Los Feliz Heights Steps – Between Bonvue & Cromwell Avenues, HCM #657
Built: 1920s Declared: 10/14/1998
Nestled between Bonvue and Cromwell Avenues in Los Feliz lies an architectural and historical treasure: the Los Feliz Heights Steps. Designated as Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument (HCM) #657 on October 14, 1998, this unique stairway not only offers a fascinating glimpse into the early 20th-century design but also provides one of the best-kept secrets for exploring the rich character of Los Feliz. Whether you're a local resident, a visitor eager to get a feel for Los Angeles’ architectural charm, or a real estate enthusiast, the Los Feliz Heights Steps are an essential stop.
The Architectural Significance of Los Feliz Heights Steps
The Los Feliz Heights Steps were originally designed as a practical solution to connect steep and winding streets within the hilly Los Feliz Heights neighborhood. Much more than a simple set of stairs, this pathway is a tribute to Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, which became a defining style in Los Angeles’ residential development throughout the 1920s and 1930s. These steps are built into the hillside and remain true to the area's natural topography, creating an inviting, rustic route that links homes, streets, and panoramic views.
A Walk Through Time: Historic Los Feliz
Los Feliz Heights reflects the character and aesthetic of Old Hollywood glamour, attracting celebrities and artists alike throughout the decades. The stairway provides a passage through the neighborhood’s historic homes, many of which feature Spanish, Mediterranean, and Colonial Revival architecture that feels frozen in time. Properties along this route, like the Durex Model Home (HCM #1025) and other notable residences, showcase the opulence and craftsmanship that shaped this neighborhood.
Los Feliz Heights Steps Today
For both locals and visitors, the Los Feliz Heights Steps are more than a convenient shortcut; they’re a quiet retreat where you can pause and soak in the essence of Los Angeles’ architectural and cultural history. The steps are enveloped by lush greenery, charming native plants, and stunning views of Griffith Park, the Observatory, and sometimes even downtown Los Angeles on clear days.
Not only are the Los Feliz Heights Steps popular among those interested in architecture and history, but they’ve also become a favorite of fitness enthusiasts and photographers who appreciate the scenic beauty and serene ambiance.
How to Find the Los Feliz Heights Steps
Located between Bonvue and Cromwell Avenues, the Los Feliz Heights Steps are accessible from either street, making it a convenient stop for anyone touring the area. The steps are slightly tucked away, preserving their charm and making the experience feel like a special discovery.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Once you’ve climbed the Los Feliz Heights Steps, there’s so much more to discover nearby. From Griffith Park’s hiking trails and the Griffith Observatory to the buzzing restaurant and café scene in Los Feliz Village, the area offers plenty to round out a perfect day.
Conclusion
The Los Feliz Heights Steps are a hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles, capturing the beauty and essence of early 20th-century architecture and the eclectic charm of the Los Feliz neighborhood. Whether you're here for the history, the views, or the architectural ambiance, the Los Feliz Heights Steps should be at the top of your list.