Bradbury Building

The basics

Built by mining magnate Lewis L. Bradbury more than 125 years ago, the Bradbury Building today is one of the oldest standing buildings in Los Angeles. From the light-flooded Victorian atrium to caged elevators and geometric marble, this architectural landmark offers a taste of 1900s luxury.

The Bradbury is free to enter. You can learn more about the building by joining one of the Los Angeles Conservancy’s paid tours. The Historic Downtown Walking Tour includes stops at the Bradbury, Central Library, and U.S. Bank Tower. For a fun afternoon, pair a stop at the Bradbury with lunch at the bustling Grand Central Market.

Things to know before you go

• Architecture fans shouldn't miss the Bradbury Building.

• The interior may feel familiar, since the building is featured in Hollywood classics like Blade Runner.

• Don't miss the wrought-iron detailing, which was exhibited at the Chicago World’s Fair.

• Shutterbugs can book a downtown photo tour; many visit nearby Pershing Square and pass the Bradbury.

How to get there

Just 2 blocks from Pershing Square, the Bradbury Building is easiest to visit on a Downtown Los Angeles walking tour. History tours typically include a stop at the Bradbury, as do arts and culture tours and movie location tours. You can also hop on the LA Metro. Both the purple and the red lines stop at Pershing Square.

When to get there

Since the Bradbury Building is a functioning office building, you should plan to visit during the day. The building keeps typical business hours, and is free to enter. Stop by when the sun is shining to enjoy natural light flooding the interior, and visit over the holidays to see the seasonal decorations, which are typically up in December.

Where to experience history in Downtown Los Angeles

For a historical experience in Downtown Los Angeles, don't miss a ride on the Angels Flight funicular. Operational for more than 100 years, this historic train will take you up to Bunker Hill, on what is popularly known as the world's shortest railway. For a great value, book a walking tour that includes a stop at the Bradbury Building and a ticket for the Angels Flight funicular.

What is the Bradbury Building?

Downtown Los Angeles’ Bradbury Building is a five-story office building and one of the oldest, still-standing buildings in LA. It’s known for its unique architectural style, including a Victorian atrium, caged elevators, and geometric marble. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone who appreciates historic architecture.

Where is the Bradbury Building located in Los Angeles?

The Bradbury Building is a historic landmark on South Broadway Street in Downtown Los Angeles. It’s just two blocks from Pershing Square, at 304 S. Broadway. The building is still used for certain offices today and is free to enter.

Is there an entrance fee to visit the Bradbury Building?

No, there isn’t a fee to visit the Bradbury Building, but if you're exploring independently, you can only gain access to the first floor. If you’re looking to see more of the building, it’s best to book a tour—a great option is a historic downtown LA tour.

Are there guided tours available for the Bradbury Building?

Yes and no—there aren’t tours that focus solely on LA’s Bradbury Building; however, there are tours that use the attraction as a stop. For example, historic Downtown Los Angeles tours always make a stop there, as do other LA architecture tours and walking tours.

Can you take photos inside the Bradbury Building?

No, you can’t take photos inside the Bradbury Building in Downtown Los Angeles if you’re just popping in for a visit. If you’re a photographer or filmmaker who wants to access the building as a photoshoot or filming location, you must get a permit to legally take photos or film.

Have any famous movies or TV shows been filmed at the Bradbury Building?

Many movies have been filmed at the Bradbury Building. Some popular favorites include Lethal Weapon 4, Blade Runner, 500 Days of Summer, The Artist, and other older ones such as Double Indemnity and Chinatown. TV shows filmed there include The Outer Limits and City of Angels.

Ways to explore

Built more than 125 years ago, the Bradbury Building is among the oldest in Los Angeles. From the light-flooded Victorian atrium to caged elevators and geometric marble, this architectural landmark offers a taste of 1900s luxury.

The Bradbury is free to enter. To learn more about the building, join a walking tour of Downtown LA—history and architecture tours typically stop at the Bradbury and other attractions such as City Hall and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. For a fun afternoon, pair your visit with lunch at the bustling Grand Central Market.

Accessibility

The ground floor lobby is accessible via the main street-level entrance; upper floors are not accessible to the public.

Age limits

While there are no age restrictions, note that the Bradbury is an active office environment.

What to pack

Camera, small bag for belongings

What to wear

Casual attire is fine, just wear comfortable shoes for walking and standing.

Not allowed

Access to upper floors, professional photo shoots without permits, tripods or large photography equipment, disrupting building tenants

Amenities

Restrooms on the ground floor, security personnel on-site

Address 

The Bradbury Building is located on South Broadway in Downtown Los Angeles, in the historic Broadway Theater District. It’s easiest to get there via public transit, though you can also drive or call a cab.

Driving

Head toward 3rd and Broadway—the Bradbury is basically right there. Street parking is highly limited, so look for nearby parking garages. If you’d like to avoid the stress of navigating LA’s notorious traffic, consider taking a taxi or rideshare instead.

Public transportation

If you prefer to take the metro, the Pershing Square and Civic Center/Grand Park stations are both a couple of blocks from the Bradbury. Angels Flight Railway is right there, too.

Best times to visit

Arrive in the late morning when natural light floods the atrium through the skylight, creating the most dramatic photographic conditions.

Best days to visit

Plan to visit on a weekday when the building is open for standard business hours.

Best months to visit

There’s no bad season to visit, but spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring the surrounding Broadway Theater District on foot.

Special events

Downtown LA is constantly holding events; check the city calendar to see what’s on during your visit.