Join us for the second CicLAvia Sunday of the 2025 season—and our 59th event since 2010! CicLAvia—Koreatown meets Hollywood is on Sunday, April 6th, from 9am - 4pm.
We’ll celebrate over 4 miles of open streets connecting Hollywood, East Hollywood, Melrose Hill, and Koreatown. Connecting these neighborhoods are Wilshire Blvd, Western Ave, Santa Monica Blvd, and Vine St. Each plays an important role in the expansive road system of Los Angeles.
Enjoy this edition of our Local Gems blog featuring a few of the MANY things to see and do along the route. Thanks to everybody who contributed their local gems. Remember, you can plan your day with the CicLAvia Interactive Digital Map!
There is a great deal of rich history, culture, and art to enjoy from Koreatown to Hollywood. The neighborhoods along this route boast a unique shape in the ever changing puzzle that is Los Angeles. Koreatown is the most dense neighborhood in LA having gone through major changes over the years and Hollywood holds the title as the entertainment capital of the world. Join us as we learn more about the many historic landmarks and sights at CicLAvia—Koreatown meets Hollywood!
Koreatown Gateway Sign
Olympic Blvd/Vermont Ave and Olympic Blvd/Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90006
As you make your way on Olympic Blvd you will see two gateway signs to signify that you’ve entered Koreatown. Perched atop these structures is the mythical bird, Bong Huang, which in East Asian culture represents prosperity and happiness. CicLAvia created a limited edition button of this gem available for purchase at the Koreatown Hub!
To elevate the Angeleno transit rider experience, Metro Art commissions artworks from award winning artists. If you’re taking Metro to CicLAvia, make sure to check out the following stations for their site-specific artworks. Here are a few of the many artworks at LA Metro stations along the route:
Wilshire/Vermont Station
3191 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90010
At Wilshire/Vermont station you will find artworks in the form of multiple columns with typographic design symbols by artist Bob Zoell. The overall design of this station is unique due to it having to run both the Metro B Line towards North Hollywood, and Metro D Line which goes further into Koreatown.
Wilshire/Normandie Station
3510 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90010
At Wilshire/Normandie Station you will see the Festival of Masks Parade by Frank Romero located at the platform level and Power by David Emitt Adams located at the concourse level. Festival of Masks Parade is a large mural which showcases the multiple cultures that participated in the annual parade held each fall from 1980 - 1994. Additionally, Power displays photographs on discarded 55-gallon oil drum lids as a reflection on the issues and growth of the American oil industry.
Wilshire/Western Station
3775 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90005
At Wilshire/Western Station you will see artwork by Richard Wyatt titled, People Coming and People Going showing the diversity of the people of LA.
Hollywood/Vine Station
6250 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Throughout the LA Metro system you may notice that no two stations are the same when it comes to the artwork. Hollywood/Vine Station takes its influence from the Hollywood glitz and glamor with its palm tree columns and film reels attached to the ceiling. Hooray for Hollywood, assists commuters and tourists in capturing the essence of Hollywood before setting foot on the street.
Photos courtesy of Metro Art (Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority)
New LA Metro HR4000 Subway Heavy Railcars
Operating on the B (Red) and D (Purple) Lines
Are you taking Metro to CicLAvia—Koreatown meets Hollywood? If you’re lucky, you might get to ride the new subway heavy rail train LA Metro released in December of 2024. This new train has many upgraded perks such as: better lighting, improved air flow, digital signage, new seating arrangements, and more! Keep in mind that the new subway car only operates on Metro Lines B (Red) and D (Purple).
Bullocks Wilshire Building / Southwestern Law School
3050 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
One of the oldest Art-Deco architecture buildings in Los Angeles, the Bullocks Wilshire Building is now owned and operated by Southwestern Law School. After enduring many damages during the 1992 LA Riots, Southwestern Law School purchased and restored much of the building, preserving the aesthetics and design of the original.
Lakers Mural by @never1959
682 S Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Located just a block away from Wilshire Blvd and Vermont Ave is a Los Angeles Lakers mural by local artist, @never1959. This mural spotlights iconic duos once part of the Los Angeles Lakers including legends Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, and LeBron James.
Consulate General of the Republic of Korea
3243 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Los Angles is home to the largest Korean population in the United States. Because of this, the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea is conveniently located in the heart of Koreatown. A Consulate office works to assist its citizens with visas, diplomatic relations, economic relations, and much more.
Immanuel Presbyterian Church
3300 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
The Immanuel Presbyterian Church reflects the French Gothic Revival style of architecture and was completed in 1929. Because of its unique design, this church has been used as a shooting location for multiple movies like: The Amazing Spider-Man (2012), John Wick (2014), and Sister Act 2 (1993).
Gaylord Apartments
3355 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Named after Wilshire Blvd’s namesake, Henry Gaylord Wilshire, is the Gaylord Apartment building. This 13-story Italian Renaissance-style apartment building was once the home of actor John Barrymore (Drew Barrymore’s grandpa) and then-presidential candidate Richard Nixon.
Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) Inspiration Park
3384 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
RFK Inspiration Park is a pocket park on the former site of the Ambassador Hotel, where Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1968. At the entrance of the park you can read RFK quotes engraved onto plaques.
Brown Derby Dome
3377 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
The Brown Derby Dome (located in the Brown Derby Plaza) was a restaurant constructed in 1926 known for its unique hat-shaped structure. This is an example of California's popular novelty architecture and roadside vernacular architecture: unique structures built to catch the eye of motorists on the road. The dome can now be seen in the Brown Derby Plaza.
Peace Tree Mural by @obeygiant
3515 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Esteemed artist Shepard Fairey and his team took on a project to paint a large, colorful mural with the words “peace” at the bottom. If his work looks familiar, you’re not wrong, Shepard Fairey is the founder of OBEY clothing and has had collaborations with the Obama Administration.
Eyes on the Line mural by @dface_official
3515 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Eyes on the Line by @dface_official is located nearby the Peace Tree mural and shows an image of a pair of bright eyes looking out to the bustling streets of Koreatown.
Wilshire Blvd Temple
3663 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
One of the many houses of worship located on the route is Wilshire Blvd Temple. Constructed in the early 1900s, it is home to one of the largest Jewish congregations in Los Angeles.
Wallis Annenberg GenSpace
3643 Wilshire Blvd Level 3, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Neighboring the Wilshire Blvd Temple is the Wallis Annenberg GenSpace. This establishment focuses on wellness, connection, and learning for the older generations through programs in technology, art, and much more.
Utility Box Art by @mmmikkalous
Multiple locations along Wilshire Blvd.
All along Wilshire Blvd. you will see utility boxes painted by @mmmikkalous. Instead of a standard box, you’ll see encouraging and welcoming phrases such as: “Welcome to Our Neighborhood” “Let’s Support Each Other" and “케이타운” (K-Town).
LA Public Library (LAPL) Pio Pico - Koreatown Branch Future Park Site
694 S Oxford Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
LAPL’s Pio Pico - Koreatown Branch is getting a makeover! They’re transforming the current parking lot into a brand new open-air park space with underground parking. LAPL is proud to foster a place for Koreatown residents to learn, grow, play, and relax.
The Wiltern
3790 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
Located on Wilshire and Western is a 12-story Art Deco emerald green building known as the Wiltern Theatre. Built in 1931, the iconic building got its name from the intersecting streets it resides on, Wilshire Blvd and Western Ave. The Wiltern is one of the few remaining Art Deco-designed buildings in LA. While it originally served as a place for vaudeville entertainment, it is now a hot spot for concerts and live shows.
*FUN FACT* The original CicLAvia offices used to be located on the 7th and 10th floors from 2010 to 2015!
MaDang Courtyard
631 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Opened in 2010, MaDang Courtyard is a 3-story mall with many places to eat and entertainment. It is considered a visual representation of Seoul, South Korea, thanks to the hustle and bustle of nightlife it fosters.
Mural by @heyjinie, @s_lxx_, and @yoiyoipipipang
528 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020
Alongside Gangnam Pocha is a mural which showcases famous South Korean athletes Kim Ye-ji (Shooting), Shin Yu-bin (Table Tennis), and Heungmin Son (Soccer).
California (Gaju) Market
450 S Western Ave #1, Los Angeles, CA 90020
One of the more popular grocery stores located in Koreatown, California (Gaju) Market offers traditional Korean goods and hot/cold grab-and-go foods as well. Serving the prominent Latino community in KTown as well, this market offers a variety of Hispanic eats alongside Korean meals. In addition, on their rooftop you can get sweeping views of the entire city and a sight of the Hollywood sign!
USPS - Nat King Cole Station
265 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004
As you make your way North on Western Ave, on your left hand side you will see a USPS office dedicated to American singer, jazz pianist, actor, and former Hancock Park resident, Nat King Cole.
Mural by @awonderfulmistake
165 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004
In 2016 artist @awonderfulmistake painted his first large scale mural on the corner of 2nd St. and Western Ave. After many building repairs and touch ups to the mural, his artwork stands tall and reflects the many cultures of Angelenos.
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)
340 N Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004
The KFC on Western Ave and Oakwood Ave is on the Los Angeles Conservancy list but, at the same time, considered a “misunderstood landmark” in Koreatown. What makes this building stand out is the style of design architect Jeffery Daniels used called novelty architecture (similar to the Brown Derby Dome), buildings designed in unusual shapes, typically for what their purpose is made for. CicLAvia has created a limited edition button of this gem available for purchase at the Western Ave Hub!
Pope.L Mural by @3bcollective
518 N Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004
William Pope.L (Also known as Pope.L) was a visual artist known for his work in performance art and interventionist public art. After passing away in 2023, @3bcollective came together to celebrate his life with a large mural on the side of @thebrick_la.
