Downtown Los Angeles: Culture and Arts Walking Tour

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.