Finest Architectural Monuments of Los Angeles

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2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Take a stroll through the most remarkable architectural landmarks of Los Angeles on this walking tour. Get to see the city’s tallest buildings and grandiose masterpieces of the early 20th century. The 1920s saw the creation of major museums, theatres and other civic buildings.

Even the Great Depression was not as painful as it was elsewhere in the US – many of the city’s monuments were built during these years. Explore the city from another perspective getting close and personal with all the architectural details, lines, and decorations. A rich ethnic mix adds character to the distinct neighborhoods. Visit the top attractions that no architectural geek should miss.

Explore the most peculiar architectural sights on our walking tour. Reveal all the details of facades and architectural styles that you wouldn’t get to know on an ordinary tour or walking alone. The tour is perfect both for those who came to LA for the first time and for experienced visitors.

What's Included

Iconic places for photoshoot
Fascinating examples of Beaux Arts, Renaissance Revival, Art Deco, and Modernism in Los Angeles
Must see and off the beaten path in Downtown Los Angeles
Learn about history and architecture of LA with your expert guide
All Fees and Taxes
Friendly local guide

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet the guide at the Flower street entrance of Los Angeles Central Library (630 W. 5th Street 90071) within the Maguire Gardens courtyard

End point

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Los Angeles Central Library

    Admire the building of Los Angeles Central Library, constructed in 1872. Get to see this amazing Downtown LA landmark and capture a great example of Art Deco and Mexican Late Baroque style. Half of the population of Los Angeles is either foreign-born or first-generation American. Spanish and Mexican pioneers who arrived in the 18th and early 19th centuries established the foundations of today’s city, and the Gold Rush attracted fortune-seekers from all over the globe. Trace the influence of different cultures while walking through the prominent constructions.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Fine Arts Building

    Marvel at Fine Art Building that has been the heart of arts and culture in America since the 19th century. Built in 1884 for Studebaker company, this Romanesque masterpiece has been decorating the face of the city since its inception. Two granite columns at the entrance, large arcs, and big windows make this landmark stand out from others. Get to know about its renovations stages and interior changes from your guide.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    The Jewelry District

    Wander down the US largest Jewelry District and be amazed by the abundance of jewelry stores all over. Admire the beautiful scenery and dive into the history of the majestic buildings in the historical center of LA. Discover great facades and portals and take a closer look stopping it by.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Historic Theater District

    Continue your architecture journey and reach the Broadway Theater District in the Historic Core of Downtown Los Angeles to see gorgeous world-known movie palaces. This unique place has 12 movie theatres located along seven blocks of Broadway, which makes it the only place with this large concentration of movie palaces in the United States. Broadway was the hub of LA’s entertainment scene. Get to see vivid posters and announcements of Orpheum Theatre, Palace Theatre, Los Angeles Theatre, Globe Theatre, and others.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Eastern Columbia Lofts

    Approaching the spectacular clock tower with Eastern written above you can recognize the Eastern Columbia Lofts, one of the most remarkable architectural landmarks of the city. Built in 1930, it was one of the largest buildings at that time. Get closer and explore geometric shapes, sunburst patterns, zigzags and plant forms on the façade. Originally built for the headquarters of the Eastern Outfitting Company, now it houses 140 luxury condominiums after the 2006

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Continue to the NoMad Hotel, situated in the former Bank of Italy building. This authentic 12-story building was completed by Morgan, Walls & Clements in 1922. The structure can boast its neoclassical style with Corinthian columns as well as a status of a historic landmark. The former bank and vault inside have been transformed into a splendid, chic lobby and restaurants. With no exterior changes, the NoMad Hotel transformed the building into a 241-bedroom place to stay with a restaurant, bar, and a rooftop pool.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Stumble onto another gem, a building from the past with a lot of stories to tell. Oviatt Building is a perfect example of a French Art Deco highrise in the heart of Los Angeles. In 1983 Oviatt Building was included in the National Registered of Historic Places.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Supplied by Friendly Local Guides

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Tags

Photography Tours
Architecture Tours
Art Tours
Walking Tours
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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