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Named after LA’s first county judge, this bustling, brick-paved lane has been a Mexican marketplace since 1930. Wander past colorful carts overflowing with folk art and curios or try some tasty tacos and tortas .

El Pueblo is home to a rare mural by Mexican artist David Alfaro Siqueiros. Painted in 1932, this controversial work is a visceral allegory about the exploitation of Mexican workers.

Eloisa Sepulveda built this lovely Victorian house in 1887 as her home, a hotel, and stores. Today, it contains El Pueblo’s visitor center.

LA’s oldest surviving house was built by mayor Don Francisco Avila in 1818 and went through several incarnations as a military headquarters and boarding house. The restored rooms offer a glimpse of 1840s life.

Leo Polti’s endearing 1978 mural shows the centuries-old Mexican tradition of thanking animals – canaries to cows – for the joy and service they provide humans. Celebrations take place in the Old Plaza each year.

Worshipers have gathered in LA’s oldest church since 1822. The original was rebuilt in 1861 and several alterations have taken place since then. Features include the painted ceiling and the main altar framed in gold leaf.

Music, dancing, and merriment fills the Old Plaza during lively fiestas. Sculptures of King Carlos III of Spain and Felipe de Neve, and a plaque listing the names of El Pueblo’s original settlers, honor LA’s founders.

This two-story brick building is a must-see. Firehouse No.1 with its all-volunteer crew and horse-drawn equipment remained operational until 1897. Check out a small exhibit of fire fighting memorabilia.

Pio Pico, the last Mexican governor of California, built this grand Italianate edifice in 1870. It was LA’s first three-story structure and once housed a hotel.

The Chinese first settled in and around El Pueblo in the late 19th century. A new museum (to open in 2004) in the 1890s Garnier Building traces the community’s history.