Whether you’re a longtime resident or recent transplant, there’s no better way to get to know Downtown Los Angeles than through its unique cultural experiences and thought-provoking art.
There’s no denying that they fill the city with color and life, but they also provide an intimate look into the stories and people that make up DTLA. Throughout the city lies inspiration and many chances to spark your creativity, and we here at Joe’s Auto Parks want you to experience it for yourself! As we say, #JoesKnowsDTLA, and here are some noteworthy arts & culture stops in DTLA we know you’ll love.
Painting Outside the Box
There’s never a shortage of street art when walking around Los Angeles; at every turn is yet another vibrant and awesome piece that will steal your gaze. But while many people automatically associate the Arts District with street art, the center of DTLA is also home to many captivating pieces—some even live on the side of our lots and garages.
For an inspiring 15-minute stroll, start by parking at our garage on 1158 S. Flower Street, and make your way to the corner of Flower Street and 12th. Turn the corner, where you’ll see a breathtaking green wall of geese designed by Catherine A. Montgomery. From there, head down 12thStreet towards Hope Street to find a large wall of female faces entitled, “Girl Squad”; the sheer size and attention to detail in this work is absolutely amazing. Head back onto Flower St. to see “Reach for the Sky,” a towering work by @case_maclaim just after Broken Spanish. Then end your walk down Hope and 8th Streetsto the famous wing mural by @ColleteMillerWings and @Wrdsmth. Don’t forget to snap a picture at this spot! It’s been wildly popular throughout social media and has been highly regarded as an iconic DTLA landmark by locals and tourists alike.
Indoor Inspiration
There’s no question that the museums in Los Angeles are fantastic. Not to mention, it boasts having more museums and theaters than any other city in the U.S., making it the perfect place to immerse in all-things art and culture. Two of the most popular art museums are located in the heart of DTLA: The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is located on Grand Avenue, where exhibits range from photography and sculptures, to caves representing black culture. Artist Akunyili Crosby even created street art to wrap around the museum. Be sure to park in the Joe’s lot at 245 S. Broadway and walk right into the museum Wednesday through Monday!
Although tickets can be hard to get, The Broad is another must-see museum if you’re looking to experience DTLA’s art & culture. The museum is full of interesting, interactive, and jaw-dropping art, from rooms full of infinity mirrors, to paintings by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. And since The Broad is right next to MOCA the walk back to your car will be a quick one!
Merry Melodies
Music is another art form that is prevalent in DTLA. Pick out a new instrument, attend a live concert, and learn all there is to know without ever leaving the city!
Although the music scene is spread out around DTLA, Joe’s has the most convenient parking locations to easily get you to your destination. Park in our lot at 388 S. Hill Street to visit the International House of Music, and take a look at their large variety of instruments and accessories for purchase. After a short drive to our lot on 990 W. 8th Street, the GRAMMY Museum awaits at LA Live where they currenly have a Michael Jackson exhibit on display. End your day with a treat and catch a performance by the LA Philharmonic ay the Walt Disney Concert Hall. 215 S. Broadway Street has the parking you need to get to your show just in time.
Fashion Masterpieces
Another form of art that is huge in DTLA is fashion. Not only is there an entire area dedicated to it (Fashion District), but the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) is also located in DTLA! While the school is mostly for students, don’t miss FIDM’s Museum & Galleries by parking at 950 S. Olive Street! Visit it in August to see the Art of Television Costume Design exhibition to see all of your favorite costumes in real life or any time to see fashion by Versace and Rudi Gernreich.
If you’re looking to take your own piece of wearable art home, head over to 746 S. Hope Street for centralized parking that’s convenient to luxury shopping at The Bloc LA and FigAt7th.
Being a true Angeleno comes with understanding and appreciating the art & culture that surround us. From block to block, DTLA is filled with a variety of artwork that contributes to the vitality and individuality of this city. It has so much to offer, and it can’t wait to show you all of it!—so don’t forget to visit our Locations page to find the closest Joe’s Auto Park facility for your next arts & culture adventure!
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