Los Angeles City Hall, Los Angeles - Sunset over LA City Hall.
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Los Angeles City Hall Los Angeles

4.4
·724 reviews·Los Angeles, United States

Iconic 1928 Art Deco landmark offering free panoramic city views from its 27th-floor observation deck.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better views

CrowdLow
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Los Angeles City Hall, Los Angeles - Sunset over LA City Hall.

Los Angeles City Hall Los Angeles

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic 1928 Art Deco landmark offering free panoramic city views from its 27th-floor observation deck.

4.4
(724 reviews)

"The views from the observation deck are absolutely breathtaking and a must-do in LA!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Before 4:45 PM

Ensure entry to the observation deck by arriving well before the 5 PM closing time.

🚶‍♀️ Check for Events

Building closures can happen due to events. Check ahead to avoid disappointment.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

27th Floor Observation Deck

27th Floor Observation Deck

27th Floor

Panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles and beyond. A must-see for any visitor.

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Interior and Exterior

Admire the stunning Art Deco design and intricate details of this historic 1928 landmark.

Docent-Led Tours

Docent-Led Tours

Various locations

Gain insights into the building's history and significance with informative guided tours.

Planning Your Visit

Observation Deck Access

The 27th-floor observation deck offers stunning city views, but access can be unpredictable. It's generally open weekdays, but events in the building can cause temporary closures. Arrive before 4:45 PM to ensure entry before closing.

Security & Events

Be prepared for security checks. Protests or special events, like those seen on TikTok, can impact access and create crowds. Check for any scheduled events before your visit to avoid disappointment.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better views
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons (before 4:45 PM)
Why
Last chance for views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The crowd at LA City hall is growing for “No Kings” protest 🪧 #losangeles #dtla
@p.3.s.t.o
28.3K likes • 153.6K views

🎯 Arrive Before 4:45 PM

Ensure entry to the observation deck by arriving well before the 5 PM closing time. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Check for Events

Building closures can happen due to events. Check ahead to avoid disappointment. Reddit

reddit.com

LA City Hall observation deck

📸 Capture the Skyline

The observation deck offers incredible photo opportunities of the LA skyline. :camerawithflash:

🧐 Be Prepared for Security

Standard security checks are in place before entering the building. :shield:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Before 4:45 PM

Ensure entry to the observation deck by arriving well before the 5 PM closing time. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Check for Events

Building closures can happen due to events. Check ahead to avoid disappointment. Reddit

📸 Capture the Skyline

The observation deck offers incredible photo opportunities of the LA skyline. :camerawithflash:

🧐 Be Prepared for Security

Standard security checks are in place before entering the building. :shield:

🆓 Free Admission

Enjoy the observation deck and tours at no cost! :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(724 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the 27th-floor observation deck, highlighting it as a must-see free attraction. The building's impressive Art Deco architecture also garners significant admiration. However, some find the access to the observation deck unpredictable due to potential closures for events, and security can sometimes feel a bit stringent.

"I’ve been on jury duty for about a month and have been exploring Downtown Los Angeles. I’ve lived here my whole life and this is the first time I have been really exploring.
The architecture of City Hall is amazing it was the largest building in the city when originally built. There is a metal detector you have to go through for safety purposes.
Before 9/11 there were less safety measures. Thirty years ago, I went to city hall to get my ambulance driver’s license.I found myself, unbelievably, amazingly, surprisingly at the very top, my head sticking out of the very top of City Hall. Unbelievable.
The 27th floor is the observation deck, amazing views. 3rd floor there are items from the Olympics."

Dave Ruiz

"Came here for a trip to the top to see the view from the observation deck. Free admission, but you have to do a bag & metal detector check and also sign in to get a badge. We took three separate elevators to get to the top, one of which was very beautiful and decorated. The view was nice, but I wish we came at sunset!"

Liane Vaz

"I visited yesterday and loved it! The Art Deco architecture is beautiful, and the free observation deck on the 27th floor offers stunning 360-degree views of LA. The building has a lot of history, and the murals inside are worth seeing. Security is tight but the staff is helpful. Definitely a hidden gem in downtown LA!"

Zoe Richardson

What People Like

Stunning city views
Impressive architecture
Free admission

What People Dislike

Unpredictable closures
Security can be strict

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Los Angeles City Hall is located in Downtown LA. It's accessible via public transportation, including numerous bus lines and the Metro Rail (Civic Center/Grand Park station is nearby). Driving is also an option, with several parking garages in the vicinity, though they can be pricey. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages around City Hall. Expect to pay hourly or daily rates. Some visitors suggest looking for slightly cheaper options a few blocks away. Reddit

Absolutely! Many Metro bus lines stop near City Hall, and the Civic Center/Grand Park Metro station is a short walk away, making it a convenient option. Reddit

Visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings, can help you avoid the worst of LA's notorious traffic. Utilizing public transport can also be a stress-saver. Reddit

The building is generally accessible, with elevators to reach the observation deck and other floors. It's advisable to contact City Hall directly if you have specific accessibility needs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to the observation deck and the building itself is free. You do not need to purchase tickets in advance. Reddit

The observation deck is typically open to the public on weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM. However, it can be closed unexpectedly due to events. Reddit

Generally, Los Angeles City Hall is not open to the public on weekends. Access is primarily limited to weekdays. Reddit

It's recommended to arrive by 4:45 PM to ensure you have time to get through security and reach the observation deck before it closes at 5 PM. Reddit

You will go through a standard security screening, similar to airport security, before entering the building. Be prepared to have your bags checked and walk through a metal detector. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

