Cover Flames from the Palisades Fire reach the grounds of the Getty Villa Museum on the Pacific Coast Highway amid a powerful windstorm on January 8, 2025 in Los Angeles, California (Photo by Apu Gomes/Getty Images)
Flames from the Palisades Fire reach the grounds of the Getty Villa Museum on the Pacific Coast Highway amid a powerful windstorm on January 8, 2025 in Los Angeles, California (Photo by Apu Gomes/Getty Images)
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The California wildfires came dangerously close to the city's beloved historical and cultural landmarks
Los Angeles, California is a city that can feel like a dream, but the recent wildfires have reshaped parts of its beloved cityscape. The fires that devastated the area and destroyed many homes, including celebrity residences, also threatened to erase historic structures and cultural landmarks from the map.
Some of LA’s most recognisable spots have been affected by major fires, while others remain untouched, ready to welcome visitors when the time is right. Here’s a closer look at how these wildfires have impacted LA’s landmarks.
Read more: Events and shows postponed due to Los Angeles wildfires
Affected landmarks
Palisades Charter High School
A prominent high school in Pacific Palisades known for its academic and athletic programs, Palisades Charter High School has suffered damage due to the Palisades Fire. Some of its notable graduates include J.J. Abrams, Forest Whitaker, and Jennifer Jason Leigh.
Getty Villa Museum
Located in Pacific Palisades, the Getty Villa Museum is modeled after ancient Roman villas, housing classical art and artifacts. It was built in 1997 as a “marvel of anti-fire engineering,” using fire-resistant landscaping and concrete reinforced with fire-protected steel. The grounds of the property have caught fire, but the villa itself remains safe. The museum will be closed until further notice.
Andrew McNally House
The historic Victorian residence built in 1887 by map publisher Andrew McNally has been completely destroyed by the Eaton Fire. Located in Altadena, the iconic mansion is frequently featured in Hollywood productions, including HBO’s Hacks.
Also read: 25 Celebrities who lost their homes in the LA wildfires
Topanga Ranch Motel
Built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in 1921, the rustic, vintage-style motel offering a retreat in scenic Topanga Canyon was damaged by fires.
Will Rogers’ Ranch House
The historic home once belonged to humorist Will Rogers, showcasing early 20th-century ranch life. It was destroyed in the Palisades wildfires. Staff were able to save some historic artifacts, such as artwork from the Rogers estate.
Landmarks unaffected by the wildfires
Hollywood Sign
Standing on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills, the iconic hillside letters representing the global entertainment industry remain safe and unaffected by the wildfires. Images of the landmark engulfed in flames circulated online during the early days of the wildfires, but these were determined to be AI-generated.
Griffith Observatory
This renowned Los Feliz observatory offers educational exhibits, public telescopes, and panoramic views of LA. It’s also a popular hiking trail for celebrities, including Joaquin Phoenix, Amanda Seyfried, Rebel Wilson, and Flea. There has been no reported damage on the property and it continues to be a safe landmark.
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is a historic pier featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and stunning ocean views, located in the popular Santa Monica resort town. It remains intact and has not been impacted by the fires.
Venice Beach Boardwalk
The vibrant stretch of beachfront featuring street performers, shops, and Muscle Beach gym, remains a safe area. Barbie, Lords of Dogtown, Nightcrawler, and A Nightmare on Elm Street were famously filmed in this area.
Walt Disney Concert Hall
An internationally recognised architectural landmark, the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown Los Angeles was designed by Frank Gehry. It opened in 2003 and is home to the LA Philharmonic. It is unaffected by the wildfires and remains safe.
Union Station
A historic transportation hub blending Art Deco and Mission Revival architectural styles, Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles is now in its 86th year of operation. No damage has been reported in the area.
TCL Chinese Theater
A historic movie palace famous for its celebrity handprints and footprints, the Chinese Theater showcases a unique perspective of Hollywood history. It remains unaffected by the fires.
Consider consulting local news sources for real-time updates before planning visits to these landmarks.
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