I first made my way up there after getting excused from jury duty — a fellow prospective juror couldn’t believe that I, a native Angeleno, had never been, and urged me to experience the feeling of being “on top of the world.” I took her advice, and it didn’t disappoint. The City Hall building has an impressive pedigree: built in 1925, it was a collaboration between three of Los Angeles’ leading architects, John Parkinson, Albert C. Martin and John C. Austin. Parkinson also designed the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and Union Station, and Austin was part of the design team responsible for the Griffith Observatory and the Shrine Auditorium..
To begin your journey to the top of the building, check in at the lobby with security, who will direct you upstairs. After two elevator rides, you’ll arrive on the 26th floor, where you’ll find a room with paintings of Los Angeles mayors, starting with John G. Nichols, L.A.’s second mayor in 1852. Former Mayor Eric Garcetti’s portrait, created by artist Shepard Fairey, was installed this year. From there, take a staircase to the 27th floor, where you’ll be able to step out onto the narrow deck, walk around and get a 360-degree view of the city. Los Angeles Explorers Guild has a guide to what you’re seeing in every direction. For a few exhilarating moments, you really do feel like you’re on top of the world.
The building is open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on weekends. Admission is free and no reservations are needed. You will be required to show an ID and go through a security check. Parking can be a challenge, as visitors are no longer allowed to park underneath City Hall East. Find street parking, or there is a public lot on Judge John Aiso Street, which is around a 7-minute walk.
