Vibrant and buzzy, Downtown LA is packed full of arts, culture and history.
Spanning 21 square kilometres, the centre of LA has something for everyone. From the gleaming towers of its skyscrapers to its child-friendly museums and exhibitions, the whole family can enjoy a holiday here and not want to get on the return flight home. How things have changed. Over the last half century, Downtown LA suffered from decades of urban decay. However, now with almost 40,000 new residents who have moved into the area over the last decade, billions of dollars have poured back into the city’s economy.Split into 16 distinct districts, downtown LA includes the uber-trendy Fashion District, a bargain hunter's paradise with over 1,000 stores that sell at discounted prices. It's a fun experience, especially with the festival-like atmosphere of Santee Alley.
Historic Downtown, as the area around Pershing Square is known, is the heart of downtown and is where you will find some of the most beloved Los Angeles landmarks, such as the Central Library, Angels Flight, and the Bradbury Building. The history of the area dates back to the founding of the city in 1781, and its architecture tells the story of the growth of the city.Come to Downtown LA with an appetite, as some of the city's best eating opportunities are here. Chinatown and Little Tokyo are big attractions for foodies, as are the taquitos in Olvera Street. Whatever you fancy to eat, you'll be able to find it here.
Native Los Angelenos head downtown for a dose of culture as well as a bite to eat, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall is a major draw. The striking Frank Gehry-designed Concert Hall is a mainstay of LA's performing arts scene and is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. The Natural History Museum and The California Science Centre should also not be missed.Despite its reputation as an urban jungle, Downtown LA has a surprising number of parks and green spaces. Angels Knoll offers peace and quiet, as do the fountains of Maguire Gardens. You can even relax on the road of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, admiring the view from this architecturally fascinating building.
