In 2011, some 40.3 million tourists came to see Los Angeles County. We combed through the digital archives of the Boston Public Library to put together a collection of vintage postcards from a city that’s been a huge draw for visitors for decades, thanks to its connection to the film industry and warm climate.

Check out are some of our favorites from The Tichnor Brothers Collection, printed between 1930 and 1945. Aside from landmarks, there are also plenty of street scenes, public spaces and the odd business or two.

Greetings!

Olvera Street

Exposition Park

Carthay Circle Theatre

The theatre opened on 6316 San Vicente Boulevard in 1926. It saw a number of world premieres including “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” in 1937. The building was demolished in 1969 and replaced with an office block.

Wilshire Blvd

The Ambassador Hotel

Fifth Street

Union Station

Chinatown

Hollenbeck Park

Love retro postcards? Check out our collection of Washington, DC, Chicago , San Francisco and Houston sights.