I took a Guided Interior Tour here this past Sunday. It was a lovely experience. I got to go in three houses and the pharmacy. My tour guide was nice. The tour is perfect for anyone who admires architecture and interior design, and who enjoys learning history. I liked that I could explore the grounds before and after the tour. I also got to walk the dirt trail on the grounds. read more

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Visited on: 12/15/19 for the Yelp! Yuletide Cinemaland Event We weren't allowed to come thru the front entrance gate. We figured out how to get to the back after driving around for almost 15 mins. The Experience: The grounds gave the feel of walking through history. We checked out the Victorian Home tours and even did some caroling inside one of the homes. We got to see a doctors office inside of a home - very cool! I would love to see the overall grounds in the day time. I know there was much more to see but due to the event the full touring was limited. I would recommend this museum to others - it was a fun and very educational experience! read more

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Heritage Square Museum is a living history and open-air architecture museum located beside the Arroyo Seco Parkway in the Montecito Heights neighborhood of LA. The museum focuses on interpreting the years 1850 to 1950, a century of unprecedented growth in Los Angeles. I visited on a Saturday and took the 2 hr guided tour. Admission is free but the tour cost $10 bucks. Grounds are self guided but inside the houses are not. I love the Victorian style architectural houses. Each of the houses were rich in history. My favorite was W.Hayes Perry and Hale's house because of their unique interior design and layout. Our tour guide was very knowledgable and friendly. Parking is very small and limited. However, residential street parking available. Overall, I enjoyed visiting HSM and I highly recommend you visit at least once. read more

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Came here for Cemetery lane on October 30th. It was a lot of fun! Great for families with children. Plenty of trick r treating for the little ones. The homes - god they are stunning. It was our first time here so we definitely want to return during the day. Can't wait for indoor tours too. read more

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Had a wonderful time touring the homes today. Learned a lot. Highly recommend visiting this museum and supporting their efforts to preserve a bit of Los Angeles history. read more

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What a lovely surprise this place was! Just a few minutes from downtown LA, easy parking, a fun little gift shop and an interesting guided tour of the Victorian houses. Tom, our guide, was delightful, friendly and knowledgeable. I highly recommend visiting this place. read more

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I was looking for what to do in Los Angeles and I found this interesting spot. We participated the special crime tour which was really good. They had different murder case in different houses and the performers in the house actually presented a small play for the story. I enjoyed the tour and really like all the different houses there and all other replica of oldest pharmacy, etc. The staffs there were all very friendly and its sure a good place to go for weekend activities. read more

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Today, my friend Nora, and I went to Heritage Museum in The Heights. They picked up historic fabulous Victorian homes and created one street for them, which they call the Heritage Museum on Homer street. When you go in to get your tickets, you meet a really friendly and adorable staff and the gift shop! Whoever buys for that gift shop is very HIP absolutely brilliant everything in there is wonderful! As you ascend down the street into the houses, each one has within a friendly very knowledgeable Docent! Natalie has been there 33 years and actually made her exact replica of her Victorian gorgeous attire. I learned so much from Melissa! I could've talked to her all day but I didn't want to be greedy and let others ask her questions ! There was one docent, Kali, it was her first day and even she was great ! Sasha and the staff in the store or like friends that you've known forever! The houses were so cool, beautiful, each with their own specialties and history's! So incredible! I also learned a lot about how homes were built and priced. Did you know Victorian kitchens were often in the basement which in those days helped avoid fires in these beautiful wooden homes without electricity. The HALE house was considered a "middle class house" yet it was a mansion! And those days the manufactured at the house, although it doesn't look manufactured at all, was economical compared to its predecessor next-door the Perry mansion which cost four times as much but still only at $1500 when it was built ! To be inside these ho es was a delight as well as interesting & educational! When I was in the Octagon House, those of you who know me know the things I feel, I definitely was not alone, but was made to feel comfortable about it. If you love history, if you love Victorian, and if you don't mind a few Spirits, it makes it truly lovely afternoon! read more

