Angels Flight Railway is an old funicular railway constructed in 1901 in downtown Los Angeles. It links Hill Street and Grand Avenue and was once called the Shortest Railway in the World. The railroad presents a short ride of 298 feet of fun and memories of old Los Angeles. Tourists have an opportunity to take photos of the panoramic view of the city. The ride itself, in addition to the very accessible access to the lively food and arts hubs, makes Angels Flight a favourite among tourists visiting the cultural landmarks of Downtown LA.
What Can You See and Do at Angels Flight Railway?
These are the primary things that you can see and do in Angels Flight Railway:
- Ride the Historic Funicular: Make a quick yet memorable trip on the funicular that was built in 1901, which links Hill Street and Grand Avenue. The two cars are called Olive and Sinai, and they ride on a steep track 298 feet long. It takes only a minute, but it provides a genuine experience of what Los Angeles was like in the early 20th century.
- Capture Iconic Photos: The colourful orange railcars of Angels Flight, old-fashioned details, and downtown skyline make it a popular photography spot among strangers and residents. Tourists usually take the artistic shots both on the upper and lower stations, mostly at sunset when the light contributes to its dreamy attraction.
- Explore Historical Significance: Angels Flight was opened in 1901, and it is a witness to the Los Angeles history that has passed approximately a century. It used to be a convenient commuting road, but today, it is a cultural landmark that reflects the development of the city. The station has information boards that tell its story, restoration and its relation to the growth of LA.
- Combine with a Walking Tour: You can see the local places of interest after riding on your funicular, like Grand Central Market, The Broad Museum, and Walt Disney Concert Hall. The neighbourhood is low-density and filled with historic buildings, food outlets, and outdoor art, and it is best to explore on a short cultural walk through the area.
How to Get to Angels Flight Railway?
The primary methods of accessing Angels Flight Railway in Downtown Los Angeles are as follows:
- By Metro: Angels Flight is accessible through the easiest way to reach the station by the Metro B (Red) or D (Purple) Line to Pershing Square Station. The railway has its Hill Street entrance only 2 minutes away. The metro cost is $1.75 using a TAP card, which is very affordable and convenient for visitors.
- By Limo Service: Rides made privately by providers such as Limousine service Los Angeles, LA VIP Car Service, and Crown Limo LA provide a comfortable journey to the Angels Flight. The services offer luxury cars and professional drivers, which are perfect in case the tourists expect a luxurious and comfortable travelling experience. Also, they make it easier to go sightseeing without worrying about parking.
- By Car: Angels Flight can be easily reached by vehicle through Hill Street or Grand Avenue. There are parking garages in the area, with some options being close to the Grand Central market and the Broad museum, priced between $10 and $25 per day. Weekends can be hectic with the traffic, and the early arrival can be used to get a parking place.
- By Foot: Angels Flight is located within walking distance to numerous popular attractions in case you are already in Downtown LA. A walk from Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad, or Grand Park takes less than 10 minutes. The pedestrian paths are broad and vibrant, which provide an enjoyable city walk in the cultural centre of the city.
What Are the Entry Details & Ticket Prices for Angels Flight Railway?
- Ticket Prices: Angels Flight is one-way only, costing $1.50, and a round-trip souvenir ticket is $3.00. Riders with a Metro TAP card are charged a reduced fee of $0.75 per ride. It is also cheaper to go there often, as frequent buyers can purchase ticket books, 5 rides at $6 or 40 rides at $45.
- Entry Details: The railway has a routine of 6:45 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. every day, which makes it convenient enough to visit it at any time of the day. The tickets are sold at the station, and no prior reservation is needed. The highest station is at 350 S Grand Avenue, and the lowest station is opposite the Grand Central Market, 351 S Hill Street. Personal tickets are required when the passenger boards.
What Are the Best Times to Visit Angels Flight Railway?
It is best to visit Angels Flight Railway at the right time according to the type of experience you want. Morning (8 AM -11 AM) gives a quiet ride with fewer visitors. Photos with warm sunlight are best when photographed during the Golden Hour (4 PM – 6 PM). Evening or nighttime offer romantic city scenery, whereas weekends afternoons are usually filled with tourists.
Where to Eat Near Angels Flight Railway?
These are the top local restaurants around the Angels Flight Railway in Downtown Los Angeles:
- Grand Central Market (Across the Street): An iconic food mall that features more than 30 vendors offering cuisines worldwide. You can have tacos, burgers, and fresh coffee at prices ranging between $5-$15. Tacos, breakfast sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas are some of the popular selections.
- Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen (Short Walk): It is a small cafe that specialises in artisan coffee, bowls, and breakfast dishes. The price of lattes is approximately $7-$9, and the price of breakfast burritos and bowls is $15-$20. Its relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes it a good place to have brunch.
- Otium (Near The Broad): A modern restaurant that offers creative American cuisine with international tastes. It is perfect as an after-lunch or dinner outing after visiting local museums. Food is served in beautifully plated dishes, and the cost begins at about $25-$35 per entree.
- Vespaio (3-Minute Walk): A luxury Italian restaurant that serves homemade pasta, seafood, and wood-fired food. The prices of pasta dishes are around $24-$32, and the main meals, such as scallops or veal chops, are $38-$56. It is ideal as a relaxing dinner with a fine-dining atmosphere.
Is Angels Flight Railway Worth Visiting?
It is worth it to visit Angels Flight Railway because of its old-time, low price and excellent location in Downtown LA. The short ride is a fun and vintage experience and can be combined with nearby attractions such as Grand Central Market and local museums. It is a fast, easy to remember tourist spot that makes any trip to the City of Angels unique.
