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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better views
Los Angeles City Hall Los Angeles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 1928 Art Deco landmark offering free panoramic city views from its 27th-floor observation deck.
"The views from the observation deck are absolutely breathtaking and a must-do in LA!"
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

27th Floor Observation Deck
27th Floor
Panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles and beyond. A must-see for any visitor.

Architectural Grandeur
Interior and Exterior
Admire the stunning Art Deco design and intricate details of this historic 1928 landmark.

Docent-Led Tours
Various locations
Gain insights into the building's history and significance with informative guided tours.
Planning Your Visit
Observation Deck Access
Security & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
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.
🚶♀️ Check for Events
Building closures can happen due to events. Check ahead to avoid disappointment.
📸 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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the observation deck and the building itself is free. You do not need to purchase tickets in advance.
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.
Generally, Los Angeles City Hall is not open to the public on weekends. Access is primarily limited to weekdays.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
Yes, drone usage is strictly prohibited in most urban areas, especially around government buildings like City Hall, due to airspace regulations.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
🏛️ History Buffs
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Architecture of Los Angeles City Hall
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.
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.
Navigating the Observation Deck Experience
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit