The 3 Day Weekend Getaway Guide to Los Angeles begins in Downtown L.A., which has experienced an incredible renaissance that includes world-class cultural attractions and venues, acclaimed restaurants, vibrant nightlife and a thriving gallery scene.
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HISTORY & CULTURE
Los Angeles is known as a trend-setting metropolis, but its architectural heritage includes historic landmarks as well as modern structures. Many of L.A.’s classic buildings can be viewed on a walking tour of Downtown, from Union Station and City Hall to the historic Millennium Biltmore Hotel and the famed Bradbury Building.
For those with a taste for the modern aesthetic, Downtown L.A.'s cutting edge architecture includes the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad contemporary art museum.
On view through August, Beyond the Streets is a mindblowing 40,000 square-foot exhibition that celebrates L.A.'s historic status as a world capital for street art and graffiti. Read More →
Several of L.A.’s top cultural attractions and venues are located at Exposition Park, including the new Banc of California Stadium, Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, and the California African American Museum.
For an afternoon excursion the entire family will enjoy, visit the California Science Center, the permanent home of Space Shuttle Endeavour and currently exhibiting KING TUT: Treasures of the Golden Pharoah.
DTLA DINING
Downtown L.A. dining options include popular cultural destinations like Olvera Street, Chinatown and Little Tokyo. Whether it’s a bonafide classic like Philippe the Original, bustling favorites like the historic Grand Central Market and weekly Smorgasburg, or new hotspots like Majordomo and Bavel, there are Downtown L.A. restaurants that appeal to every palate.
L.A. LIVE
At the heart of Downtown L.A.’s renaissance is L.A. LIVE, the massive entertainment district that includes STAPLES Center, Microsoft Theater, the Conga Room, Regal Cinemas and a number of restaurants and bars. Music fans can't miss a visit to the GRAMMY Museum.
A memorable Saturday night at L.A. LIVE could start with a dinner at one of several notable restaurants including Rosa Mexicano or Katsuya; then a game or concert at STAPLES Center; and finally wind down with a pitcher of craft-brewed beer at the Yard House or by bowling a few frames at Lucky Strike Lanes.
Drinks with a View
Some of Downtown L.A.'s top bars also boast unforgettable city views. Located above OUE Skyspace in the US Bank Tower, the bar at 71Above features craft cocktails inspired by L.A. neighborhoods. Spire 73 at the InterContinental is the highest open-air bar in the Western Hemispere. Situated at a lower elevation, 18 Social at Hotel Indigo and Perch can still boast Instagram worthy views. L.A.'s "Endless Summer" weather is perfect for rooftop drinks at Broken Shaker, the NoMad, Upstairs at the Ace, and The Standard DTLA.