Skip to Content

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Downtown LA

With its high-rise structures, busy streets, and commercial warehouses, Downtown LA is a hive of activity.

Downtown LA has a growing number of hipsters and business professionals.

In addition, this area is home to a noticeable diversity of cultural traditions.

Visit the Last Bookstore, which offers a charming second-floor art gallery in addition to a fantastic selection of used books.

Have a look around the Bradbury Building; the original “Blade Runner” was filmed in the Bradbury Building’s interior.

You can also go through Grand Central Market before going across the street to Angels Flight. Then, take the train or walk up the hill to The Broad to see some contemporary art and admire Walt Disney Concert Hall’s building.

The Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Staples Center, and the Coliseum at the University of Southern California are among the cultural and sporting landmarks in downtown.

This place is all fun, learning, and entertainment; you should enjoy it to the maximum.

Things to do in Downtown LA

1. Broad Museum

Broad museum

Monica Almeida / The Broad

Opened in 2015, the Broad is a Los Angeles-based contemporary art museum with free general entry and a busy schedule of changing exhibitions.

You will find this museum in downtown LA.

Who doesn’t like free top-tier art?

The museum is home to a more than 2,000-item collection of modern and contemporary art by 200 artists, including Jasper Johns, Cy Twombly, and Barbara Kruger.

There is also art by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and others here.

In addition to its permanent collection of more than 2000 works, the museum hosts seasonal temporary exhibitions.

Based on a concept known as “the veil and the vault,” the building that houses The Broad was created to contrast with the famed Walt Disney Concert Hall’s bright metallic perforated facade while yet preserving its architectural significance.

You will also get to see the intriguing infinity room; a room made of mirrors with colored LED lights hanging from the ceiling at various heights.

The effect of the infinity room leaves you feeling like floating in space with ghost images of yourself floating around in all directions.

However, time in the room is very limited, only 1 minute per group, which is far from enough time to absorb the wonder thoroughly.

The exhibits here are super fun, from gold Michael Jackson and his monkey to giant tables and chairs to Andy Warhol.

You shouldn’t miss this museum if you’re in downtown LA. Even if you don’t love modern museums, you will love this.

You just need to reserve your ticket in advance to get in here.

Address: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

2. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Giuseppe Milo / Flickr

Located beside The Broad, Walt Disney Concert Hall is a landmark structure in Downtown LA that took more than 15 years to construct.

Frank Gehry designed the Walt Disney Concert Hall, one of the world’s most technologically advanced concert halls.

Additionally, the 3.6-acre building perfectly represents the orchestras and the City of Los Angeles’ particular vibrancy and imaginative spirit.

This building is a marvel, from the stainless steel contours of its striking front to the state-of-the-art acoustics of the hardwood-paneled main auditorium.

Similarly, the Los Angeles Philharmonic performs at Walt Disney Concert Hall (WDCH), where they showcase the best in jazz, world music, contemporary music, and classical music.

The Walt Disney Concert Hall is an acoustically outstanding concert venue and includes a breathtaking terrace on the Terrace Garden level.

The Terrace Garden is accessible via the Orchestra West entrance hallway.

It provides an interesting vantage point for seeing Frank Gehry’s unique architecture. There are also sculptures, colorful trees, and horticulture in the garden.

In fact, the architecture is simply stunning. Every turn around the bend brings a fresh surprise.

Stroll around, explore the concert theater, and stroll through the gardens.

Every time you visit this lovely region, you discover something new. Do not miss this place.

Address: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

3. Little Tokyo, Downtown LA

Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo

One fantastic place for dining, shopping, and sightseeing in downtown LA is Little Tokyo.

As the name may imply, Little Tokyo is a historic section of Downtown LA with a distinctly Japanese vibe.

Bordered on the west by Alameda Street, Little Tokyo is a section of Downtown LA that spans about five city blocks.

In addition, Little Tokyo is one of the three official Japantowns in the country and was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1995, and is the site of the yearly Nisei Week festival.

For several decades now, the area has attracted many Japanese immigrants and tourists.

In fact, little Tokyo is so Japanese that you won’t even realize you’re in Downtown LA while you’re there.

