Historic Broadway Theater District, Los Angeles - a group of people standing outside of a building
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Historic Broadway Theater District Los Angeles

Downtown LA's Broadway is a stunning collection of historic theaters, boasting the nation's highest concentration of these architectural gems.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

More events and tours

CrowdMedium
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Historic Broadway Theater District, Los Angeles - a group of people standing outside of a building

Historic Broadway Theater District Los Angeles

Best Time

Weekends

More events and tours

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Downtown LA's Broadway is a stunning collection of historic theaters, boasting the nation's highest concentration of these architectural gems.

4.7
(31 reviews)

"It's like walking through a movie set from the golden age of Hollywood!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Guided Walking Tours

Join a tour for insider stories and access to theater interiors!

✨ Look Up!

Admire the incredible architecture and neon signs from street level.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Orpheum Theatre

Orpheum Theatre

842 S Broadway

A magnificent 1926 movie palace, still breathtaking with its ornate details and grand stage.

Los Angeles Theatre

Los Angeles Theatre

615 S Broadway

An opulent French Baroque masterpiece, often used for filming and special events. Its lobby is spectacular.

Rialto Theatre

Rialto Theatre

812 S Broadway

Home to the longest neon marquee on Broadway, a testament to its 1917 origins.

United Artists Theatre (The Theatre at Ace Hotel)

United Artists Theatre (The Theatre at Ace Hotel)

933 S Broadway

A stunning example of Spanish Gothic architecture, now a vibrant event space.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Grandeur

Downtown LA's Broadway boasts the nation's highest concentration of historic theaters. Many are still stunning inside, even if not all are active performance venues. Plan to explore their architecture and imagine their golden age.

Timing is Key

While Broadway is a bustling commercial street, many of its most impressive theater interiors are best experienced during specific tours or events. Check local listings and consider guided walks for a deeper dive.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
More events and tours
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less crowded for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you ever walked through Downtown LA and noticed those old buildings that look like theaters? You’re not imagining it, they are theaters. 🎭 In fact, Broadway in DTLA has the highest concentration ...
broadway.west
1.7K likes • 22K views

🚶‍♀️ Guided Walking Tours

Join a tour for insider stories and access to theater interiors! InstagramReddit

✨ Look Up!

Admire the incredible architecture and neon signs from street level. TikTokInstagram

Did you know that downtown L.A. has the highest concentration of historic theaters in the country? @bexcastillo stopped by for a walking history tour with @broadway.west.
latimes.404
1.4K likes • 59.5K views
The Rialto theater on Broadway, which opened over 100 years ago, is home to the longest neon marquee in the district! Even though today it's a retail chain, if you look closely, you can still see a ...
broadway.west
476 likes • 5.7K views

📸 Photo Opportunities

Broadway is a photographer's dream, especially with classic cars for shoots. Reddit

🎟️ Check Event Listings

Many theaters host concerts, film screenings, and special events. Reddit

Take a peek into the beautiful details we had the pleasure to see this past weekend at the @theunitedtheater on Broadway 🫶🏼 One of the most grand ones that remain ❤️ Have you seen it?
broadway.west
352 likes • 7.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Guided Walking Tours

Join a tour for insider stories and access to theater interiors! InstagramReddit

✨ Look Up!

Admire the incredible architecture and neon signs from street level. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photo Opportunities

Broadway is a photographer's dream, especially with classic cars for shoots. Reddit

🎟️ Check Event Listings

Many theaters host concerts, film screenings, and special events. Reddit

👟 Trendy Shopping

Broadway is becoming 'sneaker row' with trendy shops. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(31 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently awed by the sheer concentration and grandeur of historic theaters on Broadway, calling it an architectural marvel and a step back in time. While many interiors are stunning, the lack of regular public access to some is a common point of disappointment. The area's vibrant street life and nearby attractions like Grand Central Market add to its appeal.

"The area has cleaned up including the Apple Tower Theatre and makes for a lively aesthetic stroll down several S. Broadway blocks. In its heyday the area was abuzz. Life is returning."

Sheri Laizer

"A Brazilian Jui Jitsu class is offered to any age willing to commit to this discipline.

Please use your QR to enroll in the class.

Water and uniform is included in the #DTLA area near 7th & South Broadway Street."

CP Sweets Cruz

"It is a nice place for history buffs. Located in historic core of LA, it had twelve movie palaces located along a six-block stretch of Broadway, it is the only large concentration of movie palaces left in the United States.
Shops around the area were deserted or closed on Saturday evening, to it is not for people looking for happening area in downtown."

