Bullock’S Wilshire

Introduction: Discovering Bullock’s Wilshire

Nestled along the vibrant Wilshire Boulevard, Bullock’s Wilshire stands as a crown jewel of Los Angeles’ architectural and cultural landscape. Since its grand opening in 1929, this Art Deco masterpiece has symbolized the city’s golden age, merging luxury, innovation, and the automobile era’s spirit. Designed by John and Donald Parkinson, it was a trailblazer for automobile-oriented retail and has since evolved from a glamorous department store to a carefully preserved educational and historical landmark (Los Angeles Public Library, Los Angeles Conservancy). Today, Bullock’s Wilshire offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore one of the city’s most celebrated architectural icons during special open house events and guided tours.

This comprehensive visitor guide details the building’s fascinating history, architectural features, current use, and essential information for planning your visit, including hours, tickets, accessibility, and nearby attractions. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, history aficionado, or a traveler seeking LA’s storied past, Bullock’s Wilshire is a must-see destination.

Origins and Vision

Bullock’s Wilshire was conceived during the city’s rapid expansion in the late 1920s by John G. Bullock and Arthur Letts, whose downtown department store was already a retail powerhouse (Los Angeles Public Library). The new outpost was intended to serve LA’s growing west side and embrace the rise of the automobile, with a then-unconventional location and auto-friendly design. Inspired by luxury retailers like Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman but with a uniquely Los Angeles twist, Bullock’s Wilshire was designed to cater to motorists, featuring a rear porte-cochère and dedicated parking—a revolutionary concept at the time.

Architectural Innovation

Designed by John and Donald Parkinson, the building is an exemplar of early American Art Deco. Its five-story façade is clad in pale terra cotta, punctuated by vertical lines and crowned by a striking 241-foot copper spire with a verdigris patina (BuildingsDB). Interiors were lavishly appointed with Lalique light fixtures, marble, and murals by Herman Sachs, with each department showcasing unique design elements (Los Angeles Conservancy). The store was among the first in the nation to prioritize automobile access, setting a precedent for future retail architecture (KCET).

The Golden Era

Upon opening in 1929, Bullock’s Wilshire was celebrated as a marvel of modernity and elegance. Hollywood stars and socialites flocked to its grand halls, while the fifth-floor Tea Room became a social destination. The store’s blend of luxury retail, innovative design, and exceptional service set new standards for American department stores (Margaret Leslie Davis), and its success helped establish Wilshire Boulevard as a premier shopping corridor.

Decline and Preservation

The latter half of the 20th century saw changing retail habits and the rise of suburban malls, leading to a gradual decline. Despite being designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 1969 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 (BuildingsDB), the store closed in 1993. During liquidation, many original fixtures were removed, but preservation efforts successfully restored them the following year (Los Angeles Conservancy).

Adaptive Reuse: Southwestern Law School

Southwestern Law School acquired the building in 1994, launching a meticulous restoration that preserved the original Art Deco details while adapting spaces for academic use (Southwestern Law School). Today, Bullock’s Wilshire serves as both an educational facility and a living museum, with the Tea Room, Perfume Hall, and other historic spaces carefully restored for public appreciation during special events (Los Angeles Conservancy).

Visiting Bullock’s Wilshire

Hours and Access

Bullock’s Wilshire is not open for daily public visits, as it functions as Southwestern Law School’s campus. However, the school hosts an annual open house (typically in August), where visitors can explore the building’s storied interiors (Time Out LA). Occasional special events and guided tours are also offered; prospective visitors should monitor the Southwestern Law School Open House page for up-to-date information.

Annual Open House Example:

• Date: Early August (check current year’s schedule)
• Time: Timed-entry slots throughout the day
• Admission: Generally $35 per person (advance reservation required)

Tickets and Tours

• Exterior Viewing: Free at any time from Wilshire Boulevard.
• Interior Access: Reserved for open house and pre-booked tours.
• Booking: Purchase tickets online in advance via the Southwestern Law School website or authorized partners.
• Guided Tours: Knowledgeable docents provide historical and architectural insights during special events.

Accessibility

The building is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators and accessible restrooms provided. For specific accommodation requests, contact Southwestern Law School ahead of your visit.

Getting There

• Address: 3050 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
• By Car: Street parking is available; public parking may be offered during events.
• By Transit: The Metro Purple Line’s Wilshire/Western station is within walking distance, and several bus lines serve the area.

Photography and Events

• Photography: Permitted in most public areas during open house events. Flash and tripods may be restricted—always verify event guidelines.
• Special Events: Periodic lectures, exhibits, and alumni gatherings are held within the building. Check the Southwestern Law School events page for announcements.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring additional cultural and historical sites along Wilshire Boulevard:

• Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
• Petersen Automotive Museum
• La Brea Tar Pits
• Wiltern Theatre (Art Deco landmark)
• MacArthur Park

These destinations make Mid-Wilshire an ideal area for architecture and culture enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When is Bullock’s Wilshire open to the public?
A: The building is generally only open during the annual open house in August or for occasional special tours. Check the Southwestern Law School Open House page for the latest updates.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase tickets in advance online through Southwestern Law School’s official site or authorized partners.

Q: Is the building accessible?
A: Yes, Bullock’s Wilshire is wheelchair accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, during open house events and occasionally by appointment. Most tours are self-guided, but docents are available for questions.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Photography is allowed during most public events; restrictions may apply to flash and tripods.

Q: What should I see inside?
A: Highlights include the Grand Lobby, restored Tea Room, Perfume Hall, original display cases, elevators, and the iconic copper-clad tower.