About 90017
Downtown Los Angeles’ 90017 ZIP code is best known as the address of the Wilshire Grand Center – a 73-story mixed-use skyscraper that dominates the Financial District. Officially opened in June 2017, the Wilshire Grand Center is the tallest building west of the Mississippi River (www.axios.com ). Its sleek curved shape (inspired by Yosemite’s Half Dome) and dramatic glass spire make it instantly recognizable (wilshiregrandcenter.com ). The 1,100-foot tower contains the 889-room InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown hotel, 2.1 million square feet of offices, shops and restaurants (wilshiregrandcenter.com ), and a 73rd-floor skydeck with 360° views. In fact, its heights exceed the city’s longtime US Bank Tower by about 80 feet (www.axios.com ). At night the tower’s spire is fitted with programmable LED lights, so it often shines in vibrant colors across the city skyline. The Wilshire Grand’s mix of uses and cutting-edge design (it’s even LEED-certified) have made it a beloved landmark of DTLA – property experts have hailed it as “one of the great architectural masterpieces” ever built (wilshiregrandcenter.com ) (wilshiregrandcenter.com ).
Events and Programming
The Wilshire Grand Center itself isn’t a concert theater or sports arena, but its InterContinental hotel offers large event spaces that see frequent activity. Its centerpiece is the Wilshire Grand Ballroom – a massive 20,467-square-foot hall that can be divided into sections I, II, and III. In theater-style chair setups it can accommodate roughly 1,900 people (www.cvent.com ). This makes it a popular venue for expos, conventions, wedding receptions and gala dinners. There are also smaller breakout rooms and a catering kitchen, so the hotel regularly hosts business conferences, trade shows and charity fundraisers. In addition, the 73rd-floor Spire 73 restaurant and lounge is known as a nightlife hotspot – it hosts private parties and live DJ nights with panoramic city views. Visitors should watch the official event calendar: seasonal cultural celebrations and pop-up art installations sometimes take place in the Wilshire Grand’s lobby and courtyard. (For example, it has hosted holiday concerts and even New Year’s Eve gatherings.) Because Downtown is dense with theaters and galleries, major cultural events nearby often spill over into the Wilshire Grand’s public spaces.
Tickets and Booking
The Wilshire Grand Center does not use a traditional box office. If you’re visiting the hotel (for a club or banquet) or the skydeck, you’ll generally need to purchase tickets in advance. For the skydeck (often called “OUE Skyspace LA”), tickets are sold online rather than at the door, and it’s wise to book early on the official site or via hotel concierge. Popular time slots (especially sunset evenings) can sell out, so check availability a week or more ahead. If attending a private event or conference, tickets usually go on sale months in advance and may have tiered pricing (general vs. VIP). There are no backstage or presale code promotions to speak of; check email announcements or join mailing lists for early notice of specials. For hotel stays, room reservations can be made through the InterContinental’s front desk or preferred booking websites; rates vary with the season. In short, plan and pay in advance whenever possible to guarantee entry. (TIP: If you’re in Los Angeles on business, consider a hotel-night package that includes skydeck tickets — these often pop up on travel sites.)
Seating and Layout
The Wilshire Grand is a modern high-rise, so there are no fixed “seating charts” like in a theater. Instead, layout is best understood by floor: The main lobby is a large open atrium around street level (with a scenic indoor courtyard and cafe (wilshiregrandcenter.com )). Above that, floors 2–18 or so are prime office space (accessed via double-decker high-speed elevators (wilshiregrandcenter.com )). The hotel occupies roughly levels 19–70; its rooms and amenities (gym, pool, lounges) wrap around a central core. The true highlight is the top: floors 71–73 house the Spire 73 restaurant and outdoor skydeck. Spire 73 is a lounge-style space with bar seating and command views of the skyline. Any visitor can wander the skydeck (no reservations needed, just a deck ticket), with wide glass walls all around. In general, the higher your vantage point, the better — so the 73rd-floor deck and restaurant offer unbeatable views. For hotel events (banquets, conferences), seating is arranged by the event host. The ballrooms and meeting rooms have flexible theater or banquet seating as needed (see above) (www.cvent.com ). In short, there are no “bad seats” – the building itself is one big viewing platform.
