The Lost Sky Space: What Happened To OUE Skyspace LA And The Best 5 Alternatives For A View In 2025
The iconic "sky space in LA," officially known as OUE Skyspace LA, is permanently closed. As of late 2025, the thrilling glass Skyslide and the open-air observation decks that once offered California's tallest panoramic views from the US Bank Tower are no longer accessible to the public, marking the end of a unique, high-altitude attraction in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA). This definitive guide provides the latest update on the closure, the fate of the Skyslide, and, most importantly, the top current alternatives for visitors seeking that breathtaking, 360-degree view of the City of Angels.
The closure, which took effect in late 2020, was a major blow to the city's tourism landscape. The attraction, which captivated visitors with its immersive digital exhibits and the sheer audacity of a glass slide suspended 1,000 feet above the pavement, has been permanently decommissioned. The space is now part of an extensive renovation project by the US Bank Tower's new ownership, meaning the chance to slide down the side of a skyscraper is officially a chapter closed in LA history.
The Rise and Fall of OUE Skyspace LA and the Legendary Skyslide
OUE Skyspace LA was a key component of a massive $50 million renovation project for the US Bank Tower, which, at 1,018 feet, reigned as the tallest building on the West Coast when the attraction opened in 2016. The concept was simple yet thrilling: transform the top floors of the skyscraper into a world-class public observation deck and a unique cultural destination. The official address was 633 West 5th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071.
The Skyslide Phenomenon
The undisputed star of the Skyspace was the infamous Skyslide. This fully enclosed, 45-foot-long glass slide was installed on the exterior of the tower, connecting the 70th floor to the 69th floor observation deck. The experience offered thrill-seekers a brief but terrifying ride with nothing but a thin layer of glass separating them from the 1,000-foot drop to the street below. The Skyslide quickly became a global sensation, drawing millions of visitors and becoming one of the most Instagrammable spots in Los Angeles.
The attraction also featured two open-air observation decks, providing unparalleled 360-degree views stretching from the Hollywood Hills and Dodger Stadium to the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. Inside, visitors enjoyed interactive digital exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Los Angeles. Despite its initial success and unique offering, the attraction faced challenges, including a temporary closure during the 2020 global events, which ultimately led to its permanent shuttering.
The Fate of the Observation Deck and Skyslide
The current status of the former Skyspace is clear: the facility is permanently closed and will not reopen. The US Bank Tower, a landmark in the Downtown Los Angeles skyline, is undergoing a significant transformation under its new ownership. Reports indicate that the new owners plan to remove the Skyslide entirely as part of a larger renovation to modernize the building's infrastructure and amenities. The space is expected to be converted for other uses, focusing on high-end office and commercial tenants, officially ending the era of the public observation deck at the top of the US Bank Tower.
The Top 5 Best Alternatives for High-Rise Views of Los Angeles in 2025
While the Skyspace is gone, the desire for a stunning panoramic view of the sprawling metropolis remains. Fortunately, Los Angeles offers several fantastic—and sometimes free—alternatives to capture that perfect skyline photograph. These spots provide excellent vantage points over Downtown LA (DTLA), the ocean, and the surrounding mountains.
1. LA City Hall Observation Deck (The Free Option)
- Why it's a great alternative: This is arguably the best free view in Downtown LA. The observation deck is located on the 27th floor of the historic LA City Hall (Tom Bradley Tower). While not as high as the US Bank Tower, it offers fantastic, unobstructed sightlines of the DTLA skyline, including a unique perspective of the surrounding government buildings and the mountains.
- Experience: It provides a historical and architectural view of the city center. Remember to check current operating hours and security protocols before visiting.
- Entity Keywords: LA City Hall, Tom Bradley Tower, Free Observation Deck, Historic Los Angeles.
2. InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown (The Luxury View)
- Why it's a great alternative: Located in the Wilshire Grand Center, which surpassed the US Bank Tower as the tallest building in Los Angeles, the InterContinental offers several high-altitude experiences. The Spire 73 rooftop bar, located on the 73rd floor, is the highest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere.
- Experience: This is a premium option, offering cocktails and dining with a spectacular, luxurious view. It's the closest you'll get to the Skyspace's height and provides a stunning nighttime view of the illuminated city.
- Entity Keywords: InterContinental Hotel, Wilshire Grand Center, Spire 73, Highest Open-Air Bar, Luxury Dining.
3. Jerome C. Daniel Overlook (The Hollywood Bowl View)
- Why it's a great alternative: For a completely different, sweeping view that encompasses the Hollywood sign and the vast LA basin, this overlook is a classic choice. It's located on Mulholland Drive and offers a stunning, iconic perspective of the city.
- Experience: A roadside scenic viewpoint ideal for sunset photography. It's easily accessible and perfect for capturing the scale of the Los Angeles sprawl.
- Entity Keywords: Jerome C. Daniel Overlook, Hollywood Bowl Scenic Overlook, Mulholland Drive, Hollywood Hills, Classic LA View.
4. Griffith Observatory (The Iconic Landmark View)
- Why it's a great alternative: While not a skyscraper, the Griffith Observatory offers the most famous and comprehensive view of the entire city, including the Hollywood Sign, the DTLA skyline in the distance, and the Pacific Ocean.
- Experience: The views are free, and you can combine your visit with the observatory's excellent exhibits on science and astronomy. It is a must-visit Los Angeles tourist attraction, especially at dusk.
- Entity Keywords: Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Sign View, Planetarium, Mount Hollywood, Los Angeles Tourism.
5. Perch LA (The Rooftop Bar Alternative)
- Why it's a great alternative: Located in the Historic Core of Downtown LA, Perch is a vibrant French-inspired rooftop bar and bistro. It offers a fantastic mid-level perspective of the neighboring skyscrapers and a lively atmosphere.
- Experience: Enjoy brunch, dinner, or cocktails with a close-up view of the surrounding architecture, including the historic Pershing Square. It's a great spot to feel immersed in the DTLA buzz without the extreme altitude of the former Skyspace.
- Entity Keywords: Perch LA, Downtown LA Rooftop Bar, Historic Core, French Bistro, Pershing Square.
The Future of High-Altitude Attractions in Los Angeles
The permanent closure of OUE Skyspace LA and the removal of the Skyslide signify a shift in the Downtown Los Angeles landscape. While the thrill of sliding down a skyscraper is gone, the focus is now on more sustainable, multi-use spaces and high-end hospitality. The demand for panoramic views remains high, evidenced by the popularity of rooftop bars and scenic overlooks. Visitors to LA in 2025 should pivot from seeking the singular, high-cost attraction to exploring the diverse range of free, historic, and luxurious viewing experiences the city continues to offer.
The US Bank Tower will continue to dominate the skyline, but its future role is primarily as a commercial hub, not a public tourist destination. Therefore, for the best current views, your itinerary should prioritize the historic vantage points like City Hall and the luxurious, modern experiences offered by the city's newest, tallest buildings like the Wilshire Grand Center.
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