Pershing Square is a downtown Los Angeles park at 532 S Olive St, with statues, fountains, a playground and views of the surrounding skyline. Opened in 1866, it was redesigned in the 1990s with pastel-colored walls and towers. The square also hosts public concerts and other events, so check the event calendar if you want more than a short walk or a place to pause. Much of the ground is paved and shade is limited, which makes an early visit more comfortable on hot days.
A downtown park with a long history
Pershing Square occupies land granted to the City of Los Angeles by Spain in 1781. The site opened as a park in 1866 and was once known as La Plaza Abaja. It later took the name Pershing Square in honor of World War I General John J. Pershing.
The square has served as a gathering place for public life. During World War I, people held militia receptions and public speakers addressed crowds here. In the early 20th century, it was also part of a downtown circuit of gay-friendly businesses and meeting places known as “The Run.”
The 1990s redesign
Architect Ricardo Legorreta and landscape architect Laurie Olin redesigned the park in the 1990s. Their plan brought pastel-colored walls, fountains and towers to the square. Today, statues and monuments sit alongside the playground and open paved areas, with downtown buildings rising around them.
The design has drawn mixed reactions, and proposals for another makeover have circulated. For visitors, the practical detail is the amount of hard paving: the square can feel hot in summer, and shade is limited. Plan a brief stop earlier in the day if you want to explore on foot.
Events and nearby stops
Pershing Square is also used as an outdoor venue for concerts and public events. Check the schedule before going if you hope to catch a performance. Event arrangements can differ from a regular visit, so check the specific event information for entry and other details.
Angels Flight and Grand Central Market are nearby options to add to a downtown walk. The park is at 532 S Olive St.
FAQ
Where is Pershing Square?
It is at 532 S Olive St in downtown Los Angeles.
What can you see at Pershing Square?
The park has statues, fountains, towers, monuments, a playground and views of downtown buildings.
Does Pershing Square host events?
Yes. Public concerts and other events take place there. Check the event schedule before your visit.
When is a good time to visit Pershing Square?
Early in the day is more comfortable in hot weather because shade is limited and the paved areas can become hot.
