Watts Towers Arts Center Los Angeles
Iconic mosaic towers built by Simon Rodia, a breathtaking testament to folk art and community spirit in Los Angeles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More people, safer vibe
Watts Towers Arts Center Los Angeles
Best Time
More people, safer vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic mosaic towers built by Simon Rodia, a breathtaking testament to folk art and community spirit in Los Angeles.
"A truly unique and inspiring landmark, the Watts Towers are a must-see for their incredible artistry and history."
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
Confirm operating hours online as the center can be closed unexpectedly.
☀️ Visit During Daylight
Daytime visits are recommended for safety and the best experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Watts Towers
Main grounds
Marvel at Simon Rodia's 17 intricate, mosaic-covered towers, a testament to folk art and perseverance.
Watts Towers Arts Center
Adjacent building
Explore exhibits showcasing local art and the history of the towers and the surrounding community.
Outdoor Art Installations
Surrounding park
Discover additional sculptures and art pieces that contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of the area.
Planning Your Visit
Check Operating Hours
Daytime Visits Recommended
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
Confirm operating hours online as the center can be closed unexpectedly. +1
☀️ Visit During Daylight
Daytime visits are recommended for safety and the best experience. +1
Visiting Watts Towers when the Art Center is closed?
🚗 Parking is Available
Parking is generally available, but be mindful of your surroundings.
🎧 Bring Headphones
Can make your trip more comfortable, especially if exploring solo.
Visiting Watts Towers
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Hours Before You Go
Confirm operating hours online as the center can be closed unexpectedly. +1
☀️ Visit During Daylight
Daytime visits are recommended for safety and the best experience. +1
🚗 Parking is Available
Parking is generally available, but be mindful of your surroundings.
🎧 Bring Headphones
Can make your trip more comfortable, especially if exploring solo.
🎶 Attend an Event
Organized events ensure safety and a great atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awed by the unique artistry and dedication behind the Watts Towers, calling them a true testament to folk art. While the surrounding area has raised safety concerns for some, most agree that daytime visits and attending community events offer a positive and enriching experience, highlighting the site's cultural importance.
"A fascinating relic of early 20th century Los Angeles history, this one man made monument stands after 100 years despite all odds"
Robbie Wilms
"I've seen these on TV and movies for years and didn't really know anything about them.
We took the tour, learned the history, and I sincerely appreciate the art and the effort in what was created here.
I would recommend if you like art of any kind."
Mark Haygen
"Iconic, sculptural towers built in the 70s by outsider artist Simon Rodia, an Italian construction worker. They have become symbolic of the Watts neighborhood and the City of Los Angeles. It is totally worth the visit."
Michael Waite
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Watts Towers Arts Center via public transit. Several bus lines serve the area. If attending an organized event, safety is generally ensured. It's advisable to check specific routes and schedules for the day of your visit.
Many visitors report no issues when driving and parking during the day. While some locals express concerns about the area, visiting during daylight hours is generally considered safe.
Parking is available near the Watts Towers Arts Center. Some visitors mention parking in a lot by the water tower.
Information on accessibility for the Watts Towers Arts Center and its grounds can be found on their official website. It's best to check for specific details regarding ramps, pathways, and exhibit access.
For the best experience, approach during daylight hours. +1 If you're visiting for a specific event, arriving a bit early can help you get acquainted with the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the towers can be viewed from the outside, access to the interior of the Watts Towers Arts Center and guided tours may require tickets or advance booking. It's crucial to check the official website for current admission policies and any associated fees. +1
Operating hours for the Watts Towers Arts Center can vary. It's highly recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit, as they may be closed on certain days. +1
Guided tours of the Watts Towers were previously available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the site's history and significance. Check the official website for current tour availability and booking information.
Admission fees can vary. While viewing the towers from the exterior might be free, access to the Arts Center or guided tours may incur a charge. Always consult the official Watts Towers Arts Center website for the latest pricing details.
Yes, you can often see the Watts Towers from the outside even when the Arts Center is closed. There may be historical plaques with information available. However, to experience the exhibits and guided tours, you'll need to visit during operating hours.
+1
📸 📸 Photography
The entire site offers unique photographic opportunities. Capture the intricate details of the mosaic work on the towers, the surrounding art installations, and the overall scale of Simon Rodia's creation.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially if you plan on using professional equipment or commercial purposes.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for photographing the towers. However, daytime visits are recommended for safety, and the vibrant mosaics are striking in natural light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around public landmarks and parks due to safety and privacy concerns. It's essential to check with the Watts Towers Arts Center or local authorities regarding drone regulations before flying.
A camera with good low-light capabilities and a versatile lens would be ideal. However, most modern smartphones can capture stunning images of the colorful mosaics and unique structures.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Beyond the iconic towers, you can explore the Watts Towers Arts Center which often features exhibitions of local artists and historical information about the site and community. The surrounding park area may also have additional art installations.
Gift shop availability can vary. It's best to check the official Watts Towers Arts Center website or inquire upon arrival to see if they have a shop selling souvenirs or local crafts.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll likely be exploring the grounds. Dress in layers, as Los Angeles weather can change.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Watts Towers Arts Center. It's advisable to confirm their availability and operating hours when you visit.
The Watts Towers were built by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia over 33 years, starting in 1921. He used found objects like broken tiles, glass, and shells to create these unique, towering structures, transforming a simple plot of land into a monumental work of folk art.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking the Watts Towers Arts Center website for any family-friendly events or workshops they might be hosting. These can provide structured activities and a lively atmosphere.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs
The Watts Towers Arts Center provides valuable context, offering insights into Rodia's life, the history of the towers, and the cultural significance of the Watts community. Consider booking a guided tour if available, as these often provide deeper historical context and fascinating anecdotes about the creation of the towers.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Engage with the site by taking your time to observe the detailed mosaics and imagine the dedication of Simon Rodia.
If you're interested in the history, check the Arts Center's schedule for any available talks or exhibits. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Simon Rodia
Rodia's work is a prime example of outsider art or folk art, created outside the mainstream art world with immense personal passion and vision. The towers are not just visually stunning but also represent a profound connection to the community and the materials available. Visitors often remark on the sheer dedication and creativity involved, finding inspiration in Rodia's relentless pursuit of his artistic goal.
Despite facing skepticism and challenges, Rodia completed his life's work in 1954. The towers have since been recognized as a National Historic Landmark and a California Historical Landmark, preserving Rodia's legacy for future generations to admire and learn from.
Community and Cultural Significance
Historically, the area around the towers has faced challenges, leading some visitors to express safety concerns. However, many Redditors and visitors emphasize that visiting during the daytime, especially for organized events, significantly enhances the sense of security and enjoyment.
The Watts Towers Jazz Festival and other cultural events held at the site are particularly popular, drawing diverse crowds and showcasing local talent. These events not only celebrate the arts but also foster a strong sense of community pride and connection to this unique landmark.
Preservation and Restoration Efforts
One notable period involved the towers being covered up for extensive restoration work, which some visitors found disappointing if they arrived during that time.
Community involvement and public support play a key role in these ongoing preservation efforts. By visiting and engaging with the Watts Towers Arts Center, visitors contribute to the continued care and maintenance of this irreplaceable artistic treasure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit