Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) is the vibrant heart of a sprawling metropolis, a place of cultural, architectural, and culinary wonder. DTLA is an urban phoenix that has risen from a neglected neighborhood to a thriving cultural and culinary hotspot with innovative restaurants, thought-provoking art galleries, hip boutiques, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
The dynamism of DTLA is tangible, its streets pulse with ambition, creativity, and diversity. The cityscape, a juxtaposition of historic theaters and modern skyscrapers, showcases the city’s transformative journey.
Whether it’s a brush with art at The Broad, a gastronomic indulgence at the Grand Central Market, a literary exploration at The Last Bookstore, amazing performances at venues within the Music Center, or simply drinking in the city lights from a hidden rooftop bar, DTLA promises new discoveries, experiences, and an appreciation for LA’s multifaceted charm.
Bottega Louie, South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA
DONUT FRIEND DTLA, South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA, USA
The Last Bookstore, South Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Angels Flight Railway, South Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA, USA
California Plaza Park, South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Grand Park, North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Grand Central Market, South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Otium, South Hope Street, Los Angeles, CA, USA
The Broad, South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA
The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Redbird, East 2nd Street, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles, South Broadway, Central LA, Los Angeles, L A, CA, USA
Walt Disney Concert Hall, South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA
The Music Center, North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, L A, CA, USA
Hotel Per La, South Olive Street, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Conrad Los Angeles, South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Perch, South Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Best Places for Breakfast in Los Angeles
Donut Friend DTLA
Start on a sweet note at Donut Friend, a unique spot that takes donuts to a new level. ‘DIY’ your donut, selecting from a variety of glazes, fillings, and toppings. Opt for a ‘Compassion Fruit’, a glazed donut filled with tangy passionfruit, or try the popular ‘S’Morrissey’ with its gooey marshmallow fluff and rich chocolate glaze. It’s an entertaining pitstop to kick-start your day in LA.
Best Things To Do in the Morning in Los Angeles
Get walking. Venture into The Last Bookstore, a literary paradise. Explore a labyrinth of books, with towering shelves filled with new, used, and rare books. Pay homage to the written word.
Take a journey through time on Angel’s Flight, LA’s beloved funicular railway. Originally built in 1901, it carries you up Bunker Hill, providing a glimpse into the city’s past. It’s a short but enchanting ride, framed by the backdrop of downtown’s skyline. Riding the orange and black cars, lovingly named Sinai and Olivet, feels like stepping into a piece of living history.
California Plaza offers a sublime blend of urban bustle and serene retreat — for office-goers, tourists, and locals alike. With its outdoor amphitheater, it hosts a variety of events, from summer concerts to holiday festivities. The striking water features and captivating public art make it a lively cultural space that celebrates the diversity and creativity of LA.
Grand Park
Gloria Molina Grand Park is a 12-acre park that stretches from The Music Center (and California Plaza) to City Hall. It’s beautifully landscaped with drought-tolerant plants, fountains, pink park benches, and public art. With an awe-inspiring view of City Hall, it makes for people-watching. Drink in the spirit of LA.
Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
A sanctuary in the heart of the city, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels embodies the spiritual pulse of LA. This modern cathedral, with its minimalist design and striking bronze doors, is a serene space that welcomes all. Inside, the alabaster windows bathe the nave in a warm, ethereal light. Whether you’re attending a service or simply appreciating the architecture, visit for a moment of quiet reflection amidst the city’s hustle.
Best Places for Lunch in Los Angeles
Grand Central Market
Uncover a world of flavor at the Grand Central Market. A beloved LA institution since 1917, this bustling food hall hosts an array of vendors serving cuisines from around the globe. From the mouthwatering tacos at Tacos Tumbras a Tomas to the sweet, creamy offerings at McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, there’s a taste for every palette. With its vibrant atmosphere and myriad food options, Grand Central Market celebrates the diverse culinary culture of LA.
Otium
Dine in style at Otium, where art and gastronomy blend harmoniously. Adajcent to the Broad Museum, this restaurant is a culinary masterpiece with a menu as compelling as the surrounding art. The open kitchen creates an engaging atmosphere as the chefs craft dishes with fresh, local ingredients. Delight in their signature agnolotti, filled with butternut squash and topped with a brown butter emulsion, or try the tantalizing smoked fish spread on toast. With its striking design, innovative cuisine, and buzzing ambiance, Otium is supremely memorable.
