The Painted Stairs of Silver Lake

Here we are, post-holiday binging and laziness. I can’t even remember everything I watched on Netflix in the past two weeks. So you are looking for some funky ways to stay fit in the new year, huh? Well, the Silver Lake painted stairs are not new to locals, but they definitely coincide with my new year resolution to be able to hike more and complete the US Bank Stair Climb in 2018. There is some fresh paint to see along these trendy staircases, so even if you’ve climbed them before, consider returning. With my cactus obsession, I may be here more often in the new year! Read on for exact locations to the 5 most popular painted staircases (all in very close proximity to each other). 

Micheltorena Staircase @ 3400 Sunset Blvd

The staircase is located on the West side of the street (directly across from Alfred Coffee) and the is plenty of metered parking on both sides of the street. The staircase has 3 parts, straight up; the rainbow steps with red hearts, a series of lavender hearts, and then a final set with some multicolored steps. We went straight up and down and then on to the next…

Piano Staircase @ 3229 Sunset Blvd

Go back out to Sunset and cross the street at Micheltorena to the East side. Head South, towards Alfred Coffee and, about 1/2 way down the long block, you will find the Piano Staircase. These are not to be confused with the famous Music Box Steps used in the 1932 Laurel and Hardy film (932 N. Vendome St.). This is just is one long flight of stairs, broken up slightly in a couple of patches, yet a bit steeper than the previous staircase. Depending on how much of a workout you want to get in, you could walk to the next spot, but if you are making this more of a touristy or ‘gram experience, go back to your car and drive to the next address. 

Swan Stairway @ 2958 Swan Place

The first set of stairs (shades of blue) starts off of Swan Place, a narrow residential street, and I suggest parking on West Silver Lake Dr and walking up Swan Place. Once you reach the top, you will be at Redesdale Ave and you will see the signature geometric art from @thepaintedline gorgeously welcoming you to the next flight, which is donned with a sprinkling of pastel triangles. This staircase will dump you out onto Rotary Dr, where the newest tribute mural to Los Angeles is waiting in all of its glory. Definitely the best reward for a decent workout. But don’t stop there, one more staircase awaits. Then you can turn around and head back down with a lovely view of DTLA and the actual Silver Lake. 

Alright, who’s ready for leg & butt day?