One of the most creative atmospheres you will find in LA is located in the downtown arts district. Here you will find so many delicious food options, amazing street art, and creativity flowing up and down the streets. We created the ultimate guide to the arts district that includes something for everyone. If you have a thing for vibey LA days and adventure grab a friend and explore all that this creative hub has to offer!
1. Moroccan Lounge
Address: 901 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Live music is always a must! And what better place to go than the Moroccan Lounge? This live music venue is the perfect outing with friends or that special someone. They showcase plenty of tasteful artists and also serve tasty food! In partnership with Ozi’s Kitchen, the lounge serves dinner during showtimes from a food truck-styled window (Only for Ticketholders). Enjoy entrees like the jerk chicken rice bowl, jerk jackfruit tacos, Jamaican patties, and more. To top it all off, the lounge also has a bar! Vibe out at one of Downtown LA’s most popping venues filled with great food, drinks, and music!
2. Urth Caffe
Address: 459 S Hewitt St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
A true LA Girl fav! If you haven’t been to Urth Caffe, drop everything and head there now! As soon as you walk in, you’ll be captured by all of the drool-worthy pastries (Pro Tip: The cheesecake is super popular and delicious!). They have so many options that are good for any time of the day, with both indoor and outdoor seating complimented by an amazing ambiance. This is a great place to bring a laptop and catch up on work, meet with friends, or even have a self-care date. Though Urth Caffe has locations throughout LA, Downtown Arts District has one of the best locations due to the street art around the restaurant. After your visit, don’t forget to walk down the street and admire the creativity.
3. Rooftop Cinema Club Arts District
Address: 5th Floor of Building 1 at ROW DTLA – 777 S. Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021
Rooftop Cinema Club just made movie watching even better! This open-aired movie experience is nothing like you’ve ever been to. They have personal headsets to help set an intimate movie-watching experience with Cinema seating. The Downtown Arts District has one of the best Cinema Club locations, given its breathtaking rooftop view of all of downtown. Watch movies from both past and present while enjoying some tasty snacks and drinks to set the vibe. Previous showings include Friday, Bridesmaids, Love & Basketball, and so many classic favs. P.S., Dress cozy and bring a blanket to keep warm.
4. Eighty Two
Address: 707 E 4th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Eighty Two is a true all-in-one space serving as a vintage arcade, lounge venue, nightlife destination, retail, and recreational space. Bring out your inner child while playing vintage video games and enjoying drinks at the bar while socializing with friends.
5. Girl & The Goat
Address: 555-3 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Who doesn’t love a beautiful, trendy restaurant with plenty of photo ops?! The Girl & The Goat immediately grabs your attention with its greenery and plant decor. The menu looks just as good, with options like Roasted Oysters, Grilled Whole Branzino, Duck Tartare, and more. This is the perfect place for good views and food. Be sure to set up your next brunch date here, and thank us later!
6. Bavel
Address: 500 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
7. The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
Address: 152 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Calling all of our contemporary art lovers! Previously used as a police storage unit, the MOCA now showcases some of the most interesting exhibits. While you’re enjoying your day in DTLA, make sure to add this to your schedule. Tickets are required to enter, so visit their website for more info.
8. Two Bit Circus
Address: 634 Mateo St, Los Angeles, CA 90021
This tech-infused indoor arcade has revolutionized the way we game. Two Bit Circus brings a whole new approach to gaming through tech games and even escape rooms. Enjoy this interactive gaming experience with the whole family (all ages are welcome). Guess what?! Family game night just got elevated.
Looking for more places to adventure around in Los Angeles? Check out the 12 Best Places to Explore with Friends in LA to fill your schedule and get to know this beautiful city!