Showing 1-8 of 8 results
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Cathedral Of Our Lady Of The Angels
Architect Jose Rafael Moneo rewrote the cathedral builders' rulebook in 2002 with this flowing, freeform church complete with plazas, colonnades and a distinct disregard for right angles. His incorporation of regional styles and historic influences provides a welcoming air that's certainly helped by the gift store - famous locally for selling the cathedral's private-label chardonnay, cabernet and zin.
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El Pueblo Historical Monument
Nope, LA didn't spring from the head of Hollywood directors, it was a full-blown community a good 100 years before DW Griffith showed up. Grab a map at restored Firehouse No.1 (the Plaza Firehouse) then wander through narrow Olvera St's vibrant Mexican-themed stalls. For LA's oldest building, see Avila Adobe, then walk through the Sepulveda House visitor center to see a restored 1800s-era kitchen and bedroom.
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Gamble House
This masterpiece of the Arts and Craft style was designed by brothers Charles and Henry Greene for Proctor & Gamble heir David Gamble in the early 1900s. The whole home is a work of art, its foundation, furniture and fixtures all united by a common design and theme inspired by its southern California environs. Note sleeping porches, rounded corners and subtle appearances of the Gamble family crest's rose-and-crane pattern.
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Grauman's Chinese Theatre
Stand in the footprints of silver-screen legends in the courtyard of this grand movie palace, built in 1927. Inspired by Chinese imperial architecture, the ornate decor extends from the intricate courtyard to the grand lobby, the lounges, and the massive theater itself where current releases captivate all-ages crowds.
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Greystone Mansion & Park
Greystone Mansion, with its stone walls and balustrades, seems more suited for foggy Scottish bluffs than shiny Beverly Hills - even the cleaning crews hurry out by sunset. The gothic-style mansion was the site of the still-mysterious 1929 murder of oil heir Ned Doheny and may be recognized from Ghostbusters II and The Witches of Eastwick . The home is closed but the gardens and grounds are open. Citywide views from the front patio are stellar.
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Hollyhock House
Oil heiress Aline Barnsdall commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to design this hilltop home in 1919. As happens with rich eccentrics and stubborn geniuses, the project ended sourly and was finished by architect Rudolph Schindler. Due to Wright's Romanza-style design there's an easy flow between rooms and courtyards. Note abstract imagery of the hollyhock, Aline's preferred flower, throughout.
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Pier & Pacific Park
Here since 1909, this landmark pier is worth a quick visit - preferably during the day. Wander past an indoor carousel, an arcade, several restaurants, myriad vendors and oodles of other tourists. Near the pier's end, check out a nifty black-and-white photo exhibit of the pier's history. Pacific Park is the pay-as-you go amusement park. Pay around US$2 for seven rotations on the Pacific Wheel, the world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel.
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Wayfarers Chapel
Glass walls and redwood pillars comfort tired wayfarers at Lloyd Wright's stunning seaside sanctuary. Built in 1951, this hillside 'tree chapel' supports an active congregation sponsored by the all-welcoming Swedenborgian Church. Guests should wander the Colonnade for reflective ocean views. Brides should book early.
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Showing 1-8 of 8 results
