14 Fun Things To Do in Downtown Los Angeles

There’s so much to do in the city of Los Angeles that it was impossible to see it all in a couple of years I lived there.  However, during my time there, I set out to do as many activities as possible before moving away again.  Exploring the heart of the city was fun.

There is so much to see and do in this awesome city.   Here are all the fun things to do in downtown Los Angeles.

Fun Things to do in Downtown Los Angeles

Walt Disney’s Concert Hall

With its unique architecture, Disney’s Concert Hall is a venue that holds orchestral performances.  This stainless steel building has such a striking exterior that it quickly catches the attention of those passing by.

The Broad Museum

LA’s newest contemporary art museum has grown quickly in popularity, probably due to its mirror room, unique external architectural design, and free general admission to its permanent gallery. It includes Cindy Sherman, Jeff Loons, Andy Warhol, and Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room collections.

 

Pershing Square Park

Pershing Square is a park downtown that holds occasional concerts and has a seasonal ice rink.  Located on Hill and 5th Street, Pershing Square is an excellent stop for those exploring downtown.

The Last Bookstore

Located on the corner of 5th & Spring in the Spring Arts Tower, The Last Bookstore has the feel of an antique bookstore, and it seems fitting to mention that its name was chosen with irony. With a collection of over 250,000 new and used books on two floors, The Last Bookstore also has a fantastic design.  The second floor holds the Labyrinth and some great gallery shops that visitors tend to enjoy. So for all you book lovers out there, this is the perfect place for you!

Grand Central Market

When I discovered Grand Central Market, I was left hooked on the food.  This place has various kinds of food such as Thai, Mexican, American, and South American. If pupusas, tacos, aguas frescas, and ice cream are your thing, you will love all the choices this place offers.

This food establishment has been operating since 1917!  That’s a long time! My favorite restaurant is Tacos Tumbras, where I eat some delicious Mexican tacos.  The tacos are so huge that eating two is like eating 5!

Fashion District

Head on over to the alleys in the heart of downtown L.A. If you enjoy retail and wholesale shopping from independent stores.   For those who love a good bargain, this will be your paradise.  Retail prices on apparel and accessories are low, and shoppers can find almost anything they want.  You can find anything from little trinkets, clothing and accessories, electronics, and street food.  The alleys are open every day from 10 am-5 pm, and the most popular alley is Santee Alley.

DTLA Arts District

The arts district is a place is a cool hipster hang-out.  It caters to creative and young minds who appreciate art. Here you will find awesome artwork and gives the neighborhood character.  When you walk around you see many photographers photographing people in front of the art.

My favorite pieces include the Angel Wings by Colette, the Piece by Piece Mural by Tristan Eaton, the Elephants by Damon Martin, and the Love mural. Aside from art, the Arts District has many coffee shops, bars, boutiques, and restaurants to check out.

LA River Bridge

Ever since moving to Los Angeles, I had wanted to visit the iconic L.A 6th bridge which is featured in many movie scenes. Though the 6th bridge went through demolition in early 2016, the LA River Bridge remains.  This viaduct was featured in Grease, Gone in 60 Seconds, Furious 7, and many more movies.  In addition, you will find that people visit the L.A. River Bridge for photography and even car racing.

Little Tokyo

Just a short distance from the Downtown L.A. Arts District is the neighborhood of Little Tokyo.  Little Tokyo is where you can find unique shops and delicious Japanese restaurants.  This place is rich in history, culture, and fun.  In Little Tokyo, you will find Japanese Gardens, Buddhist temples, the Japanese American National Museum, and an arcade room.

Los Angeles City Hall

A city icon since 1928, the Los Angeles City Hall tower is famous for its amazing views of Los Angeles.  This 27th-floor observation deck is open from 9 am-5 pm during the weekdays.

Chinatown

Though this Chinatown is not as big as the New York City or San Francisco ones, it still has enough things to do to make a visit fun.  Tourists who visit Chinatown L.A. have an opportunity to enjoy the history, culture, Chinese food, events, and the joy found in this place.

Aside from a beautiful and colorful atmosphere, you can shop around at some of the unique stores. Chinatown also holds special events and festivals throughout the year, making it a perfect place to visit by yourself, with your loved one, or even the whole family!

U.S Bank Tower

In June 2016, the tallest building in Downtown Los Angeles, the U.S. Bank Tower, opened up Skyspace LA.  It’s an outdoor observation deck where people enjoy the 360-degree city views as high as the 60th floor.  More exciting than the observation deck is the new Skyslide.

There is a glass slide on the side of the building.  Visitors who dare can slide down this 3-second attraction.  The descent starts on the 70th floor down to the 69th floor.  How fun is that!?

You can find this slide on 5th Street.  It’s open daily from 9 am-11 p. Thee observation deck admission is $25 for adults and $8 more for the slide.

Placita Olvera

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument is known as Olvera Street or Placita Olvera.  It is known as the oldest section of Los Angeles, and it has an authentic Spanish-style feel.  If you walk around Olvera Street, you’ll find a Mexican Marketplace with various vendors selling food and different goods.  You will also find La Plaza de Cultural y Artes Museum and The Chinese American Museum.

Staples Center

Also located downtown, this multi-purpose sports arena is home to the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Kings, and other L.A. sports teams.  The Staples Center also hosts many other sporting and entertainment events. Unfortunately, I didn’t see a sports team while I was there.  However, I did have the privilege of seeing my favorite college team (University of Arizona) play inside the arena for March Madness.

There are so many more fun things to do in downtown Los Angeles other than the ones mentioned.  If you find more great places, let me know.   Here is a list of beaches to visit in Los Angeles if you have time.

Fun Things to do in Downtown Los Angeles