Golden Gopher
Golden Gopher: A Downtown LA Dive Bar with History
Golden Gopher: A Downtown Los Angeles Dive Bar with History
Experience a vintage vibe at this restored 1905 dive bar in Downtown LA, featuring craft beers, classic cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.
The Golden Gopher, a restored 1905 dive bar in Downtown Los Angeles, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern flair. Originally named The Golden Sun Saloon, it reopened in 2004 and has become a community attraction known for its lively atmosphere, craft beers, and vintage vibe.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Golden Gopher
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
417 W 8th St, Los Angeles, Downtown Los Angeles, California, 90014, US
Monday
3 pm-2 am
Tuesday
3 pm-2 am
Wednesday
3 pm-2 am
Thursday
3 pm-2 am
Friday
3 pm-2 am
Saturday
3 pm-2 am
Sunday
3 pm-2 am
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Getting There
Public Transport
The Golden Gopher is easily accessible via public transportation. Take the Metro Rail to the 7th Street/Metro Center station. From there, walk towards 8th St and head west for about 10 minutes until you find Golden Gopher at 417 W 8th St on your left. A single one-way trip on the Metro costs $1.75 and includes two hours of free transfers. Consider purchasing a TAP card for $2 to easily pay your fare.
Walking
If you are in the Downtown Los Angeles area, the Golden Gopher is easily accessible by foot. From Pershing Square, walk southeast on 5th St, turn right on S Hill St, then left on W 8th St. Walk for about 10 minutes, and you will find the Golden Gopher at 417 W 8th St. Be aware of your surroundings and plan your route accordingly.
Rideshare
Use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft to get to the Golden Gopher. Input 'Golden Gopher' or the address '417 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014' as your destination. Depending on traffic, a ride from central Glendale should take about 20-30 minutes. Rideshare costs vary, but a typical short trip in the downtown area may range from $10-$20.
Parking
Several parking options are available near the Golden Gopher. There is a parking lot behind the Golden Gopher on Hill Street before 8th, that is $8 at night. You can also use SpotHero to reserve a parking spot ahead of time. Nearby parking garages include 808 S Olive St. - Garage ($15.86), 835 S Hill St.- Garage ($19.31), and 812 S Grand Ave. - Garage ($12.75). Street parking is also available.
Local tips
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Visit during happy hour for great deals on drinks.
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Check the website for live music events or special themed nights.
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Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot, as it can get crowded.
Discover more about Golden Gopher
Step into a piece of Los Angeles history at the Golden Gopher, a historic bar located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Originally opened in 1905 as The Golden Sun Saloon, this iconic establishment has a rich and storied past, reflecting the evolution of the city itself. It quickly became a popular spot for locals and visitors.
During the Prohibition era (1920-1933), the Golden Gopher faced significant challenges. With the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the Golden Gopher experienced a revival, regaining its status as a prominent bar in Downtown LA, known for its lively atmosphere and strong drinks.
In 2004, Cedd Moses, acquired the Golden Gopher. The renovation preserved the original character of the bar, including its vintage neon sign and historic fixtures, while enhancing the space with contemporary amenities. The Golden Gopher boasts original exposed brick, custom-designed glass chandeliers, 16 craft beers on tap, and old-school video game tables. The bar also holds a grandfathered historic dual liquor license that allows it to run a small carry out liquor store within the bar.
The Golden Gopher remains a community attraction and everyday watering hole for DTLA residents and visitors alike. It's a perfect blend of the past and present, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Los Angeles' rich cultural tapestry.
A brief summary to Golden Gopher
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