Los Angeles Photo Gallery - Theater and Fashion Districts

Shopping dominates the streets south of Pershing Square, with many jewelry shops occupying stately-looking historic buildings. My walking tour covers parts of South Olive, South Hill, and South Broadway. Sprinkles of new developments can be seen along this area, along with the homeless presence.

Broadway used to be the city's entertainment hub with many theaters along this stretch. Sadly, the area has seen better days and now looks quite gritty.

The Tower Theater opened in 1927 and can seat 900 on such a tiny site.

Featuring stadium seating, Rialto Theatre opened in 1917.

The Orpheum Theatre dates from 1926 and was renovated in 2001. A 12-storey building sits on top of the theatre, which has been converted into live/work spaces.

Eastern Columbia Lofts' unique turquoise exterior is quite catchy. Opened in 1930, its 13 stories once served as the headquarters of furniture and clothing companies. A renovation in 2006 has turned the building into a luxury residence.

Near the southern end of my walking tour, the Ace Hotel was once a 13-storey office building before it was converted in 2012. There is also a theatre inside.

United Artists Theater dates from 1927 and construction was partially funded by Charlie Chaplin.

Unfortunately, while many of the buildings along Broadway look good, the interiors are not easily accessible.

Spring Arcade Building was built in 1924 and remains a retail and restaurant landmark today.

Emerging on the other end at South Spring Street, I continued north back towards the financial district.