Get Your Ghost On In The Octagon! Even though no one is allowed to go inside the beautiful victorian homes while we're still in the middle of a pandemic; you're able to walk around, video, and take photos via a phone flat on the window or out and about the museum grounds. I've always wanted to go to the Heritage Square Museum and we finally got our weekend up in LA. I love LA; it has the most amazing interactive museums, cemeteries with peacocks and movie nights, and just so much open history that you can walk through and touch; it's one of a kind. The Octagon house is so so active, I wouldn't say he's bad; but, he's a handful and loves attention. I got him on video and on photos. When I asked him to open the door and say hi; he sure did; and he also moved the basket on the table. You're able to see them on my attached photos. I put the closed door and the open door together on one picture with a time and gps stamp so that you'll see it's in proper timing. I've also got his shadow floating about the wall of the next room which has no other windows but, the one I was taping from. If you're looking for a ghostly adventure; he's ready and waiting for you in the Octagon! And, if you're looking to see the beauty and talent of LA's past; you're in for an overwhelming treat with the most amazing volunteers and staff. Thank you again, and, again; Heritage Square Museum. read more

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I love this historical site. We have been here a few times. My favorite was pre-pandemic when they did a seance. The volunteers here are always amazing and knowledgeable. The pharmacy is my favorite building. read more

I've been frequenting Heritage Square Museum for a few years now after having passed it on the freeway growing up. Getting a glimpse at LA's past in a loving history format is pretty rad considering how much has been torn down and redeveloped over the years. In the Before times there were indoor tours and a ton of events highlighting diff points in time, like Victorian mourning rituals, Victorian Christmas, and a tea and fashion show. The past few years they've been the setting of other fun events like outdoor holiday movies and summer movies. Kinda like rooftop movies but historical setting and food trucks. Now we're in the COVID they've had to adapt. I'm writing this in support of LA History and small museums because these are what make the city great. They're allowing picnicking on the grounds with admission during this, which is why I purchased a membership when other city parks were closed. I tried to get tickets to the Free-form Halloween event but they sold out quick. I follow the museum on Instagram and the pics from this weekend looked rad! Just a PSA. The staff is kind and efficient but WE'RE IN A PANDEMIC so please be kind to them because we're ALL still adapting and WEAR A MASK. Check their social media and website for the most up to date information. I've observed another guest being straight up rude because of rules the city and state have (like having to wear a mask properly, outdoor tours only, etc..) and that wasn't cool. Don't be a jerk. This place runs on volunteers, admissions, and donations. Come visit and keep this place going! read more

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Ok , came here with the hubby he decided to take me out for a ride. I wanted to Stay local. I recalled this place and to my surprise they were open (with limitations! you cannot tour the homes just look on the outside.) So, if your ok & into exploring the homes there is a pamphlet available giving you detailed information on all things on property. There are several opportunities to sit, take in the scenery a few photo opts. There are a few pumpkins painted. A few decorations. The staff was quite helpful and extremely friendly in which topped my visit. We also purchased a few things in a lil store available although lights were off but allowed to browse. I purchased earrings and a bag . Restrooms are kindly available Photo opts read more

Heritage Square Museum - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I'd always been curious about this small collection of historic homes while driving up the 110, but couldn't think of a friend who'd be into visiting with me. Finally my creative and artistic friend moves to town and I have a buddy to go with! :) We had a lovely docent with lots of info to share and a good sense of humor. We learned a lot about the homes construction, but also about the daily lives of the folks who lived there. The last building we visited was the pharmacy and lots of interesting salves, creams, cosmetics and meds we aren't familiar with today! Only bummer here is the parking is a bit challenging, there are people who live right next door and it's street parking. Also, the metro gold line stop is an awkward walk (google maps will tell you it's 10 min, but it's prob more like 20) read more

What an amazing and historical place ! The Tour guide was wonderful and she knew all about the houses and was even dressed appropriately for the period, the best one and a half hours you can spend learning about old Victorian homes. read more

Heritage Square Museum - What an amazing and historical place ! - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I had such an amazing time at the Yuletide Cinema event! Everything was decorated amazingly and there was so much to do and see! Would return for next year for sure. I loved it. read more

I enjoyed the park but the worker inside the gift shop was rude. We bought the $7 tour-less ticket and were told "not to even try to interrupt the tour" or "try to open the doors", pointing at the stickers. Very unprofessional and overall an unwelcoming vibe from that worker. read more

