Downtown Los Angeles, the city's bustling economic heart, is more vibrant than ever and a must-see for savvy travelers. Start at The Broad museum, right next to Frank Gehry's architectural masterpiece, the Walt Disney Concert Hall (photo). Free entry showcases stunning works by Jeff Koons and Cindy Sherman. From there, wander to MOCA and Broadway, home to the city's most elegant historic theaters nestled among skyscrapers. Drive to El Pueblo for the oldest house in L.A. (1781), then check out Fahrenheit (2254 E Washington Blvd), a transformed textile factory now a dynamic gallery space. With artists escaping New York's sky-high rents, Downtown is thriving—just visit painter-sculptor Andre Miripolsky at the Brewery Artist Lofts (thebreweryartistlofts.com).
Fly direct with Air Tahiti Nui from Paris (Roissy) to L.A. daily, starting at €745 including taxes and TGV for regional passengers. Call 0 825 02 42 02 (€0.15/min) or book at airtahitinui.com.
More info: visitcalifornia.com/fr (free French maps, guides, and road trips). Also: discoverlosangeles.com.
