Arts District (Downtown LA), Los Angeles - a large white building with a street light in front of it
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Arts District Los Angeles

4.6
·491k reviews·Los Angeles, United States

A vibrant urban canvas in Downtown LA, bursting with world-class street art, contemporary galleries, craft breweries, and unique eateries.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Arts District (Downtown LA), Los Angeles - a large white building with a street light in front of it

Arts District Los Angeles

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant urban canvas in Downtown LA, bursting with world-class street art, contemporary galleries, craft breweries, and unique eateries.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Arts District is a living, breathing art gallery with incredible murals and a buzzing creative energy."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the murals and galleries.

🗺️ Explore on Foot

The best way to discover hidden art and shops is by wandering the streets.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Street Art & Murals

Vibrant Street Art & Murals

Throughout the district

Wander through streets adorned with colorful, large-scale murals and graffiti art, a true testament to LA's urban art scene.

TikTok
Hauser & Wirth

Hauser & Wirth

917 Mateo St

A renowned contemporary art gallery showcasing diverse exhibitions and installations in a stunning industrial space.

Reddit
EightyTwo

EightyTwo

707 E 4th Pl

Combine your love for art with classic gaming at this popular bar-arcade featuring vintage pinball and video games.

Reddit
Smorgasburg LA

Smorgasburg LA

777 S Alameda St

A massive Sunday food market with dozens of local vendors offering diverse culinary delights.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Art & Explore on Foot

The Arts District in Downtown LA is a vibrant hub for street art, galleries, and unique shops. Many visitors recommend exploring on foot to discover hidden gems and murals. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to soak in the creative atmosphere. TikTok

Timing is Key for the Best Experience

While the Arts District is lively, some spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. Consider visiting during weekdays or early mornings to enjoy a more relaxed experience. Sundays offer Smorgasburg, a popular food market, which can be a highlight but also draws larger crowds. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Experience Smorgasburg
Crowd
High
When
Evenings
Why
Lively bars and nightlife
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Graffiti Street artist make history in downtown Los Angeles, creating a new arts district #dtla #downtownlosangeles #graffiti #tagginggraffiti #Oceanwide #abandonedplaces #Art #westcoast #streetart #m...
@chrisurias
487.6K likes • 3.8M views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the murals and galleries. TikTok

🗺️ Explore on Foot

The best way to discover hidden art and shops is by wandering the streets. Reddit

Things to do in LA: @Balloon Museum is a stunning contemporary art exhibition in DTLA that inmerses you in colorful worlds, encouraging play, and sparking joy. #balloonmuseum #thingstodoinla
@drewmtillman
216.8K likes • 3.9M views
#losangeles #losangeleshiddengems #hiddengems #dtla #secretla #fypシ
@adamiswholesome
104K likes • 629.6K views

📅 Check for Sunday Funday

Smorgasburg food market is a must-visit on Sundays! Reddit

🍺 Craft Beer Havens

Discover local breweries like Angel City Brewery. Reddit

Walkable Itinerary in Downtown Los Angeles to explore architecture and history: -Bonaventure Hotel (404 S Figueroa St) -LA Central Library (630 W 5th St) -Settecento (700 W 5th St) -Fine Arts Building...
@drewmtillman
39K likes • 351K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the murals and galleries. TikTok

🗺️ Explore on Foot

The best way to discover hidden art and shops is by wandering the streets. Reddit

📅 Check for Sunday Funday

Smorgasburg food market is a must-visit on Sundays! Reddit

🍺 Craft Beer Havens

Discover local breweries like Angel City Brewery. Reddit

🎨 Gallery Hopping

Don't miss Hauser & Wirth and other smaller galleries. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the vibrant street art and the eclectic mix of galleries, breweries, and eateries in the Arts District. It's praised as a dynamic and evolving neighborhood with a strong creative pulse. Some find parking challenging and note that certain areas can be less populated at night, but overall, it's considered a must-visit for its unique urban art and lively atmosphere.

What People Like

Incredible street art
Diverse galleries
Great breweries & food

What People Dislike

Parking can be tough
Some areas quiet at night

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Arts District is accessible by car, ride-sharing services, and public transport. The Metro L Line (Gold Line) has a station nearby, and several bus lines serve the area. Parking can be challenging, so consider public transit or ride-sharing for convenience. Reddit

Generally, the Arts District is considered safe, especially during the day. Traction Avenue is noted as a particularly safe area. As with any urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Reddit

Yes, the Arts District is walkable from other parts of Downtown LA, including Little Tokyo. It's a great way to see more of the city's architecture and street art. TikTokReddit

Exploring the Arts District on foot is highly recommended to discover its murals and hidden gems. Ride-sharing services are also readily available for longer distances within the district. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking options available, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Metered parking and paid garages are common. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the vibrant street art and murals are publicly displayed throughout the district and are free to view. TikTok

The Arts District itself does not have an entrance fee. However, individual galleries, museums, and attractions within the district may have their own admission costs. TikTok

Gallery hours can vary. Major galleries like Hauser & Wirth typically have set hours, while smaller ones may have more flexible schedules. It's best to check individual gallery websites for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, Smorgasburg LA is free to enter. You only pay for the food and drinks you purchase from the vendors. Reddit

Yes, walking tours focusing on street art, murals, and the history of the Arts District are available. The LA Conservancy also offers architectural tours in the broader DTLA area. Reddit