Visit the Japanese Village Plaza Mall, which is brimming with stores offering genuine Japanese goods and also includes a patio decorated with traditional lanterns, for some shopping therapy.

Visit the Friendship Knot statue, the pagoda-style Little Tokyo Watchtower, or the Japanese American National Museum.

Consume any variety of Japanese noodles or Shabu Shabu-style soups. Then, visit the Nijiya Market’s booths, or hire a karaoke booth and sing the night away.

Address: Los Angeles, United States

4. Grand Park, Downtown LA

Grand Park, LA

John Sequeira / Flickr

Downtown LA has lots of great architecture and public spaces.

Grand Park, located in the middle of the City of Los Angeles, provides all visitors with a remarkable experience.

With its tranquil strolling routes, relaxed seating places, and recognizable fountains, you’ll enjoy it here.

It was designed to be a location where all Angelenos might feel at home, and the park itself reflects the diversity of LA.

Similarly, there are open areas all across Grand Park that can be used for civic gatherings, casual sitting, and leisurely strolling.

A restored historic Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain with a new wade-able membrane pool and a small performance lawn are available here.

A community terrace planted with drought-tolerant specimen plants and a large event lawn is also part of the amenities available in Grand Park.

In addition, this park provides tranquil views from the Music Centre to City Hall.

Even the walking routes were purposefully planned to be shaded by trees, making it a park that is especially welcoming to pedestrians.

The Grand Park’s convenient position makes it possible to reach other exciting areas of the city quickly.

Explore Little Tokyo and Chinatown nearby to extend your trip, and Hollywood is only a few miles to the northwest.

Address: 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

5. Exchange LA

Exchange LA

Exchange LA

Located in a historically significant structure, Exchange LA is a throwback to the sunset boulevard nightclub scene.

Formerly the Los Angeles Stock Exchange, this location, which spans 25,000 square feet and four levels, is the place to be.

After the Great Depression of 1929, the Los Angeles Stock Exchange opened its doors in 1931, projecting the confidence California needed. The marble, polished brass, and large “trade floor” still create a posh entertainment atmosphere today.

The 25,000-square-foot space features some of the best DJs in the US, hosts TV shows, and has a catwalk for fashion presentations.

Additionally, there are private VIP rooms and designated chill-out areas for when the partying becomes too much.

As you would expect, the music is loud, has deep bass, and has great vibes, as you would anticipate.

Similarly, there are many steps and a backstage elevator in the four-story building.

A sizable “skybox” with a private bar provides a clear view of the performance.

Moreso, the first-floor restrooms are spacious and handicap accessible.

Asides from the fact that Exchange LA serves as a nightclub, it is also a place for corporate events, live entertainment, movie shoots, award ceremonies, premiere parties, and fashion displays.

Remember to bring identification since it is just for those over 21.

Address: 618 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

6. Japanese American National Museum

Japanese American National Museum

Bmaiwald / Flickr

The museum is a must-see if you’re visiting Little Tokyo, whether for some shopping or Japanese cuisine.

Located in a new, modern glass and metal building across from their old brick, this museum is an educating one.

Focusing on the Japanese experience from the first laborers who were immigrants to the Japanese American experience through forced internment and beyond, the history here is eye-opening.

In addition, as the foremost storehouse of Japanese American history, JANM develops ground-breaking historical and artistic exhibitions that shed light on the lives and rich cultural legacy of Americans of Japanese descent.

When social justice, individual dignity, and diversity are threatened, JANM vigorously shares the painful lessons learned from this past.

In fact, there are numerous interesting and enlightening cultural and historical details regarding Japanese life and influence.

You also learn a lot about the lifestyle, and the staff and guides there are always willing to help you if you’re looking for a specific exhibit.

Though the museum is rather small, there are a good amount of photos, artifacts, and reading that will keep you occupied for an hour or more.

Address: 100 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

7. Regal Cinemas, LA Live

Regal Cinemas, LA Live

Regal Cinemas, LA Live

Have you ever felt as though you were a part of a movie instead of just viewing it? This is the type of experience you will get at this downtown Los Angeles cinema.

Once you’re inside, it’s like stepping through the looking glass. The theater is clean and well-lighted.

