Historic places in Los Angeles
198 historic buildings, sites and memorials in Los Angeles.
Ranked with the travel guide's picks and well-known places first. Showing the top 40 of 198.
Historic places in Los Angeles
SeeMuseumWilshirePage Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits
An excellent museum that displays fossils of animals – including saber-toothed cats, dire wolves and mammoths – that got stuck in tar pits during the Ice Age 10,000 to 40,000 years ago. Visitors can watch fossils being prepared and learn about the natural and human history of the tar pits. However, the real highlight is just outside the museum in Hancock Park, where you'll find a Pleistocene Garden and the tar pits themselves, with life-size replicas of extinct mammals and where you can witness the ongoing excavation of the pits.
Closed · opens 9:30 amAdults $12, youth (13-17)/seniors (62+)/college students (w/ ID) $9, children (3-12) $5, children under 3 free. Free general admission for everyone 1st Tu of the month, except July and August · Wheelchair accessible
SeeModern art museumWilshireLos Angeles County Museum of Art
LACMA
This huge museum features a vast array of works on display from around the globe, with particularly strong collections of Asian, Latin American and American art. You'll want to devote the better part of a day to seeing this place, as the museum is spread out across several buildings. The collection is incredibly varied: iconic pieces of modern art sit a floor removed from artifacts of ancient Greece and Rome. Among the many highlights you'll find are a marvelous pavilion devoted to Japanese art, a remarkable collection of pre-Columbian art from Latin America, and the new Broad Contemporary Art Museum (BCAM) with its many large-scale and innovative installations. On the grounds (and viewable to all for free) are several massive installation pieces, including Chris Burden's photogenic Urban Light, a veritable forest of working street lamps arranged in front of the Wilshire Blvd entrance, and Michael Heizer's Levitated Mass, a huge boulder perched over a walkway behind the museum. LACMA also hosts many special exhibitions, the subjects of which are often just as varied as the museum's permanent collection.
Closed · opens 10 amAdults $15, students and seniors $10, children under 18 free. Free general admission for everyone on the second Tu of each month. Special exhibitions require extra fee · Built 1910
SeeHollywoodGrauman's Chinese Theatre
The most famous movie theater in the world, Grauman's Chinese Theatre opened in 1927 and is home to the cement footprints, handprints, and (in some cases) otherprints of many of history's most famous movie stars. The theater is also a former home of the Oscars, and today hosts many movie premieres. The forecourt that showcases the star's prints is free to all visitors. Half-hour guided tours of the theater are available.
Screenings $12-$16; tours $13.50 adults, $11.50 seniors, $6.50 children · Limited wheelchair access · Built 1926
SeeHistoric siteHollywoodHollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame consists of a series of stars embedded in the sidewalk to commemorate famous movie, radio, recording, theatre, and TV personalities. Since 1960, over two thousand stars have been immortalized; the schedule for upcoming star ceremonies is listed on the Walk of Fame's website.
DoLive music venueSouthShrine Auditorium
A huge venue that once served as host to a number of awards shows. Located on Jefferson Blvd and Figueroa Street across the street from the University of Southern California, famous for its red bricks and nightlife. Closed to visitors.
Heritage listed · Built 1925
SeeMuseumWilshirePetersen Automotive Museum
Has a great display of more than 150 rare and classic cars, trucks and motorcycles amidst its four floors and. The first floor traces the history of the automobile, the second floor has five rotating exhibits of cars, the third floor is a hands-on Discovery Center, and the top floor is an all-glass penthouse conference center that is used primarily for special events. The intersection outside is the site of the Biggie Smalls murder. The exterior of the building sports a striking array of steel ribbons that wrap around the structure.
Closed · opens 10 amAdults $15, seniors and students $12, children $7, children under 3, active duty military, personal care and educators free
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SeeHollywoodEl Capitan Theatre
A lavish movie palace dating from 1926, which hosted the Hollywood premieres of many films, most notably Citizen Kane. These days it's owned by Disney, and hosts the premieres of many Disney feature films.
Check website for screening times
SeeHistoric siteDowntownBradbury Building
Built in 1893, the Bradbury Building is one of Southern California's most remarkable architectural achievements. Behind its modest exterior lies a light-filled Victorian court that rises with open cage elevators, marble stairs and ornate iron railings. The building has been a set for many movies, perhaps most notably the conclusion of Blade Runner. Visitors without business in the building are allowed into the lobby and up to the first landing of the staircase.
