For a downtown food stop on a day out from South Central, Grand Central Market is a public market at 317 South Broadway, with a mix of legacy vendors and newer businesses. Its long history and nearby sights such as Angels Flight make it an easy place to build into a downtown visit.
- Address: 317 South Broadway, Los Angeles, California 90013.
- Typical hours: Open daily
- Market history: Opened in October 1917 as Wonder Market.
- Metro access: Historic Broadway and Pershing Square stations serve the area.
What to expect at the market
Grand Central Market is a public market with a history that stretches back to 1917. It opened in October of that year under the name Wonder Market, occupying the ground floor of the Beaux-Arts-style Homer Laughlin Building. The market describes itself as Los Angeles’ largest and oldest public market.
Its history includes longtime vendors as well as newer businesses. China Cafe has been open since 1959, among the market’s legacy businesses. For another way to plan time downtown, the one-day downtown Los Angeles route from South Central puts the market in a wider city itinerary.
How do you plan around food stalls and vendors?
Vendor schedules can differ from the market’s general hours, so contact a specific vendor directly if you’re planning your visit around it. That check is especially useful when you have a particular stall in mind; the market’s regular opening schedule does not guarantee each vendor’s hours.
When is Grand Central Market open?
The market is generally open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. The information desk has its own daily schedule, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Holiday hours differ: the market is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day, with shorter hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 8 AM–9 PM
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Hours and holiday schedules can change, so check the official site before you go.
How do you get to Grand Central Market?
From Sand Piper Motel South Central Los Angeles, drive to downtown Los Angeles; the city centre is about 10 minutes away by car. Once at the market, you can pair a visit with nearby Angels Flight.
Metro also provides direct options for reaching the market area: the A or E Line serves Historic Broadway Station, and the B or D Line serves Pershing Square Station, which the market describes as about one block away. Several Metro bus routes also have stops nearby. Use Metro’s Trip Planner to plan a route from your starting point.
If you’re driving, the market lists a garage at 308 South Hill Street. Rates are $5.50 for the first 90 minutes, $2 for each additional 15 minutes, with a $40 daily maximum. Parking rates may change, so confirm them before setting out.
Which downtown sights can you pair with a visit?
Angels Flight, MOCA and the Music Center are all within walking distance of Grand Central Market, making them natural additions to a downtown outing. For a visit centered on a performance, The Belasco Los Angeles visit guide covers arrival and parking at the venue.
FAQs
What was Grand Central Market originally called?
It opened in October 1917 as Wonder Market.
How many stalls does the market have?
The market’s history describes 40 stalls, including legacy vendors and newer businesses.
Which Metro stations serve Grand Central Market?
Historic Broadway Station is served by the A and E Lines, while Pershing Square Station is served by the B and D Lines.