There are fourteen screens at the Regal Cinema Complex, one of which, the Regal Premier House, is set aside for huge blockbuster premieres on opening night.

If you watched a movie in 3D and are amazed, wait until you come to watch it here in 4D.

Choose the 4DX for a unique and futuristic movie experience.

In the 4D experience, the air and water effects that spray in your face, vibrating moving seats, strobe or fog lighting, and bubbles won’t just make it feel like you’re watching the movie; you’ll feel like you’re taking part in it.

Make sure to watch an action-packed movie to enjoy the experience better here.

Address: 1000 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

8. Union Station

union station, la,

Paul Sullivan / Flickr

Featuring in movies like Blade Runner, Union Station is a colorful representation of the revitalization of downtown LA.

In fact, if you enjoy great architectural pieces, come here.

Union Station is more than just a humming transportation hub in the city’s center. It is a vibrant destination for the arts, entertainment, and culture, forging a crucial new connection to the community.

One of the wonderful things to do here is to get your camera out and take some fantastic photos.

In addition, there are some food vendors on the premises if you need to grab something to eat.

Similarly, you can enjoy delicious food at Olvera Street or the famed Philippes French Dip Sandwiches less than a block away, as well as stunning architecture.

It is also close to Chinatown, so there are more options.

Address: 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

9. Chinatown, Downtown LA

Chinatown, Downtown LA

Chinatown, Downtown LA

One of the city’s most well-liked tourist destinations is Chinatown which is situated in Downtown LA, close to the civic and cultural center.

The area offers plenty of visually appealing subjects for photographers and just about anyone.

In addition, the strings of vivid red lanterns around every corner also add to the effizi.

Even though it’s relatively small, it also boasts a ton of culture and fantastic cuisine options.

There are many restaurants and intriguing businesses to browse on the streets.

Similarly, several monuments, particularly the one of Bruce Lee, will capture your attention.

The convenience of having shopping, dining, and cultural experiences all in one location is unbeatable.

The best part is that you can do this pretty much any weekend if you live in Los Angeles.

It’s probably the simplest and least expensive method of leaving LA without really leaving LA.

Discover the fascinating eastern culture that has mesmerized and enthralled the world.

You will find everything from your favorite dumplings to your Chinese horoscope reading here in one convenient location.

In short, it is a truly nice location to stroll and get lost in downtown LA.

Address: Los Angeles, United States

10. Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market, flickr

Thomas Hawk / Flickr

Grand Central Market is the place to go if you’re in downtown LA and looking for the most fantastic variety of food.

In fact, this is a foodie paradise all under one roof.

At Grand Central Market, you get to have a taste of LA; a solid mix of foods from different corners of Los Angeles.

The “Wonder Market,” as it was then known, was described as “the largest and finest public market on the Pacific Coast” when it initially opened its doors in October 1917.

In fact, there is something for everyone here; from Thai to sausages to burgers to beer and wine to Mexican, and so much more.

Additionally, it literally has every possible cuisine you can imagine from OG Mexican and tacos; to donuts, Filipino food, Vegan Ramen, and even a fruit stand and jewelry spot.

The choices alone, however, can be overwhelming, so either be adventurous and go with what smells and looks best or plan ahead.

Numerous individuals from all walks of life frequent this location. You might get to meet old friends or someone you know.

Address: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

Looking to explore more California Cities? Why not check out the list of things to do in Malibu, Sausalito, Fresno, Big Bear Lake, and Anaheim?

11. The Counter, Downtown LA

The Counter, LA

The Counter, LA

Whether you want to consume a half pound of meat topped with three kinds of cheese, bacon, and spinach or a turkey burger on lettuce with spinach. You will get it here.

The Counter is a burger eatery you will enjoy.

Forget consuming a simple hamburger patty sandwiched between two slices of bread with a piece of cheese. Instead, you can create your own burger at the Counter using the ingredients of your choice.

In addition to serving the meat-free Impossible Burger, they also cater to vegans and vegetarians.

Choose from their burgers or create your own, allowing endless possibilities.

Address: 5779 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, United States

12. The Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore

If you’re searching for an excellent spot to unwind or a location to buy books, then head over to The Last Bookstore in Downtown LA.