Getting There and Parking
The address is **900 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90017** (www.intercontinental.com ). You can’t miss it: the towers rise at 7th and Olive streets in the Financial District. Downtown LA’s public transit is very accessible here. The **7th Street/Metro Center** station is just one block away, offering multiple Metro lines (including the Red, Purple and Blue lines) and numerous buses (wilshiregrandcenter.com ). The area is also served by the DASH municipal shuttle. If driving, the Wilshire Grand is a few blocks west of the I-110 freeway (exit 9th Street) and right by the I-10 and I-5 interchange. Parking is mostly handled by the hotel’s valet service (currently around $71 for in/out privileges (www.intercontinental.com )); there is no public parking garage inside the building. Nearby pay-parking lots are available (for example, under L.A. Live or at City Hall) if you want self-park. Uber/Lyft or taxi drop-off is convenient at the Wilshire Blvd drop-off lane. Bicyclists: the Wilshire Grand offers secure bike storage (with showers) (wilshiregrandcenter.com ). If you’re taking the Metro, aim for the 7th St exit and walk west on 7th; if you’re walking from LA Live, head north on Figueroa and turn west at Olympic/7th.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, expect a modern, polished atmosphere. Security screening (bag check and metal detector) is routine for non-residents. The ground floor lobby has high ceilings and plenty of natural light. A central indoor courtyard (with a water feature) offers seating and a coffee kiosk (wilshiregrandcenter.com ). There are several shops and a café where visitors can buy snacks or Starbucks coffee without a hotel key. Restrooms are on every major floor and are clean and well-maintained. The elevators are state-of-the-art: there are separate elevator banks for offices, hotel guests, and skydeck visitors, including high-speed double-decker cabs (wilshiregrandcenter.com ). Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in public areas for hotel guests. The Spire 73 restaurant/bar (level 73) serves small plates and cocktails evening; it has lounge seating along the window and an outdoor patio. The building also has a fitness center and business center (for guests), but these require a hotel access pass. A luxury boutique store and gift shop are found near the lobby of the hotel tower. Coat checks are rare – plan to carry personal items. Overall it feels like a premium business-class hotel throughout, with friendly staff at information desks and a relaxed, seasonal soundtrack.
Nearby Amenities
The Financial District around 90017 has plenty to explore. Directly adjacent is Los Angeles’ “restaurant row” on Figueroa Street, filled with diverse dining. A few blocks east on 7th and Flower streets you’ll find casual cafes, brewpubs and quick bites. Notable spots include upscale Mexican cuisine at Javier’s (across from Crypto.com Arena) (www.wallpaper.com ), as well as sushi bars and steakhouse grills near L.A. Live. For nightlife, Spire 73 itself is a destination, and a few blocks north on Grand Avenue there’s Perch LA (a popular rooftop bar at 5th/Olive). Stay options are abundant: besides on-site Intercontinental, other nearby hotels include the Westin Bonaventure, the Conrad Los Angeles (new management of the Westin tower), the boutique Hotel Indigo (on Francisco) and the JW Marriott at L.A. Live. Most are within a 5–10 minute walk. If you want to dine before a show, the L.A. Live campus has chains like Yard House, Yardbird and a food court; on the opposite side, Pershing Square Park offers food trucks on weekends. Plan to dine at least an hour before an event, as these areas can get busy. Late-night options include 24-hour cafes around Pershing Square. When leaving at night, note that the 7th Street/Metro lines run until around midnight (later on weekends), and rideshares are plentiful at the Wilshire entrance or along Figueroa.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Wilshire Grand Center is truly unique to Los Angeles. Its flowing, modern silhouette and angled roof are nothing like the flat-tops of traditional LA skyscrapers (wilshiregrandcenter.com ). By design and reputation it symbolizes Downtown’s rebirth. In fact, commercial real estate experts have praised it lavishly – one quote calls it “one of the great architectural masterpieces that has been created by any architect in any city” (wilshiregrandcenter.com ). The night view from the observation deck or Spire 73 is often described as a “once-in-a-lifetime” panorama, with glittering city lights stretching to the mountains. Locals love to point out the animated LED spire: on holidays you might see it pulse hearts (Valentine’s) or flags. Even the street-level lobby feels special, thanks to the airy courtyard and waterfall. Because it blends a hotel, an office tower and public viewing areas together seamlessly, the Wilshire Grand is more than a venue – it’s a Downtown destination. Artists and visitors appreciate how every floor tells a different story of LA culture, from modern art installations in the lobby to live DJs on high floors. Simply put, both celebrity guests and Angelenos frequent it for its luxury and views, and they remember it for its futuristic flair.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Wilshire Grand Center is fully wheelchair-accessible. All public areas (including the skydeck) have elevator access and ramps. Accessible restrooms are available on each floor, and all dining and event spaces meet ADA standards (wilshiregrandcenter.com ) (wilshiregrandcenter.com ). Getting In: Allow extra time for security checkpoints, especially on busy nights. To ensure entry, plan to arrive 20–30 minutes before your scheduled time. The elevators are fast, but lobby crowds can occur—for instance, if a conference lets out at 5:00 PM, expect a short wait. Tickets: If you’re visiting the skydeck or a high-level bar, buy tickets in advance whenever possible. Walk-ins are rarely allowed (the line may be empty, but often “sold out” signs are up when peak pass). What to Bring: Carry a photo ID (required for hotel check-in or 21+ bars like Spire 73). Large backpacks or food/drink outside the building are not permitted without prior approval. You may bring PHOTOs, phones and compact cameras (selfie sticks are discouraged inside). Dress Code: The vibe is upscale-casual. During the day, casual business attire is fine. For evening visits or the rooftop bar, smart casual (e.g. no shorts or flip-flops) is recommended. Age Restrictions: The skydeck itself is all-ages, but the rooftop lounge and most bars require guests to be 21+. The intercontinental restaurant patio on level 3 is family-friendly. Safety: The building is generally safe and well-staffed. Standard rules apply: don’t lean on glass railings and hold children’s hands near edges. The skydeck can be windy/bright—bring sunglasses and dress in layers. Insider Tips: If you plan to use the sliding glass tube (the Skyslide on a nearby tower, not at this address), note it closes in rain. Watch the building’s social channels – they sometimes run promotions like free entry on birthdays. Also, current guests often mention the convenience of the attached courtyard water feature for a quick photo. Finally, remember public Wi-Fi may be spotty on higher floors – download any maps or shows to your device before you go up!
