Sites range from an amazing library to iconic buildings, a funicular, a cool new museum and one of the West Coast’s most famous markets. Even LA’s Union Station is an icon and recent star of the 2021 Oscars ceremony.
The perfect starting point for a Downtown LA adventure is the historic five acre Pershing Square Park. Originally designed in the 1880s, the park was redesigned in the early 1900s. The square was renamed in honor of General John Pershing, commander of the American armed forces overseas. This day trip gives you a taste of some of DTLA’s historic spots.
Suggested Tour Stops
Angels Flight Railway
LA Central Library
Grand Central Market
The Broad Museum
Getting here from the station
Connect with Metro Rail when you arrive at LA Union Station. Take either the B Line (Red), or the D Line (Purple) to the Pershing Square Station.
Angels Flight Railway is a 118-year-old funicular that takes can take you on a short ride between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill. Originally opened in 1901, Angels Flight® — the world’s shortest railway — has given more than 100 million rides on its hillside track. Angels Flight has been used in many movies and is always a great spot to make your own Instagram moment.
Getting Here
The entrance on Grand Avenue is less than a quarter mile from the Pershing Square station.
Places to Dine after your Ride
Grand Central Market
The LA Central Library is one of those LA Landmarks that might just slip past you if you didn’t find your way to its doors. But once here you’ll find an amazing architectural landmark, city icon, and and inspiring place to visit. It’s the third largest central library in the U.S. and houses more than ten million items. Beyond the gardens, public artwork and paintings line the halls. They also have a wonderful library store filled with a carefully curated collection of fun and eclectic gifts and goods.
Getting Here
The library is .3 miles from Pershing Square on W. 5th Street.
The Grand Central Market underwent a renaissance back in 2012. What was once a thriving market filled with venders selling fruits, vegetables, meat and fish has now transformed into a gourmet Mecca that was voted one of the top ten food destinations in the U.S. by Bon Appétit Magazine. You can get anything from Thai food to tacos to Texan BBQ. This is the one spot you’ll want to visit on your tour, especially around lunch time!
Getting Here
The Grand Central Market is across N. Hill Street from Angels Flight Railway and less than a quarter mile from the Pershing Square Station.
One of DTLA’s latest museums is the Broad. The whimsical architecture includes a design feature on the front of the building called the Oculus. It resembles an eye looking out over Grand Avenue.Located on Grand Avenue across from the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the modern art collection includes pieces by many famous artists, including Jeff Koons, Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol. Be sure to check the museum’s website for the latest on schedules and exhibits.
Getting Here
The Broad is about a half mile walk from the Pershing Square Station. It is located two blocks west of Hill Street on Grand Avenue.
Prepare to be amazed when you arrive at LA Union Station. Built in 1939, it is the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States and is widely regarded as “the last of the great train stations.” The station’s signature Mission Moderne style makes it one of L.A.’s architectural gems. LA Union Station has been the location of movies, television dramas and most recently the 2021 Oscars. Before you head off on your adventure be sure to take a stroll. You might just wander into an impromptu concert!
Station history
Station details
Train schedules
We always suggest when planning your adventure to check the Metrolink train schedule to LA Union Station. While this station is the Metrolink hub, only the Orange Line serves this station from Orange County.