South LA · Landmark · Morning tours · Book P.122–123
Watts Towers
About
The Watts Towers are 17 spires that Italian immigrant Simon Rodia built by himself over 33 years starting in 1921, out of steel, cement and bits of tile, glass and shells; the tallest is about 100 feet. A National Historic Landmark and LA's most important work of outsider art, they're open inside only on guided tours, but the outside is free to see, with an arts center next door.
Jasmine says
Mosaic spires built by hand over 33 years by one Italian immigrant: LA's most moving outsider art.
Insider tips
- Inside the towers is by guided tour only, every half hour, canceled when it rains.
- The outside is free to see; the ironwork details are best up close.
- Pair it with a Compton/South LA plan and go during the day.
- Address
- 1727 E 107th St, Los Angeles, CA 90002
- Website
- wattstowers.org →
- Best time
- Morning tours
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