Olvera Street
Browse the Mexican market for souvenirs and food and discover historic buildings in the oldest street in the city of Los Angeles.
Olvera Street is in the oldest part of downtown Los Angeles. It is home to many historic buildings and a popular Mexican street market. The avenue exudes an old-fashioned ambiance, which is in stark contrast to the modern streets of the surrounding city. Taste traditional Mexican food and tour some of Los Angeles oldest residences.
Take a stroll through the bustling market place. Walk past the brick building façades and vendor stalls, which conjure up a feeling of old Mexico. Haggle with vendors in market stalls over items including leather jackets, pottery and works of art. Purchase souvenirs such as a Mexican flag, a wrestling mask or a piñata.
Dance to live Mexican music on the street and watch Aztec dances by street performers. Settle in at one of the restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisine and enjoy a taco or quesadilla. Free 50-minute tours of the area are conducted by Las Angelitas del Pueblo (The Village Angels).
See the Avila Adobe, the oldest residential building in Los Angeles. It was built in 1818 by Francisco José Avila, a wealthy cattle rancher. Take a tour inside then walk around the courtyard and gardens. The house has been renovated to recreate the original living conditions.
Visit Los Angeles’s oldest house made from brick, Pelanconi House. It was built in 1855 and used as a winery that lay diagonally across Olvera Street. Today, it houses the oldest restaurant in the street, La Golondrina. Sit down to grilled fajitas or jumbo prawns and finish your meal off with their famous flaming Mexican coffee.
Marvel at Sepulveda House, a beautiful French Colonial structure built in 1929 and inspired by the style of Louisiana plantation homes.
Olvera Street is located between Union Station and the Culture and Arts Plaza in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. You can get here easily by subway, train or bus. The market is open daily from morning until evening. Explore nearby attractions, such as Chinatown and the Chinese American Museum, both within walking distance.