Background

Los Angeles State Historic Park: A Green Oasis in the City

Discover a vibrant urban oasis in Los Angeles State Historic Park: where history, culture, and nature converge for an unforgettable experience with stunning views of the city skyline.

4.6

Los Angeles State Historic Park, a 32-acre green space adjacent to Chinatown, offers a unique blend of recreation, history, and stunning views of the downtown skyline. Once the site of the Southern Pacific Railroad's River Station, the park now provides walking and biking paths, picnic areas, and opportunities for urban wildlife spotting. The park's design incorporates elements of its past, hinting at the vanished railroad tracks and the area's significance as a gateway for newcomers to Los Angeles. With free admission and a variety of events, the park serves as a vibrant community hub, inviting visitors to explore the city's cultural heritage and enjoy a peaceful escape from the urban bustle. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply a relaxing day out, Los Angeles State Historic Park provides a refreshing and enriching experience.

A brief summary to Los Angeles State Historic Park

Local tips

  • Check the park's event calendar before your visit to see if there are any festivals, concerts, or guided tours happening during your visit.
  • Take the Metro Gold Line to the Chinatown Station for easy access to the park and avoid parking hassles.
  • Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing lunch or dinner with a view of the downtown skyline.
  • Explore the park's historical markers and architectural features to learn about its past as a railyard and gateway for newcomers to Los Angeles.
  • Visit during sunset for stunning views of the city skyline as the sun dips below the horizon.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    For those arriving via public transport, the Metro L (Gold) Line offers the most convenient access. Exit at the Chinatown Station, which is directly adjacent to Los Angeles State Historic Park. From the station, walk northeast on N Spring St, and the park entrance will be readily visible. A single Metro fare is $1.75, and a TAP card ($2 to purchase) allows for easy transfers and fare payment. Alternatively, a day pass can be purchased for $3.50, offering unlimited rides within a 2-hour window.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft), instruct your driver to drop you off at the intersection of N Spring St and College St, near the park's main entrance. From there, it's a short walk northeast along Spring Street to the park entrance. A typical ride-share from Downtown Los Angeles (e.g., Union Station) will cost approximately $8-$15, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Driving

    For those driving, Los Angeles State Historic Park is located at 1245 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Parking is available in the park's main lot at 1501 N Spring Street for $2 per hour, with a daily maximum of $8. Free street parking is also available in the surrounding area, but be sure to pay close attention to posted signs and anti-gridlock zones, especially between 4 PM and 6 PM. Note that parking can be limited during peak hours and special events.

Unlock the Best of Los Angeles State Historic Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Los Angeles State Historic Park

Los Angeles State Historic Park (LASHP), often called "The Cornfield," is a 32-acre urban oasis offering a unique blend of recreation, historical significance, and stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline. Situated adjacent to Chinatown, this park provides a green escape in the heart of the city, inviting visitors to explore its pathways, discover its past, and enjoy a variety of activities. LASHP's history is deeply intertwined with the development of Los Angeles. The land was once part of the territory of the Tongva people, with a large village named Yang-na located within a mile of the present-day park. In 1781, the area became part of El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora La Reina de Los Angeles del Rio de Porciuncula, with the Zanja Madre, Los Angeles' first public works project, bringing water to the growing pueblo. The park's most significant transformation occurred in 1875 with the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad's River Station, which connected Los Angeles to the transcontinental railroad system. This "Ellis Island of Los Angeles" became the entry point for thousands of migrants, sparking the city's rapid growth and industrial development. The River Station included a roundhouse, turntable, repair shops, a station depot, and a hotel. The area bustled with activity as factories and mills sprouted up around the tracks. The park's nickname, "The Cornfield," originated from corn that spilled from train cars and sprouted along the tracks. After the River Station moved across the Los Angeles River in 1903, the site continued to serve as a railyard for over a century. In 2001, California State Parks acquired the land, and after years of planning and community input, the park officially opened in 2006. Before the park's development, artist Lauren Bon created the "Not a Cornfield" project, planting 32 acres of corn on the vacant land as a temporary art installation. Today, LASHP offers a variety of activities and attractions. Visitors can walk or bike along the park's pathways, have a picnic, fly a kite, or simply relax and enjoy the views. The park is also a great place for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot urban wildlife traveling along the Pacific Flyway. Inventive architectural features throughout the landscape hint at the park's history, including an elevated walkway that traces the perimeter of the former River Station Roundhouse site and rows of deer grass that suggest the location of vanished railroad tracks. LASHP hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including cultural festivals, concerts, and community gatherings. Free guided interpretive programs are also offered, providing insights into the park's history and cultural significance. The park is located adjacent to Chinatown and is easily accessible via the Metro Gold Line, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists. Several historical buildings are within walking distance of the park, including the Flat Iron Building and the Capitol Milling Company building. The park is also surrounded by the ethnically diverse communities of Lincoln Heights, Elysian Park, Solano Canyon, Chinatown, Chavez Ravine, and William Mead Homes. Los Angeles State Historic Park is more than just a park; it's a place where history, culture, and nature come together to create a unique and enriching experience. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's past, enjoying a peaceful escape from the urban bustle, or attending a community event, LASHP offers something for everyone. The park's transformation from a railyard to a vibrant green space is a testament to the power of community activism and environmental advocacy, making it a true gem in the heart of Los Angeles. The park is open from 8 am to sunset, offering ample time to explore and enjoy its many features. With its central location, rich history, and diverse range of activities, Los Angeles State Historic Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Los Angeles.

Popular Experiences near Los Angeles State Historic Park

Popular Hotels near Los Angeles State Historic Park

Select Currency