The world famous Mexican market on Olvera Street serves as the nerve center of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument , the site of the earliest settlement in Los Angeles. Dozens of shops - selling everything from tacky souvenirs to expensive Mexican leather and crafts - overflow with wandering tourists. Be prepared to spend. Children can visit the glass blower , who demonstrates his skill at ...
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Want to learn more about Olvera Street? Free docent-led tours are offered Tuesday through Saturday at 10am, 11am and noon. Reservations aren't required but are recommended. Call the visitors' center at (213) 628-1274.
The Background More than 200 years ago, Spanish settlers set foot in SoCal and established the city of Los Angeles on the site now known as Olvera Street. And so goes the story of this beloved tourist attraction, which makes up a small stretch of the city's oldest area, known as El Pueblo Historical Monument. The Experience Surrounded by some of California's earliest buildings ...
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Posted by Citysearch
on April 03, 2008, (Edited January 25, 2007)
Some people think Olvera Street is just a kitschy tourist trap, but the truth is that it's actually a key part of the city's history. To a history major who sucked up the bits and pieces of California, and especially Southern California history, Olvera Street is a place to take newbies. I'm always pointing out historical buildings and symbolism...but mostly taking folks to some great places to eat ...
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Coming here is like having just a little bit of the Mexican ambience I sometimes crave without traveling to another country....this little plaza offers great culture and food as if it was shipped from the country! It can get a bit packed but its just lots of fun and feels great to get back to ones roots when needed...
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Here at la placita you can immerse yourself in Mexican traditions. The food is pretty good and it's so much fun to go there when there is some type of special event. Stop by the altar dedicated to La Virgen de Guadalupe or drink some champurrado at one of the little shops and take a leisurely stroll. Whatever you do, you will have fun!
I have lived in Los Angeles all my life and
still enjoy going to Olvera Street. It's
so colorful, fun to walk around,
inexpensive gifts and souveniers abound.
If you crave traditional Mexican food -
this is the place for you. The only
drawback I can think of is that on a very
hot Los Angeles day, it can become a bit
daunting - the crowds, the food aromas, and
lack of air circulation can take it's ...
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