7 LA Tourist Landmarks Destroyed by Wildfires
Some of the most famous landmarks in LA attract millions of visitors annually, but the beauties of this metropolis always come with a harsh reminder of wildfires. California’s landscapes have been scarred by these natural disasters—LA’s most beloved sites not only crumbled, they became ashes.
Areas where locals and tourists alike have fondest memories and pictures of pristine movie backdrops or storied cultural areas have gone up in smoke. This list will take you through seven famous landmarks that couldn’t withstand the unforgiving blaze. So let’s see what we’ve lost to these fiery tragedies.
Will Rogers State Historic Park
Part of this 186-acre estate in Pacific Palisades was once home to legendary actor and humorist Will Rogers and it provided its visitors with a glimpse of Hollywood in the golden age. Rogers’ legacy included the ranch house, stables, and polo field. Unfortunately, these historic structures were burned by the Palisades Fire leaving only memories of their former glory.
Topanga Ranch Motel
The Topanga Ranch Motel was a charming collection of bungalows constructed in 1929 by media mogul William Randolph Hearst. It previously housed Pacific Coast Highway construction workers and later served as a filming location. The Palisades Fire ended the storied past of this historic sight, despite plans for restoration, and reduced it to ashes.
Theatre Palisades
Theatre Palisades has been a pillar of the local arts community for more than 50 years, putting on many shows and growing talent. The Palisades Fire destroyed its home, the Pierson Playhouse, silencing a stage that had brought so much joy to many people. The community mourns the death of this loss, and promises to rebuild it one day, and always keep the local spirit of theater alive.
Reel Inn
Bordered along the Pacific Coast Highway, the Reel Inn shrimp shack had been slinging fresh catches since 1986. It was famous for its laid-back feel and heavenly delicacies. The loss of this eatery left a void in the coastal dining scene after the Palisades Fire destroyed it.
The Bunny Museum
A quirky attraction, the Bunny Museum in Altadena housed the world’s largest collection of bunny-related items and was a hit with all ages. It celebrated all things rabbit; from stuffed toys to art pieces. The loss of this one-of-a-kind museum to Eaton Fire is a loss to the city’s tapestry of oddball landmarks.
Andrew McNally House
This Queen Anne-style mansion was built in the late 1880s for map publisher Andrew McNally; it was an architectural gem in Altadena. Its ornate design is a treasured landmark and yet a historical one. This amazing structure was eaten up by the flames of the Eaton Fire, erasing a piece of the area’s heritage.
Palisades Charter High School
Palisades Charter High School was both an educational institution and a star in its own right. This school was featured in films like Carrie and Freaky Friday, and so had a special place in Hollywood history. Unfortunately, the structures of the Palisades Fire suffered a lot of damage, erasing decades of memories and cinematic moments.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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