Angels Flight Railway

Your tour will begin by learning about Los Angele’s public transportation. Most people picture just one thing when driving in Los Angeles, traffic jams. Few realize, however, that LA is home to a world class metro system which you’ll learn about on this tour. Come hear about the struggle between mass transit and car culture and learn about the demise of the original Red Line, and experience it for yourself later in the tour when you hop on the world famous Angels Flight. Your next few stops will take you to several unique and fascinating locations: The Last Bookstore, The Bradbury Building and the Grand Central Market which are all distinctly LA and shouldn’t be missed. Next up, you will see where locals and travelers visit to experience world renowned symphonies and art in the notable institutions that line Grand Street such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Music Pavilion, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Broad Museum. Next you’ll go to the Civic Center of LA, where you will see and learn about all of the administrative functions that help bring order to this large and sprawling city. You will also hear about local legends such as former Mayor Tom Bradley and retired police chief William Parker. Following this is the cultural hub of Downtown LA, and the oldest street in Los Angeles, Olvera. Immerse yourself in the local flavor and experience first hand what pueblo life was like in LA. Learn about the namesake of this great city and come to understand how the Spanish Empire helped shape this city. For your last stop, marvel at the incredible mission revival and Art Deco infused building that is Union Station. Learn about the history of this transit hub officially known as the Grand Central of the west. After this tour you will be able to impress the locals with your insider knowledge of the subway and never get stuck on the freeway again.

Step into the beating heart of Los Angeles with a walking tour that goes beyond the surface, unveiling the intricate stories, vibrant culture, and breathtaking architecture of DTLA. As your guide—a Belgian storyteller with a global perspective—I’ll take you on an immersive journey through this fascinating neighborhood. This isn’t just about seeing the sights; it’s about truly understanding the soul of the city. Our adventure begins conveniently at the Los Angeles Central Library, right next to the 7th Street Metro station, making it easy for you to join. As a long-time DTLA resident and host of a podcast dedicated to the area, I’ve spent years uncovering its secrets and sharing them with curious minds. This tour reflects not only my love for the neighborhood but also the insights gained from conversations with Angelenos and travelers from around the world. From the rich history of Bunker Hill to the cinematic landmarks of the Broadway Theater District, we’ll explore how Los Angeles became the global city it is today. You’ll leave with a fresh perspective on how this urban hub connects to cultural movements worldwide. What makes this tour truly unique is its conversational approach. This isn’t a scripted monologue or a dry history lesson—it’s an interactive experience where your thoughts and questions shape the journey. Whether we’re marveling at the intricate Art Deco details of the Bradbury Building or discussing the role of public spaces in urban design, the focus is on creating a dialogue. We’ll explore how DTLA’s architecture, art, and history have shaped not only the city but also the stories we tell about it. Tour Highlights • The Theater District: With the world’s highest concentration of movie palaces, this district is the epicenter of LA’s cinematic history. Each building tells a story of the glamour and grit that defined Hollywood’s golden age. • Historic Bunker Hill: Once an affluent residential area, Bunker Hill reflects LA’s dynamic evolution, where layers of history meet modern urban innovation. • Art Deco and Beaux-Arts Architecture: From the Central Library to the Bradbury Building, DTLA’s architecture showcases a unique blend of styles that highlight the city’s eclectic past and forward-thinking design. • Broadway’s Commercial Legacy: Walk through the historic business hub of LA, where the energy of the roaring 1920s still lingers in its stunning storefronts and grand facades. • The Revitalized Historic Core: See how DTLA is transforming hidden gems into modern hotspots, blending old-world charm with contemporary creativity. Through every stop, you’ll feel the heartbeat of a city that defies stereotypes. Whether we’re uncovering the origins of film culture, exploring how global influences shaped DTLA’s neighborhoods, or diving into the stories of the people who built this city, you’ll gain an appreciation for Los Angeles unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Join me, and let’s explore DTLA together!

Discover the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles with a local who lives and breathes art and music. This guided tour offers an insider’s perspective on what makes DTLA a world-renowned center for arts and culture, revealing the rich tapestry of creativity that defines this iconic area. Get started by experiencing the grandeur of classical music venues such as the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, home to the LA Opera, and Walt Disney Concert Hall, host of the LA Phil. Learn about the lives of the philanthropists who have significantly contributed to these institutions, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and inspiration. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to admire architectural masterpieces from celebrated architects like Frank Gehry and Welton Becket as we learn about the historic Bunker Hill neighborhood where these gems reside. Next up is a guided highlights tour of The Museum of Contemporary Art. Renowned for its dynamic and ever-evolving exhibitions, MOCA features works from both established and emerging artists across various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and multimedia installations. Admire Angels Flight, a historic funicular that offers a unique ride between Hill and Olive Street. Dubbed "The Shortest Railway in the World," this charming attraction features two orange and black cars that traverse a steep incline while offering stunning views of the cityscape. Explore the popular gathering spots where locals enjoy live music and performances, including California Plaza and Grand Park. Your guide will also point out many food recommendations nearby so you can choose from a variety of options for after your tour. Your visit concludes with an exclusive tour of the Broad Museum, featuring the coveted Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama. Discover works by celebrated artists such as Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Roy Lichtenstein and many more. Your Guide will provide insights into the key themes of this contemporary art museum, helping you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the collection. Feel free to stay inside the museum after the tour concludes for as long as you like (or until they close).

