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Pico House: A Glimpse into Los Angeles' Opulent Past

Experience the grandeur of Los Angeles' first luxury hotel, built in 1870 by Pío Pico, and step back into the city's opulent past.

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The Pico House, built in 1870 by Pío Pico, the last Mexican Governor of Alta California, was Los Angeles' first luxury hotel. This Italianate Victorian-style building boasted 80 bedrooms and 21 parlors, showcasing the city's ambition and elegance. Today, it stands as a historical landmark, offering a glimpse into the bygone era of luxury and sophistication.

A brief summary to Pico House

Local tips

  • Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of this historical landmark.
  • Check the local events calendar for special programs or tours that might be available during your visit.
  • Explore the surrounding area, including Olvera Street and El Pueblo de Los Ángeles Historical Monument, to delve deeper into the city's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Pico House is located at 424 N Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, across from Olvera Street and El Pueblo de Los Ángeles Historical Monument. From Union Station, walk west on Alameda Street towards Main Street. Cross Alameda and continue onto Main Street. The Pico House will be on your left, a short walk from Union Station. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines and rail lines have stops near Pico House. From various points in Los Angeles, take the Metro A Line, B Line, or various bus routes (4, 70, 81, 94, 600) to the stops near N Main St. These stops are a short walk to Pico House. A single Metro trip costs $1.75 and includes two hours of free transfers.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From any location in downtown Los Angeles, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) can provide direct transport to Pico House at 424 N Main St. A short ride from nearby locations such as Walt Disney Concert Hall or Grand Central Market will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.

  • Parking

    Pico House does not offer on-site parking. Several parking lots and garages are available within walking distance. Options include lots on N Spring St, E Commercial St, and N Broadway. Parking rates typically range from $10 to $20 for 2 hours. Street parking with meters is also available in the area. Free parking is available at 301 North Broadway, Los Angeles.

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Discover more about Pico House

Step back in time at the Pico House, a three-story Italianate Victorian building that was once the most luxurious hotel in Southern California. Constructed in 1869-1870 by Pío Pico, the last Mexican Governor of Alta California, the hotel symbolized Los Angeles' rise as a prominent city. Designed by Ezra F. Kysor, it featured 80 bedrooms, 21 parlors, and a French restaurant arranged around a central courtyard, complete with a fountain and aviary. The Pico House quickly became a social hub, hosting dignitaries and attracting elite clientele. Each room had running water and gas lighting, which were considered extravagant at the time. The hotel's opulence reflected Pico's ambition to create a world-class establishment. However, Pico's success was short-lived. Financial troubles led him to sell the hotel in 1880. As the city's business center shifted south, the Pico House declined, eventually becoming a lodging house. Today, the building is part of El Pueblo de Los Ángeles Historical Monument and is occasionally used for exhibits and events. Despite its challenges, the Pico House remains an iconic landmark, reminding visitors of Los Angeles' rich history and cultural heritage.

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