Latinos are an integral part of Los Angeles and make up a major chunk, almost half, of the city’s population. Los Angeles’s vibrant multicultural landscape is a popular attraction for its residents and tourists. The city with the flashy multi-million dollar mansions and numerous Hollywood studios was initially a part of Mexico. With El Pueblo de Los Angeles being the birthplace of Los Angeles, the city’s Hispanic heritage dates back more than 200 years.
Hence, behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and high-end luxury brands is an inherently Latin American city. The marketplaces, historical monuments, murals, and churches bear the mark of their Mexican ancestors. As a Latin American, LA’s historical and cultural scene should be a primary reason for you to visit it, instead of the star-lined Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Let us discuss the top places with Latin American significance in Los Angeles for you to visit.
1. Olvera Street
What’s better than taking a stroll on a street laden with history? The brick-paved street is at the heart of the city’s oldest historical park. Olvera Street gives you a rich taste of Mexican heritage, as you roam around and get immersed in the sights and smells of Mexican culture.
Colorful stalls border the street throughout, selling handicrafts, masks, folk art, fresh taquitos, and warm churros. Free to the public, the street is an excellent attempt at recreating the old Los Angeles marketplace vibe. If you want to see the area in full Latin American vigor, you should visit it on days like Los Tres Reyes, Cinco de Mayo, the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, Mexican Independence Day, Dia De Los Muertos, Las Posadas.
Mariachis and beautifully dressed Mexican traditional dancers line the street and put up an entertaining show for tourists and visitors. Lastly, you can also register for a 50-minute long walking tour of the area to immerse yourself in the Latin American history of the area.
2. The Piñata District
If you are looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of the LA tourists, you can check the Piñata District. Nestled between factories at the East Olympic Boulevard, it is the perfect location for your Instagram photo. Despite being a party supply area, offering an array of colorful Piñatas in all shapes and sizes, the area has a part vibe of its own.
With booming Salvadoran and Colombian music playing in the background, the area also offers a variety of Latin American street food, served fresh and spicy. It is often referred to as a theatre for the senses and is rich in the Latin American vibe. To add to that, the colorful Piñatas are a popular photo background and photo op for many visitors.
Interestingly, you can remain connected while roaming around LA and post pictures as you take them. Cox WiFi hotspots are available, for free, in Los Angeles for Cox internet subscribers. By connecting to the free hotspots, you can enjoy high-speed internet throughout your stay in LA. To know more about this tourist internet benefit, you can contact Cox servicio al cliente, which is available in both English and Spanish.
3. Gracias Madre in West Hollywood
How can we talk about LA’s Latin American side and not talk about exclusive dining options? Gracias Madre is for those looking to escape the city heat and enjoy a Hispanic and LA-influenced lunch in peace. As a vegan eatery, you can enjoy the meat-free takes on classical Latin American dishes like queso-fundido, empanadas, and tacos.
All of these items are made with vegan-friendly alternatives like cashew cheese, soy chorizos, and plant-based ‘meats’. Even if you are not a vegan, you should check this place out as it is a perfect blend of the upscale LA culture and Latin American cuisine. Apart from enjoying the good food in a fancy ambiance, you might spot a celebrity after all since it is in West Hollywood.
4. LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes
Get a peek into the Latin American experience in Los Angeles and California through the cultural and historical exhibits at this Mexican American museum. LA Plaza is also a rich site for interactive exhibitions, music, dance, culinary shows, art, and storytelling. Situated in the Vickrey-Brunswig Building, south of La Placita church, LA Plaza allows visitors to indulge in various art forms and interactive shows.
It is more than a boring walk in a dead-silent museum. There is an outdoor space as well, for all stage performances and an edible garden. The place has something for everyone and can be a great tool for you to connect with your Latin American heritage.
5. La Casita Mexicana
La Casita Mexican is run by Latin American chefs, from Jalisco, who missed their grandmother’s authentic Mexican cooking. It is a place that serves history and tradition-rich food. If you are looking for an authentic dive into Mexican cuisine, then this is the place for you. The homey décor and the mustard walls of the place will immediately make you feel comfortable and connected.
Situated in Bell, the restaurant serves some great authentic take on Mexican dishes. Both the chefs have a fan following since a bunch of celebrities like Wes Avila recommended the restaurant. You can try their weekly specials, their 40-ingredient mole, their top-of-the-game chille rellenos, and the enchiladas.
Wrapping Up
Los Angeles has a historically and culturally rich landscape which is completely different from the LA portrayed in mainstream reality TV. It has a rich Latin American history and culture, and exploring it is the best way to pay respect to its 200-year-old Latin American heritage.