Angel’s Flight

Angel’s Flight: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Los Angeles

Let’s head into a city packed to the brim with history—one of my favorite cities, Los Angeles.  

Right in the heart of downtown L.A. lies a beautiful gem that dates back to 1901. Due to the city’s growth, it has become wedged between towering buildings, but it remains a cherished landmark: Angel’s Flight.  

This funicular railway, located in the Bunker Hill district, is a short but iconic cable car ride. It spans 298 feet over a 96-foot vertical distance. On January 1, 1901, Angel’s Flight was officially opened by Colonel J.W. Eddy at the corner of Hill and 3rd Streets. That year was big for 3rd Street—not only did Angel’s Flight debut, but a tunnel was also opened next to Hill Street, creating an easier connection between downtown and the up-and-coming neighborhoods like Hollywood.  

A Tale of Two Railways

A few years after Angel’s Flight opened, it got some competition. Another railway, Court Flight, was built on a higher section of Bunker Hill, running between Temple and 1st Streets. Yes, you heard that right—one wasn’t enough! Railways were the hottest trend of the time. However, Court Flight was destroyed by a fire in 1943 and was never rebuilt, solidifying Angel’s Flight as an irreplaceable piece of Los Angeles history.  

Hollywood Fame & Citywide Change

During the 1940s and 1950s, Angel’s Flight made several movie appearances, including Criss Cross (1949) and Kiss Me Deadly (1955). However, the 1950s also brought major changes to Los Angeles. In 1955, President Truman laid out plans to develop the business district, and construction began on the 101 Hollywood Freeway. As a result, much of the cityscape transformed.  

Victorian homes were relocated to Montecito Heights, while Bunker Hill itself was flattened by 150 feet. Many residents moved to the suburbs, shifting downtown’s role from a residential area to a commercial hub.  

As Bunker Hill continued to change, historic buildings were demolished, and on May 18, 1969, Angel’s Flight made its final trip at its original 3rd Street location. The very next day, the railway was dismantled and put into storage, where it remained in a dark warehouse for 27 years (!!!).  

The Revival of Angel’s Flight

In 1991, the Los Angeles Conservancy and other city committees joined forces to restore and reconstruct Angel’s Flight. The idea of bringing back this historical gem excited both locals and history lovers alike.  

Through careful planning and design, the funicular railway was rebuilt at a new location just half a block south of its original site. By 1996, Angel’s Flight was back in operation.  

To manage the railway’s operations, the Angels Flight Railway Foundation was established in 1996. However, in 2013, the railway was closed again for safety upgrades. After four years of improvements, Angel’s Flight reopened on August 31, 2017, ensuring a safer and smoother ride for passengers.  

A Happy Ending for a Historic Treasure

And so, friends, this story has a happy ending! Since 1996, Angel’s Flight has been up and running at its new location, offering a one-of-a-kind experience in downtown L.A.  

For just $1 each way, you can enjoy this historic ride while soaking in the sights of the city. At the top of Bunker Hill, you’ll find Grand Central Market, historic Broadway, and the Bradbury Building, while at the bottom, you can explore The Last Bookstore—a must-see for book lovers. There’s so much to do and see in the area!  

Next time you’re in Los Angeles, don’t miss the chance to ride this incredible piece of history.  

Fun Facts About Angel’s Flight

– The two rail cars are named Sinai and Olivet, inspired by biblical references.  

– Angel’s Flight has had seven private operators over its lifetime:  

  1. 1901 – Col. J.W. Eddy  

  2. 1912 – Funding Company of Los Angeles  

  3. 1914 – Continental Securities Company  

  4. 1946 – Robert W. Moore  

  5. 1952 – Lester B. Moreland & Byron Linville  

  6. 1962 – Oliver & Williams Elevator Company (after city condemnation)  

  7. 1996–Present – Angels Flight Railway Foundation® (partnered with ACS since 2017 for a 30-year operational agreement)  

– Angel’s Flight has appeared in numerous films, including La La Land (2016), Criss Cross (1949), and Kiss Me Deadly (1955).