TOP SPOTS IN DTLA FOR THE 9 to 5ISH CROWD: March 2025

Find Your Fit 

We all know the YMCA for its fitness facilities, infamous stair climb, and catchy theme song by the Village People, but the Y still has a few hidden treasures. There are a wide range of classes from strength training to yoga, a pool and sauna, plus extremely friendly staff. Yet somewhere between the free weights and treadmills, you’ll also find a genuine sense of community where friendships form and colleagues connect over shared activities. As all the regulars can tell you, Monday’s lunchtime pilates is the ultimate core workout. The YMCA is more than a gym—it's a supportive community striving for healthy living and a better lifestyle. 

Beyond the Books

I’m thrilled that folks are recommending one of DTLA’s best cultural resources —the Central Library. More than just a place for books, the Library’s stunning architecture, peaceful gardens, and rotating free events make it a vibrant cultural hub. Pack a sack lunch to enjoy in Maguire Gardens, take a docent-led art tour during lunch, or maybe join a class like their Tuesday afternoon Music Wellness class or a neighborhood sing. Plus, there’s something about being surrounded by books that can bring a moment of calm or inspiration to a busy workday. Check out their full calendar events on their website. 

Sculpt and Sweat

When you want the results from a workout but the mental clarity that comes from yoga, CorePower Yoga has got you covered. Unlike typical yoga classes, unique classes like Yoga Sculpt at CorePower combine cardio, weight training, and specific yoga poses in a room heated to 90-95 degrees Fahrenheit. The dynamic movement, heat, and humidity will certainly enhance both the class and your results. You’ll leave CorePower feeling completely rejuvenated and, as a bonus, fully acclimated to the summer heat. What keeps people coming back, though, is the sense of community. Plus, the convenient location and flexible schedule make it easy to find a class that fits perfectly into your lunch break or after work.

Workouts for Every Body 

It’s easy understand why Orangetheory Fitness is a favorite among DTLA fitness fans. Known for its high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes, you can get a full-body workout that mixes cardio, strength training, and heart rate-based training. Folks love that you can see in real-time your heart rate and develop understanding of how to push yourself (or pull back) to get to the “orange” zone to build better endurance and strength.  Whether you’re squeezing in a session before work or heading in for an afternoon class, their energetic atmosphere and supportive coaches will keep you motivated, leaving class feeling ready to take on the rest of your day. 

Get Creative on the DTLA Art Trail 

Do you take a daily walk around Downtown during your lunch hour or is that just me and my work friends? If you’re like us, turn your daily stroll into an art tour by exploring DTLA’s murals, sculptures, and hidden art pieces along the DTLA Art Trail. From iconic historic installations to bold contemporary works, this self-guided experience offers a fresh perspective on the city. And there’s so much on the trail, you’ll have something new to see each week! Grab a coworker, soak up the sun, and make a weekly or monthly lunchtime ritual out of it—there’s no better way to clear your mind while staying inspired. There’s so much to explore, you’ll discover something new every time! - Recommended by Sheri, Figueroa at Wilshire.

Create, Innovate, and Learn 

The Octavia Lab, a do-it-yourself makerspace located inside the historic Central Library, is a hidden treasure trove for creators of all kinds. This do-it-yourself makerspace offers free access to top-of-the-line tools like 3D printers, music recording equipment, photo editing software, and so much more— Octavia Lab has everything you need to bring your projects to life. Best of all, it’s free with a library card. Workshops and equipment reservations fill up quickly, so schedule an orientation tour on the Central Library’s website today and discover your next big idea!

Midday Fresh Produce

If you’re looking for an early-week reset, fresh produce, flowers, and sunshine might do the trick. Among DTLA’s many great markets, office workers rave about the weekly farmer’s market held at Bank of America Plaza (333 S. Hope), Tuesdays from 10 AM to 2 PM. It’s the perfect spot to grab seasonal fruits, honey, and even a fresh bouquet. Bonus: Climbing the Bunker Hill steps on your way over counts as a built-in workout.  

Workday Intermission

We can tell DTLA 9-to-5ers are excited for a workday intermission with this recommendation. Your seasonal series is back Tuesdays in April, so mark your calendars! Log off for an hour, grab your lunch to-go, tell your favorite coworker, and catch a free, live concert on the Colburn School Plaza. Concerts at Colburn shine a spotlight on this iconic arts and culture institution in DTLA, while also showcasing the talents of their students during a weekly musical performance each Tuesday at noon, starting April 15 – May 6. 

You Set The Tone

Whether yoga helps you start your day strong or wind down after work, LA Fitness at The Bloc makes it easy with early evening classes. Along with group sessions, they offer personal training, a pool, a sauna, and a full gym to fit any fitness routine. DTLA 9-to-5ers love the variety of options that help keep their wellness goals on track. And let’s be real—a gym that works around your schedule is the real MVP.