Dodgers/Lakers Mural by @sinistermonopoly
925 N Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029
On top of Mederi Urgent Care is a mural of LA sports legends Freddie Freeman (LA Dodgers: 2022-Present), Shaquille O'Neal (LA Lakers: 1996-2004), Shohei Ohtani (2024-Present), and Kobe Bryant (LA Lakers: 1996-2016).
Hollywood Forever Cemetery
6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Open from 8:30am - 4pm is a fully functioning cemetery where many famous actors and actresses are laid to rest. Some notable stars here are Mel Blanc, Johnny and Dee Dee Ramone, and Rudolph Valentino. Throughout the summer season you can enjoy live music and movies out on the lawn. During the fall, enjoy a spooky movie in the cemetery at a Cinespia event! CicLAvia has created a limited edition button of this gem available for purchase at the Santa Monica Blvd Hub!
Mosaic Mural by Millard Sheets
1500 Vine St, Hollywood, CA 90028
On the corner of Sunset and Vine you will see an eye-catching Chase bank. Architect Millard Sheets designed this mosaic and made sure to pay homage to many Hollywood stars such as: Charlie Chaplin, Julie Andrews, Mary Poppins, Bette Davis, and much more.
Hollywood Farmers Market
1600 Ivar Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Founded in 1991 and located on Ivar and Selma Ave is the Hollywood Farmers’ Market. Currently open on Sundays from 8am - 1pm, the Hollywood Farmers’ Market is a hotspot for fresh produce, food vendors, and artisanal crafts. From local families to professional chefs, this market is a place for all to enjoy its 160+ vendors. There will also be a bike valet at the Hollywood Hub for attendees who want to explore the market!
Ricardo Montalban Theatre
1615 Vine St, Hollywood, CA 90028
Ricardo Gonzalo Pedro Montalbán y Merino was a prominent Mexican and American film and television actor from the early 1940s to the early 2000s. The Ricardo Montalban Theatre was established in 1999 to provide a place for Latino-focused productions, including opportunities for aspiring Latino performers, writers, and directors. To this day, they are dedicated to uplifting the Latino community in the entertainment industry by providing educational and employment opportunities.
Hollywood and Vine Intersection
Hollywood Blvd and Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028
One of the most recognized intersections in Los Angeles is Hollywood and Vine. This intersection is considered to be the heart and soul of the early Hollywood industry. Surrounding the area are multiple studios, record labels, and radio companies.
*FUN FACT* The Hollywood and Vine intersection is one of the few pedestrian scramble crossings in Los Angeles, making this intersection much safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
Taft Building
1680 Vine St, Hollywood, CA 90028
On the corner of Hollywood and Vine you will see the Taft Building. Built in 1924, this building is the first high rise office building in all of Hollywood and was declared a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 1999.
Hollywood Jazz mural by Richard Wyatt, Jr.
Side of Capitol Records Bldg, 1750 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028
This mural near Hollywood and Vine shows many popular 20th century jazz musicians such as: Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Charlie Parker, Chet Baker, Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, and more.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Along Hollywood Blvd and Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Originating in the late 1950s, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an iconic landmark for tourists and locals alike. Are you able to find your favorite stars? With over 2,700 stars, many entertainers consider this to be a significant career achievement. CicLAvia has created a limited edition button of this gem available for purchase at the Hollywood Hub!
*FUN FACT* Muhammad Ali is the only star to not be on the ground but on the side of a building so that, “No one can walk over [him]."
Capitol Records
1750 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Right above our Hollywood Hub is the Capitol Records building. Described as the world’s first circular office building, this record label has hosted recording sessions for many popular artists such as: Katy Perry, Paul McCartney, and the Beastie Boys.
City of Angels Mural by @tristaneaton
1721 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028
At the northern-most point of the route is the City of Angels mural by @tristaneaton. In this mural you will see many artists, symbols, and icons such as: Sidney Poitier, Randy’s Donuts, Griffith Park, and MUCH more.
There's so much history in this area so as you go about your day, be sure to take in all the beauty and unique sights each neighborhood has to offer. Post your favorite gem moments along the route and tag @ciclavia on socials!
We can't wait to see you all at CicLAvia—Koreatown meets Hollywood on April 6! Don’t forget to sign up for our mailing list so you don’t miss out on updates and information, future programs, and to be the first to hear about future events!
These events are made possible by contributions from people like you. To support more open streets, consider making a tax-deductible donation here today!
Photo Credits: VisitKoreatown, @westernspice, @never1959, @holly.oc_hb, @gabbykingphoto, @1970.aesthetic, @alisonmartino, @field_condition, Josué L. Hervey, @mk_management, @lapubliclibrary, Edwards J Gonzalez, @the.aj.on.earth, @kenny.uong, @awonderfulmistake, @ktownfanclub, @3bcollective, @sinistermonopoly, @thedeathengineer, @millardsheets, @manny.cardona, @capitolstudios, @hwdwalkoffame, @lbmtg, @impermanent_art, and Brian Feinzimer.
