Los Angeles is a deeply Latino city, where nearly half the population is of Hispanic origin and Mexican, Central American, and South American culture shapes many aspects of urban life. From the murals of East LA that tell stories of struggle and pride to the tacos al pastor of Boyle Heights and the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice, LA is a multicultural metropolis where Latino heritage is a fundamental part of its identity. The city is one of the most important Mexican and Mexican American cultural centers in the U.S., with visible influence in art, food, music, and the California lifestyle.
Why visit
- East LA and Boyle Heights, heart of Chicano and Mexican culture
- Olvera Street, a historic place tied to the early origins of Los Angeles and Mexican market traditions
- Iconic beaches: Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Malibu
- World-class Latino culinary scene, from street tacos to fine dining
- Urban art and murals celebrating Latino heritage
Top things to do
Explore East LA and Boyle Heights
These neighborhoods are the heart of Mexican and Chicano culture in LA. Admire iconic murals on Whittier Boulevard, visit Mariachi Plaza where musicians gather to play, and try authentic tacos at street stands. El Mercado de Los Ángeles offers food, crafts, and live music.
Visit Olvera Street
A historic place tied to the early origins of Los Angeles as a Spanish pueblo founded in 1781. This pedestrian street is now a Mexican market with craft stalls, traditional restaurants, and restored historic buildings. Try crispy taquitos and freshly made churros.
Enjoy the beaches
Santa Monica Pier with its iconic Ferris wheel, Venice Beach with its street performers and skaters, and Malibu with its quieter beaches. The Venice boardwalk is perfect for observing LA's cultural diversity.
Try the Latino culinary scene
From tacos al pastor at Leo's Tacos to fine Mexican dining at Broken Spanish. Try Salvadoran pupusas, Peruvian ceviche, Venezuelan arepas, and Oaxacan tamales. Latino food trucks offer some of the city's best meals.
Admire Latino urban art
East LA murals tell stories of the Chicano community. Look for works by artists like Judith Baca, whose "Great Wall of Los Angeles" is the world's longest mural, narrating California's multicultural history.