The Last Bookstore is a classic downtown LA landmark that you will love even if you are not a bookworm.

In short, this bookstore has an amazing collection of books.

Aside from books, there are other things to look at and things you can buy there, like vinyl records (like art galleries on the second floor).

The enormity of the space is one of the first things you notice when you enter.

This enormous two-story open building has a ton of original art on the show. Many works of art are created using book pages or actual book pages.

In addition, the book arch in the store’s labyrinth is a particularly fascinating sight to behold.

The bottom floor is a more traditional bookstore with the layout and types of books.

If you are seeking distinctive vintage turntable sound, there are numerous categories and even a vinyl area.

Similarly, since it is a used bookstore, there is a section at the back where you can sell your books.

There are also numerous couches and chairs where you can relax while reading.

The top floor is also a beautiful area designed with a unique layout and, of course, this is where you will find the famous boom tunnel.

In summary, this is a paradise for book lovers.

Address: 453 South Spring Street Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

13. FIGat7th

FIGat7th

The FIGat7th

FIGat7th is a convenient shopping destination in downtown LA.

It is a perfect pit stop for both to chill and for vibrance.

More than 300,000 square feet of store space are divided across three floors of the open-air mall.

In short, this place is heaven, but for shoppers.

The mall’s 35 retail establishments are all branded with well-known large names.

In addition, over twenty different restaurants and coffee shops are available, selling anything from Spanish octopus to Greek food to Italian ice cream.

Along with a Farmers Market every Thursday, the mall also holds fun days, workshops, and art exhibitions.

The top-floor patio is the best for relaxation, meetups, dining, and dates.

Address: 735 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90017, United States

14. Clifton’s Republic, Downtown LA

Clifton's Republic

Clifton’s Republic / Wonho Frank Lee

This is one of the most magical restaurants in all of Los Angeles, especially in Downtown LA.

It is a great place to experience century-old classics

Clifton’s Republic was designed to be a multi-story playground, complete with kid-friendly grottos, and dining rooms for private parties.

As soon as you walk in, you feel like you’re at Disneyland. There are animal case displays and beautiful wall decor.

The Gothic Bar, located on the third level, has a booth named after science fiction author Ray Bradbury, who was a regular at the original Clifton’s.

Furthermore, Monarch Bar and a kid-friendly chapel constructed in collaboration with experts from the Natural History Museum are both located on the second floor.

Similarly, there are two new bars, Treetops and the beautiful Pacific Seas, which opened in November 2016.

The meatloaf, mashed potatoes, fried chicken, gravy, biscuits, desserts, and drinks are great.

You’ll also find a huge assortment of healthy options, including vegan ones.

If you are looking for cocktails, Clifton’s has several bars tucked away inside, where adults can hang out and enjoy time away from younger patrons.

Kids love this place too.

The place is an amazing historical perfection, in a monstrous, perfectly restored building, full of history, wonder, and delicious food located right in downtown LA.

Thursday through Saturday are currently Clifton’s hours of operation.

Address: 648 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

15. Crypto.com Arena

Crypto.com Arena

Crypto.com Arena

Formerly known as the Staples Center, this is an iconic Downtown LA spot to visit for sporting events or concerts.

Watch a football, ice hockey, basketball, or live concert at the Crypto.com Arena.

The gigantic arena has a seating capacity of about 20,000 people and a floor area of 950 000 square feet.

Furthermore, the Arena is the preferred location for the Grammy Awards and is home to several of LA’s major sports teams.

It has also hosted world boxing championships.

Since the arena’s opening, a wide range of eclectic musicians, including Barbara Streisand, Bruce Springsteen, and the Black-Eyed Peas, have performed there, all to record-breaking box office success.

La Rive is also across the street, and during games and events, the street between the arena and La Rive is closed to cars, making it a cool place to walk around.

Address: 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

16. The Ritz-Carlton Spa

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, la

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, la

Spend some time relaxing at the Ritz-Carlton Spa.

The spa is the largest in downtown LA and covers 8,000 square feet.

It has nine treatment rooms and a menu of carefully curated services.

The spa transports Hollywood glitz to Downtown LA.

Enjoy a glass of champagne while you are treated like a star on the red carpet. Get facials, pedicures, manicures, or body shimmers made of 24-carat gold powder.

