Secret Stairs of the East Side
Hey there, fellow wanderers! If you’re a fan of off-the-beaten-path adventures and love exploring hidden gems, then Los Angeles has a treat for you – the Secret Stairs of Los Feliz and Silver Lake. These charming staircases offer a unique workout and unveil a side of LA often overlooked by the typical tourist trails. Locals see them as unique to the neighborhood and regard the secret stairs as unique. The hidden stairs are so famous that there’s even a book about them! So lace up those sneakers, and let’s embark on a journey to discover the secret stairs in Silver Lake and beyond – the stairway to hidden treasures!
The Secret Stairs in Silver Lake: A Hidden Wonderland
Nestled within the eclectic Silver Lake neighborhood, the secret stairs are a network of hidden staircases that weave through charming residential areas, revealing stunning vistas and a glimpse into the unique local architecture and celebrity homes. Our adventure begins at the intersection of Micheltorena Street and Sunset Boulevard, where we find the first set of stairs waiting to be conquered:
Micheltorena Heart Stairs: Stair Candy
In 2015, three artists, (Carla O’Brien and Mandon Bossi, along with Corinne Carrey), worked in secret to turn the otherwise drab Micheltorena Stairs on Sunset Boulevard, right across the street from where Micheltorena meets Sunset, into a brightly colored, heart-adorned staircase. They ascend into the Southern Silverlake Hills, crossing Larissa, before spilling out onto Micheltorena below Sunset.
Grab a coffee at Alfred right across the street and go hiking!
Mattachine Steps: Your Secret Portal to the Silverlake Reservoir
Between Silverlake Blvd and Glendale Blvd, you’ll find the Mattachine Steps. These allow locals on the Glendale Blvd side to easily access the Silverlake Reservoir and its parks. There are two steps for humans and one for dogs. In 2012, the Mattachine Society dedicated the steps in memory of Harry Hay, who cofounded the gay rights group.
Start at 2314 Cove Ave to enter from the Glendale Ave side or 2354 Cove Ave to enter from the reservoir side.
The Three Stooges, Loma Vista, and Earl Secret Stairs
Not far from The Mattachine Steps are three sets of secret stairs between Glendale Blvd and Allesandro Way near the southern terminus of The 2 Freeway, or The Glendale Freeway. All but one are named after the streets they connect. The Three Stooges Stairs are famous for where the Three Stooges short “An Ache In Every Stake” was filmed in 1941. It is a classic scene where they have to deliver a block of ice all the way to the top of the stairs, and with the stairs being so long, the block melts into a small cube. Hollywood buff? These are the secret stairs for you!
Watch the original skit here!
The Earl and Loma Vista stairs will also make you sweat. The Earl Stairs are narrow and windy, and the Loma Vista staircase is the longest in Los Angeles!
Quirky boutiques, street art, and cozy cafes dot the landscape of Silverlake and around the secret stairs, providing ample opportunities to take a breather and soak in the surroundings. The hidden stairs offer a physical workout and a visual feast of Silver Lake’s unique character.
Discovering the Charms of Los Feliz
Moving on to Los Feliz, another gem nestled under Griffith Park, we find more sets of secret stairs that wind their way through this historic area. Los Feliz is home to a variety of architectural styles, from Spanish Colonial Revival to Mid-Century Modern, making each step a journey through time and design.
Glencairn, Glendower, and Mosaic Secret Stairs
Fancy a hike through multimillion dollar estates and celebrity homes? Follow these steps:
- Go to the northern intersection of Los Feliz Blvd and Catalina St.
- Walk up and take in the views
- Turn right onto Glencairn Rd. You’ll seemingly find yourself at a dead end cul-de-sac. Look to the left at the trellised ivy and find a secret doorway leading to a secret stair case!
- Go down the stairs and find yourself on Bonvue Ave. Turn left to see the intricate Mosaic Stairs a few feet up. Go up.
- At the top of the Mosaic Secret Stairs is one of the best views of the Ennis House you’ll ever get! From here, you’ll see the beautiful but deadly Glendower Stairs. Your thighs will be screaming from the top!
- From here, take a right and walk up to the left (Look for the pink house) to find a secret access point to Griffith Park!
This local enjoys the above hike all the time!
One of the highlights of the Los Feliz secret stairs is the hidden paths they reveal. You’ll stumble upon tucked-away parks, lush gardens, and even unexpected art installations as you climb. It’s like embarking on a treasure hunt, where the prize is the stunning views of the city and the sense of having discovered something truly special.
Local Flavor and Hidden Hangouts
One of the joys of exploring the secret stairs in Silver Lake and Los Feliz is the chance to connect with the local culture. Residents often use these stairs daily, creating a friendly and communal atmosphere. Don’t be surprised if you converse with a neighbor or, better yet, invite yourself to a neighborhood event.
As the day unfolds, take a pit stop at one of the local eateries. Whether you crave a gourmet coffee from an indie cafe like Maru on Hillhurst or want to savor a meal at a hidden gem restaurant like Gingergrass on Glendale, Silver Lake, and Los Feliz have it all. These neighborhoods are a foodie’s paradise, and stumbling upon these eateries is like finding hidden treasures along your secret stairs journey.
Reaching the End of the Secret Stairs
So there you have it, fellow adventurers—the secret stairs in Silver Lake and Los Feliz, your ticket to a unique exploration of LA’s local charm. These staircases offer a fantastic workout and unveil the hidden stories and breathtaking views that make these neighborhoods truly special. Lace-up your shoes, embrace the mystery, and let the secret stairs lead you to a side of Los Angeles waiting to be discovered. Happy wandering!
Written on the scene by David Clark, an Angeleno who has cultivated his passions for NELA to become a top producing agent with The Shelhamer Real Estate Group. David resides locally and draws inspiration from architecturally significant properties, local folklore, and his Epicurious and artistic lifestyle.
Reach out and connect with me in the comments. I’d love to hear about what’s in your neighborhood and the vibrant new businesses and movements that have caught your eye and grabbed your attention.
805.280.1425
