Neighborhood Series: Spending the Day in Downtown LA (a full day itinerary)

Getting there

• Take the red or purple line to Pershing Square.
• If you must drive, park at Pershing Square Garage (532 South Olive Street). The weekend rate is a flat $9 until 2am.

Morning

• 9:30am: Just one block south of Pershing Square you’ll find the most darling European-esque hidden dead end called Saint Vincent Court. Stop for a coffee and pastry at Le Cafe Bonjour and enjoy the outdoor seating to feel extra European.
• 10am: When the charm wears off or the coffee runs dry, walk southeast about 14 minutes to the Flower Market. You probably won’t find the best flowers at this late hour, but that’s okay because you’re just there to peruse today! If you’re not particularly interested in flowers, treat yourself to an appointment at Lamay Nail Spa or Oil + Cream instead. Both spots are located at The Bloc, an 11 minute walk west of Saint Vincent’s Court. 
• 11:30am: Head over to The Last Bookstore (16 or 21 minutes walking depending on which adventure you chose) for an iconic book browse. Not only can you find thousands of used books in this quirky spot, you can do some shopping at the artsy stores upstairs.

Afternoon

• 12:15pm: If you haven’t been to the Bradbury Building yet, this is your sign to go. Yes, it’s just a building, but it’s a GORGEOUS building, and has been featured in many a music video, show, and film (ahem, Blade Runner). Only a couple blocks north of The Last Bookstore, drop in for a quick look on your way to lunch.
• 12:30pm: No visit to downtown is complete without a stop at Grand Central Market, right across the street from the Bradbury Building. You really can’t go wrong - just follow your cravings. However, we do recommend dessert at The Donut Man for a seasonal strawberry donut before you depart.
• 1:30pm: Exit the far side of Grand Central Market, opposite the way you entered, and you’ll find the historic Angels Flight - the world's shortest railway (for real!). If it’s good enough for Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, it’s good enough for you. Use your TAP card or pay $1.50 to ride one way.
• 2pm: Just a block northwest you’ll arrive at MOCA. Even if museums aren’t usually your thing, we promise you’ll enjoy the modern art exhibits and/or the top notch gift store.
• 4pm: Walk about 7 minutes southwest to see another beautiful, historic building, The Millenium Biltmore. If you’re feeling fancy, have afternoon tea in the Rendezvous Room. For a more budget-friendly option, grab a drink and a snack at the Gallery Bar and Grill.
• 5pm: Just across the street, you’ll find the LA Central Library. We know what some of you are thinking - this itinerary has a museum and a library…rad! If any library is worth a visit, though, it’s this one. Eight floors of beautiful architecture, art, books, music, and even a creative lab. Give yourself a quick tour before closing time at 5:30pm on Fri/Sat or 8pm on weekdays.

Evening

• 5:30pm: Walk six minutes east - kitty corner to Pershing Square you’ll find 448 S Hill St and all the way on top of that building you’ll find Perch. As if you don’t know it already from dozens of listicles about LA, Perch is a stunning rooftop restaurant with incredible city views. Stay for a drink or for dinner, and if you’re running behind for the day then stay for an unforgettable sunset!
• 7pm: For the grand finale, head down to Clifton’s Republic, a five-story extravaganza and historic gem of Downtown LA. Admission is free before 9pm (at which time it becomes $20 and 21+). The venue is cleaning up from the recent demonstrations, but will be fully reopened on June 27.
• Whenever your night ends, it’s a short 3-block walk back to your parking garage or metro stop. Get home safe!

Tips

• Total walking time: 1h 20m
• Reserve! Reserve! Reserve! This itinerary is reservation-heavy. Make sure to secure times for your nail/spa treatment if applicable, MOCA visit (free), tea service at Biltmore if applicable ($124/p), dinner at Perch, and Pacific Seas at Clifton’s (optional, free).
• Everything on this itinerary can be done Tuesday - Saturday except Clifton’s (only open Fri/Sat). If you want to go on another day, we recommend capping your evening at Good Clean Fun wine bar or with a round of pool at Golden Gopher.

‍