Safety

Question

Hi,

Wonder if you can help me.

I am planning a trip to the US to take in some music gigs. I have a few in LA in September. I would also like to visit Coles (its staying open a few more days apparently), Phillipes and Langers.

Whats concerning me is safety ? Maybe I am getting too concerned about things I read or see on TV, but I get the impression the whole place is unsafe ? Coles closing, Langers threatening to close etc, its a little worrying.

Not knowing LA ( I am from the UK), Where should I avoid staying / walking ? All these places and some of the gigs appear to be close to the Skid Row area, that appears to be populated by drug addicts etc and presumably isn't that safe. I do not intend to have a rental car.

Any tips gratefully received.

Any other cool restaurants or bar recommendations would be great

Answer

Los Angeles is a vast and diverse city, and while there are areas that require caution, the impression that the entire city is unsafe is exaggerated. Many visitors explore LA without issues by sticking to well-traveled neighborhoods and using common-sense precautions.

Regarding your plans around music gigs, Coles, Phillipe’s, and Langer’s, it’s true that these locations are near or within downtown LA, and Skid Row is nearby. Skid Row is known for a high concentration of homelessness and drug activity, so walking through it is generally not recommended, especially at night. That said, the immediate areas around your destinations are usually well-patrolled and safe during the day, particularly if you stick to main streets and public areas.

Here are some practical safety tips for staying and moving around LA without a car:

Stay in central, well-reviewed hotels in areas like West Hollywood, Hollywood, or Downtown near L.A. Live – these neighborhoods are generally safe, lively, and close to dining and entertainment.
Use rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) rather than walking through uncertain areas, especially at night.
Stay on main streets and avoid alleyways or isolated streets in downtown, particularly near Skid Row.
Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist spots.

If your priority is visiting Coles, Phillipe’s, and Langer’s, plan to go during daytime hours, and use rideshares to move between locations rather than walking through the surrounding areas. These restaurants themselves are popular and frequented by locals and tourists, and daytime visits are generally safe.

For other cool restaurant and bar options, depending on your tastes, consider:

Musso & Frank Grill (Hollywood): Historic bar and steakhouse with classic LA vibe.
Perch LA (Downtown): Rooftop bar with great city views, perfect for evening drinks.
Bestia (Arts District): Modern Italian cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, very popular.
Seven Grand (Hollywood or Downtown): Whiskey bar with a cozy, old-school feel.
Philippe’s: Famous French dip sandwiches, casual and iconic.
Langer’s Deli: Known for classic pastrami sandwiches, casual and well-loved.

Overall, LA can be enjoyed safely with planning and caution. Stick to main streets, use rideshares when necessary, stay in safe hotel neighborhoods, and enjoy the rich food and music scene the city offers.