Mayan Theatre
Los Angeles, CA
Photo courtesy Adriene Biondo

The elaborate facade of Mayan Theatre gives Hill Street a show before anyone steps inside. Sculpted figures and deeply patterned reliefs cover the frontage, making this one worth examining slowly rather than catching only a glimpse from the car. If it brings the Mayan Theatre in Denver to mind, you’re seeing another example of the same unusual architectural fashion.

Opened in 1927 at 1038 S. Hill Street, the theatre was designed by Morgan, Walls & Clements, with artist Francisco Cornejo creating its distinctive pre-Columbian-inspired decoration. Originally a stage venue, the Mayan later showed movies before becoming a nightclub. The entertainment changed, but the building remained an attraction in its own right.

UPDATE: The previous nightclub operation ended in September 2025, followed by new operators and another round of improvements. The Mayan is again hosting nightlife and live events in 2026, with updated sound and lighting inside its historic surroundings. Nearly a century after opening, this Hill Street landmark still gives people a reason to gather beneath its familiar name. 10-26

Belasco Theatre
Los Angeles, CA
Photo by RoadsidePeek.com

The ornate Belasco Theatre stands beside the Mayan on Hill Street, adding another elaborate entrance to downtown’s theatre collection. Its arches and decorated frontage recall a time when the building helped sell the evening’s entertainment.

Opened in November 1926 at 1050 S. Hill Street, the Belasco was designed by Morgan, Walls & Clements. It began as a live playhouse, with later uses including religious services. The abandoned appearance noted in the original entry was only one chapter of its story.

UPDATE: The Belasco was restored and returned to entertainment use. Today it operates as a Live Nation concert venue, welcoming touring performers and special events. The old description of an abandoned theatre no longer applies—concert nights give audiences a reason to line up outside again. 10-26