The Watts Towers comprise 17 principal sculptures, designed by Italian immigrant and visionary Simon Rodia. The artist shaped steel and mortar, twisted rebar, and adorned his creations with shells, rock, glass, and mosaic. The result is today's Simon Rodia State Historic Park. This National Historic Landmark draws tens of thousands of visitors annually, and is managed by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), in partnership with the city.
Although you can always stop by just to view the towers, you can actually explore the site if you join for a paid, guided tour. If the towers are undergoing maintenance, tours are typically offered outside the fence. Consider pairing your visit with a special event or workshop at the associated Watts Towers Arts Center. Check the schedule to see what's on.
The towers are situated in South Central Los Angeles, just north of Interstate 105. If you have a car, you should drive, and park on the street for free. Alternatively, the towers are accessible by LA Metro. You can take the blue line to the 103rd Street / Watts Towers stop, and head south on Grandee Avenue. It's about a 10-minute walk.
Since the Watts Towers are an outdoor attraction, you should visit when the weather is pleasant, and avoid rainy days. You can visit any time to take a look at the towers, but to visit the fenced-in site, stop by in the middle of the day for a guided tour, Thursday through Sunday.
As a standout West Coast arts institution, it's fitting that the Watts Towers are managed by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. For visitors to Watts Towers, this celebrated museum in itself is worth a visit, particularly for art enthusiasts interested in contemporary works. LACMA features more than 100,000 art objects, and hosts frequent public programs and events. The museum is closed on Wednesdays.
