Downtown Los Angeles, often called DTLA, is a bustling area full of excitement and history! It all started in 1781 when a group of Spanish settlers established the city, originally named El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles. This means "The Town of Our Lady the Queen of Angels." You can learn more about it here.
In the 19th century, DTLA began to grow. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s brought more people and businesses to the area. The first skyscraper, the Bradbury Building, was completed in 1893 and is famous for its beautiful architecture and stunning glass and iron atrium. It’s often used in movies, making it a true Hollywood star!
By the 1920s, Downtown LA was the biggest business center in the western United States. The Los Angeles City Hall was completed in 1928 and was the tallest building in LA until 1964. It stands tall at 454 feet and has a cool observation deck where you can see the whole city!
One of the most famous streets is Olvera Street, known as the birthplace of Los Angeles. It’s a vibrant place filled with shops, food, and celebrations of Mexican culture. You can find delicious tacos and sweet treats there!
Did you know that the Staples Center is located in Downtown LA? It’s where the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers play basketball, and where big concerts happen. It opened in 1999 and can hold up to 19,000 fans!
Another hidden gem is the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, it looks like a shiny, twisting ship! It’s the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and has amazing acoustics.
Finally, Downtown LA has many fun events, like the LA Art Walk, where people can explore galleries and see local artists. There’s always something happening, making DTLA an exciting place to visit and explore!