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Los Angeles City Hall: An Art Deco Landmark

Explore Los Angeles City Hall: An iconic Art Deco landmark with a free observation deck offering stunning city views.

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Los Angeles City Hall, completed in 1928, is a towering Art Deco masterpiece and the center of Los Angeles city government. Its iconic design, rich history, and free observation deck make it a must-see for visitors exploring downtown Los Angeles.

A brief summary to Los Angeles City Hall

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the 27th-floor observation deck for panoramic views of Los Angeles. It's free and open to the public on weekdays.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the building's history and architecture. Tours are available on select days.
  • Explore the surrounding Civic Center area, home to other cultural attractions like The Broad Museum and Walt Disney Concert Hall.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Los Angeles City Hall is easily accessible by public transportation. Take the Metro Rail Red or Purple Line to the Civic Center/Grand Park Station. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk through Grand Park to City Hall. A one-way fare on Metro is $1.75, and a TAP card provides two hours of free transfers. You can purchase and load TAP cards at vending machines in Metro stations.

  • Walking

    From many downtown locations, Los Angeles City Hall is within walking distance. For example, from the Walt Disney Concert Hall, head east on 1st Street for about a 10-15 minute walk. The distinctive tower of City Hall is easily visible, serving as a guide. There are no tolls or access fees for walking.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Los Angeles. A short ride from Union Station to City Hall typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking near Los Angeles City Hall can be challenging. There is no on-site parking. However, several parking garages and lots are located within walking distance. Rates vary, but you can expect to pay between $10 and $15 for 2 hours of parking. Some nearby options include the 221 W 2nd St Garage and lots on Main Street. ABM Parking's City Hall Garage offers hourly rates starting at free for the first hour, with a daily maximum of $12. Be aware of street parking restrictions and meter fees, which typically cost $6 for 2 hours.

Unlock the Best of Los Angeles City Hall

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Discover more about Los Angeles City Hall

Los Angeles City Hall, located at 200 N Spring St, is more than just a government building; it's a symbol of the city's ambition and a testament to its architectural heritage. Completed in 1928, the 32-story structure was designed by a team of leading architects, including John Parkinson, Albert C. Martin, and John C. Austin. The building's design blends Classical elements with Art Deco flair, creating a unique "Modern American" style. The building's tower was modeled after the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The concrete used in its construction contains sand from each of California's 58 counties and water from its 21 historical missions, symbolizing unity and the state's rich history. The interior, designed by Austin Whittlesey, draws inspiration from great cities like Alexandria, Florence, and Paris, while also acknowledging the burgeoning film, aviation, and automobile industries of the time. For over three decades, Los Angeles City Hall was the tallest building in the city, a beacon of progress and innovation. Today, it remains the tallest base-isolated structure in the world, having undergone a seismic retrofit between 1998 and 2001 to withstand major earthquakes. Visitors can explore the building's history, admire its architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of Los Angeles from the 27th-floor observation deck, which is open to the public free of charge during business hours.

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