Los Angeles, a city known for its entertainment, sunny weather, and modern life, also hides a side full of forgotten history. The city has several abandoned places that are waiting to be explored. These spots were once filled with life, but now, they stand as silent reminders of the past. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the most intriguing abandoned places in Los Angeles, California.
1. The Old Los Angeles Zoo
One of the most famous abandoned places in Los Angeles is the Old Los Angeles Zoo, located in Griffith Park. Opened in 1912, the zoo was once a lively place for families to visit, but in 1966, a new zoo was built nearby. The old zoo was left to decay, but today, visitors can still walk through its empty cages and exhibits. The eerie atmosphere, combined with overgrown vegetation, makes it a popular spot for urban explorers and those looking for a glimpse into the past.
2. The Lincoln Heights Jail
The Lincoln Heights Jail is another fascinating abandoned place in Los Angeles. Built in 1931, this old jailhouse was used to hold prisoners, including during the Prohibition era. After it closed down in the 1960s, the building was left to deteriorate. Now, the jail stands as a forgotten landmark, with its crumbling walls and haunting corridors. The eerie ambiance and its history as a place of punishment make it a unique spot for those interested in exploring abandoned buildings.
3. The Watts Towers
While not completely abandoned, the Watts Towers have an abandoned feel due to their isolation and unusual design. These giant, colorful towers were built by Simon Rodia, an Italian immigrant, over a period of 33 years. The towers are now a landmark, but they were often overlooked by many for decades. The towers stand tall in the Watts neighborhood and are considered a piece of outsider art. Visitors can explore the area, although the surrounding neighborhood has a sense of forgotten beauty.
4. The Hughes Aircraft Company Building
The Hughes Aircraft Company Building, once a thriving aerospace company, now stands abandoned in the heart of Culver City. Howard Hughes, the famous business tycoon, built this facility in the 1930s, where aircrafts and helicopters were developed. The building was eventually left unused, and over time, the company was sold off. Today, the site is a reminder of the booming aerospace industry and is a great spot for those interested in industrial history and architecture.
5. The Van Nuys Drive-In Theater
Drive-in theaters were once a staple of American culture, and the Van Nuys Drive-In was one of the busiest spots in Los Angeles. However, as movie watching transitioned into indoor theaters, the drive-in became obsolete. The Van Nuys Drive-In closed down in the early 2000s and has remained abandoned ever since. The giant screen still stands, slowly crumbling away. Though the area is now being redeveloped, the drive-in remains a symbol of the past and a perfect location for urban explorers.
6. The San Pedro Power Plant
The San Pedro Power Plant, located near the waterfront, is an abandoned industrial site that was once a key player in supplying electricity to Los Angeles. The plant ceased operations in the 1980s, and since then, it has been left to deteriorate. The massive, rusty structures and towering smokestacks create a haunting view. This location attracts photographers and adventurers who are drawn to its post-industrial beauty and the silent history it holds.
7. The Bel Air House
Hidden in the upscale Bel Air neighborhood, this abandoned mansion was once home to one of Hollywood’s elite. Over time, it became neglected and left behind, and now it stands as a shell of its former self. The house has fallen into disrepair, with broken windows, damaged walls, and overgrown gardens. However, its impressive size and secluded location make it an interesting spot for those seeking to explore abandoned luxury properties in Los Angeles.
8. The Hollywood Sign’s Original Site
Though the Hollywood Sign itself is not abandoned, the original location where it stood in 1923 is now forgotten and abandoned. The original wooden sign, which read “Hollywoodland,” was put up to advertise a real estate development project. The sign was later replaced with the iconic metal version we see today, but the area around the original site is now largely abandoned. Exploring this site gives visitors a sense of nostalgia and a peek into Hollywood’s humble beginnings.
Los Angeles is a city full of life and opportunity, but it also has a rich history hidden in its abandoned places. From old jails and theaters to decaying industrial sites and historic landmarks, these forgotten locations offer a glimpse into a different time. Whether you’re an urban explorer, a history enthusiast, or someone simply looking for an adventure, these abandoned places in Los Angeles are waiting for you to uncover their stories.
Each of these spots holds unique memories and offers an eerie yet fascinating experience. If you’re planning a visit to Los Angeles, consider taking a detour to explore these forgotten landmarks. They remind us that even in a bustling, modern city, there is always room for the past to leave its mark.
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