Overall, the walkability of Los Angeles is rapidly improving. Following decades of investment in car-centered infrastructure, the city and county have begun to increase investment in community redevelopment. Light rail, buses, bike lanes, and other modes of public transportation are now more accessible to residents. Surprisingly, certain L.A. areas are ideally suited to a car-free lifestyle. Some communities are more pedestrian-friendly than others. Downtown Los Angeles is ideal for walkers, with restaurants, stores, and museums grouped, frequently on the same block. Here are some of the best places to walk in Los Angeles.
Downtown LA
Table Of Contents
Not surprisingly, the highest-rated neighborhood on this list is Downtown, with virtually few everyday tasks necessitating car use. Downtown is also relatively transit-accessible, which helps to improve the experience of those who prefer not to drive. There are many train stations and bus stops on virtually every block, enhancing the experience of those who prefer not to go.
The neighborhood south of 6th street, centered on the Arts District, caters mainly to pedestrian culture. This neighborhood’s walking streets are bound by numerous pubs, cafes, stores, and restaurants. Other walkable downtown districts include Spring and Broadway Streets, where residents may visit the FIGat7th shopping zone and the Grand Central Market. The market has both generations-old food vendors and new constructions.
Miracle Mile
Miracle Mile, another very walkable L.A. neighborhood, is home to “Museum Row,” which comprises various museums such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the Petersen Automotive Museum. It’s also close to The Grove and The Original Farmers Market, two of Southern California’s most well-known outdoor shopping and dining destinations.
West Hollywood
When performing daily errands in WeHo, there is no need for a car. Thanks to the abundance of beautiful restaurants, gym facilities, and grocery stores, you can get your steps in while ticking off everything on your to-do list.
Palms
Palms boasts a high population of young, ethnically diverse people, making it one of the most significant areas to live in Los Angeles for millennials. Palms is a short walk from downtown Culver City, as is Overland Avenue Row, which offers many restaurants and dining options – all of which are walkable.
East Hollywood
East Hollywood, while developing, is also a reasonably walkable area in Los Angeles. It’s a terrific spot to walk and provides a variety of restaurants and entertainment options. There’s a fantastic assortment of entertaining, delicious restaurants, like Sqirl and The Faculty. Take a walk through Barnsdall Art Park or Moments Playhouse, where you can attend a live theater or even take an acting class if you want to spend a beautiful day in nature — or as near it as you can get while living in the city.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica is widely famous as one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Los Angeles County. For a good reason: families can stroll to the beach, the market, or one of the town’s excellent shopping avenues. One trip to 3rd Street Promenade will leave you amazed at how much shopping and cuisine you can cover in a short stroll – including many kid-friendly favorites.
Central Hollywood
Central Hollywood may not always be the most delightful location, with sidewalks congested with tourists and lined with souvenir shops. Still, it’s undoubtedly an accessible area to get around on foot. The neighborhood is very easily accessible, with two Red Line stations and numerous buses. Of course, there are many entertaining sites for locals and visitors. Just stay away from the Walk of Fame.
Westlake Amenities
The Westlake area was one of Los Angeles’ first residential communities, established in the early 1900s. This neighborhood, which is close to Echo Park and Silver Lake, has a variety of housing alternatives. In comparison, property prices and rental rates in Los Angeles are lower than the national average, making it the best option for people seeking a home. Westlake entices visitors with its rich culture and history. Historic Filipinotown, Lafayette Recreation Center and MacArthur Park are among the highlights. Murals depicting Los Angeles’ past, present, and prospective future will appeal to art enthusiasts.
Mid-city west
Mid City West, which encompasses Beverly Grove and Fairfax, is a quieter, more family-oriented neighborhood — but it’s still very cool. The permanent Farmer’s Market at 3rd and Fairfax and The Grove al fresco shopping and upscale food hall are the mainstays of this neighborhood. Both are bustling with activity at all times, but they also have strong ties to the community and frequently host seasonal special events.
Going west on 3rd will take you through a maze of great eateries serving an incredible variety of foods only Los Angeles can provide. North of Fairfax, you’ll find spots where the old and the modern clash, such as the iconic Canter’s Deli and a stretch of ever-changing hipster-driven bars.
Korea town
Koreatown is a vibrant cultural district in the heart of Los Angeles. It has historic roots because it was formerly the epicenter of Hollywood’s Golden Age, with landmarks such as the Ambassador Hotel and Cocoanut Grove.
Koreatown is a delightful combination of old and new, all walkable. Wilshire Boulevard passes through it, as do numerous trendy boutiques and restaurants. If you’re seeking entertainment and history, The Wiltern, one of L.A.’s most iconic theaters, is a must-see. If you want something more stylish and sweet, stroll to California Donuts, which boasts some of the most delicious and decorative doughnuts in California. Don’t forget to try some of the famously great dishes while you’re at the Korean barbecue.
Sawtelle
This region is classified as West Los Angeles by Walk Score; however, it is the heart of Sawtelle, the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhood west of the 405. Sawtelle, a Westside bastion for Japanese culture and food, also features many shops, grocery stores, and one of L.A.’s last major video stores. It’s also more transit-friendly now that there’s an extension to the Expo Line.
Beverly Grove /Fairfax
The Beverly Grove and Fairfax region is a lovely neighborhood to explore on foot, especially with children, thanks to The Grove shopping center and The Original Farmers Market. In addition to excellent shopping, the community is home to incredible, kid-friendly museums such as LACMA and the La Brea Tar Pits, where you can take the family on informative adventures.
Pico-Union Amenities
The Pico-Union area is part of what was initially known as El Pueblo de Los Ángeles. More commerce grew as railroads brought in newcomers, and people continued to migrate and settle here. Pico-Union is now a distinct neighborhood with a laid-back vibe that allows residents to live close to all of the city’s advantages. Pico-architecture Union is a feature since it preserves the past. Powell Place is L.A.’s shortest street, measuring 13 feet long, and it makes for an excellent photo opportunity. The El Salvador Community Corridor is also in Pico-Union.