Unveiling the Shadows of Hollywood

Los Angeles, a city known for its glitz and glamour, holds secrets that whisper through its streets and echo in its historic landmarks. This weekend, embark on a journey that peels back the layers of Hollywood’s shiny facade to reveal its hidden history. Start your adventure on February 8th with the Hollywood to Downtown Tour, a captivating exploration that begins at 10:00 AM. As you stroll through the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, you’ll uncover tales from the 1880s, when Hollywood was just a quaint farming town. Discover why the burgeoning film industry chose this location and visit hidden historical sites like Hollywood’s oldest house and the school attended by Charlie Chaplin’s children.

The tour seamlessly transitions from Hollywood’s storied past to the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Ride the Red Metro Line to the Civic Center, where you’ll emerge in Grand Park, a serene oasis amidst the city’s hustle. Here, the architectural marvels of the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad Museum await your exploration. As you wander through the Downtown Historic District, you’ll be captivated by the stunning examples of Beaux Arts, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco styles that define the city’s skyline. A stop at the Grand Central Market for lunch offers a taste of LA’s diverse culinary scene, making this tour a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Reviewed on 2019-12-06: An Exhilarating Journey through LA History! We learned SO MUCH from our guides, who were full of interesting stories and history about the rise and development of Hollywood and LA. The walking portions are not arduous, and yet you leave feeling that you know more about LA than Angelenos that have been here forever.

The Underworld of LA: Mafia Mysteries

On February 9th, delve into the darker side of Los Angeles with the Mafia Tour, starting at 2:30 PM. This three-hour tour takes you on a thrilling ride through the city’s notorious past, where you’ll meet the infamous figures who once ruled the streets. Step into a Cadillac reminiscent of the one driven by Mickey Cohen, the “King of the Sunset Strip,” and let the stories of Bugsy Siegel, Lana Turner, and Johnny Stompanato unfold before you.

The tour’s highlights include a visit to the Hollywood YMCA, where Bugsy and Mickey’s paths first crossed, and the Crossroads of the World, a landmark with a history as bizarre as it is dark. At the Formosa Cafe, you’ll explore the Hollywood Syndicate’s authentic base and see the actual vault used by Bugsy Siegel for illegal betting transactions. The journey culminates at 1011 N Beverly Dr, the house where the infamous horse head scene from The Godfather was filmed.

Reviewed on 2024-10-15: From start to finish, Blaze was a wealth of info on the LA Mob scene. She was exceptionally cool and we had the best time. It was just me and my sister on this tour and it was AMAZING!!! Blaze was the greatest tour guide ever, making it so fun!!!!

Nightfall in the City of Angels

As the sun sets over Los Angeles, the city transforms into a playground for night owls and thrill-seekers. With the weather being pleasantly cool and the skies partly cloudy, it’s the perfect time to explore LA’s vibrant nightlife. After your daytime adventures, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars for a cocktail with a view. The moderate cloud cover and excellent visibility promise a stunning panorama of the city lights.

For those who crave a more mysterious experience, seek out one of LA’s underground clubs or join a ghost tour that takes you through the city’s haunted history. The high humidity might make the air feel cooler, but the energy of the city will keep you warm as you dance the night away or listen to spine-chilling tales of the supernatural.

Whether you’re uncovering the secrets of Hollywood’s past or diving into the underworld of LA’s mafia history, this weekend promises an unforgettable journey through the hidden history of Los Angeles. So pack your curiosity and a sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the City of Angels like never before.