Embark on a round trip bike tour from Grand Central Market, LA's iconic food hall, downtown's #1 visitor destination, and the home of Handlebar Bike Tours. Begin your bike tour learning about Angel's Flight, a functioning, iconic 1901 funicular. Our tour meeting spot is right between these two top destinations. Before the ride we'll adjust and test out your 8-speed bike, fit you with a helmet, then roll out on an easy 2.5 hour bike tour of downtown Los Angeles. First, stop is The Bradbury Building, where you'll step inside this Victorian Era stunning building made famous by filming. Next ride through the Historic Core's vintage Vaudeville theater and former banking district. Learn about the loft conversions and history of "Hollywood"-spoiler alert, most of it happened in downtown-and still does. Find out why the streaming platforms are snapping up these vintage movie palaces. Up next is the modern neighborhood of South Park, stopping in at Crypto Arena-home of the Lakers- and LA Live sports and entertainment complex. Here we've got some nice bike lanes to take us through the skyscrapers and shopping centers of Figueroa corridor. Stop at the eerie Cecil Hotel of horrors and hear the mysterious goings on. Cruise through the Civic Center, LA's municipal center and home to government buildings like City Hall you'll recognize from TV and movies. On to Olvera Street where we'll take an off bike break in the city's oldest neighborhood; now full of quaint shops and food kiosks. Here you'll get a chance to wander the historic buildings and market place. Next head to Union Station and its 1939 Mission Revival splendor that was the backdrop to the 2021 Oscars Ceremony. Ride through Grand Park up to Grand Avenue with its cultural institutions like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Broad Museum. See local gems, architectural highlights, hidden passage ways, film sets, nightlife and restaurant recommendations, you would never find from a car, bus, or a walking tour. Your guide is amplified, no straining to hear, or shouting at the group. After a mild bike ride of about 10K, half of which is on flat, protected bike lanes, finish up at Grand Central Market, just in time for lunch at one of over 40 food kiosks. If you've only got a few hours in downtown there's no better way to see so much than by bike.

Discover Los Angeles's rich history and architectural marvels on this exclusive walking tour designed for a more intimate experience. Begin at the iconic Angels Flight Railway, where you'll learn about its significance in the city's transport history. Next, explore Grand Central Market, bustling with local flavors and aromas. Visit the Historic Theater District, home to grand pre-WWII theaters, and continue to the stunning Bradbury Building, known for its intricate ironwork and glass ceilings. As you walk through the Old Bank District, you'll witness a blend of historic charm and modern vibes. Enjoy a visit to the Jewelry District, featuring a dazzling array of gemstones and jewelry stores. Conclude your tour at Pershing Square, a vibrant gathering spot in the heart of Downtown.

Check out the major sights of Los Angeles without the hassle of driving on this small-group full-day tour from Long Beach. See landmarks including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theater, and the Hollywood Sign, and view Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach from the luxury minibus. Your guide notes filming locations for famous movies, and provides free time to purchase lunch. Enjoy morning pickup at your hotel in Long Beach, then board a comfortable Mercedes Benz tour coach to ride north to Los Angeles. During the journey, view the twin ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, one of the largest ports in the country. In downtown LA, stop first at the Los Angeles Coliseum, where many of the city's biggest concerts and sporting events take place. Then head for the Frank Gehry-designed Walt Disney Concert Hall, the distinctive building where the Los Angeles Philharmonic plays. Stop at the shortest railway in the world, Angels Flight, a funicular that goes up Bunker Hill. On Olvera Street, get a feel for the oldest area of downtown LA, where many blockbuster films have been shot. Head for the Hollywood Sign, perched high above the city on Mt Lee. Hang out there to snap photos and enjoy the views, then head down the hill into the neighborhood itself. Spend time exploring the Dolby Theater, the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theater. Eat lunch (own expense) at Mel's Diner on the Sunset Strip, then peruse the luxury shops on Rodeo Drive. Contrast that with the relaxed vibe in Santa Monica and Venice Beach. After a full day of exploring the City of Angels, enjoy a lift back to your hotel in Long Beach.

The Los Angeles Highlights Tour combines our Los Angeles Tour and the Los Angeles Beach Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach. In 7 hours, you will see the best that the city has to offer from Hollywood, to the beaches, to Downtown Los Angeles, and more.  The tour gives provides a fun semi-private guided experience that is a great value and conducted in small groups. No other tour includes as much substantive history and fun sightseeing at a leisurely pace. In the first 3 hours of your tour, uncover the history of downtown, Hollywood and Beverly Hills. You will explore the most famous sights, including a few celebrity homes, and learn about some of the poignant moments from the glory days of Los Angeles and today. Some of the famous sites include the Hollywood Walk Of Fame, Graumann's Chinese Theatre, the La Brea Tar Pits, the Dolby Theatre (Home of The Oscars), Sunset & Vine, Capitol Records, the Sunset Strip, Hollywood High School, the Viper Room, Whiskey A Go Go, the Chateau Marmont, Rodeo Dr., and many more.  On this tour you will enjoy a wide range of architectural styles. From the homes in Beverly Hills, to the iconic Staples Center, to the famous Walt Disney Concert Hall, and the Mission on Olivera Street. This tour is a great way to get to know the unique character of Los Angeles. Some of the most beloved Los Angeles landmarks are downtown, like the Central Library, US Bank Tower, and Angels Flight. The history of the area goes back to the founding of the city in 1781, and its architecture tells the story of the city's growth from the 1890s to the present, including the current trend of converting vintage office buildings into loft-style apartments and condos. Learn fascinating information about Los Angeles and the people who have made it historic. This tour features glitzy buildings with historic charm and wonderful backstories throughout, and so much more.  After the morning portion is over we take a break and head to the Los Angeles Farmer's Market for lunch where everyone can enjoy a variety of lunch options on their own. The afternoon portion of the tour features dramatic ocean views, the Santa Monica Pier, a stroll on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, and a beautiful viewpoint where you can enjoy dramatic ocean views.