Watts Towers

The basics

The Watts Towers comprise 17 principal sculptures, designed by Italian immigrant and visionary Simon Rodia. The artist shaped steel and mortar, twisted rebar, and adorned his creations with shells, rock, glass, and mosaic. The result is today's Simon Rodia State Historic Park. This National Historic Landmark draws tens of thousands of visitors annually, and is managed by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), in partnership with the city.

While you can always stop by just to view the towers, you can actually explore the site if you join a paid, guided tour. If the towers are undergoing maintenance, tours are typically offered outside the fence. Consider pairing your visit with a special event or workshop at the associated Watts Towers Arts Center. Check the schedule to see what's on.

Things to know before you go

• The towers are a must-see for arts enthusiasts.

• The Watts Towers are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Tours are not offered on rainy days.

How to get there

The towers are situated in South Central Los Angeles, just north of Interstate 105. If you have a car, you should drive, and park on the street for free. You can also take the metro blue line to the 103rd Street/Watts Towers stop, and head south on Grandee Avenue. It's about a 10-minute walk.

When to get there

Since the Watts Towers are an outdoor attraction, be sure to visit when the weather is pleasant, and avoid rainy days. You can visit anytime to take a look at the towers, but to visit the fenced-in site, stop by in the middle of the day for a guided tour, Thursday through Sunday.

Visiting the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

As a standout West Coast arts institution, it's fitting that the Watts Towers are managed by the celebrated Los Angeles County Museum of Art. A must for art lovers, LACMA features more than 100,000 works, and hosts frequent public programs and events. The museum is closed on Wednesdays.