Before setting sail on the Ruby Princess for a recent cruise, I explored the historic heart of Downtown Los Angeles, commonly known as DTLA. While DTLA faces its share of urban challenges such as homeless encampments, two key areas are championing urban revitalization by celebrating local art, design, food, and decor. Here’s a peek at the vibrant developments I visited that are reshaping Downtown L.A..

Arts District Los Angeles

My journey began in L.A.’s Arts District (ADLA), an area often hailed as the city’s creative and cultural epicenter. This dynamic neighborhood has undergone a remarkable transformation and renaissance since the 1970s. It has evolved from an abandoned neighborhood of industrial space and warehouses into a haven for avant-garde boutiques, studios, galleries, theaters, and restaurants. Today, it continues to grow as a vibrant hub for artisans, makers, designers, and performers.

Walking through the Arts District, visitors are inspired by the rich tapestry of local artistic expression. Many of the area’s buildings are enveloped in colorful murals and expressive street art. LA’s Mural Project is designed to invite artists to create new murals while also preserving historically significant ones. In addition, LA’s Street Wall Initiative aims to install 150 murals designed by local youth, professional artists, and community leaders across L.A. prior to the 2028 Olympics.

**Steps to Humanity by Brigitte Secard, Vivache Designs and Studio DBJ**

The gem of this district is Art Share L.A., a sprawling 28,000-square-foot space dedicated to showcasing both emerging and established artists. The venue is home to working artist studios, a performance theatre, creative workshops, and art education programs, making it a cornerstone of the local art scene.

The first shopping destination I visited is the Arts District Co-op, a treasure trove of eclectic arts, crafts, and quirky collectibles. This funky industrial warehouse is home to various stalls creatively merchandised with everything from candles and paintings to sculptures, jewelry, and fashion. Whether you’re on the hunt for unique apparel, accessories, vintage collectibles, or distinctive home decor, a visit to this co-op is a must.

Just a stone’s throw from the Co-op, culinary delights await at Le Champ Wine Garden & Restaurant, where you can savor delectable French foods and international wines al fresco in their Parisian bistro-inspired covered courtyard.

For more spirited experiences, head to Angel City Brewery to tour the brewery and sample award-winning craft brews. They also host art exhibitions in support of Art Share L.A. Or enjoy a frozen tropical cocktail at The Resident, where the bar is a kitschy little silver trailer surrounded by colorful flowers and hanging chandeliers amidst towering bougainvillea. The outdoor venue hosts live music throughout the week.

ROW DTLA: A City Within a City

My next stop was the ROW DTLA, nestled in L.A.’s Warehouse District and often described as a “city within a city.” This expansive 30-acre historic district offers a curated collection of independent shops, fashionable boutiques, home decor stores, and eateries, all with a distinctive flair found only in L.A.. In addition, a weekly Farmers Market offers seasonable produce, prepared foods, and unique handmade crafts.

Dylan Lex

Dylan Lex immediately caught my eye with its bold statement accessories. The boutique’s motto, “Make a Statement and Don’t Conform,” resonates through its flamboyant handcrafted jewelry favored by celebrities like Rihanna and Taylor Swift. Customized pieces start with a striking chain, and then are layered with chunky charms and unique accents, making it a standout addition to every jewelry collection.

Jonny Cota

The Jonny Cota boutique is esthetically merchandised like a contemporary art gallery. Visitors scan QR codes for product information in lieu of tags. Jonny’s collection for men and women includes creative streetwear and striking accessories. Check out his functional harnesses and innovative hats, bags, and shoes to achieve true L.A. style.

ARJ Los Angeles

Another gem in ROW DTLA, ARJ Los Angeles blends Eastern and Western design influences to create unique tableware and home decor. From ceramic dinnerware to glass barware, hand-painted plates to luxury chopsticks, their collection is functional and aesthetically pleasing, making it a fantastic addition to any dining room and home bar.

Arcade

If vintage fashion is more your style, ROW DTLA offers exceptional boutiques like Arcade, recently named one of Vogue’s “Best Vintage Stores in the World.” With a stunning array of affordable clothing and accessories from past decades, many of which have been taken straight from designer runways, Arcade is a calling for all fashionistas.

Harvester International

Harvester International offers a curated collection of vintage clothing, including 1940’s overalls, 1950’s baseball jerseys, and 1960’s Wangler jackets. The shop also features an amazing array of vintage tee shirts, jerseys, and western shirts. Displayed on an old dry cleaner carousel, visitors will find cleverly designed chore jackets and overalls, alongside a colorful selection of corduroy trucker hats.

Flask and Field

For an entertaining culinary and drink experience, Flask and Field fits the bill. This modern culinary shop, founded by former entertainment attorney Miriam Yoo, offers a curated selection of indie wines, rare spirits, and exceptional kitchen gifts and bar gadgets. Take time to read the amusing bottle tags found on many of the spirits that help educate the purchaser as to the origin and notes of each. They also host tastings and private events, making it a haven for food and drink enthusiasts.

As your visit to ROW DTLA winds down, don’t miss out on grabbing a bite. Pane Bianco and Pizzeria Bianco offer delicious Italian fare and originate from my hometown of Phoenix. For a taste of local Southern California cuisine, Rappahannock Oyster Bar serves up a bountiful menu of seafood, meats, and produce, with locally sourced ingredients and oysters shipped fresh from Chesapeake Bay.

The Container Yard - DTLA’s Emerging Creative Hub

Downtown Los Angeles will soon be unveiling another cutting-edge retail and gallery destination in the Arts District known as The Container Yard. This avant-garde project features a series of interconnected buildings, each offering customizable spaces for tenants. The flexibility of these spaces allows artists, designers, and retailers to craft unique environments where their work and goods can truly shine.

More than just a creative shopping haven, The Container Yard will also host events, transforming this modern, artistic setting into the perfect backdrop for visitors and locals to experience the vibrant energy of DTLA's Arts District.

**A Container Yard Wall Mural by Ricky Watts**

The Arts District Los Angeles and ROW DTLA both offer a vibrant mix of art, fashion, and culinary delights that truly capture the spirit of Los Angeles and its cornucopia of talent. Whether you’re searching for unique home decor, the latest in fashion design, or a rare bottle of wine and fresh food, these districts are a true testament to the city’s creative and cultural design portfolio.

Next Voyage - Join me as I share my journey on the NCL Joy, when I travel to the beautiful pink sands of Bermuda.

Till then, keep cruisin’ through life, discovering your own special Things!

CHEERS!

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