How much are tickets to visit the Wilshire Grand Center Skydeck?
Admission fees can vary by time and package. General entry to the 73rd-floor observation deck is typically in the range of around $20–$30 per person, paid per session. (Discounts may apply for children or seniors.) Special experiences like the glass slide or guided tours cost extra. It’s best to buy tickets online far in advance to lock in current prices and secure a spot.
Where can I buy tickets or make reservations?
The Skydeck and Spire 73 tickets are not sold at the door – you must purchase them in advance. Visit the official Wilshire Grand or OUE Skyspace LA website to buy online. The InterContinental hotel offers room and event reservations through its concierge or phone line. Group and event bookings (like weddings or conferences) are arranged via the hotel’s sales team. In all cases, paying ahead is strongly recommended to guarantee entry.
Which Metro station is closest to 900 Wilshire (Wilshire Grand Center)?
The closest station is 7th Street/Metro Center, just one block east of the building. This major transit hub serves the Red, Purple, Blue and Expo lines. From 7th/Metro, it’s an easy 5–10 minute walk west along 7th Street. Several DASH and local buses also stop near Wilshire Grand. If using Map apps, search for “Wilshire/Olive” or “7th St/Metro Center” for walking directions.
What are the parking options and rates?
The Wilshire Grand Center itself offers only valet parking, which is currently around $71.50 (in/out privileges) (www.intercontinental.com ). There is no public self-park on site. Metered street parking is very limited. However, you can use nearby pay lots (such as those at L.A. Live or City Hall) or cheaper parkades a few blocks away. Rideshare drop-off zones are available at the Wilshire entrance if you prefer not to park.
Is the Wilshire Grand Center accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. The venue is fully ADA-compliant. All public areas, including the lobby, restaurants and skydeck, can be reached by elevator and ramps. Restrooms have wheelchair access. Elevators with braille and audible signals serve every story. If you have special needs, contact the hotel in advance; they can provide additional assistance or notices. The spacious lobby and elevators make navigation easy for wheelchairs.
Where are the best views or seats in the building?
For panoramic city views, the 73rd-floor deck and Spire 73 restaurant are unbeatable – they offer 360° windows around Los Angeles. Inside, any window at that height will afford sweeping sights. On lower floors, there is no particular “seat” since most areas are open walkways or event halls. If you’re attending an event in a ballroom, any seat facing the presentation is fine. For casual sightseeing, aim for the outdoor terrace or near the floor-to-ceiling windows at the lounge for the widest perspectives.
Do I need to dress up to visit the skydeck or Spire 73?
There’s no formal dress code for the observation deck, so casual attire is fine (jeans, sneakers, light jacket). For the Spire 73 restaurant and bar, most visitors choose smart-casual evening wear (men in collared shirts or polo, women in dresses or nice tops). Avoid beachwear, workout clothes or flip-flops if you plan to sit at the bar or restaurant. At dinners or ballroom events in the hotel, check the specific invitation — many are business or cocktail attire occasions.
What should I bring and what is not allowed?
Bring your ticket or reservation confirmation (for hotel events or skydeck). Photo ID is required for any drinks purchase (Spire 73 is 21+ after dark) and hotel check-in. Small daypacks or purses are fine, but large luggage or backpacks may be subject to search. Outside food and drinks are not allowed (you can buy refreshments inside). No weapons or drones. Cameras and phones are allowed everywhere (but use caution on the terrace edges). Finally, carry a jacket – it can be chilly on high edges even in summer.
Is the Wilshire Grand Center indoors or outdoors?
The complex is an indoor high-rise, so most of your visit will be inside the building’s air-conditioned spaces. The exception is the small outdoor terrace adjacent to Spire 73 on the 73rd floor – this provides open-air views down at the streets below. The skydeck itself is indoors (covered by glass walls), accessed through an interior corridor. In summary: enter the lobby, ride the elevator, and you’ll stay inside until you step onto the secured outdoor sky terrace at the top.
What time should I arrive for my visit?
Plan to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before your scheduled time—possibly earlier if it’s a popular weekend or holiday period. The skydeck is busiest around sunset, and the front desk can get backed up during morning event check-ins. Evening restaurant reservations should allow time for parking/valet and security. If you have tickets for an event at L.A. Live, factor in extra walk time in case of crowds. In general, arriving early avoids stress and ensures you see everything you want.
