Chinatown in downtown L.A. is a popular tourist destination. It also has a rich history, with the first Chinese reaching Los Angeles in the mid to late 1800’s. Today, you’ll find many family-friendly activities in this special neighborhood.
Chinese American Museum
425 N. Los Angeles St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Chinese American Museum is located at the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, inside one of the oldest surviving Chinese buildings within Southern California. Through the Museum’s exhibits, visitors will learn about the role Chinese-Americans have played throughout history. Different exhibits document different aspects of Chinese-American life. The Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Admission is free though donations are appreciated.
Philippe The Original
1001 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Philippe is known as the “home of the French Dipped sandwich,” but you’ll find many choices here at this historic eatery. Breakfast is served from 6:00 am to 10:30 am each day, but many people know Philippe as the place for sandwiches. And like many inventions, their “French Dipped Sandwich” happened by mistake — when owner Philippe Mathieu accidentally dropped a sliced roll into the roasting pan that was filled with juice. This may also be the only place in the city where you can purchase a cup of coffee for 45 cents. Kids will enjoy the sawdust on the floor and the family-style seating.
The Undiscovered Chinatown Walking Tour
Chinatown District, Los Angeles, CA
Every first Saturday of the month from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm, families can participate in the “Undiscovered Chinatown Walking Tour.” The tour is organized by the Chinatown Business Improvement District. During the two-and-a-half hour tour, families will visit a temple, art galleries, antique stores, an herbal shop, and much more. Reservations can be made online.
Self-Guided Walking Tour
Chinatown District, Los Angeles, CA
If your family would prefer a more do-it-yourself kind of walking tour, the Chinatown Business Improvement District has a suggested route for you. Check their website for specific information. The tour will take you by such popular spots as the Central Plaza, Phoenix Bakery (the oldest and largest bakery in Chinatown known for their strawberry whipped cream cake), and the Far East Plaza (regarded as the first modern ethnic shopping mall in the United States).
Union Station
800 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA
Union Station describes itself as the place “where Los Angeles begins.” It was built in 1939 and is considered to be the “last of the great train stations” as well as the “largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States.” Today, Union Station is much more than a transportation hub; it is also a venue for arts and entertainment. In addition, families can choose to participate in the “Metro Art Moves” tour (free tours of artwork in the Metro Rail system; all tours begin at Union Station) and the “Union Station Tour” (a free tour offered the second Sunday of each month).
Chung King Road
Chinatown District, Los Angeles, CA
Chung King Road is a pedestrian-only area of Chinatown. You’ll find restaurants, shops, and art galleries here. Chung King Road is considered to be part of “New Chinatown” and was built in the 1930s and 1940s. Periodically, Chung King Road will host gallery walks and other special events.
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