City Guide
Ultimate Downtown LA Guide : Where old meets new
DTLA is art expressed in every form.
If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles, don’t make the mistake of skipping this Downtown Los Angeles Guide. I know what you’re thinking—isn’t LA all about beaches, Hollywood, and palm trees? Well, yes, but DTLA (what locals call it) is where you’ll find the real heart of the city.
This DTLA guide will show you a side of Los Angeles that most tourists miss. Downtown has gone through a major transformation over the past decade. What used to be a place people only visited for work has become one of the coolest neighborhoods in the city. We’re talking world-class museums, incredible street art, some of the best food in LA, rooftop bars with killer views, and a nightlife scene that actually stays open past 10 PM (rare for LA, trust me).
Whether you’re into art and culture, food adventures, architecture, or just soaking up urban energy, this DTLA guide has you covered. I’ll share all the must-see spots, hidden gems, where to eat, practical tips for getting around, and honest advice about what’s worth your time.
Why You Should Visit Downtown LA ?
Here’s the thing about Downtown: it’s different from the rest of LA. You can actually walk around here without needing a car everywhere. It feels like a real city center with tall buildings and busy streets.
The best part? Downtown has a real mix of everything. Old buildings next to new ones, amazing street art on every corner, and food from all over the world. Some parts look a bit rough, but that’s what makes it interesting.
Where is DTLA in Los Angeles ?
Downtown LA sits right in the heart of Los Angeles, about 10 miles east of Santa Monica and the beach areas. If you’re staying in popular tourist spots like Hollywood, it’s roughly 20-30 minutes away by car (without traffic—add more time during rush hour!). From LAX airport, Downtown is about 16 miles northeast, which takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
Downtown LA covers a pretty big area and it’s divided into several smaller neighborhoods. Each one has its own vibe and things to see. Let me break down which parts are actually worth your time.
The Arts District: Amazing Street Art
Location: East side of Downtown, roughly between Alameda Street and the LA River
This is hands down the coolest part of DTLA. The Arts District used to be full of old warehouses and factories, but now it’s the go-to spot for street art, galleries, trendy cafes, and creative vibes. Every wall seems to have a massive mural or graffiti art.
Check out Hauser & Wirth if you like art—it’s free to walk around. The building used to be a flour factory, which is pretty neat. After that, grab coffee at Kumquat Coffee DTLA. (@kumquatcoffee)
Grand Central Market: So Much Good Food
You have to visit Grand Central Market. It’s been here since 1917, and it’s where everyone goes to eat. The place is always busy, smells amazing, and has every type of food you can think of.
What to eat: Eggslut for breakfast (there’s usually a line but it’s worth the wait), tacos from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, and fresh oysters from The Oyster Gourmet. Tip: go early or late to find a seat easier.
Website : https://www.grandcentralmarket.com/
Little Tokyo: A Taste of Japan
Walk over to Little Tokyo—it’s really close to the Arts District. This neighborhood has been around for more than 100 years and feels authentic.
Walk through the Japanese Village Plaza, check out the shops with anime stuff and traditional items, and get ramen for lunch. Daikokuya has great ramen, but expect a wait. On weekends, the farmers market sells fresh mochi and Japanese sweets.
Website : https://www.littletokyola.org/
Cool Old Buildings
The Bradbury Building looks normal from outside, but go inside and wow—beautiful old iron railings and vintage elevators. It’s been in lots of movies like Blade Runner. You can walk into the lobby for free during the day.
Walk down Broadway and look up at the old movie theater signs from the 1920s and 30s. They’re really pretty and some theaters still work and have shows.
The Broad Museum: Free Art Museum
The Broad is a must-see, and it’s free! But you need to book tickets online before you go. They have really cool modern art by famous artists like Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama.
The Infinity Mirror Rooms are the main thing everyone wants to see. They’re trippy and perfect for photos. You only get about 30-45 seconds inside because everyone’s waiting, but it’s super cool.
Website : https://www.thebroad.org/
OUE Skyspace: Amazing Views
Want to see LA from way up high? Go to OUE Skyspace on the 70th floor of the US Bank Tower. The views are incredible, and on clear days you can see the ocean.
They have a glass slide on the outside of the building that goes down one floor. It’s scary but fun! I definitely screamed. Tickets cost about $25-35, and sunset is the best time to go for photos.
Where to Get Drinks
Downtown has great bars now. Perch is a rooftop bar with city views—make a reservation on weekends because it gets packed. Also check Broken Shaker (rooftop with DTLA view) & Desert 5 Spot (countryside inspired bar) a rooftop with DTLA view from the top.
Good Things to Know
Getting There: Take the Metro Red or Purple Line to Downtown stations. If you drive, parking costs $10-20 and can be hard to find. The Arts District has cheaper street parking.
Safety: Downtown is safe during the day in tourist areas. At night, stick to busy, well-lit streets. Stay away from the Skid Row area (around 3rd to 7th Street).
Best Time: Weekdays are less crowded, but weekends are more lively. Thursday or Friday is perfect.
How Long: Spend at least half a day here, but a whole day is better if you’re not rushing.
Final Thoughts on Your DTLA Adventure
So there you have it—your complete Downtown Los Angeles guide to one of LA’s most exciting neighborhoods. DTLA might not be as polished as Beverly Hills, but that raw, authentic vibe is exactly what makes it special.
This DTLA guide covered everything from world-class museums and street art to amazing food and rooftop bars. Whether you’re into art, history, or just good vibes, Downtown LA has something for you. Plus, you can actually walk around instead of driving everywhere—rare for LA!
Quick tip: Start in the Arts District, hit Grand Central Market for lunch, explore a museum, and end with rooftop drinks at sunset. Give yourself at least half a day, but a full day is even better.
Downtown LA proves there’s way more to Los Angeles than beaches and Hollywood. Follow this DTLA guide, and you’ll see why locals love this neighborhood so much. Now get out there and explore!