Really enjoyed this place. Hubby and I checked it out during their Halloween event (day time) and it was fabulous! While touring the homes, they had actors dressed in the part of the person they were playing and told the story of how the house got its reputation. This really made it come alive! I especially enjoyed visiting the drug store and seeing the various things that used to be sold there. A re-enactment of a funeral for prohibition was well staged as was the woman picketing outside of the booze house. A husband who shot his wife in the head and she survived was a great story. I don't know if they do this all the time but it really added to my experience. They are revitalizing the church there as well. You need to hear the history of this very special "town". Parking is limited so arrive early enough to not have any problems. Worth the admission! read more

I loved my time at the museum and promptly purchased a membership. Aside from the well-crafted tours, the restoration of the homes is charming and thoughtful. The property hosts many different events, including themed marketplaces, that are reminiscent of a small town on market day. The staff, of primarily volunteers, have a love and knowledge of the museum that is translated into every interaction. I am amazed at what they have accomplished solely with private donations. Being a history lover who is not a fan of huge crowds, Heritage Square Museum is the perfect weekend adventure for me. If you are looking for a charitable contribution this season, the museum should be at the top of your list. read more

June 20, 2015 Drove by this place multiple times and have always wanted to check it out and low and behold!! A Groupon!!! I love looking at historical buildings. This place has some of the most beautiful Victorian houses I have ever seen. You get to enter some of these houses. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for the tour. There's even an old fashioned soda fountain counter where you can make a purchase. Parking is free, but it can be difficult at times. Sometimes they have special events during the holidays. I'm thinking of checking out the Halloween and Christmas events. A little costly, but I recommend checking this place out at least once. read more

We went here for the Cemetery Lane Halloween Festival; our five year old enjoyed trick-or-treating at all of the old houses here at Heritage Square Museum. The grounds were decorated for Halloween which was spooky but not too scary for our son. We had a wonderful time and will come back next year. read more

I've driven past the 'Museum' countless times on the 110 and have always been curios. Well Saturday I finally took the time to visit. The narrow road in is a bit harrowing, but I drove slowly and was rewarded with the hidden gem. It's been around for several decades and they've collected a half dozen historic homes which were moved to this property. Tours that start every hour walk you through the deep colorful history of each building, and we get to go inside!! There's a large lawn area and we were told we could bring a picnic and make a day of it. Non-profits struggle and it's so great that there are dedicated individuals who are passionate about preserving history. Buildings of this age aren't perfect, and some need lot$ of love. Admission is extremely reasonable for a couple of hours worth of entertainment. Surprisingly, they have a very long and free parking area too. read more

Heritage Square Museum - Admission Prices and hours - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I've heard of this place before on the internet and thought it sounded really cool so I figured I'd check it out and it's a fascinating bit of history! It's a great collection of 19th Century Victorian architecture from around the area that was moved to this location as a means of historic preservation from urban development. People don't usually associate LA with Victorian architecture compared to say San Francisco, so this place is here to remind us that the style does indeed exist here and has some charming examples. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and provided a lot of details about the homes and the era in which they were built, I like how she didn't hold back on some of the more controversial details of the past and just told things as they were in an objective way. I forgot her name but she was great and it was wonderful being able to see the interiors of these beautiful homes (no photos inside though). We also saw a drug store exhibit at the end of the tour which contains actual, unopened drugs from the era that filled the whole room with a strong medicinal aroma. The best preserved buildings are towards the front of the entrance with the ones in rougher shape towards the back. Regardless of their condition though, the interiors of the four houses we toured have a lot of peculiar details like a niche at the top of the Perry Mansion stairs to help transport coffins in and out of the house. I highly recommend people check this place out if they're into learning more about Los Angeles history. read more

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If you're into old historic buildings from L.A., this is the place to go. To get there, you'll have to drive down this narrow residential street and park in a little dirt lot that's also quite narrow. You'll go on a tour of the various buildings that they saved and moved to this location. It's at the end if the cul de sac. There's a gift shop where you start the tour and some rest rooms across the street in an old building with old toilets and sinks, etc. You're not allowed to take any pictures inside the homes, but you can take as many of the outside. Each house is unique and has its own story. There's also a house that has a doctors office inside it! The tour guide spent so much time explaining things, we didn't get to go into the last building, the pharmacy. On the outside, it looks like a modern building, and it looked fairly new on the inside too. I guess I'll just have to read about it or go one more time. read more

