Downtown Los Angeles is rich in history and architecture and many Angelenos have not discovered its hidden treasures.
This is the second in my series of Downtown Los Angeles. Apologies for the poor camera work, something I need to improve on.
There are so many places that make you feel that you are anywhere but L.A., or even the U.S. Figueroa Hotel, built in 1925 in the Moorish style, this boutique hotel is close to the Staples Center and within walking distance to the business district. Stepping in from the street you are in another world.
The new L.A. Live entertainment complex is not yet completed, but already is a popular destination. It is a venue for sports, theaters, broadcast studios, restaurants, music clubs, hotels and bowling. It will also enhance the nearby Convention Center, making Los Angeles a serious competitor for the meeting and convention market. L.A. Live hosts the GRAMMYs, EMMYs, AMA Awards, ESPYs and the American Idol Finals, making it the event capitol of the world.
Downtown Los Angeles houses a 90-block Fashion District, with the largest concentration of fashion-related businesses in the Western U.S. One of the most popular areas is Santee Alley. On the weekends the area is wall-to-wall people with a South of the Border Feeling. If you want bargains, this is the place.
Did you know that we had a Coca Cola bottling plant in Los Angeles? Built in 1937 by architect Robert V. Derrah, it resembles a ship.
The day ended with a ride on the new Los Angeles Metro Gold Line, which was just completed a couple of weeks ago. The Gold Line links Pasadena to East Los Angeles. Plans for the extension of the much needed transportation system in L.A. is the subject of another post.
We picked up the train in Mariachi Square, a historic place where musicians have gathered since the 1930s with their instruments waiting to be selected to play at parties, events, restaurants, etc. The square was recently renovated and there is a contrast between the old world and new.
This is something you don't associate with Los Angeles:
And finally, Union Station, The Last of the Great U.S.-built Railway Stations.
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Jane, it's really fun to photograph old buildings. Like DC, Los Angeles is full of wonderful historic architecture.
Jane,
Looks like there's always something to see or do in LA. I didn't know about the Fashion District. That's good to know, not that I shop that much, but I'd more likely to buy something there than on Rodeo Drive. Nice tour.
Jane, thanks for hosting this virtual trip to downtown Los Angeles...it was fun! :)
Leilani
Pat, and you have some incredible architecture also.
Thank you, Wayne.
Leilani, you are welcome.
Hi Jane! What a wonderfully beautifly Localism post! I'm drawn to the hip new buildings but, there's just something about the old 1925 architecture that I love.
Have a wonderful week...
Debe, I am into ultra-modern also, but these historic buildings are amazing. Los Angeles downtown is a treasure trove of them and most Angelenos don't have a clue what's down there.
If my niece is not aware of the Fashion District yet, she is definitely going to enjoy a visit.
I like your Pink and Black backdrop - it looks so Parisienne! :-) I didn't know the Coca cola bottling plant was there!
If she is in L.A., James, there is a lot she will enjoy downtown.
Liz, I didn't know either. I have a friend who really delves into each city he visits and he know L.A. so well. There is a ton of stuff, it would take weeks to discover.
This is so enjoyable. Thanks for the tour. BTW, my oldest son may end up in LA so would love to give him your email.
Oh my gosh, Jane - this is a fabulous post regarding the hidden treasure of L.A.! I absolutely love all of the spots that you selected - especially the fashion district! ;) I didn't get the chance to read the first in the series so I am off to check it out!
Jane - Great localism post ! The diversity of architecture captured in your post makes for eye candy. I love the coke a cola building.
What a great day in LA, Jane! You've really show the diversity in this day trip. Great Localism series.
Absolutely, Janice. Please do.
Leesa, when I can get downtown again I will continue. I need my guide with me though because there is so much I would miss.
Claude, thanks. No one would know that L.A. has all this. I learn something new every time.
Carol, thank you very much. I appreciate your comments.
Jane this place looks so beautiful. Love the picture of the table viewing the pool, I am so there!
Thank you Al & Peggy. That is a fabulous hotel and filled with celebrities.
Ok I'm singing along with Randy Newman "I love L.A.!" and I love this post Jane. It looks like are many things to see and do in Los Angeles. Lots of great architecture, too!
Thanks for dropping by, Mary. L.A. is an extremely multi-faceted city.
The architecture is truly captivating Jane. I just love the hotel. And your coca-cola bottling plant is sure prettier than the one 30 miles from my house. I can see that I need to find a pretty sunshiny day soon so I can show off my home town. And I think your photography skills are great.
You are way too nice, Tammy. I need to sit down and look at what settings to do when with my camera before I end up with totally black pictures. Is that plant the main Coca Cola plant in Georgia?