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Guide to Downtown LA

Historical sites and bars

There is a specific comfort in sipping a drink while surrounded by the weight of history.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Obscure image 1
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Distillery

Distillery combines mad scientist laboratory vibe with Harry Potter-style decor and mystic atmosphere. Live art performances and spellbinding storytelling create an entertaining, immersive experience. Cocktails feature top-tier craft spirits alongside unique food like crispy, sweet beignets.

Members-only setup creates a unique ambiance blending Pirates of the Caribbean and tiki bar vibes. Bold cocktails deliver strong flavors with a solid pour, unlike typical watered-down drinks.

Each drink comes with a memorable story or history lesson that highlights the originality behind it. The place blends art and community while offering a deep dive into the history of spirits.

People are saying

"The cocktails here come with memorable stories and history lessons."

"The bar's atmosphere is mysterious and dark, transporting you to another world."

"I loved learning about the history of spirits and cocktails here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for members-only events and tastings.

2

Membership is recommended for access to exclusive events and programming.

3

The distillery offers seasonal tastings that highlight unique spirits.

02
The Wolves image 1

Vintage space with early 1900s architecture creates a speakeasy vibe featuring live performance stage and multiple balconies. Atmosphere feels warm and cozy with dreamy lighting and a relaxed, cool edge. Crowd enjoys unique cocktails and classic comfort food in a beautifully designed setting.

A speakeasy vibe takes you back in time with a stained glass ceiling and classic decor. Bartenders offer personalized cocktails and warm service in a historic setting.

A historic building from the 1910s houses this spot, featuring an interior filled with authentic art and antiques. It was once a print shop before becoming what it is today.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"The bar's atmosphere is beautiful and unique."

"The historical sites here boast authentic 1910s interior design."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait for a table.

2

Parking in Downtown Los Angeles can be difficult; plan ahead.

3

Happy hour offers $2 off old fashioned cocktails.

03
The Stowaway image 1

Bar offers live jazz music in a dark, intimate setting with vintage 1930s speakeasy vibes. Two rooms create distinct moods: one for live bands and another with a DJ and space for dancing. Atmosphere feels old New York City with cozy booths and a lively energy.

Two rooms create distinct vibes: one hosts live bands while the other, the Rio Room, features a DJ setup and space for dancing. The bar keeps jazz music alive and offers a cozy spot for socializing with friends.

Historic charm fills the space with its roots in the El Dorado Building. The lounge stands as a beautiful landmark rich in history.

People are saying

"I loved the dark, intimate live music room."

"The bartender made really great cocktails."

"It's a great double bar venue with live music every night."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cover charge for live music events.

2

The bar closes early at 12:50am instead of the advertised 2am.

3

Parking is limited, with street meters and pay lots nearby.

04
Traxx Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Union Station's art deco architecture shapes a sophisticated atmosphere with jazzy background music that complements the historic setting. The space includes a gorgeous indoor patio where locals and travelers mingle, creating lively energy especially during events like home Dodger games.

Located inside a historic train station, the bar offers a unique spot for drinks before events or travel. It features a casual vibe with a mix of after work drinks, get-togethers, and poetry readings.

Sitting in the lobby reveals the historic atmosphere of Union Station. The bar and restaurant occupy a beautiful, historic location with ties to the 1920s nearby.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and talented."

"This Classy pozole is so flavorful, I wished for a bigger bowl."

"I appreciated the great service at this historical site."

Good to know

1

Happy hour pricing is available, but specific times are not mentioned.

2

Food service ends at 7 PM, so plan accordingly.

3

Validated parking is available at the Station entrance.

05
Cole's French Dip image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop with historic 1908 decor and a hidden speakeasy bar behind a secret door. Atmosphere feels old-school and classy, with a dimly lit, vintage pub vibe that buzzes with energy. Free billiards lounge adds to the lively, nostalgic setting.

A hidden speakeasy bar sits behind a back door, accessed by flipping a switch. The main area offers a full bar with plenty of seating and pairs well with French dip sandwiches.

Dimly lit interiors showcase historic images that highlight the place as a cornerstone of local history. The atmosphere carries strong nostalgic vibes reflecting its cultural and culinary past.

People are saying

"I thought the French dip sandwich was the best I ever had."

"You have to experience this piece of LA history."

"The mahogany bar feels like stepping back into 1908."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers cocktails for $7, beer and grilled cheese for $8, and well drinks for $10.

2

Reservations are not accepted, and expect long wait times due to popularity.

3

Parking is available for $13 on the block before the restaurant.

06
The Belasco image 1
Event venue

Historic small venue with vintage decor and intimate layout offers great views from anywhere inside. Atmosphere feels classic and vibrant, with a lively crowd enjoying live music and dancing. Outdoor patio and multiple bars add relaxed social spaces to the experience.

Multiple bars inside offer reasonable prices and amazing service. A cute patio and VIP area with a small bar and dining tables add variety to the bar experience.

Historic charm shines through the stained glass cathedral-style ceiling and historic artwork. The venue sits in a historic district and features a beautifully decorated theater with a cool ambiance.

People are saying

"It's a great, intimate venue for live music shows."

"The bathrooms here are surprisingly clean and nice."

"The bar service was efficient and friendly, with plenty of bars available."

Good to know

1

VIP access allows early entry, skipping the line of fast pass holders.

2

There is no elevator to reach the balcony seats.

3

Expect high drink prices, with beers costing around $16.

07
Cicada Restaurant and Lounge image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Grand ballroom with 1920s Art Deco decor creates a stylish, nostalgic atmosphere. Live big band jazz and swing music energize the space, encouraging dancing on a polished wood floor. Guests often dress in era-inspired attire, enhancing the immersive speakeasy vibe.

Upstairs features a bar with a balcony view that adds charm. The space offers beautiful decor, wonderful music, and a classy ambiance.

Historic art deco design shapes the venue's unique atmosphere. It holds a rich past as a former men's fashion emporium and features big band entertainment with dancing.

People are saying

"The nightclub's 1920s decor and ambiance felt like stepping back in time."

"You'll feel like you walked into the 1920s at this historical site."

"The live music at the bar was amazing and made the visit worthwhile."

Good to know

1

The cover charge is $25 per person, even if dining.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for access to live performances.

3

Showtime for performances typically starts at 8:30pm on Saturdays.

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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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