Downtown LA Guide

Downtown LA has transformed over the past decade from a no-go zone to the city's cultural heart. Historic buildings now house restaurants, bars, and lofts. The Arts District is a creative hub. Grand Avenue has world-class arts institutions. It's walkable in a way most of LA isn't. DTLA feels more like a "real city."

The Broad — free contemporary art museum, must-reserve tickets. Walt Disney Concert Hall — stunning Gehry architecture, LA Phil home. MOCA — Museum of Contemporary Art (free admission). Grand Park — civic gathering space for events. The Last Bookstore — explore the labyrinthine book lover's paradise.

Grand Central Market — food hall with Eggslut, Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, McConnell's Ice Cream. Bestia — the reservation everyone wants, Italian masterpiece. Majordomo — David Chang's LA outpost. Bavel — stunning Middle Eastern from Bestia team. Howlin' Ray's — hot chicken worth the wait (arrive early).

The hippest part of DTLA, east of Little Tokyo. Warehouse galleries, street art, creative studios. Eat at Manuela, Bavel, or Zinc. Drink at Arts District Brewing or Blacktop Coffee. Shop at Alchemy Works or Poketo. The vibe is creative, industrial, and authentic. Best explored on foot.

The Varnish — speakeasy cocktails behind Cole's. Clifton's Republic — multi-level wonderland bar. Seven Grand — whiskey bar paradise. Rooftop bars at Perch, Spire 73, and Broken Shaker. Pattern Bar for underground dance music. DTLA nightlife is more cocktail-focused than clubby.

Metro is excellent for DTLA — multiple lines converge at 7th Street/Metro Center. Street parking is available but metered. Lots are affordable on weekends. Everything is walkable within DTLA. Avoid walking in Skid Row area (east of Main, south of Little Tokyo). Uber/Lyft at night is easiest.