🎫 🎨 Art & Culture

Hauser & Wirth is a major highlight, known for its impressive exhibitions. Other notable galleries include OTI Gallery and various smaller, independent spaces scattered throughout the district. Reddit

Street art is everywhere! Key areas to explore include the walls along Mateo Street, Traction Avenue, and the alleys off of 4th and 5th Streets. Keep your eyes peeled as you wander. TikTok

While not a traditional museum, The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA is located in the Arts District and often hosts significant contemporary art exhibitions. Reddit

You'll find a diverse range of art, from large-scale murals and graffiti to contemporary paintings, sculptures, and installations in galleries. TikTok

While the Arts District is primarily known for its street art and galleries, immersive experiences like the Balloon Museum (though not strictly in the Arts District, it's nearby DTLA) offer interactive art. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Drink

For lunch, consider Wurstküche for sausages and fries, Hakata Ikkousha for ramen, or Guerrilla Tacos for unique tacos. Breadlam also offers great sandwiches. Reddit+1

Angel City Brewery is a popular spot. Arts District Brewing Co. also offers a good selection of beers along with food. Reddit+1

Yes, EightyTwo offers a bar-arcade experience, and Let's Go Disco! is a 70s-themed cocktail bar. Reddit

The Pie Hole is a great option for delicious pies if you're looking for a sweet treat. Reddit

Many restaurants in the Arts District offer vegetarian and vegan options. Smorgasburg on Sundays is a great place to explore diverse food stalls with many plant-based choices. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Arts District Los Angeles can find fun and engaging activities. While many galleries are geared towards adults, the vibrant street art provides a colorful and exciting visual experience for children. TikTok Consider visiting EightyTwo for a unique bar-arcade experience where kids (and adults!) can enjoy vintage games. Reddit On Sundays, Smorgasburg LA offers a wide array of food options that can appeal to picky eaters, and the open-air market provides space for kids to move around. Reddit Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the murals involves a good amount of walking.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers

The Arts District LA is an excellent destination for solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in art and culture. The walkable nature of the district makes it easy to explore at your own pace, discovering hidden murals and unique shops. TikTok Galleries like Hauser & Wirth offer a chance to engage with art independently, and the numerous cafes and breweries provide opportunities to relax and people-watch. Reddit Safety is generally good during the day, and areas like Traction Avenue are considered particularly comfortable for solo exploration. Reddit

🍻 Beer Enthusiasts & Foodies

For those who appreciate good beer and great food, the Arts District Brewing scene and culinary offerings are a major draw. Explore breweries like Angel City Brewery and Arts District Brewing Co. for a taste of local craft beers. Reddit+1 Foodies will rejoice at the diverse options, from the gourmet sausages at Wurstküche Reddit to the vibrant stalls at Smorgasburg LA on Sundays, which is a paradise for culinary exploration. Reddit Many restaurants also offer unique cocktail experiences, like the 70s-themed Let's Go Disco! Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the Streets: Murals and Graffiti

The Arts District Los Angeles is a living canvas, renowned for its dynamic street art and murals. Unlike traditional galleries, this art is accessible to everyone, transforming the urban landscape into an open-air museum. Artists from around the world have left their mark, creating a constantly evolving tapestry of color and expression. TikTok Many visitors find that simply wandering the streets is the best way to stumble upon these incredible works. Keep an eye out for pieces by renowned artists and discover new favorites around every corner. The sheer scale and creativity on display make it a photographer's paradise and a must-see for any art enthusiast. TikTok

Beyond the visual spectacle, the street art in the Arts District tells stories and reflects the culture of Los Angeles. It's a powerful form of public expression that adds character and vibrancy to the neighborhood. Some areas are particularly dense with murals, making them prime spots for exploration. Consider looking for guided street art tours if you want to delve deeper into the history and meaning behind the art. Reddit

Gallery Scene and Creative Hubs

While street art is a major draw, the Arts District LA is also home to a thriving scene of art galleries and creative studios. Hauser & Wirth stands out as a premier destination, offering world-class contemporary art exhibitions in a beautifully repurposed industrial space. Reddit This gallery, along with others like OTI Gallery, provides a more curated and intimate art viewing experience. These spaces often showcase emerging artists alongside established names, offering a glimpse into the cutting edge of the art world.

The district functions as a true creative hub, attracting artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. This energy is palpable as you explore the area, with studios and workshops often visible through large windows. Beyond traditional galleries, you'll find unique shops, design studios, and even performance spaces that contribute to the district's eclectic atmosphere. It’s a place where art isn't just displayed; it's lived and created. Reddit

Culinary Delights and Craft Brews

The Arts District Downtown LA is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse range of dining and drinking experiences. From casual eats to upscale dining, there's something to satisfy every palate. Wurstküche is a local favorite, famous for its gourmet sausages and extensive beer list, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal. Reddit For those craving ramen, Hakata Ikkousha is a highly recommended option. Reddit

Beyond food, the district boasts a vibrant craft beer scene. Angel City Brewery and Arts District Brewing Co. are popular destinations for sampling local brews in a lively atmosphere. Reddit+1 If you're visiting on a Sunday, Smorgasburg LA is an absolute must-attend. This massive outdoor food market features dozens of local vendors offering an incredible variety of cuisines, making it a fantastic place to sample diverse flavors and enjoy the community vibe. Reddit

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