Heritage Square Museum - Front sign - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I don't remember how I happened upon this place but it's nifty and a good place to spend an hour or so. Right now with covid no one is allowed to tour inside but they still charge $7 per person to enter the premises to self tour. There is a person who gave an impromptu tour to a group of people , but there's no formal times or anything - and when we bought the tickets the person didn't mention anything about a tour. The buildings are cool and FYI the buildings were moved to this land at various times. We peeked thru the windows but most of them were covered so we couldn't see much :/ But we brought food and picnic'd which was nice as there were a couple picnic tables and several benches scattered throughout the place. Restroom is located behind/inside the first white mansion. The gift shop was awesome (we left with lots of goodies) and there is the resident old beige kitty to pet and 4 hens in coops too. read more

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The parking for the 2022 Mourning event was poorly organized. This established organization should know that simple wayfinding signage is necessary, especially for a $25 event. Being turned away at multiple parking lots that we were directed to go to, and then having to walk 20 minutes to the location is a disappointment. read more

When I was growing up my dad was an Area Manager for Mobil Oil. He would have to go to the LA area quite frequently, mostly to do visible inspections of gas stations or to go to meetings at the refinery in Torrance. I was a good student, but some days I wasn't feeling up to going to school. Some days my dad didn't feel like fighting traffic. Some days we would combine our needs and I would get out of school and he would use me for the carpool lane. It would work like this, I would come downstairs and say "Dad, do you have to go to LA today? I don't feel like going to school." He would ask "Are you caught up on everything?" I would say yes, the sick call was made, and off we went on an adventure. When I was probably 9 or 10 I remember being in the car with him, driving on the freeway, and looking out my window to see a bunch of super cool, old Victorian homes. I asked him what they were and he said somebody had collected them and moved them to one place. That amazed me. And then I forgot about them. Last month the BF and I were driving down the 110 freeway and it looked familiar. I told him, "I think there are some old Victorian homes up here on the right." Sure enough, they were. We drove past them and I looked them up to see what they are all about. Turns out it is a "museum" of sorts that you can tour. Since we were headed to the Rose Bowl today for the LA Street Food Fest we planned on stopping off at Heritage Square first. Due to the fantastic traffic we encountered, we did not end up having a full hour there as we had hoped, we had 20 minutes instead. There was no time to take the tour, but we did join in on a tour already in progress and went inside one of the houses. After that house we walked around quickly and looked at the rest of them from the outside. Man, these are some gorgeous homes! I love that they were saved from demolition and moved into a little neighborhood. I loved the details inside the home we went into, and I loved the tour guide, Natalie. She was really passionate about hosting the tours and she did a great job in the ten minutes or so we spent with her. We definitely want to come back again and take the full tour. The admission price is $10 per person, whether you intend on taking the tour or not. This is an awesome place to visit to check out the decadence and architecture of the Victorian era. read more

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This is a great place to visit if you love beautiful architecture and history. Our group's guide, Dana, was a volunteer of 5 years, so he was quite knowledgeable from beginning to end of our hour or so tour. For every building, he pointed out some detail or related some story that provided the place with more depth and interest. He even played us some scratchy music on a Victrola which really took us away to another time. It's also nice that the volunteers dress up in period costumes adding to the historical effect. I would have given this place 5 stars if only all the buildings had been fully renovated. The exteriors look good, but the interiors of the buildings further down the lane are still in poor condition. At the same time, by seeing what these buildings used to look like and comparing them to the buildings that are renovated, you can appreciate how much time, effort, and money they have put into caring for these otherwise dilapidated buildings. Please note that you can't take pictures inside, but you can take all the pictures you want outside. Also, it's only the first floors of the buildings you can walk through, not the second. When you come here, keep an open mind because for only $10 a person, it's understandable why they can't renovate the inside of all the buildings all at once, as I'm sure they'd like to. On the outside, they're also hoping to have railcars lined up from the beginning to the end of the lane, but again, that's going to take millions upon millions of dollars. Overall, I enjoyed being here and wouldn't mind coming back and maybe when I do, enough money will have come in for further improvements. Even so, it's still a beautiful place to visit and I'm grateful that our city had the foresight to save these buildings from being destroyed. read more

