Central LA is a large, low-income, mostly Latino district in Southern California. The boundaries are roughly the freeway south to Pico Blvd., east to Alameda Street, and north to the Santa Monica mountains. Central LA can be further divided into multiple neighborhoods – Pico-Union & Westlake being the most notable.

The district bears its name from the area’s primary transportation corridor, Central Ave., which cuts through much of the region east to west. Within this district, there are many smaller neighborhoods that function somewhat independently with their unique history and character. Some notable smaller neighborhoods include Historic Core, which has been making a comeback as a younger population grows in Downtown Los Angeles.

Historically, the area was home to the indigenous Tongva people for hundreds of years before it was colonized by Spain and later Mexico. When Mexico ceded California to America after the Mexican American War in 1848, the Americans began to forcibly relocate the indigenous peoples to other parts of California. After this, many Chinese immigrants came into the area in droves and started farms while others found jobs in service industries. When railroads were built across California, Central LA became a major hub for transporting goods – specifically agricultural products, which made its way up north.

Central LA is home to many migratory birds and historical landmarks such as the Angels Flight trolley. It still has one of the largest historic districts in all of Los Angeles. Also, it houses some of the most beautiful Spanish architecture buildings in all of California.

Interesting Places & things about Central LA

The Bradbury Building – an architectural gem located in Downtown LA. Built in 1893, this building was one of the first to be constructed using metal-framed walls, which made it seismically sound and allowed for larger windows. The building has been used in multiple movies such as Blade Runner, The Artist, 500 Days of summer, etc.

Angel’s Flight – a historical landmark dating back to 1901 located in Downtown LA near the Historic Core. When it was first built, it was used by both pedestrians and trolley passengers traveling up and down California St. The original funicular was dismantled during the construction of the Third Street Tunnel in 1936. In 1996, the current funicular was built just a few blocks away from its original location and still runs today. For another exciting neighborhood, check out Glendale.