Choose one of the midday rejuvenation sessions if you don’t want the complete treatment. You also receive a Bento boxed lunch throughout the hour-long session.

Address: 900 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

17. The Music Center

The Music Center

Wikimedia Commons / The Music Center

The Downtown LA’s Music Center is a collection of venues for live cultural events such as opera, dance, theater plays, and classical music concerts.

It is one of the three biggest performing arts venues in the country.

Moreso, the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Ahmanson Theater, Mark Taper Forum, and Walt Disney Concert Hall are all located within The Music Center.

The LA Philharmonic Orchestra is housed in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, which has a spacious auditorium with seating for nearly 3,000 people.

Since its opening in 1967, the Ahmanson Theater has hosted numerous world premieres.

The Mark Taper Forum is a smaller, more personal theater that showcases more contentious and avant-garde dramatic works.

The Center Theater Group presents top-notch Broadway plays and musicals as well as originals.

Asides from the performing arts, it is a nice place to get stunning views of downtown LA.

Address: 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

18. Bradbury Building

Bradbury Building

Mark Beeson / Flickr

As bubbling as Downtown LA is, there are still some historical structures and artifacts that will amaze you, and the Bradbury Building is one.

Bradbury Building is the oldest commercial structure in downtown LA.

It is an architectural piece and thanks to its particular geometries; it was chosen to shoot scenes from the film Blade runner (1982).

Similarly, the building has also been featured in other movies including “Thee Unfaithful” (1947), “Shockproof” (1949), “D.O.A” (1950), “500 Days of Summer” (2009), and more.

The Bradbury Building has a Blue Bottle Coffee store on the ground floor, brown brick and sandstone structure with some terracotta ornamentation. But once you enter, it’s an entirely different world.

The building’s lobby is a central court designed in the Victorian era that rises over 50 feet to the glass roof where sunlight enters.

Similarly, the elegant French wrought-iron railings on the Italian marble staircases are of the art nouveau design.

The patterned tile floor, the wrought-iron elevators, and the gorgeous skylight make you realize why this site is a treasure.

While it’s free to see, visitors can only go as far as the first floor, but it is still a worthwhile trip to make.

You should visit this place if you enjoy unique buildings and their architecture.

Address: 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

19. Grammy Museum L.A. Live

Grammy museum

Grammy Museum

If you’re into music, this is definitely a place to see.

The museum takes you through years of music history and top recording artists throughout every generation.

Seeing iconic pieces of musical history from Ray Charles, Michael Jackson, Johnny Cash, Beyoncé, and Kris Kristofferson is so awesome.

In addition, there’s a little spot with places to sit and watch Grammy performances and awards.

There are four floors to explore, each with interactive screens.

Although it takes about 2-3hours, you will enjoy every bit of it.

There are dozens of stage costumes, beautiful gowns, and red carpet-outfits.

Even though the gift shop is small, you can still grab one or two things from there.

There are also plenty of videos, interactive exhibits, and memorabilia.

Address: 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

20. Pershing Square

Pershing Square

The Pershing Square

Pershing Square is one of the places you go to unwind and just have some me time in Downtown LA.

The square is a public area where locals and guests may gather, chat, and unwind in the midst of the city.

Furthermore, the park is popular during the day with residents of high-rise apartments and condos, area hotel guests, and the business community.

The square’s hardscapes and grassy spaces provide a venue for events like concerts, gatherings, political rallies, and community festivities.

Similarly, Pershing Square is embellished with monuments, statues, a huge seating area, two playgrounds for kids, a chess area, a pet area, and an elevated open-air amphitheater in the style of Myanmar.

You will also find hotels, eateries, cafes, bakeries, and small enterprises close by.

Address: Los Angeles, United States

21. Angels Flight Railway

Angels Flight Railway

Margaret Napier / Flickr

Angels Flight is a well-known, century-old funicular in the Bunker Hill neighborhood of downtown Los Angeles.

The railway has earned the moniker “the world’s shortest railway” over the last 118 years.

Riding this historic railway really feels like riding in a time machine to a forgotten place in the distant past.

Furthermore, it has appeared in countless books and films, such as La La Land and Michael Connelly’s book Angels Flight.

The ride just lasts a minute, but even so, it’s still one of the best things to do in downtown LA with friends and children of any age.

In addition, the water Court shopping mall is located between Hill and Olive Streets, and one of its two trolleys, named Sinai or Olive, is the fastest and cheapest way to get there for just a dollar.

Grand Central Market is also located at the bottom.

Angels Flight is open every day of the year, including holidays, from 6:45 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address: 351 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

Yes! California is filled with many cities with different vibes and attractions to visit. Cities like Irvine, Bakersfield, and  Oceanside are to be explored whenever you plan a visit to this state.

22. Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles

Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles

Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles

The Santa Monica Museum of Art (SMMoA) was founded in 1984 and re-established in 2017 with a new name and location in Downtown LA.

The museum’s 12,700-square-foot refurbished industrial building has plenty of room for exhibitions, community programming, pop-up shops, integrated offices, and special projects.

Due to its location back from the road, the building can be challenging to find.

The ICA doesn’t look like a museum from the outside as it blends in with the shops next door, but surprisingly, the space is huge inside, and you will see some cool exhibits here.

They have a beautiful collection of sketches and drawings by Martin Ramirez.

The gift shop is full of children’s books, some tackling the same heavy subjects as the art in the galleries.

Address: 1717 E 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, United States

23. Smorgasburg, Downtown LA

smorgasburg

Smorgasburg

Whether you are a foodie or a regular person looking to grab something to eat in downtown LA, Smorgasburg is the place to be. You will be overwhelmed with a lot of options.

Smorgasburg is America’s biggest weekly open-air food market, drawing 50,000 visitors.

Every Sunday, Smorgasburg LA takes place on the five-acre site of the Alameda Produce Market in Downtown Los Angeles.

At this site, you can find hundreds of intriguing food vendors as well as chic shopping in the categories of design, craft, style, vintage, wellness, and more.

Furthermore, this place has a ton of street food vendors set up neatly in this little area with other products (jewelry and clothing) in the middle.

You can find plenty of food stands that have been featured on various shows scattered around.

Similarly, you will find everything from soup dumplings, lobster rolls, smoked ribs, spam musubi, and many different kinds of tacos.

They even have a section called Ice Cream Alley. The alley doesn’t even need an explanation as to what you will find there.

There are also plenty of vegan options available.

As a bonus, there is free parking for 2 hours, however, this spot is not pet friendly.

Address: 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, United States

24. Santee Alley Flea Market

Santee Alley

Santee Alley

In Downtown LA Fashion District sits the Santee Alley Flea Market.

The market consists of open-fronted shops selling anything from accessories to shoes and clothing lines in the pedestrianized alley.

The market is the perfect location to browse for gifts or mementos.

Shop from shirts, and outfits, to electronics. Just name it. But make sure you walk around and compare. A lot of stores sell the same things in different parts of the alley and Alley branches.

It is bustling with activity and draws large crowds of shoppers every day.

It is open seven days a week from 9:30 to 6:00 in the evening.

In addition, if you need food, there’s Alley Dog; they have Mexican food and American.

While at the alley dog, try the renowned hot dog from the Alley Dog food cart or El Pollo Loco’s fire-grilled chicken.

This is really a great place in Downtown LA to visit and grasp the culturally rich history of LA.

Address: Olympic Blvd and, Santee Alley, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

25. Nickel Diner, Downtown LA

Nickel Diner, Downtown LA

Nickel Diner, Downtown LA

The Nickel Diner offers authentic American diner cuisine in a chic, antique setting.

If you enjoy the television program Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, you may have already seen it.

The diner’s decor will make you feel as though you’ve entered a time capsule that hasn’t advanced since the late 1940s.

The pricing is the only thing that has been altered.

Explore healthful classics like Mac & Cheese or more modern fare like Stuffed Avocado with Quinoa.

Whatever you eat, make sure to have a maple-glazed bacon doughnut.

Furthermore, the biscuits here are some of the most fluffy and they melt in your mouth.

The salads, which range from Cobb to Caesar to chili-lime grilled salmon, are large and fresh.

The Nickel burger is one of the tastiest in downtown LA.

