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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown LA

Cool historical sites

Made for those who seek out historical sites that possess a distinct and undeniable edge.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Plaza Olvera image 1
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Historical landmark

Historic plaza features restored buildings, a central gazebo, and Moreton Bay Fig Trees. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful reflection in the morning to lively music and dancing later in the day. Visitors find Mexican culture and crafts throughout, with many enjoying food and souvenirs.

Rich immigrant history shapes the area with deep cultural roots. The site stands as a historic place honoring its past.

Gazebo area features many altars for Day of the Dead, adding a unique cultural touch. The whole spot feels super cool and inviting to hang out.

People are saying

"You can learn about LA history at these historical sites."

"As a tourist, you'll feel a little piece of Mexico in L.A."

"It's a cool place to go and hang out."

Good to know

1

They host yearly events celebrating various holidays from Mexico and Latin America.

2

Expect a vibrant atmosphere with dancing on weekends.

3

Short-term free tour bus parking is available, but locals often use it as a load zone.

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 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.

A relaxed spot with a cool vintage atmosphere featuring beautiful ceilings and lighting. The bar offers unique cocktails and a friendly bartender adds to the vibe.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the cool, moody, and stylish atmosphere here."

"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 Obscure image 1
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.

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.

The venue offers a cool atmosphere with carefully curated visuals. A live comic artist draws during the night, adding to the unique experience.

People are saying

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

"The vibe and the staff here are really cool."

"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.

04
Angels Flight Railway image 1
Historical landmark

Historic funicular features restored wooden cars with a steep incline and vintage character. The ride offers panoramic city views and a sense of old Los Angeles charm. Surrounding areas include an amphitheater and hillside paths, creating a quiet, nostalgic atmosphere downtown.

A retro-style cable car runs as a historic landmark in the city center, offering a beautifully maintained glimpse into the past. The ride provides a unique way of getting around with great views and a strong sense of nostalgia.

Offers a unique and affordable ride through a historic piece of the city. The experience feels like a quick trip back to days long gone.

People are saying

"Riding this historic funicular felt like stepping back in time."

"It's a super cute and fun way to travel between streets."

"This little ride is just so cool."

Good to know

1

Angels Flight Railway offers rides for $1 each way.

2

The railway has been operational since 1901, providing a historic experience.

3

Expect crowds during lunchtime as locals and tourists visit.

05
Angels Flight Railway Stairs image 1
Historical landmark

Funicular with bright orange cars climbs a steep hill beside glass towers. The ride is short and rickety, filled with screechy, banging sounds that add character. Views from the top offer a unique cityscape experience amid historic charm.

A tiny historic funicular offers a heritage experience linked to the old rail and streetcar network. The nearby stairs and attendant share bits of its historical atmosphere and significance.

The ride feels cool and little, giving a unique charm. The Angels Flight Railway Stairs stand out as a pretty cool tourist spot.

People are saying

"It's a neat piece of Los Angeles history, a charming remnant."

"The train ride was a fun way to experience old Los Angeles."

"This historic railway is a pretty cool tourist spot."

Good to know

1

The ride costs $1 for a one-way trip.

2

Using a Tap Card reduces the fare by 50%.

3

The stairs provide a convenient way to reach institutions like The Broad and MOCA.

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.

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.

Historic theater with a cool classic feel and intimate atmosphere. Interior design and backstage areas add to the laid-back vibe.

People are saying

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

"The bathrooms here are surprisingly clean and nice."

"I found the interior design to be really cool and impressive."

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
6th St Bridge image 1

Sweeping arches create a futuristic yet gritty structure that blends artistic architecture with modern design. Views from the bridge offer breathtaking cityscapes, especially during sunset and blue hour. The area combines lively nightlife and craft breweries with a mix of upscale and trendy dining options, attracting both casual walkers and photographers.

A historic landmark with notable significance, this bridge stands out as a key spot for those interested in historical sites.

A cool new structure resembling a circle stands out on the bike lane. It offers a great spot for photos and works well for family visits.

People are saying

"The bridge is a cool, amazing structure for photos."

"The bridge's sweeping arches feel modern and futuristic."

"I visited the 6th St. Bridge, a historical site."

Good to know

1

The bridge is a popular spot for photos and walking.

2

Heavy police presence ensures a safer environment for visitors.

3

There are plenty of parking lots available for hourly payment.

08
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.

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.

An old LA spot with a cool atmosphere features a speakeasy bar hidden behind a switch. The bar offers a laid-back vibe perfect for kicking back for a couple of hours.

People are saying

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

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

"This place is cool, with a historic vibe from the 1930s."

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.

09
Japanese Village Plaza image 1

Cobblestone paths and wooden facades mimic traditional Japanese shopping streets, creating an immersive small-town feel. Bright red lanterns and a 50-foot replica fire lookout tower add to the authentic Edo-period design. The plaza buzzes with lively energy, especially on weekends, drawing crowds to its outdoor dining and arcade games.

A historic storefront from 1910 stands out, known for its mochi ice cream. A museum offers insights into Japanese American history and culture. The area reflects the culture and livelihood of Little Tokyo clearly.

Lots of cool shops and Japanese-themed places create a unique vibe. The atmosphere feels very distinctive and lively.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Japanese food and casual sweets."

"I found so many cool little shops and food spots here."

"I felt the culture and history of the Japanese Village Plaza."

Good to know

1

The plaza hosts cherry blossom events in spring with sakura-themed stalls.

2

Nisei Week Japanese Festival in August includes Obon dancing, taiko drums, and a parade.

3

Parking can get crowded and expensive on weekends.

10
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.

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

A back room called the Rio Room offers a really cool vibe with live music and drinks. The basement feels like a speakeasy with a vintage touch, adding to the overall cool atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The bartender made really great cocktails."

"The old-school energy here has such a cool vibe."

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.

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