Downtown/Mid-Wilshire/Koreatown Attractions in Los Angeles

On this best-of list we have focused on the downtown area (and passed over sites in Mid-Wilshire and Koreatown). Downtown, although just a small piece of the greater Los Angeles area, is full of notable cultural and historical destinations.

The Los Angeles Central Library is an Art Deco/Egyptian site that makes quite a visual impact from the street; the interior is also open to the public. Another architectural item is included: the Coca-Cola building, a Streamline Moderne landmark with nautical stylings. (For more Art Deco sites in the area please check out this guide.)

Please note that the Avila Adobe is in the middle of the very popular Olvera Street marketplace. Across Alameda Street from here is Union Station, one of the great North American train stations.

The Museum Contempory of Art is a major art institution with two branches in the area; we have included them both on this list. (Paying admission at either location grants access to both).

Also included here are two vibrant neighborhoods, Little Tokyo and Chinatown; both are good dining, shopping and people-watching destinations.

For more the Historical Theater District, you can check out our theater guide. Also note this downtown guide for even more sites (as well as bars, restaurants, and hotels) in the area.

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