From the 27th floor, you get breathtaking panoramic views of Downtown Los Angeles, including landmarks like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Staples Center (now Crypto.com Arena), and the surrounding cityscape. On a clear day, you can see for miles. TikTok

Yes, docent-led tours are often available, providing historical context and insights into the building's architecture and significance. Check with the visitor services upon arrival for tour schedules. Reddit

Crowds can vary. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded than afternoons. Protests or special events can also lead to increased visitor numbers or temporary closures. TikTokReddit

Late afternoon, closer to sunset, can offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photos. However, be mindful of the 5 PM closing time. Mornings also provide clear, bright light. Instagram

Generally, photography and videography are allowed for personal use, especially from the observation deck. However, it's always good practice to be discreet and respectful of ongoing government business. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no public dining facilities or restaurants directly inside Los Angeles City Hall. However, the surrounding Downtown LA area offers a vast array of dining options, from quick bites to upscale restaurants. Reddit

You'll find everything from fast-casual eateries and food trucks to diverse ethnic cuisines and fine dining restaurants within walking distance of City Hall in the Bunker Hill and Grand Park areas. Reddit

While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the main viewing areas of the observation deck to maintain cleanliness and respect for other visitors. Reddit

Yes, the Downtown LA area is filled with coffee shops. You can find numerous cafes offering coffee, pastries, and light snacks within a few blocks of City Hall. Reddit

Popular choices include Grand Central Market (a short walk away) for a wide variety of vendors, or numerous delis and cafes in the surrounding office buildings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 27th-floor observation deck provides unparalleled panoramic views. The building's exterior architecture, especially the stepped pyramid top, is also a fantastic subject. Instagram

Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy times, to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's best to check with security or visitor services upon arrival. Instagram

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers warm, dramatic lighting. Clear mornings provide crisp, bright views. Consider the angle of the sun for your desired shots. Instagram

Yes, drone usage is strictly prohibited in most urban areas, especially around government buildings like City Hall, due to airspace regulations. TikTok

You can capture wide-angle cityscapes, iconic landmarks like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and street-level activity. Experiment with different focal lengths for varied perspectives. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Los Angeles City Hall offers a unique and free outing for families. The observation deck provides an exciting opportunity for kids to see the city from a bird's-eye view, spotting cars and buildings from high above. It's a great way to spark their curiosity about urban environments. Instagram

While there aren't specific play areas, the sheer novelty of being in a tall building and seeing the vastness of LA can be captivating for children. Pack some snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited inside the building itself. Remember to arrive earlier in the day to avoid potential afternoon crowds and ensure a smoother experience for everyone. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Los Angeles City Hall presents a dual opportunity: capturing the building's striking Art Deco architecture and the expansive city vistas from the observation deck. The stepped tower is particularly photogenic, especially during the golden hour. Instagram

The observation deck offers incredible opportunities for urban landscape photography. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to encompass the entire cityscape or use telephoto lenses to pick out details of distant landmarks. Be mindful of the 5 PM closing time and plan your visit accordingly to maximize your shooting time, especially if you're aiming for sunset shots. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will appreciate Los Angeles City Hall's significant architectural heritage and its role as a civic center since 1928. The building's design is a testament to the era's architectural ambitions, and its interior features historical murals and design elements. Reddit

Taking a docent-led tour is highly recommended to gain a deeper understanding of the building's history, its construction, and its importance in the development of Los Angeles. These tours often uncover fascinating stories and details that bring the building's past to life. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Architecture of Los Angeles City Hall

Los Angeles City Hall, completed in 1928, is a masterpiece of Art Deco architecture. Its distinctive stepped pyramid tower is an iconic symbol of the city skyline. The building's design was influenced by ancient Mesopotamian ziggurats and features a blend of classical and modern elements. The exterior is clad in granite and terra cotta, showcasing intricate detailing and ornamentation that reflects the grandeur of the era. The 27th-floor observation deck, a key attraction, offers a unique perspective on the city's layout and growth. Instagram

Inside, visitors can admire the rotunda, a soaring central space adorned with murals depicting scenes from California's history. The building also houses various government offices, making it a functional as well as a beautiful landmark. Exploring the interior reveals a sense of history and civic pride, with its marble floors, ornate fixtures, and impressive scale. The architectural significance of City Hall has made it a popular filming location and a beloved symbol of Los Angeles. Reddit

Docent-led tours are available and highly recommended for those interested in delving deeper into the building's history, architectural features, and its role in the development of Los Angeles. These tours often highlight specific design elements and historical anecdotes that might otherwise be missed, providing a richer understanding of this significant civic monument. Reddit

Navigating the Observation Deck Experience

The 27th-floor observation deck at Los Angeles City Hall is a major draw, offering breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis. From this vantage point, visitors can identify numerous landmarks, including the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Crypto.com Arena, and the historic core of Downtown LA. The sheer scale of the city unfolds beneath you, providing a fantastic opportunity for photography and a deeper appreciation of Los Angeles' urban landscape. Instagram

Access to the observation deck is generally free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. However, it's crucial to be aware of the operating hours, which are typically weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM. Redditors frequently advise arriving before 4:45 PM to ensure entry, as security and elevator lines can sometimes cause delays. The deck can also be closed without notice due to special events or security concerns within the building, so checking ahead or being flexible with your plans is wise. Reddit+1

When visiting, be prepared for a security screening upon entry to the building. While photography is generally permitted for personal use, it's advisable to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive behavior. The experience is best enjoyed on a clear day for maximum visibility, and the late afternoon light can offer stunning photographic opportunities as the city begins to glow. Instagram

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