Living in the Arts District: Things We Love

Central, Creative, & Connected

The LA Arts District is one of the city’s most transformed neighborhoods. What used to be a an industrial area full of old warehouses is now a hotspot for street art, cool coffee shops, craft breweries, and high-end lofts. You'll find tons of murals, trendy restaurants, and a mix of creatives, locals, and visitors exploring the scene. It's got a bit of an edgy-meets-upscale vibe, with galleries, design studios, and some of the best food and drink spots in the city.

Here are just a few reasons why people love living here:

• Artsy Inspiration
  The area is incredibly inspiring for creatives and professionals because it's a hub of artistic energy, with vibrant murals, industrial-chic lofts, and a community of artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. It's also packed with some of the city's most interesting galleries and creative spaces. One of the biggest community-driven spots is Art Share LA, a nonprofit arts center that gives local artists a platform to showcase their work, host performances, and even live in affordable artist lofts. If you're into contemporary art, Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles is a must-visit—it's a massive gallery set in a beautifully restored historic building, featuring big-name international artists alongside fresh, emerging talent. Another gem is ICA LA (Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles), which always has bold, thought-provoking exhibits and free admission, making it super accessible. And if you’re a fan of pop art, keep an eye out for the reopening of the Corita Art Center—a space dedicated to the legendary nun-turned-artist Corita Kent, whose socially conscious work still resonates today.

• Walkable, Safe Neighborhood
  The Arts District has a solid Walk Score of 80, so you can easily run most errands on foot. You’re never far from cool spots like art galleries, trendy cafes, and boutique shops, all just a short walk away. Plus, if you need to get around, the area’s well-connected with a few Metro stations and bus lines nearby, making it super easy to explore the rest of the city. The Arts District is also recognized as the safest neighborhood in DTLA.

• Industrial + Historic Charm
  The neighborhood was originally home to factories, produce markets, and rail yards, and you can still see that history in its red-brick warehouses, exposed steel beams, and massive industrial windows. Many of these buildings have been repurposed into lofts, galleries, and creative workspace. During the 1970s and 1980s, artists started moving in, drawn to the large, open spaces and cheap rent, slowly transforming the area into a creative hub. The city eventually recognized this shift and introduced Adaptive Reuse Ordinances, making it easier to convert old warehouses into residential and commercial spaces. Today, the Arts District blends historic architecture with contemporary design, featuring everything from restored Art Deco and Beaux-Arts facades to sleek, modern developments that embrace the area’s industrial past.

• Foodie Paradise – Packed with trendy restaurants, craft breweries, cafes, and more, the arts district has one of the best dining scenes anywhere in Los Angeles, with dozens of delectable options to choose from. One standout spot is Bestia, a legendary Italian restaurant known for its house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and charcuterie boards. If you're more in the mood for sushi, Yess Restaurant serves up premium, high-quality Japanese cuisine, offering an intimate omakase experience that’s perfect for sushi lovers. And for something more casual but equally delicious, Wurstküche is a must-visit for its gourmet sausages, Belgian fries, and extensive beer selection—their duck and bacon sausage is a fan favorite. Also check out our posts on the best places for dinner and the best places for coffe/ breakfast/ brunch in the Arts District.

• Community Feel
  The Arts District has a tight-knit, welcoming vibe that brings together a diverse mix of artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives who are passionate about their work and their community. Unlike other parts of LA, where things can feel more spread out, the Arts District has a neighborhood feel where you frequently bump into familiar faces. Community events, street markets, and art walks help keep the local scene vibrant, making it easy to connect with like-minded people. Despite its growth and rising popularity, the Arts District still feels personal and grassroots, with people who genuinely care about keeping its artistic and independent identity alive.

• Central Location
  The Arts District in Los Angeles is centrally located, offering easy access to Downtown LA, Little Tokyo, and efficient public transportation options. The Little Tokyo/Arts District Station serves both the A (Blue) and E (Expo) Metro Lines, connecting you to various parts of the city. Additionally, the DASH Bus Route A has several stops on Hewitt Street, providing convenient intra-neighborhood travel. For cyclists, there are multiple Metro Bike Share stations throughout the area.

• Vibrant Nightlife
  A thriving nightlife scene offereseverything from sleek cocktail bars to laid-back breweries. If you're into expertly crafted drinks, Death & Co is a must-visit, bringing its legendary New York mixology to LA with an extensive, upscale cocktail menu. For a more lively, retro-inspired vibe, The Lets Go Disco & Cocktail Club channels a ‘70s Italian disco aesthetic, complete with DJ sets and creative drinks. If you're looking for a cozy yet sophisticated spot, Everson Royce Bar is a favorite for its relaxed ambiance and well-curated cocktails. For beer lovers, the district has some of the best breweries in LA. Angel City Brewery is a local staple, known for its spacious taproom, creative brews, and frequent community events. Arts District Brewing is another hotspot, offering house-made beers, bar games like Skee-Ball, and a casual, social atmosphere. If you prefer a more old-school dive bar experience, Tony’s Saloon is the perfect low-key spot to grab a whiskey and shoot some pool.

• Cutting-Edge Fashion
  The Arts District has transformed from its industrial roots into a vibrant hub for fashion and shopping enthusiasts. Strolling through its streets, you'll find a mix of high-end boutiques and local designer shops that reflect the area's creative energy. One standout destination is Dover Street Market, a multi-level boutique offering a curated selection of global fashion brands and emerging designers. Its avant-garde displays make shopping here feel like exploring an art gallery. Book lovers shouldn't miss Hennessey + Ingalls, a bookstore focusing on art, architecture, and design literature, providing inspiration for both casual readers and professionals. Additionally, Alchemy Works offers a blend of retail and gallery space, featuring a curated mix of clothing, accessories, and home goods that embody the Arts District's eclectic style.

An Inspired Move

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