In addition, desserts like butterscotch pudding and red velvet cake are delicious ways to end a meal, and the glazed doughnut from Nickel Diner with crumbled bacon is a famous way to start any day.

Overall, the food here is delectable.

Address: 524 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

26. Olvera Street

Olvera Street

Olvera Street

This is the place to go if you like Mexican food and brightly colorful crafts and trinkets.

Downtown LA’s Olvera Street is a great symbol of Mexican-American culture and is regarded as the city’s oldest original street.

If you’re looking for a pleasant half-day trip, it’s a perfect place to ride the train because it’s directly across Union Station.

You can visit numerous locations throughout your vacation because it is close to Chinatown as well.

In addition, several stores are lining the street selling typical tourist souvenirs and more conventional apparel and groceries.

Lucha Libre wrestling masks and brightly colored blankets are also very popular.

The Day of the Dead Festival is the ideal time of year to visit Olvera Street.

Address: Los Angeles, United States

Check out also things to do in LA at night

27. Arts District, Downtown LA

Arts District, LA

Arts District, LA

The arts district is one of the trendiest and bustling neighborhoods in downtown LA.

Even though Los Angeles is teeming with artists, downtown LA’s Arts District has emerged as one of the city’s most artistic locales.

Moreso, in the 1970s, the area was home to an urban artists’ colony, but it has recently come back to life as a hub for all kinds of creatives, breweries, galleries, restaurants, retail stores, salons, and more.

In fact, the tour of this neighborhood may persuade you to spend more time exploring the Arts District.

All of the buildings in the Art District are covered in creative murals.

Discover some of the top spots in the Arts District to shop for custom perfume, witness amazing ramen noodles being prepared, and more.

There are also a ton of bizarre restaurants like Wurstkuche, which serves rattlesnake and rabbit sausages, as well as breweries and ice cream shops.

In short, this is a great location for exploring, strolling, and having fun.

Address: Los Angeles, United States

28. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

cathedral of our lady of the angels

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

If you admire architecture pieces or you are a religious person, this is a place you shouldn’t miss in Downtown LA.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, located in the heart of Downtown LA, is renowned for its deconstructivism and contemporary architecture.

Rafael Moneo, a Spanish architect who won the Pritzker Prize, created the cathedral and officially opened it on September 2, 2002.

The Cathedral has since become one of the most recognizable structures in the City Of Angels.

This church is beautiful, with a modern layout and a spacious interior.

You can stroll around the entire area or descend to the mausoleum beneath the church.

Take in the scenery and the architecture, and pay your respects at the mausoleum.

Address: 555 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

29. Dodger’s Stadium

Dodgers Stadium

Dodgers Stadium

Home to the city’s major league baseball team, the dodger stadium is the place to go if you need to catch a match.

The dodger stadium is also known as Chavez Ravine and is located in downtown LA.

There is no other ballpark you could be at other than Dodger Stadium.

Behind Fenway Park and Wrigley Field, it is the third-oldest ballpark, but you’d never know it from the stadium’s charm and characterful renovations over the years.

Furthermore, most days of the week, you can drive into Dodger’s Stadium and browse the company store during regular business hours.

You may also take a short stroll from there to the upper deck to enjoy lunch while seeing the stunning stadium.

Address: 1000 Vin Scully Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

30. Two Bit Circus, Downtown LA

Two bit circus

Two-bit circus

The breathtaking Two Bit Circus, which is situated in the Downtown LA Arts District, provides a brand-new type of communal play area called the “World’s First Micro-Amusement Park.

Two Bit Circus covers 38,000 square feet and has a variety of gaming zones, from traditional coin-ops to the newest immersive entertainment.

The virtual reality games are amazing and the story rooms/escape rooms are also really fun.

If you visit, you have to do the “experience room”, as they are the highlight.

With so much going on, it will take more than one visit – and probably several – to experience everything.

In addition, parking is available but limited, street parking is also available.

You can go during the week for smaller crowds and discounted rates.

Address: 634 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, United States

Final Remark

You can tell downtown Los Angeles is like a big city itself, with so much to enjoy whenever you plan a visit here.

So pack your bags, shoes, and all you need to embark on a journey you will mark as the best place to visit in your life.

Safe Travels!