Heritage listed · Built 1893
SeeHistoric siteDowntownLittle Tokyo
Los Angeles' Japanese district features numerous attractions, restaurants, and shops geared towards the local Japanese-American population or those who take an interest in Japanese culture. The district is centered along 1st and 2nd Streets between Los Angeles and Alameda Streets.
DoTheatreHollywoodPantages Theatre
A historic Art Deco theater dating back to 1930 which today serves as L.A.'s primary venue for Broadway musicals.
Built 1929
SeeHistoric siteHollywoodHollywood Museum
Countless pieces of memorabilia from films and Hollywood stars of old, housed in a beautiful Art Deco building that was the home of the business of Max Factor, "the Make-up King" of Hollywood.
Closed · opens 10 am$15 adults, $12 seniors/students, $5 children ages 5 and under · Built 1916 · Built 1913
SeeSouthLos Angeles Memorial Coliseum
A historic stadium that opened in 1923 and is the home of the USC Trojans football team. It served as home to the NFL's Los Angeles Rams at two different times—first from their arrival in L.A. in 1946 until 1979, after which they moved to Anaheim, and then from their 2016 return from St. Louis until their current SoFi Stadium in Inglewood opened in 2020. Over the Coliseum's history, it has hosted the opening ceremonies of the 1932 and 1984 Olympics, the Los Angeles Dodgers for their first four years in L.A., the UCLA Bruins football team before their move to the Rose Bowl, and many of L.A.'s other previous football franchises, as well as several other pro football teams and a number of soccer teams. It will also host the track and field events and opening and closing ceremonies of the 2028 Olympics alongside SoFi Stadium. The east side of the stadium holds the Olympic cauldron (which is still lit for special occasions) overlooking a "Court of Honor" outside the stadium with plaques commemorating memorial events in the history of the Coliseum.
Tours Wed-Sun 10AM-4PMSelf-guided tours $10/person
SeeHollywoodHollywood Forever Cemetery
Dating back to 1899, this beautiful cemetery is one of Los Angeles' oldest and is the final resting place for hundreds of film stars, directors, writers, and other influential figures from the entertainment industry. Johnny Ramone, Cecil B. DeMille, Mel Blanc, Peter Lorre, Mickey Rooney, Bugsy Siegel and Judy Garland are but a few of the famous names you'll see here. Interactive kiosks located throughout the cemetery play short documentaries about those interned here, making it a great place to learn about Hollywood's early history. The cemetery also often holds events, including regular movie screenings (see below under Do) in the summer.
Grounds open daily 8AM-5PMFree
SeeHistory museumDowntownJapanese American National Museum
A museum devoted to the Japanese-American experience, with a particular emphasis on the Japanese internment camps of World War II, including numerous artifacts and historic photographs. Besides the permanent collection, the museum also holds changing exhibits on Japanese-American art and history.
Closed · opens 11 am$12 adults, $6 students/seniors/youth 6-17, free for children 5 and under; free admission Th evenings 5-8PM
DoCinemaWilshireCBS Television City
This historic broadcasting complex was built in 1952 and continues to be the home of many of American TV's most popular shows, such as American Idol, The Price is Right, and The Young and The Restless. Tickets for shows that have a studio audience can usually be had for free at the CBS box office or on the show's website, but be forewarned that ticket distribution is frequently in excess of audience capacity and long lines can form for popular shows—Price is Right audience members, in particular, have been known to camp outside the studio the night before a taping just for a chance to be a contestant!
SeeHollywoodGrauman's Egyptian Theatre
An ancient Egyptian-themed theater that was built in 1922 and operated by Sid Grauman, of Grauman's Chinese Theatre fame, this was one of the first lavish movie palaces and was the venue for the first-ever Hollywood premiere. Today it screens many classic films and documentaries.
Check schedule for tours and film screeningsScreenings $11; tours $9 · Built 1922
SeeHistoric siteNorthwestEnnis House
Perched in the foothills of Los Feliz beneath Griffith Park on a winding residential street is this massive Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house, constructed using textile blocks reminiscent of an ancient Mayan temple. The building is notable for its use as a filming location, appearing in numerous films and television shows including the 1959 House on Haunted Hill, the mansion in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and most notably in Blade Runner, as well as numerous commercials, fashion shoots, and music videos. Unfortunately, the house is only open for tours a handful of days each year, but both sides of its impressive exterior can easily be viewed from the street.