Heritage Square Museum - Our guide, Dana, in period costume complete with top hat. - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Came by here a few weeks ago, May 18, for Museum of the Arroyo Day (http://www.museumsofthearroyo.com/), where admission is free. My husband and I met with a few of our friends to take in some local history and culture. Since this place was providing free admission for the special day, there was only self guided tours available. But there were plenty of docents, all dressed up in character with the appropriate era, around to provide information and history of Heritage Square. I found out that Heritage Square has actually had numerous of homes here featured/ used as backdrops for TV shows and movies, for example Legally Blonde (the 1st movie). It was also very interesting to learn more about the actual original home owners and how they accommodated with the weather during those times and adjusted themselves during the time period. We also heard stories from docents that shared about the original owners and some of the controversy and secrets they held on to, truly very interesting! I love seeing each home with their unique style of architect and how the people lived their daily lives (with mundane things such as washing laundry, getting dressed to go out to town, cooking bread in the oven and passing the time). Too bad the church was not open and available for people to walk through. I would have liked to see the inside of it, as it looked like a lovely building from the outside. I really enjoyed the pharmacy (towards the end of the street). It is the only building with air conditioning and there is also a restroom behind it (there were port-a-potties at the front entrance but not sure if that was just there for this special MOTA day). I loved seeing some of the items that were sold at the Pharmacy. There is an old school Ford Car that was driven around and is still in excellent working condition. The man driving the car also honked the horn and it still sounded as if it was brand new. The man driving the car was very nice and let my husband and I and our friends take photos in his car. I highly recommend coming to this place for a wonderful and educational afternoon, that really is perfect for all ages (young and old). By the way, parking is street parking and also in a dirt road parking lot. read more

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I give this place a 1 star because one of the staff members was rude. I'm a retired US military service member who served honorably for 26 years in the US Air Force, and I always ask if there is a military discount at every museum, outdoor park, amusement park, restaurant, store and what not across the USA. Many have a military discount and many don't but if they don't, they always say "Sorry, but we don't have one at all but thank you for your service" or something similar but always a sorry, and I accept that they don't a military discount. However, this staff member didn't say that at all. She rudely embarrassed me in front of other people in the store and said "$7 dollars is cheap enough" and said nothing else to me. I would have said something and walked out but it was my last day of my LA trip and I had brought my close friend with me cause we've always wanted to come to the Heritage Square Museum, and they aren't opened during the weekdays. My LA friends rave about this place all the time especially with the Halloween and Christmas events, and I've seen the paranormal investigation shows with Jack Osbourne and Ghost Adventures at this place too. So it was on my bucket list while I was on vacation in LA last month. I use to be stationed in LA like 20 years ago but I never came to the Heritage Square Museum, so this was my 1st time coming here. However, we didn't stay long at all. The place was pretty cool, and we enjoyed it. We loved the Victorian homes. BTW the other staff, besides that rude woman, were wonderful and friendly. read more

We came here on Museums of the Arroyo Day and got to see the houses from the Victorian era. A delight to experience what it was like as the docents were knowledgeable and also dressed as though they were from the colonial era. All of the houses were open, but you were told not to take photos of the interior. I'm sure everyone was video-ing and taking photos, so fascinating! :) Some houses were in better condition than others, but was told that they will be doing refurbishment soon. Parking is tricky, available along the edge of the river, and the road going in is very narrow! We had free entry due to the museum day, but it usually costs $$ for admission. read more

Heritage Square Museum - Sunny day - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Because of covid, they aren't doing any tours but it is a great place to come and have a picnic. We enjoyed looking at the houses from the outside. They have a lot of beautiful designs. I hope they are able to do indoor tours because we would like to learn more about the history. read more

Heritage Square Museum - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Wonderfully well preserved historic Victorian and queen Anne style homes transported to this site for all to appreciate with the support of excellent guided tours with extremely knowledgeable docents. read more

