Saying “Hola” to Olvera Street
One of the “touristy” things I never did when I visited California before was visit Olvera Street. And over the weekend we finally remedied that.
Olvera Street is considered to be the birthplace of Los Angeles, as it is home to some of its first structures. The first brick building constructed in the LA area is now home to a Mexican cafe, one of LA’s oldest restaurants in fact, Casa La Golondrina Mexican Cafe, opening in 1928, which we dined at. Avila Adobe is the oldest structure remaining the LA, built in 1818, and is now a museum to reflect the the lifestyle of those living during the early days of California. And of course there are the merchants who sell wares of California’s Spanish and Mexican heritage, including colorful blankets, embroidered blouses, tooled leather purses, and much, much more.
Olvera Street is known as the birthplace of Los Angeles, and had its heyday during the old days of California, but by the turn of the century, it was quickly becoming a slum, until 1926, when a woman named Christine Sterling walked along the streets. Horrified by what had become of LA’s historic heart, she spearheaded a campaign to restore the area, and save its historic buildings, which were endanger of being demolished. Eventually Sterling succeeded and Olvera Street became what it is today, a place for both locals and tourists a like to reflect on Los Angeles’ history, enjoy good food, and shop the unique offerings.
I came home with a wonderful new peasant blouse and a pair of tooled (although really pressed) leather wedges, which I look forward to taking for a spin soon.
I kind of love that I get to play tourist in our new home. One of the reasons for moving was that there is simply so much to do down here that we could never fit it all into a vacation. I also love that I can return to these locations as often as I want. Do you enjoy playing tourist in your city? For those who have visited LA, have you made a visit to Olvera Street?
Walk along Olvera Street, starting at the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument at 125 Paseo De La Plaza, in Los Angeles. I recommend parking at 615 N. Main Street, as the fees from that lot help benefit the museums along Olvera Street.
What’s Nearby?
Homebound Brew House (former Harvey Room Restaurant) inside Union Station
Outfit
Blouse: Retro Rejuvenation, Coburg, Oregon
Skirt: Rummage sale
Nude Fishnets: Oroblu, Nordstrom
Purse: Antique Alley, I think…
Charm Bracelet: Found by my dad
Ring: Expo, I think…
Brooch: Some antique mall along the coast in Lincoln City I think…
Shoes: Miss L Fire
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Everything is so colorful and happy!!! I myself have never been, and I’d like to go one day. Your outfit is super darling, thanks for sharing your adventures <3
I visited Olvera Street on both times that I’ve been to LA and it’s great! This year we got to spend more time there which was good. I really wanted to purchase those tooled leather wedges but the smallest size was still to big for my feet!
The ruffles on your blouse are divine!
What a cute area of LA! It’s great that you’re having fun in your city. Personally, I have never played tourist in my own city (Boston) because I hate tourists and I want never to be seen associating with them. 😛
Such a cute outfit! That blouse is divine, so feminine and fun!
How fun!!! That blouse is such a dreamy piece. Swoon! I love that you placed the brooch on the ruffle like that. I’d imagine it’s stronger there and more apt to support the weight of a pin, which is so handy and I usually keep brooches and sheer vintage blouses far, far away from one another due to them not being strong enough to hold one without it running the risk of tearing.
You look gorgeous, dear gal. I hope that your summer is off to a lovely start!
♥ Jessica
Very neat! I’ve never been to Olvera Street, although I’m not sure I’ve even spent much time in LA when I was in SoCal at all. And oh my GOODNESS I absolutely adore your skirt! I’m sure I’ve said it before, but it really is divine.
Oh! Such a bright and interesting place to visit! Sometimes I get to play tourist in my hometown, but we don’t have as much historical heritage as other towns in Australia do. I like to visit anywhere old that I can!
Even in all the bright colors, your blouse really caught my eye. I adore the sheer grey-blue fabric and the ruffle lattice on the front really is too cute. I’ve never seen anything like it; it’s a very unique piece! Gorgeous. ❤
xox,
bonita of Lavender & Twill
I get excited everytime I see this wonderful skirt and super adorable purse on you … wonderful!
I was wondering if you remember the name of the vendor that you bought the wedges from. I bought a pair and have worn them into the ground. Want another and live far away! Thanks! Been following you for years; great blog!
I tried to find a map that listed the vendors, and I couldn’t. I recall it was one of the little cart like shops, and not one of the shops within a building with a name. I have people ask me a lot, and I always have to describe the location of the seller.