Hemant Tiwari

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Historic atmosphere
Grand interiors

What People Dislike

Limited interior access
Some theaters dormant

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The district is easily accessible by car, public transport, or rideshare. Several Metro bus lines run along Broadway, and the Pershing Square Metro station is nearby. Parking can be found in various lots and garages, though it can be pricey. Instagram

While the area has a vibrant street life, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Many visitors find it safe and exciting during the day. Reddit

Consider joining a guided walking tour like those offered by Broadway West for in-depth history and interior access. InstagramReddit

Yes, Broadway is an active street. Be prepared for traffic, especially during peak hours. Some blocks may be closed for filming. Reddit

There are numerous parking garages and lots in the vicinity. Some popular options include those near Grand Central Market and along surrounding streets. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Many theaters are not open for regular public tours, but some offer special events, film screenings, or guided tours. Checking the schedules for venues like The Theatre at Ace Hotel or the Orpheum is recommended. InstagramReddit

Exploring the exterior of the theaters is free. Ticket prices vary significantly for any performances or special tours you might attend. Reddit

Yes, organizations like Broadway West and the LA Conservancy occasionally host guided tours that offer access to the interiors and historical context. InstagramReddit

Most historic theaters are not open daily for public access unless there's a scheduled event. It's best to check individual venue websites for specific hours and event schedules. Reddit

For special events, performances, or guided tours, booking in advance is highly recommended, as popular dates can sell out quickly. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The exteriors of the theaters, especially their marquees and architectural details, are fantastic for photos. Look for classic cars that are often used for filming. TikTokInstagramReddit

Photography policies vary by venue and event. Some may allow personal photography, while others restrict it, especially during performances. Always check with staff. Reddit

Professional filming and extensive photo shoots may require permits. It's best to inquire with the specific theater management or the city if you plan commercial shoots. Reddit

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light for exterior shots. Evenings can be magical with the neon lights. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the theater facades and interiors. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions, but check if they are permitted inside. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Grand Central Market, located nearby, offers a vast array of food vendors with diverse culinary options. There are also many restaurants and cafes along Broadway and its side streets. Instagram

While many theaters are historic, the surrounding dining scene is more contemporary. Grand Central Market itself has a long history and is a culinary landmark. Instagram

You can find everything from tacos and pupusas to gourmet sandwiches and fresh juices at Grand Central Market. Many casual eateries also serve classic American fare. Instagram

Yes, with many dining options available, it's a convenient area to grab a meal before attending an event at one of the active theaters. Reddit

Grand Central Market offers a range of price points, making it possible to find affordable and delicious meals. Many casual spots also cater to budget-conscious diners. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Historic Broadway Theater District is rich in history and architecture, it might be more engaging for families with older children who can appreciate the historical context and visual grandeur. Consider looking for family-friendly events or performances that might be scheduled in the theaters. Reddit

Pairing a visit with a trip to the nearby Grand Central Market offers a fun and diverse food experience that kids will enjoy. The Bradbury Building, also in the vicinity, is another architectural marvel with a stunning interior that can capture a child's imagination. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This district is a paradise for photographers. The ornate facades, iconic marquees, and grand interiors (when accessible) offer endless opportunities. Look for unique angles, capture the interplay of light and shadow, and don't miss the chance to photograph any classic cars that might be on site for filming. TikTokInstagramReddit

Consider visiting during golden hour for the best natural light. Evenings can be spectacular with the neon signs illuminating the street. Be prepared for street photography as well, as Broadway is a lively commercial area. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Lovers

You'll be in heaven here! The district is a living testament to Los Angeles' golden age of entertainment. Focus on the architectural styles, the history of cinema and vaudeville, and the stories behind these grand old buildings. TikTokReddit

Look for guided tours that delve into the history and significance of each theater. Reading up on figures like Sid Grauman beforehand can enhance your appreciation. The LA Conservancy often has relevant events or resources. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Golden Age of Broadway Theaters

The Historic Broadway Theater District in Los Angeles was once the glittering heart of the city's entertainment scene. From the 1910s through the 1930s, this stretch of Broadway was lined with opulent movie palaces and vaudeville houses, drawing massive crowds. These theaters were architectural marvels, designed to transport audiences to fantastical worlds with their lavish interiors, intricate plasterwork, and grand stages. Many were built by visionary theater moguls like Sid Grauman, who understood the power of spectacle. TikTokReddit

Today, while not all of these magnificent structures are active performance venues, their historical significance and architectural beauty remain. Some, like the Orpheum and The Theatre at Ace Hotel (formerly United Artists Theatre), are still used for concerts, film premieres, and special events, offering a glimpse into their former glory. Others, like the Rialto, retain their iconic marquees as a reminder of their past. The district is a living museum, showcasing a crucial era in Los Angeles' cultural history. InstagramReddit

Efforts are underway to 'activate' the district, aiming to bring more life and performances back to these historic spaces. Initiatives like Broadway West are working to highlight the district's potential and encourage its revitalization. Walking through the district today, you can still feel the echoes of its glamorous past, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture, history, or the golden age of cinema and theater. Instagram

Architectural Gems of Broadway

The Broadway Theater District is a treasure trove of diverse architectural styles, reflecting the ambition and artistry of early 20th-century design. You'll find everything from the French Baroque opulence of the Los Angeles Theatre to the Spanish Gothic grandeur of the United Artists Theatre. The Orpheum Theatre, built in 1926, exemplifies the Italian Renaissance style with its ornate detailing and soaring ceilings. InstagramReddit

Pay close attention to the exquisite details: the intricate plasterwork, the gilded accents, the dramatic lighting fixtures, and the elaborate proscenium arches. Even theaters that are now retail spaces often retain their stunning facades and some interior elements, like the Rialto's impressive neon marquee. These buildings are not just structures; they are works of art designed to create an immersive experience for every visitor. TikTokInstagram

Many of these theaters were designed by prominent architectural firms of the era, contributing to their unique character and historical value. Exploring this district is like taking a journey through architectural history, with each building telling its own story of Los Angeles' cinematic and theatrical past. Reddit

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