Discover Fascinating El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument

Find treasures, have excellent Mexican food, and learn about Los Angeles's oldest neighborhood.

With history, culture, beautiful buildings, museums, fun shops, restaurants and cafes, and entertainment, there's really no excuse not to head to El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, a vibrant testiment to the region's colorful Mexican heritage. The oldest part of Los Angeles, this lively district features 27 historic buildings with a traditional Mexican-style plaza.

Popular Olvera Street always attracts crowds of tourists and locals looking for trinkets, clothes, and delicious authentic Mexican fare, but surrounding streets also have fascinating things to discover. The Avila Adobe, built in 1818, is the oldest building in L.A., and now houses an excellent museum that captures the way the region looked in the mid-1800s. The central plaza is the center of festivals and celebrations, sometimes including folkloric or Aztec Indian dancing.

It's not all about Mexico here: Pelanconi House (completed in 1857) was built by Italian vintner Giuseppe Cavacciand. The brick building is now the site of La Golondrina, the oldest restaurant on Olvera Street.

Inside tip: Free walking tours of the region are offered Tuesdays through Saturdays.