Los Angeles’ Angels Flight railway, a beloved and quirky landmark, continues to draw visitors with its unique charm and a ride that lasts less than a minute. The funicular, which climbs 298 feet up the steep incline of Bunker Hill, has carried over 100 million passengers since its debut in 1901.
The railway operates with two distinctive orange cars, named Olivet and Sinai, which simultaneously ascend and descend the hill on a shared cable. Originally conceived to serve the affluent residents of Bunker Hill, allowing them easier access to the downtown core, Angels Flight quickly became a symbol of the city. According to the railway’s official website, angelsflight.org, the current iteration of the funicular opened in 1996, a half-block south of its original location.
The railway’s history hasn’t been without disruption. It was dismantled in 1969 during a period of redevelopment on Bunker Hill, as documented by Wikipedia. After a rebuild utilizing the original cars, Angels Flight reopened in 2010 following a fatal accident in 2001 that resulted in the death of an 83-year-ancient tourist and injuries to seven others. The Los Angeles Times reported on the incident, which led to a prolonged closure for safety upgrades.
Despite past challenges, Angels Flight has regained its popularity, attracting both tourists and locals. Its appearance in the 2016 film La La Land, where it served as a backdrop for a memorable scene featuring actors Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, further cemented its place in popular culture. The railway was temporarily reopened specifically for filming that scene, even while it was officially closed to the public.
Today, a ride on Angels Flight costs just a few dollars and provides views of the city. Visitors consistently praise the experience, with one recent Tripadvisor reviewer describing it as a “quaint and unique LA experience worth checking out!” The reviewer also noted the charming replica paper tickets offered as souvenirs.
Angels Flight represents a tangible link to Los Angeles’ past, standing as one of the last vestiges of the original Bunker Hill neighborhood, once characterized by grand Victorian homes. The railway’s continued operation, despite setbacks, underscores its enduring appeal as a historical and cultural icon.
