Downtown, Straight Up

For many, downtown LA is a drive-by affair. But explore this architecturally spectacular area by foot, and it becomes an affair to remember. Take on the sidewalks of downtown’s Bunker Hill for a mile-and-a-half urban walk, starting at the massive and modern Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. Check out the whimsical sculpture garden before taking sanctuary in the marble-and-wood cathedral, sunlit through magnificent alabaster windows. Afterward, head for the shapely, shimmering silver beacon on the horizon: Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall. Just a hop away is the Museum of Contemporary Art. This is a good spot to rest up before climbing the marked stairway to Angels Knoll off Hill Street. (You may remember this hilltop arrangement of tree-shaded, city-gazing benches from 500 Days of Summer.)

From here, a ride on the historic Angels Flight funicular railway (pictured) gives you just the boost you need. Pay $1 to ride a rail car back to street level, and then cut through the food stalls at Grand Central Market, and duck into the Bradbury Building off Broadway. The 1893 Italian Renaissance Revival stunner is perfectly preserved, with cast-iron stairways and a glass ceiling that have landed it countless movie cameos. Walk back to your car along Broadway with a fresh perspective on city icons you thought you knew so well. Downtown, damn good!