SeeHistoric siteHollywoodCharlie Chaplin Studios
An interesting historical landmark, this complex was built in 1917 as the studios for Charlie Chaplin's film company. Constructed in Tudor-style architecture, it has the appearance of a small English village from the outside and was where many of Chaplin's most iconic films were shot, including The Gold Rush, City Lights, Modern Times, and The Great Dictator. In 2000, the studio was bought by the Jim Henson Company, which marked their presence with a statue of Kermit the Frog above the main gate. The studio is not open for tours, but you can admire the architecture from the outside.
SeeHistoric siteHollywoodCapitol Records Building
Capitol Studios
One of the most iconic buildings in Los Angeles. The circular tower—which contrary to popular belief was not intentionally designed to resemble a stack of records—is home to Capitol Records' west coast operations. Contained inside the building are the renowned Capitol Studios. Unfortunately, tours of the inside are no longer offered to the general public.
SeeSouthNatural History Museum of Los Angeles County
A crown jewel of Los Angeles' museums and a national leader in exhibitions, education and research, this museum dates back to 1913 and was L.A.'s first cultural institution to open its doors to the public. It's the largest natural and historical museum in the Western United States, safeguarding more than 35 million spectacular, diverse specimens and artifacts. Exhibits on display include lots of dinosaur and ancient mammal skeletons, taxidermy figures, a gallery on the history of Los Angeles, a gem and mineral hall, interactive exhibits for children, and an outdoor nature garden.
Closed · opens 9:30 am$18 adults, $14 teens (13-17)/college students/seniors (62+), $7 children (3-12), free for children under 3; special exhibitions require extra fee
SeeWestMuseum of Tolerance
Focusing on the history of the Holocaust, this museum contains many interactive exhibits designed to challenge visitors to assess their own levels of tolerance. Many of the exhibits are meant to engage kids (about 10 and older), and you may find your kids asking you about things such as racial and economic tensions. A highlight of the museum is live testimonies by Holocaust survivors who serve as museum volunteers.
Sun-Fri 10AM-5PM (closes at 3:30PM Fri in winter), Thu 10AM-9:30PM; last ticket sold an hour and a half before closingAdults $15:50, seniors $12.50, students/youth (ages 5-18) $11.50
EatDowntownGrand Central Market
Food hall with stands to eat different types of food or buy seafood, spices, beans and peas, liquors and more. Very charming and lively place. Full of locals and tourists. Parking garage entrance 308 S Hill St ($5.50 min, $25 max).
Closed · opens 8 amBuilt 1898
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SeeHistory museumHollywoodLos Angeles Fire Department Hollywood Museum
This museum is in the old Los Angeles City Fire Station 27, opened in 1930. It is fully restored to how it appeared in 1930 and contains a historic fire apparatus.
Closed · opens 10 amFree · Heritage listed
SeeNorthwestAngelino Heights
A historic neighborhood between Echo Park and Downtown which contains many Victorian residences that are nationally or locally registered as historic places.
DoLive music venueHollywoodFonda Theatre
A historic venue dating back to the 1920s that serves as another major concert venue. It is reputed for its history of showcasing big-name musicians and indie bands.
Built 1926
SeeNorthwestAutry Museum of the American West
A combination art/history museum, with continuing and changing exhibitions of art from the American West, a major collection of Native American art, and historical artifacts of the West, including a permanent firearms gallery. A unique highlight of the museum is an exhibit on cowboys in popular culture, with many costumes and film props from popular Westerns and their Hollywood stars.
Closed · opens 10 am$10 adults, $6 seniors/students, $4 children, free for active military personnel, veterans, peace officers and park rangers
SeeSouthCalifornia African American Museum
It focuses on enrichment and education on the cultural heritage and history of African Americans with a focus on California and the western United States.
Closed · opens 10 amFree
DoWestRegency Village Theater
Fox Theater
The art-deco Fox Village Theater (now operated by Regency) is a throwback to "Old Hollywood" that has survived into the multi-plex era, and is often the site of red-carpet premiers. Though the decor reflects its historic roots, the seating, projection, and sound are excellent and have kept upgraded to meet and exceed modern quality standards.
General admission $11.75
SeeMuseumDowntownGrammy Museum
History of music, with listening posts.
Closed · opens 11 amAdult $18, senior/military $15, ages 5-17 and students $12, ages 4 and under free · Wheelchair accessible
SeeEastsideHeritage Square
A collection of historic houses and buildings from the late 19th century moved from other parts of Los Angeles to a museum on the Arroyo Seco. Features guided tours of those buildings, often by people in Victorian dress.
Fri-Sun and Mon holidays 11:30AM-4:30PM$10 Adults (13-64), $8 seniors (65+), $5 children (6-12)
SeeWestSkirball Cultural Center
In the hills above Sepulveda Pass is this expansive contemporary facility devoted to Jewish heritage. Among its libraries, classrooms, conference rooms and gardens is a museum with a permanent collection of historical artifacts, artwork, and interactive exhibits on Jewish history and culture, with an emphasis on the Jewish-American experience. A highlight of the museum is a large children's area modeled after Noah's Ark, with animal puppets and figurines that kids can play with.
Closed · opens 10 am$12 adults, $9 seniors/students/teens, $7 children, children under age 2 free
- EatJapanese restaurantHollywood
Yamashiro
This Japanese restaurant is perched above Hollywood, and on most nights provides an unbeatable view of the city, from downtown to Palos Verdes. The building and grounds, not the food, are the stars of the show. The gardens and architecture are elegant, and the restaurant has a fascinating history (the story's on the menu). Look for the small sign just west of the Magic Castle; valet parking only.
Closed · opens 5 pmBuilt 1914
SeeHistoric siteDowntownThe Theater District
The Theater District along Broadway had fallen into serious disrepair for decades, with most of the theaters being occupied by swap meets selling discount jewelry, electronics and $2 socks. Fortunately, most of the architecture and marquees remain, and are being renovated and turned into glorious destinations once again - starting with an Urban Outfitters and the Ace Hotel.
- EatComfort food restaurantHollywood
Running Goose
Creative, delightful food, international with a Central American heart. A range of vegetarian and vegan options. Their patio is a quiet oasis in the Hollywood bustle, with easy walking distance to Hollywood Blvd theatres. Reservations recommended before shows.
Closed · opens 10 amentrées $20-30
- BuyFarmers marketWilshire
Farmers Market
A historic market complex dating from the 1930s with lots of produce stands, shops and gourmet restaurants, and today it remains a popular spot for locals to pick up fresh produce. A tourist trolley offers free rides between the Farmers Market and The Grove.
Closed · opens 9 am
SeeNorthwestTravel Town Museum
A free exhibition of historic trains from Southern California, including locomotives, cabooses, passenger cars, and streetcars, as well as model trains and an exhibit hall with old automobiles. Train rides for children on a miniature railroad are also available.
Mon-Fri 10AM-4PM, Sat Sun 10AM-5PM (open until 6PM on summer weekends)Free; train rides $2.75
SeeMuseumHollywoodGuinness World Records Museum
Held in the historic Hollywood Theater building, this museum showcases various world records.
Closed · opens 10 am$16.99 adults, $14.99 seniors ages 55+, $9.99 children ages 5-12
SeePublic artDowntownLos Angeles Times Building
Art Deco classic. No longer owned by the LA Times as of 2024. No interior tours available.
Built 1934
- SeeHistoric siteNorthwest
Music Box Steps
A public staircase that was the setting of the 1932 Laurel and Hardy short film The Music Box, a slapstick flick where Laurel and Hardy try to move a piano up the steep steps to wacky results. Today it's a scenic walk through a pleasant neighborhood.
- SeeNorthwest
Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum
Run by a local group of railroad enthusiasts, this museum is essentially a large scale model railroad, with miniature train rides for children and a few historic train cars. Most notable among the historic exhibits is the actual workshop owned by Walt Disney that he used to make his backyard model railroad (only open on the third Sunday of each month, when volunteers from a local historical society are available).
Sundays only, 11AM-3PMFree, donations accepted
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Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Los Angeles (CC BY-SA 4.0). Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Place data from Overture Maps.