Whether you live here or you're visiting Los Angeles, I the I think we can all agree, it's kinda fun to play tourist in the city. When you think of LA, it's likely you think Hollywood sign, Rodeo Drive, or a visit to see the stars (specifically the pink ones that are the Hollywood equivalent to the Yellow Brick Road.) And don't get me wrong, those are all fun spots, but it's easy to look over downtown LA. What people forget is that downtown LA is packed with cool historic spots and a tasty treats to feast on.
But a trip to downtown Los Angeles can be daunting. There's a lot going on, so it's easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. That's why I planned the optimal day of hopping from historic site to historic site. This is the same itinerary I use when I wanna show off LA to guests, and it's a certified hit.
Major Bonus: everything on this list is affordable (which isn't something you can say in LA often.) Also, if you're like me and the thought of parking and driving more than necessary makes you start breaking out in a nervous sweat, you'll love this fact. It's all
walkable. Granted, you'll rack up quite a number of steps, but that just means you'll be constantly making room for more food.
Tie your shoes, and here we go!
Kick off your day at the overwhelmingly adorable Angels Flight Railway. Running since 1901, this is a classic Los Angeles Historic treasure. As an LA treasure, it's been featured in more films than Matthew McConaughey; its resume even including the iconic movie La La Land (mental note: must make La La Land tour list.)
Even though it's a short ride, you can feel the magic for the low price of $1.
Luckily, Angels Flight spits you out right in front of the Grand Central Market. This is hands-down my favorite place to grab lunch. There are SO MANY food options, it's dazzling. These options range from tacos, bbq, oysters, pupusas, and way more.
I love to grab an app, a meal, and dessert from a variety of vendors. Of course I wash it down with a beer from the brewery.
If you happen to be there Friday - Sunday, you're in for an extra treat. Every weekend starting at 11 AM, the lower portion of the building turns into its own craft market of local merchants and artists for their Bazaar. Ditch the tacky tourist souvenirs and opt for a cool locally made craft instead.
If you weren't full after visiting Grand Central Market, you will be after visiting the Japanese Village Plaza. This colorful block is packed with lots of little shops and food spots. This includes places like Honeymee, an ice cream place that uses local milk and 100% pure raw honey and honeycomb to make the perfect afternoon treat.
Even if you're looking to not spend any money, take a few minutes to walk around. With the Japanese style architecture, paved walkways, and swinging, overhead lanterns, this is a stop you will not want to skip.
This might be my favorite stop of all. Avila Adobe is the oldest existing house in Los Angeles. Dating back to 1818, this home was built as part of a Spanish settlement, but now stands it's a free museum for history lovers. Take 30 minutes out of your day to stroll through the decorated rooms and outdoor kitchen courtyard. It's worth it.
But the Avila Adobe is not what I think makes the El Pueblo neighborhood unforgettable-- It's what surrounds the house. Olvera Street is the heart of the neighborhood and known as the "birthplace of Los Angeles." In this ultra-colorful market, you'll find plenty of street vendors selling crafts and gifts and cafes stocked with authentic foods.
If your feet are still in working condition and you appreciate beautiful buildings, Union Station is worth the extra stop. This isn't your typical tourist attraction (unless you have a train ticket), but once you get a look at those beautiful ceilings and white floors, you'll understand why it's on the list. Originally, the station allowed smoking, which eventually coated the ceilings under a dark disguise of tar and dirt. Luckily, in 2017 the gorgeous hand-painted ceilings in the entry vestibule was re-discovered, and after an eight-year restoration project, these ceilings are squeaky clean and jaw dropping.
This day covers: culture, history, tasty dishes, and your step count. Of course the importance of Instagram-worthy spots is always a priority, but immersing yourself in the cultures and history that laid the foundation of LA will leave you with a lasting sense of appreciation. You'll feel full, inspired, and more connected to this deeply beautiful city.
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