All historic houses to visit in Los Angeles

Step into the past at 33 historic houses in Los Angeles. These preserved homes offer a glimpse into the lives of notable figures and everyday people from different eras.

Are you interested in exploring historic homes? Here are the must-see historic houses in Los Angeles:

  1. The Hollywood Museum1

    The Hollywood Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Hollywood Museum is situated in the Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, on North Highland Avenue. This location is easily accessible and is a significant part of the Hollywood history, making it an interesting destination for tourists.
  2. The Getty Villa Museum2

    The Getty Villa Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Getty Villa, located in Pacific Palisades, is one of the two sites of the J. Paul Getty Museum. This site is dedicated to the museum's antiquities collection, offering visitors a chance to explore a vast array of ancient artifacts. The villa itself is a recreation of the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, providing a unique backdrop for the museum's collection.
  3. Eames House3

    Eames House

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Eames House, also known as Case Study House No. 8, is a significant architectural monument located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles. The house is situated at 203 North Chautauqua Boulevard, in close proximity to the Pacific coast. This location offers visitors a unique blend of architectural history and scenic beauty.
  4. Lummis Home4

    Lummis Home

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Lummis House, also known as El Alisal, is a unique example of Rustic American Craftsman architecture. It was built by Charles Fletcher Lummis, a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The stone house stands as a testament to Lummis's craftsmanship and his love for the rustic aesthetic. It's a fascinating place to visit for those interested in architecture, history, or the life and work of Charles Fletcher Lummis.
  5. Doheny Mansion5

    Doheny Mansion

     Los Angeles, CA
    Chester Place, one of the first gated communities in Los Angeles, California, is known for its historical significance and its close proximity to the University of Southern California. It was home to prestigious residents, including Edward L. Doheny, a prominent figure in the American oil industry. The community's location and its historical residents make it an interesting destination for tourists interested in the history of Los Angeles.
  6. Point Fermin Lighthouse6

    Point Fermin Lighthouse

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Point Fermin Light is a historic lighthouse located on Point Fermin in San Pedro, California. It was constructed in 1874 using lumber from California redwoods, a type of tree known for its longevity and resilience. This lighthouse stands as a testament to the maritime history of the region and the architectural prowess of the time.
  7. Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 307

    Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 30

     Los Angeles, CA
    Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 30 is a historic fire station and engine company located in the South Los Angeles area of Los Angeles, California. This site holds significant historical value as it was one of the first all-black segregated fire stations in Los Angeles. It was segregated in 1924 and remained so until 1956 when the Los Angeles Fire Department was integrated.
  8. Chinese American Museum8

    Chinese American Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Chinese American Museum (CAM) is a significant cultural institution located in Downtown Los Angeles. It forms part of the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, a site that holds great historical significance. The museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history and experiences of Chinese Americans in California, making it the first of its kind in Southern California.
  9. Watts Towers9

    Watts Towers

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Watts Towers, located in the Watts district of Los Angeles, California, are a unique example of architecture. They were built by Italian immigrant Sabato “Simon” Rodia in his spare time over a period of 33 years, from 1921 to 1954. The towers are made up of 17 structures made from scrap, trash, and concrete, reaching a height of 30 meters (99 feet) at their highest point.
  10. Los Encinos State Historic Park10

    Los Encinos State Historic Park

     Los Angeles, CA
    Los Encinos State Historic Park is a significant part of California's state park system, dedicated to preserving the historic buildings of Rancho Los Encinos. The park offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural and cultural heritage of the region. It is an ideal destination for those interested in history, architecture, and nature.
  11. California African American Museum11

    California African American Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The California African American Museum (CAAM) is a cultural institution situated in Exposition Park, Los Angeles, California, United States. It is a museum dedicated to the enrichment and education of the cultural heritage and history of African Americans, with a particular emphasis on California and the western United States.
  12. Heritage Square Museum12

