Why the Bradbury Building is one of the most iconic buildings in Downtown LA
Cue the spotlight for one of Downtown LA’s most iconic buildings!
The Bradbury Building is a piece of history that unites movie fanatics, photographers, architect enthusiasts and everybody in between. If you’re staying with us at Freehand LA, you need to make sure you pay this legendary building a visit.
Keep reading to find out what makes The Bradbury Building so special.
What is the Bradbury Building?
Get ready to turn back time as you enter this classic 1893 building. At first glance, the exterior presents a modest, mildly Romanesque style – but the true magic lies inside. Appreciators of gorgeous aesthetics will rejoice in its light-filled Victorian court, open cage elevators, marble stairs, and ornate iron railings. Unsurprisingly from its beauty, the Bradbury Building is one of Downtown’s most photographed icons.
The Bradbury Buildings’ History
Lewis Bradbury (a mining and real estate millionaire) commissioned Sumner Hunt to create a spectacular office building. However, the talented architect responsible for this renowned building is subject of debate. Hunt was soon replaced by George H. Wyman, who supervised construction. Wyman’s daughters speculated Bradbury felt Wyman understood his vision better than Hunt. With no definitive answer, you’re left to admire their work in wonder.
Almost 100 years later, Ira Yellin and his partners spent over $14 million to buy and restore the Bradbury Building. Working with architect Brenda Levin, they ensured the building’s survival into the 21st century.
Where is the Bradbury Building in Los Angeles?
The Bradbury Building is situated in the heart of downtown LA and is only a 15 minute walk from Freehand Los Angeles. It’s prime location also means you can visit many of the city’s landmarks nearby, including the The Japanese American National Musueum and The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA.
The address for LACA is 304 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013.
What is the Bradbury Building famous for?
Still scratching your head over this building’s familiarity? What if we told you that Bradbury Building is a famous filming location for movies, TV shows and music videos? Since 1942, not just one or two, but 98 titles have been filmed here! Including:
- Blade Runner
- Lethal Weapon 4
- 500 Days of Summer
- Bosch
- Pushing Daisies
- Quantum Leap (one episode)
Why not see if you can spot where your favourite scenes were filmed?
Is it free to enter?
The Bradbury Building is free to visit during the building’s opening hours (shown below).
History enthusiasts, don’t stop there. Learn more about the Bradbury Building and Downtown LA on a walking tour. For example, the Historic Downtown Walking Tour is held every Saturday at 9:45 AM ($15 per person).
When to visit
As a functioning office building, you can only visit during the day. On weekdays, the building is open from 9:00am – 6:00pm and 10:00am – 5:00pm on weekends.
To experience the true beauty of the Bradbury Building, try stopping by when the sun is shining and natural light floods the interior. Or pop over during the December holidays to capture the seasonal decorations.
How far is it from Freehand LA?
If you’re staying with us at Freehand LA, you’re in luck! The Bradbury Building is just a hop, skip and a jump away. The best part? There are plenty of ways to get there, too. So don’t worry about missing the Metro.
- Walking: 15 minutes
- Driving: 4 minutes
- Bus (9 minutes): Take the number 4 or 45 from Broadway / 8th to Broadway / 3rd.
- Metro (14 minutes): Take the Metro A-Line or Metro E-Line from 7th Street / Metro Centre to Historic Broadway Station.
Don’t miss this piece of history when you’re next in LA.
