The Downtown L.A. Arts District’s most recognizable brewery is closing this month and throwing one last hurrah

by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Angel City Brewery, a longtime fixture of downtown Los Angeles, will permanently close its doors on April 30. The closure comes as the brewery’s lease at the corner of Alameda Street and Traction Avenue is set to expire.

A Final Farewell to the Arts District

Before the official shuttering, the brewery is hosting a final event titled “Angel City’s Last Call.” This farewell celebration will take place on Sunday, April 26, from noon to 6 p.m.

The event will feature beer, DJs, bands and giveaways. In keeping with the brewery’s tradition, there will be no cover charge for attendees.

Did You Know? Founded in 1997 by Michael Bowe, Angel City Brewery operated in Culver City and Torrance’s Alpine Village before moving to its industrial home in the John A. Roebling Building in 2010.

The Legacy of an Unofficial Gateway

For many, the brewery served as the unofficial grand entrance to the Arts District. Its distinctive neon sign, featuring an L.A. City Hall logo, became a landmark for the neighborhood.

From Instagram — related to City, Arts District

Beyond the beer, the warehouse tap room acted as a community “living room.” It hosted a variety of activities, including movie screenings, trivia, and yoga.

The space was known for unique touches, such as a twisty slide between floors and murals by the famed artist JR. It even hosted a “snow day” in January 2015, where snow was shipped onto the patio.

Expert Insight: The transition of Angel City Brewery from a local operation to a corporate subsidiary of Boston Beer Company mirrors a larger trend in the craft beer industry. The loss of such a “cornerstone” location could shift the social gravity of the Arts District, as the brewery provided a rare, low-barrier community space in a rapidly developing urban area.

Corporate Shifts and Future Outlook

The brewery was sold in 2012 to Alchemy & Science, a subsidiary of the Boston Beer Company, the maker of Sam Adams. By 2025, the parent company began winding down operations at the site, starting with the Truly hard seltzer tasting room.

This closure is part of a strategic pivot by Boston Beer Company to concentrate on its core brands. The company may explore selling the Angel City brand as a standalone entity.

The departure of this landmark could potentially alter the foot traffic patterns of the neighborhood. Future developments at the historic John A. Roebling Building may depend on the expiration of the current lease.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the final day of operation for Angel City Brewery?

The brewery will officially close its doors on April 30.

Frequently Asked Questions
City Arts District Angel

What are the brewery’s current operating hours?

The brewery at 216 Alameda Street is open Tuesday to Thursday from 4 p.m. To midnight, Friday from 4 p.m. To 12:30 a.m., Saturday from noon to 12:30 a.m., and Sunday from noon to midnight.

Who owns Angel City Brewery?

The brewery is owned by Boston Beer Company, which acquired it in 2012 through its Alchemy & Science subsidiary.

How will the loss of this neighborhood landmark change your perception of the Arts District?

Downtown LA's Arts District | Look At This!

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