The Bradbury Building is the one of the most impressive Victorian buildings that remains in L.A. Determined to build a lasting monument as his final real estate development, millionaire Lewis Bradbury rejected conventional designs and urged draftsman George Wyman to give the building a more futuristic twist. Wyman initially turned down the offer as unprofessional, but was supposedly persuaded to change his mind after communicating with his deceased brother using a Ouija board. He ultimately created a masterpiece of oak paneling, tiled stairs, wrought-iron railings, open-cage elevators and a glass roof, which illuminates all.
This adobe structure, built by Don Francisco Avila, is considered the oldest existing house in Los Angeles. By modern standards the home is quite small, though at the time it was the largest in the area. Although it has been heavily restored, much of the original structure survives today. It now functions as a museum with the interior having been refurbished to include a four-post bed and other typical furnishings from the era.
Years ago, one of the summer rituals for L.A. children was a new pair of huaraches from Olvera Street and maybe some Mexican jumping beans. Nowadays those rituals are a year-round treat on this cobblestone street, which is a block-long cornucopia of traditional Mexican clothing, artwork, gifts, leather goods, novelties and restaurants. There is also a Visitors Center where tourists can appreciate the complimentary screening of a film which depicts early life in Los Angeles. Olvera Street was created in the 1930s and comprises the area known as the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, which is the site of the city's beginnings. Free tours are given to the public by the Las Angelinas, a non-profit organization.
Sitting pretty under the famous Hollywood Sign is the Paramount Studios lot, and a visit here is a memorable experience. Avail of one of the various studio tours, and let a bit of Hollywood glamor rub off on you. The venue is huge, and the wrought-iron double arch gate at Melrose & Windsor is an architectural wonder in itself, opening on to the vast premises where Hollywood productions come to life. Wander through the Bronson Gate and watch screenings in progress within the only big-time motion picture studio in the area. The huge library contains more than 1000 titles, including many Academy Award winners. Dating back to 1912, the place also contains a ton of history. If you are really, really interested, send in your resume, and they might just hire you! In any case, be sure to keep an autograph book at hand when here to gather a bit of stardust! Prices for tours may vary.
The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, located in Los Angeles, showcase a unique glimpse into the prehistoric world. This site was once a Mexican land grant known as Rancho La Brea. Today, it stands as a remarkable museum, renowned for housing one of the world's most significant deposits of Ice Age fossils. During the summer months, visitors can observe the ongoing excavation from Pit 91 and get an insight into the excavation where scientists discovered the new Ice Age specimen.
Originally built in 1926, this theater was completely renovated in 1991 by Pacific Theatres and The Walt Disney Company. It's now a premier movie palace that Disney uses to showcase its animated and children's features. Special features begin with a live stage show with a singing and dancing chorus of familiar Disney characters. Often short cartoons will precede the main show. Be sure to call or check the website for the movie and show times.
Mission San Gabriel Arcángel is steeped in history that dates back to when it was founded in 1771. Visitors can tour this well-preserved Roman Catholic Mission grounds and visit its museum. View the tall buttresses and walls then check out the campanile that holds six bells that were crafted between 1795 and the 1830s. The beautiful altar was made in Mexico City in the 1790s and some of the wooden statues were carved in Spain in the 1700s. The mission museum exhibits relics, books and religious artifacts.
One of the largest homes ever built in Beverly Hills is the Greystone Mansion, a 55-room English Tudor Mansion constructed by Edward L. Doheny in 1928. A gift to his son, it also includes a huge garden. The grounds have been used as a public park, and the home itself for a variety of purposes, most recently for the activities of the American Film Institute. The interior of the mansion is closed to the public, but the exterior and surrounding park is completely open for visitors.
From fun outdoor activities to notable architecture, Will Rogers State Historic Park has it all. In 1944, actor Will Rogers' family donated his 31-room house and the surrounding 186-acre (75 hectares) grounds so that the estate could be turned into a state park. Take a tour of the ranch, watch a polo game, go on a horseback ride, or embark on an exhilarating hike to explore its environs. The park offers a rare chance to gain a deeper insight into the life of the star.