll have one minute in the room by yourself to take photos of the flashing lights reflected in the mirrors.
If you aren’t able to get tickets for the Infinity Mirrored Room, the Infinity Box is also a neat installation and it is available for everyone to check out.
The rest of the musuem is filled with contemporary collections from the 1950s to the present. The museum is well done and we really enjoyed our visit!
The Broad is located next to the Walt Disney Concert Hall. This iconic building is known for its unique architcture and is the home of the Los Angeles Phil Harmonic. I recommend purchasing tickets to a show if they are performing during your visit.
As a side note, the Broad sits at the top of the steep Grand Avenue and offers a cool view of the city if you want to snap a photo!
Union Station
Union Station was built in 1933 and was greeted with much fanfare. The highly anticipated grand opening even included a 3-day celebration! During its peak, the station operated 24 hours and serviced 66 trains shuttling around 7,000 passengers each day!
Today, Union Station is considered the “last of the great stations” and holds the title of the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western US.
This beautiful building has elements of different architectural designs, including Mission Revival, Art Deco, and Spanish Colonial.
Some of the main features include the sprawling concourse with marble floors and hand-painted tiles, a 110-foot-long walnut ticket counter, towering windows, and an elaborate ceiling with ornate Art Deco chandeliers.
The station is still in active use today, and you can easily catch the subway to see the main sites in the city. Even if you aren’t riding the subway, it’s still worth stopping by to admire the architecture and grab a bite to eat at the Traxx Restaurant.
Olvera Street
Olvera Street is located just across the street from Union Station. It was established in 1930 as a Mexican marketplace and the tradition continues today.
The narrow pedestrian-only street is lined with vendors and colorful shops selling handcrafted goods and traditional food. Be sure to order a churro!
If you’re craving Mexican food, Cielito Lindo is famous for its taquitos, and La Golondrina Café is one of L.A.’s first Mexican restaurants.
Olvera Street is part of the preserved El Pueblo historic district known as the birthplace of Los Angeles. This area was founded in 1781 as a Spanish settlement and is steeped in history.
The Old Plaza Church is also located here. It was built in 1822 and is one of the oldest churches in Los Angeles still in operation.
Avila Adobe is also nearby. It was built in 1818 and is the oldest standing residence in Los Angeles.
The Grammy Museum
The Grammy Museum is a fun spot for music lovers where you can dive into the rich history of the Grammy Awards.
We had fun exploring the interactive exhibits and seeing memorabilia and costumes worn by legendary artists. Our kids especially had fun trying their hand at mixing tracks in the museum’s recording booths.
The museum features rotating exhibits, live performances, workshops, and other events.
We stayed at The Moxy Hotel and they provide complimentary tickets to the museum for all their guests. It was a fun way to spend an hour, but you probably don’t need much more time than that.
If you are looking for more family-friendly things to do in LA, see our guide 13 Unique Things to Do in LA with Kids.
The Bradbury Building
The Bradbury Building is an architectural and historical landmark that was built in 1893. It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1977 and is one of the most photographed buildings in LA.
This stunning masterpiece is the oldest remaining commercial building in DTLA and is renowned for its stunning Victorian design and timeless beauty.
It boasts a soaring atrium, ornate ironwork, intricate marble staircases, and open cage elevators.
You may even recognize this building as it has even been featured in numerous television shows, music videos, and movies, such as the blockbuster hit Blade Runner.
The building was originally commissioned by mining millionaire Lewis L. Bradbury to serve as a grand office space.
Today, the building is still used as an office space and visitors are welcome to step in and see the building during open hours.
Feel free to stop by from 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. The stairways and upper floors are closed to visitors, but you can walk around the lobby.
I recommend taking a historic walking tour of Downtown LA where you’ll visit landmarks, like the Bradbury Building, and learn more about the history of DTLA.
LA Live
LA Live is a vibrant entertainment district that is buzzing with energy all day and night.
Here you will find the Lucky Strike Bowling Alley, Regal Movie Theater, the LA Convention Center, and Crypto.com Arena where the LA Lakers, LA Clippers, LA Kings, and LA Sparks play.
The famed Peacock Theater is also located at LA Live. This theater hosts movie premiers and award shows throughout the year, such as the Emmy Awards, American Music Awards, Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice Awards, and many more.
The last time we were in DTLA, the Emmy Awards were being held. The streets were all blocked off, but you could sneak a peek of the red carpet through the fence, it was so cool!
You’ll also find 17 different restaurants and cafes at LA Live.
A few of our favorites are Yard House for classic American dishes done exceptionally well, Craft by Smoke & Fire for delicious BBQ, and Fixin’s Soul Kitchen for downhome southern cooking.
There are different events held throughout the year, check the LA Live website for a full calendar.
Westin Bonaventure Hotel
The Westin Bonaventure is another iconic LA hotel known for its unique architecture.
It has been featured in quite a few movies including The Dark Knight Rises, Interstellar, Hancock, Battle of the Sexes, Vice, and Heat.
The hotel is known for its glass elevators that travel on the exterior of the hotel with views of the city. You may even recognize them from the movie True Lies with Arnold Schwrazenegger. If you visit the Yellow Tower elevators, you can see the actual elevator they filmed in.
It’s fun to walk around the hotel, but you must have a guest key to ride the elevator. If you’re interested in booking a room, the hotel pool has awesome city views too!
Best Restaurants in Downtown LA
Downtown LA is home to some amazing restaurants. One of our favorites is Pine & Crane, a chic restaurant serving authentic Taiwanese dishes.
Some of our favorite dishes include the Beef Noodle Soup, Dan Dan Noodles, Minced Pork on Rice, and Pork Belly Buns.
Be sure to save room for the Fruit Shaved Ice for dessert!
Here are a few more of the best places to eat in Downtown LA:
- Little Sister: A trendy restaurant that serves fresh and authentic Vietnamese dishes.
- Bottega Louie: An elegant and chic Italian eatery serving delicious pizza, pasta, and salads. You can also pick up freshly baked goods like macarons, eclairs, and croissants from the bakery. Packaged gifts are also available for purchase at the market.
- Pi La: Grab a slice of gourmet pizza from this neighborhood joint. You’ll find unique flavors like the Big Aloha with smoked spam, jalapenos, and pineapple. Or, the Seoul Kitchen that’s piled high with pork belly, Asian pears, shiitake mushrooms, and kimchi-tomato sauce. They also serve soup, salads, baked goods, and gelato.
- Sonoritas Prime Tacos: These hefty burritos are filling! Order the Chicken Burrito, Al Pastor Tacos, or the fajitas.
- Prank: Prank serves classic American dishes and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Try the French Toast, Southern Beef Sliders Medley, Prank’d Spicy Cauliflower, and Truffle Fries.
- Denae’s Diner: Denae’s Diner adds a modern twist to a classic diner. Order a stack of silver dollar pancakes, biscuits & gravy, grilled cheese & tomato soup, or a smash burger. Just save room for a slice of Meemae’s Blueberry Cheese Pie or a Strawberry Short Shake!
For a fun way to experience the tastes of LA, try taking a Downtown Walking Food Tour!
I hope this guide will help you discover the best things to do in Downtown LA!
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