$7 to just walk the ground...no tour. the chickens had no water and no food and when we gave them water they ran as if they hadnt had any water for a long while. Keep in mind, it's 90 degrees outside. Also, as we were walking into another building some lady, dressed like the premises ghost, (see attached pic) rudely shooshed us out saying "we're going OUT". How uninviting and kind of a rip off for having just walked at closed homes. Paying for a tour is understandable however, there are no signs stating its a $7 admission fee. The only obvious things were that they have a donation box in front and the sign says buying from the gift shop supports the restoration which again makes sense but not having admission sign made it seem very deceitful and sus. I admire old homes wholeheartedly and dont mind supporting but the staff were strange folk, rude, and I think you should only have to pay for guided tours, not pay to just walk through on your own. read more

Heritage Square Museum - Rude employee - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Such a quaint little historical place with such lovely tour guides. The couple are thorough and such absolute sweethearts. I loved seeing all the details that went into preserving these buildings and keeping history alive with the personal touches to help visitors understand the lives of the people who owned these houses. Overall, an awesome date idea that's hidden from the hustle and bustle of LA. Great photo ops outside the houses as well. No photography is allowed inside the houses unfortunately. Loved the colonial pharmacy the most. Wishes I could've purchased some of the tin boxes or items in there. Plenty of parking in their parking lot. Wear comfortable shoes, because there are loose gravel and rocks to walk through. read more

A wonderful hidden gem!!! The volunteer staff are absolutely incredible, from the woman running the gift shop (cute necklaces for sale!) to our extremely entertaining guide who walked us around the property for 90 minutes and told us all about the architectural features, Los Angeles history, and even a few ghost stories associated with the homes on the site. Everyone went above and beyond. PS keep an eye out for the resident orange Museum cat! What a babe. read more

Heritage Square Museum - Stunning Victorian home - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Finally crossed this one off my list. Been wanting to see this place for many years after passing by it countless times on the 110 freeway. For whatever reason, I was motivated enough today and finally paid a visit to this wonderful museum and am glad I did. We chose the guided tour ($10 for adult / $5 for 12 & under) and were lucky to end up with a very knowledgeable and nice young volunteer. She gave an informative tour of several of the houses on the property and patiently answered all the questions from our group. Believe me, this wasn't easy for her as it was 95 degrees outside and there were a lot of questions that she had to answer from a couple of very curious visitors. Overall, I'd consider this place a must-visit in the Los Angeles area. You will not be able to take photos once you're inside any house but don't let that deter you because the knowledge you will gain from the volunteer is very much worth the cost of admission. Highly recommend! read more

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Brought my mom and kids to see these beautiful Victorian homes. You get to go inside the homes! I liked how the tour guide would include the kids in retelling what certain items within the home were used for and what type of choirs a child their age might have as part of their daily routine. read more

Heritage Square Museum - Museums Near Me - Los Angeles, California

You know that white "castle" "church" building that you see when you're driving on the 110 fwy in Highland Park, hidden between all those trees? Well that's here! It's the Lincoln Avenue Church. I stopped by with my son and we both enjoyed the sights. Our tour guide was funny, knowledgeable, and did his best to keep my seven year old entertained (appreciated this, it's hard keeping kids entertained without a phone nowadays). Highlights: 1. Learning about the buildings and the history of Los Angeles 2. Beautiful buildings = beautiful pictures 3. Awesome tour guide! read more

Beautiful houses from the Los Angeles area from the 1800s that were moved here and restored. The grounds are kept up well. The tour took us inside the houses. Our tour was over 2 hours. My only reason for it not being 5 stars was it is not easy to stand for that long and walk sparingly. We left before it ended. But we got our money's worth. Maybe they should have places to sit outside while the docent talks. We talked to the event coordinator. You can have a wedding or other party there. It is a nice venue for that. I enjoyed it. read more

Wonderful experience at the Heritage Square Museum. The tour was about an hour and a half but totally worth seeing. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and knew all the answers to our questions. The tickets are only $10, so it is very affordable. Definitely recommend people to visit if they are into Victorian houses. It's always nice to go back into history. read more

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