It's understandably a bold claim to make, considering the non-stellar reputation it currently has and the abundance of trash and grime in certain parts of the area, not to mention the relatively high crime rate. But they didn't call it the Champs-Elysees of L.A. for nothing, and you can definitely see its former grandeur amid the taco carts and the fake ID sellers - in the detailed facade of buildings, the grand apartment buildings, and of course the amazing MacArthur Park.
I think it's one of the most beautifully laid out neighborhood in L.A., with the park at its center, surrounded by grand buildings like the Park Plaza Hotel, Ansonia Apartments, and the iconic Westlake Theater sign. Too bad so much of the buildings have become swap meets or discount stores, but there are still lots of interesting buildings, and its walkability and proximity to downtown (not to mention Langer's, home to the best pastrami in the country) still makes it a pretty desirable neighborhood.
Here are some photos I took not too long ago on a day with very strange but beautiful weather. The light from the sun was amazing, but there were also lots of ominous rainclouds next to unrealistically blue skies, which made for some interesting juxtaposition.