Culture Shock in Downtown Los Angeles: Visit Olvera Street and Chinatown
Let’s be honest, Downtown Los Angles is not all that exciting…. a lot of buildings, but not that much to see, especially for tourists… Well, there might be an exception though. If you want to experience two completely different cultures and forget you are in LA for a while, visit Angeles, Olvera Street, and keep on walking to its neighbor Chinatown. Whether you are discovering LA for pleasure or have to be Downtown for business, a nice break to explore one or both of those attraction is worth your time. So come surround yourself by two different but very interesting cultures.
Downtown LA: Olvera Street
Olvera Street is where it all began… The oldest street in Los Angeles, Olvera Street and its neighbors streets were what was called El Pueblo de Los Angeles.
What to see in Olvera Street:
You are in for a folkloric and fun adventure. Olvera Street has kept the Mexican culture to its fullest and therefore has a full calendar of interesting events with all the typical mexican fiestas. There are also some nice little museums that tell you the story of Los Angeles’ childhood, when it was not the metropolitan city it is now. The best: most of them are for free, but of course, they welcome a small contribution after you enjoyed your visit. Olver
a Street is full of great shops surrounded by historic buildings. You will find crafts and colorful art galleries, and maybe a souvenir or two…
Where to eat in Olvera Street:
After enjoying the Mariachi music and being entertained by the street performers you might be ready for some of the greatest Mexican food you can find in LA. If you don’t want to ruin your travel budget but eat the best carnitas, then go to Luz del Dia, a great authentic Mexican restaurant with home made tortillas! Another traditional restaurant is Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe. You will enjoy the friendly staff and an extensive menu. Sit on the patio, sip on a margarita and believe for a moment, that you really are in Mexico.
Downtown LA: Chinatown
Although not as large as San Francisco, Chinatown LA is a quite charming stop in this big city.
What to do in Chinatown:
Chinatown is full of shops, art galleries and restaurants. One fun thing to do in Chinatown is the Undiscovered Chinatown Tour, every first Saturday of the month. You get to discover the most typical Chinese shops, and some unique interesting stops off the beaten path. There are different events organized all year long. And you might be surprised what you can find in one of those antique or art and crafts stores, from delicious tea to more exotic things that you will not find in your regular super market.
Where to eat in Chinatown:
You have a lot of restaurants in Chinatown LA, and therefore a lot of choices of different cuisines. If you don’t care so much for the fine dining experience, but would like some tasty Chinese food and not empty your wallet, try Zen Mei Bistro. Like to try a lot of different things? How about some DimSum? Check out Ocean Seafood! Instead of ordering your meal, they do it the traditional Dim Sum style. The waiters come by with little carts, trying to sell you their goodies. The best thing about it: You get to see what you are ordering before!
So here is the proof: Downtown LA can also be a fun place to be and it’s not just office buildings and plain business around the clock! Check out Olvera Street and Chinatown while you are there and experience three completely different cultures all in one day! Have fun!
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