Best Things To Do in the Afternoon in Los Angeles
The Broad
The Broad stands as a beacon of contemporary art in LA. This striking architectural marvel houses a stunning collection of over 2,000 post-war works. Think of influential artists like Jasper Johns, Cindy Sherman, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Whether it’s the vibrant large-scale paintings or the captivating infinity mirrored rooms by Yayoi Kusama, every piece at The Broad stirs dialogue and inspires wonder. Its ever-rotating exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover, making this museum a must-visit for every art enthusiast. Always free.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA)
If you haven’t been able to snag tickets to The Broad, dive into the depths of modern art at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA). This dynamic museum holds an extensive collection of works from the 1940s to the present. With its thought-provoking exhibits and diverse art forms, MoCA consistently pushes the boundaries of what contemporary art can be. Its ever-changing exhibitions of established and emerging artists make it a crucial destination for those seeking to explore the art of our times.
Best Places for Dinner in Los Angeles
Redbird
Elevate your evening with a culinary experience at Redbird. Nestled in the heart of LA’s historic Vibiana Cathedral, this sophisticated restaurant merges the city’s historic charm with modern cuisine. Delight in Chef Neal Fraser’s progressive American menu, with standout dishes like the succulent ‘Glazed Pork Belly’ and ‘Whole Roasted Duck’. The architectural beauty of the restaurant, combined with its innovative menu, makes for a memorable dining experience. I only include one option for dinner because IMO there is only one option :-) … That said, Redbird is also fabulous for brunch, with the light streaming in.
Best Places to Stay in Los Angeles
I also like The Ace Hotel Downtown LA, a boutique haven that marries vintage Hollywood glamour with modern aesthetics. Each room is a comfortable retreat infused with artful design, offering comfort after a day’s exploration. With a rooftop bar, pool, and a beautifully restored 1,600-seat theatre, this hotel is a captivating slice of LA’s culture.
Hotel Per La
Hotel Per La is the epitome of urban luxury. This boutique hotel combines the historic charm of its Beaux-Arts building with contemporary design elements, creating a chic, modern atmosphere. Each room is a sanctuary of comfort, offering panoramic city views and premium amenities. The rooftop terrace, featuring a pool and lounge, offers a perfect spot to unwind, with the LA skyline as your backdrop. Indulge in refined LA living.
Conrad Los Angeles
Elevate your LA experience with a stay at Conrad Los Angeles. This high-rise hotel offers a stylish and sophisticated retreat in the bustling DTLA. The rooms are luxuriously appointed, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that frame stunning views of the city. The rooftop pool and bar provide a tranquil oasis above the city’s bustle, where you can relax and soak in SoCal sunshine. With its exceptional service and attention to detail, Conrad Los Angeles promises a truly premium stay in the City of Angels.
After Dark in Los Angeles
Disney Concert Hall
Immerse yourself in a symphony of sounds at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. This architectural masterpiece, designed by Frank Gehry, sets the stage for world-class performances ranging from symphony orchestras to contemporary musicians. With superb acoustics and a captivating, undulating design, the concert hall offers an unparalleled experience for the ears and eyes alike. Its stainless steel exterior, glinting under the LA sun, is a sight to behold in itself.
Take a free self-guided tour of Disney Hall daily.
Perch
Drink in LA at Perch, a Parisian-inspired rooftop bar, located 15 floors above DTLA. It offers an alluring fusion of old-world elegance and modern city life. Savor handcrafted cocktails like the signature ‘Perch Manhattan’ with the panoramic shimmering skyline. With its plush sofas, fireplaces, and live jazz music, Perch provides an intoxicating ambiance.
Bonus Pro Tips
At the heart of LA’s vibrant arts scene lies The Music Center, a hub for performing arts. Its three venues offer a rich tapestry of performances, from operas and plays to concerts and dance. With its commitment to nurturing local talent and bringing world-class performances to the city, the Music Center is an essential part of LA’s cultural identity.
The Ahmanson Theatre, known for its diverse line-up, stages a mix of classics, new plays, and musicals, and often hosts pre-Broadway runs. The spacious yet intimate interior creates a unique closeness between the audience and performers. It’s a place where stories come alive through theatrical tradition and progressive narrative.
The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, one of the city’s premier cultural destinations, is an illustrious venue, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics. It hosts some of the world’s most prestigious ballets, operas, and orchestras. The lavish, grandeur-filled interior, with sparkling chandeliers and a gold-leaf ceiling, provides an ambiance steeped in elegance and sophistication.