    Heritage Square Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Heritage Square Museum is a unique open-air museum situated in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the development of California architecture from the time of the American Civil War to the early 20th century. This museum is a testament to the architectural evolution of the region and provides an immersive experience for visitors interested in history and architecture.
  13. El Pueblo de Los Ángeles13

    El Pueblo de Los Ángeles

     Los Angeles, CA
    El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, also known as Los Angeles Plaza Historic District, is a historic district located in the oldest section of Los Angeles. This area was the city's center under Spanish, Mexican, and United States rule through most of the 19th century. The district was designated a state historic monument in 1953 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
  14. Los Angeles Fire Department Museum and Memorial14

    Los Angeles Fire Department Museum and Memorial

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Los Angeles Fire Department Museum and Memorial is situated at a historic location, Old Engine Co. No. 27, also known as Fire Station No. 27, on Cahuenga Boulevard in Hollywood. This location is not only a museum but also a memorial, offering a unique blend of history and tribute to the brave firefighters of Los Angeles.
  15. Hollywood Heritage Museum15

    Hollywood Heritage Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Hollywood Heritage Museum, also known as the Hollywood Studio Museum, is a museum that was established on December 13, 1985. It is dedicated to the early days of Hollywood cinema and is located not far from the Hollywood Bowl. The museum is housed in Hollywood's first film studio, the Lasky-DeMille Barn, named after its former tenants, Jesse L. Lasky and Cecil B. DeMille.
  16. Academy Museum of Motion Pictures16

    Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Saban Building, previously known as the May Company Building, is a renowned example of Streamline Moderne architecture. This architectural style is characterized by its emphasis on curving forms, long horizontal lines, and sometimes nautical elements. The building is also recognized as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, a designation that acknowledges its significant contribution to the cultural heritage of the city. Since 2021, the Saban Building has been the home of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, making it a key destination for film enthusiasts and tourists alike.
  17. Autry Museum of the American West17

    Autry Museum of the American West

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Autry Museum of the American West, located in Los Angeles, California, is a cultural institution dedicated to exploring the diverse history of the American West. Established in 1988, the museum offers a variety of exhibitions and public programs such as lectures, films, theater performances, festivals, family events, and music. In addition to these, the museum also engages in scholarship, research, and educational outreach.
  18. Bolton Hall Museum18

    Bolton Hall Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    Since 1980, Bolton Hall has been operated as a local history museum by the Little Landers Historical Society. The museum showcases the rich history of the region and the building itself, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past.
  19. Historic Southwest Museum Mt. Washington Campus19

    Historic Southwest Museum Mt. Washington Campus

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Southwest Museum of the American Indian, once a museum, library, and archive, was situated in the Mt. Washington neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. It was located above the north-western bank of the Arroyo Seco canyon and stream, offering a unique location for visitors.
  20. Los Angeles Police Museum20

    Los Angeles Police Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Los Angeles Police Museum, located in the Highland Park section of Los Angeles, is housed in the city's oldest surviving police station. This historic building, which was built between 1925 and 1926, has been designated as a Historic Cultural Monument and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of the Los Angeles Police Department, from its inception to the present day.
  21. El Pueblo de Los Ángeles Historical Monument21

    El Pueblo de Los Ángeles Historical Monument

     Los Angeles, CA
    El Pueblo de Los Ángeles Historical Monument, also known as Los Angeles Plaza Historic District, is a historic district situated in the oldest part of Downtown Los Angeles. This district was the city's center under Spanish, Mexican, and American rule for most of the 19th century. It was designated as a State Historic Monument in 1953 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
  22. Barnsdall Art Park22

    Barnsdall Art Park

     Los Angeles, CA
    Barnsdall Art Park is situated in the East Hollywood district of Los Angeles, California. The park is easily accessible from Hollywood Boulevard, which provides parking and access to the arts buildings. This location makes it a convenient destination for tourists who are exploring the Hollywood area.
  23. Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation23

    Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation is a non-profit arts foundation situated in the Holmby Hills district of Los Angeles, California. This location is on North Carolwood Drive. The foundation is home to a collection of modern and contemporary artwork displayed in a unique 'living with art' house museum context.
  24. Will Rogers State Historic Park24

    Will Rogers State Historic Park

     Los Angeles, CA
    Will Rogers State Historic Park is a significant location as it was the former estate of the renowned American humorist, Will Rogers. The park is situated in the scenic Santa Monica Mountains in Los Angeles, specifically in the Pacific Palisades area. This location offers a unique blend of cultural history and natural beauty, making it an interesting destination for tourists.
  25. Ávila Adobe25

    Ávila Adobe

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Avila Adobe, constructed in 1818 by Francisco Avila, holds the distinction of being the oldest standing residence in Los Angeles, California. This historic building is a testament to the city's rich past and offers a unique glimpse into the life and times of its original inhabitants. The Adobe's architecture, materials, and layout reflect the Spanish colonial influence prevalent during its construction.
  26. African American Firefighter Museum26

    African American Firefighter Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The African American Firefighter Museum (AAFFM) is located in the historic Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 30 in the South Los Angeles area. This fire station, which closed in 1980, has been transformed into a museum that celebrates the history and contributions of African American firefighters. The building itself is a piece of history, adding to the overall experience of the museum.
  27. The Banning Museum27

    The Banning Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Banning House, also known as the General Phineas Banning Residence Museum, is a historic residence located in the Wilmington neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. Built in 1863 by Phineas Banning, the house is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture in the West. The house, stables, and gardens are now operated as a museum, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past.
  28. Neutra VDL Studio and Residences28

    Neutra VDL Studio and Residences

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Neutra VDL Studio and Residences, located in Los Angeles, California, is a significant architectural landmark. It is also known by several other names including the Neutra Research House, the Van der Leeuw House, the Richard and Dion Neutra VDL Research House II, or the Richard and Dion Neutra VDL Research Houses and Studio. This variety of names reflects the rich history and multifaceted nature of the property.
  29. Ralph Bunche Home29

    Ralph Bunche Home

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Ralph J. Bunche House, also known as the Ralph Bunche Peace & Heritage Center, is a significant historical site located in South Los Angeles. This Victorian-Bungalow style house was the boyhood home of Ralph Bunche, a Nobel Peace Prize winner. The house is a testament to Bunche's early life and his journey towards becoming a significant figure in world peace.
  30. Old Plaza Firehouse30

    Old Plaza Firehouse

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Old Plaza Firehouse, built in 1884, holds the distinction of being the oldest fire station in Los Angeles. This historic building, located near Olvera Street in the Los Angeles Plaza Historic District, offers a unique glimpse into the city's past.
  31. Leonis Adobe Museum31

    Leonis Adobe Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Leonis Adobe, located in Calabasas, California, is a historic adobe that holds significant historical value. It is one of the oldest surviving private residences in Los Angeles County and one of the oldest surviving buildings in the San Fernando Valley. The adobe was built in 1844, making it a remarkable testament to the architectural and cultural history of the region.
  32. La Plaza De Culturas Y Artes32

    La Plaza De Culturas Y Artes

     Los Angeles, CA
    LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, often referred to as LA Plaza, is a cultural center and museum in Los Angeles, California, USA. It was inaugurated in April 2011 and is dedicated to Mexican-American culture and history. The museum offers interactive exhibits, including a reconstruction of a 1920s Main Street, and shares the stories, values, and traditions of Mexicans, Mexican Americans, and all Latinos in Los Angeles and Southern California.
  33. Mission San Fernando Rey de España - Convento33

    Mission San Fernando Rey de España - Convento

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Mission San Fernando Rey de España, located in the northeast of present-day Los Angeles, California, was founded on September 8, 1797 by Fray Fermín Lasuen. This historical site offers a glimpse into the early Spanish colonial period of California's history.