If you’re visiting the Los Angeles Convention Center for a conference, trade show, or special event, you’re in one of the most exciting and walkable parts of Downtown Los Angeles. Beyond the exhibit halls, you’ll find incredible food, rooftop views, unique shopping, and hidden local gems that showcase the real LA.
At Handlebar Bike Tours, we love introducing visitors to the neighborhoods that make Downtown Los Angeles the most unique city in the USA. Here are some of our favorite things to do near the LA Convention Center.
Start Your Morning at the LA Flower Market
For early risers, few experiences feel more authentically Los Angeles than a morning visit to the Downtown Flower Market, the largest flower wholesale market in the United States. Open early each day, the market comes alive with colorful blooms, local florists, and locals who love beauty. Grab cup of coffee at Ethnos Coffee, wander through the aisles of flowers, and enjoy a side of Downtown LA that many visitors never see. Admission is only $2 for non-members, and includes 2 large warehouses full of flower stalls.
It’s a peaceful and photogenic way to begin your day before meetings or sightseeing if you’re tagging along on someone else’s work trip.
Explore Shopping in the Fashion District
Just a short walk down Olympic Blvd from the LA Convention Center, the Fashion District offers one of the most unique shopping experiences in Southern California. Spanning dozens of blocks, this vibrant neighborhood is packed with boutiques, fabric stores, wholesale shops, and street food.
Whether you’re looking for clothing, accessories, textiles, or simply want to experience one of LA’s most energetic neighborhoods, the Fashion District delivers an authentic local experience that goes far beyond traditional shopping malls. You’ll find ripped from the runway currents fashions, unique festival/event wear, and authentic garments labelled and marketed as top brands, but manufactured here in LA.
Discover Santee Alley
If you’re not sure where to go in the Fashion District, point your GPS to Santee Alley. This famous pedestrian marketplace is known for its lively atmosphere, bargain shopping, and incredible people-watching. Santee Alley, and the Fashion District are very close to Skid Row so do keep your wits about you, best stay between 8th and 12th Street.
Santee Alley captures the entrepreneurial spirit and cultural diversity that make Los Angeles so distinctive. You’ll find souvenir hats, shirts, cowboy boots, accessories, club wear and even knock off Louis Vuitton bags .
Enjoy Lunch at Sonoratown
One of Downtown LA’s culinary gems, Sonoratown has become legendary for its Northern Mexican cuisine and handmade flour tortillas. Despite its humble appearance, this beloved spot consistently ranks among the city’s favorite places to eat.
Don’t skip the chicken chivichanga! It’s an ideal lunch stop after a morning of shopping or exploring Downtown.
Treat Yourself at Javier’s or RossoBlu
If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience near the convention center, Javier’s offers sophisticated Mexican cuisine in a stylish setting. Known for its premium tequilas, fresh seafood, and beautifully prepared dishes, Javier’s is perfect for client dinners, celebrations, or unwinding after a busy day of meetings.
RossoBlu is a local foodie favorite, but might be just a bit too far to walk. Take an Uber for this inventive Italian cuisine.
If you are a Foodie, definitely check out our Arts District Tour, full of award winning celebrity chef restaurants for those in the know.
Grab Drinks at Prank Bar
When the conference sessions end, Prank Bar is a fantastic place to relax and enjoy Downtown LA’s nightlife. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, craft cocktails, and excellent Happy Hour, Prank offers an inviting setting for networking or simply spending time with friends and colleagues.
Its indoor/outdoor seating and industrial-chic vibe make it locals favorite places to grab an evening drink.
Take in the Views from Spire 73
For unforgettable panoramic views of Los Angeles, head to Spire 73. Located atop the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, it’s one of the highest open-air bars in the Western Hemisphere.
Watching the sunset while overlooking the Downtown skyline is an experience that perfectly captures the scale and beauty of Los Angeles. Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail or simply taking in the scenery, Spire 73 is a memorable addition to any Downtown itinerary.
See More of Downtown with Handlebar Bike Tours
The LA Convention Center sits at the center of one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in Southern California. From the Flower Market and the Fashion District to Sonoratown, Santee Alley, and rooftop cocktails at Spire 73, there’s no shortage of things to do nearby. All of these things to do are close enough to walk from the Convention Center’s Marriott, Ritz Carlton, Indigo Hotel, and all the others that serve the convention center.
Want to experience even more of Downtown Los Angeles? Handlebar Bike Tours offers fun, guided bike experiences that help visitors discover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, incredible food, and the stories that make Downtown LA unique. Whether you’re in town for a convention or planning a weekend getaway, our bike tours are the best way to explore downtown LA beyond the convention center.