The Ultimate Guide to the Iconic Big 56 La Cienega

Welcome to Big 56 La Cienega, a legendary shopping destination in the heart of Los Angeles. Spanning over 56 acres, this outdoor mall has been a beloved hub for fashion enthusiasts, art collectors, and discerning shoppers since 1967.

History and Evolution of Big 56 La Cienega

Big 56 La Cienega traces its roots back to the 1940s when it was a citrus grove. In the 1960s, visionary developer Jerry Magnin transformed the area into an upscale shopping center, which opened its doors in 1967. Over the decades, Big 56 La Cienega has evolved to reflect changing consumer preferences and retail trends, while always staying true to its luxurious and sophisticated ambiance.

Anchor Stores and Specialty Boutiques

The Big 56 La Cienega complex is home to a diverse mix of anchor stores and specialty boutiques, catering to every taste and budget.

Anchor Stores:

• Nordstrom: The flagship Nordstrom store, spanning over 350,000 square feet, offers an extensive selection of designer clothing, accessories, home goods, and more.
• Bloomingdale's: Known for its upscale fashion and beauty offerings, Bloomingdale's features a curated collection of designer brands, including Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.
• Saks Fifth Avenue: This iconic department store showcases a wide range of high-end fashion, accessories, and beauty products.

Specialty Boutiques:

• Tom Ford: The flagship Tom Ford boutique offers the latest collections from the renowned fashion designer, including clothing, accessories, and fragrances.
• Prada: This Italian luxury brand presents a range of sophisticated clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories.
• Saint Laurent: Known for its edgy and glamorous designs, Saint Laurent features a curated selection of fashion items for both men and women.
• Bottega Veneta: This Italian leather goods company showcases its exquisite handbags, shoes, and accessories, crafted from the finest materials.
• Diptyque: This French perfumery offers a wide range of signature scents, candles, and home fragrances.

The Art and Culture of Big 56 La Cienega

In addition to its retail offerings, Big 56 La Cienega is also a hub for art and culture. The complex is home to several galleries, including:

• Gagosian Gallery: One of the world's leading contemporary art galleries, Gagosian Gallery exhibits works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Jeff Koons, and Damien Hirst.
• Pace Gallery: This international gallery showcases a diverse range of contemporary and modern art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.
• Regen Projects: This gallery features works by emerging and established artists, with a focus on experimental and innovative contemporary art.

Dining and Entertainment

Big 56 La Cienega offers a variety of dining options to cater to every taste and budget. From casual cafes to fine dining establishments, there is something for everyone.

• The Farm at Beverly Hills: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Connie & Ted's: Known for its classic American cuisine, Connie & Ted's is a neighborhood favorite serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Osteria Mozza: Chef Nancy Silverton's famous Italian restaurant offers a menu of authentic Italian dishes, including pizzas, pastas, and antipasti.

For entertainment, Big 56 La Cienega is within walking distance of the La Cienega Theatre, which hosts a variety of live performances, from concerts to theater productions.

Planning Your Visit

To make the most of your visit to Big 56 La Cienega, consider the following tips:

• Plan Ahead: Visit the website or social media pages of individual stores and galleries to check for events and special promotions.
• Dress Comfortably: As you'll be doing a lot of walking, dress in comfortable shoes and clothing.
• Take Breaks: There are plenty of places to rest and enjoy a bite to eat throughout the complex.
• Utilize Valet Parking: For added convenience, take advantage of the valet parking services offered by many of the stores.
• Allow Ample Time: With so much to see and do, allow plenty of time to fully explore the complex.

Step-by-Step Approach

To ensure a seamless shopping experience, follow these steps:

1. Start at Nordstrom: Begin your shopping journey at the flagship Nordstrom store to get a sense of the overall complex and its offerings.
2. Explore the Specialty Boutiques: Visit the specialty boutiques along the main promenade to discover unique and exclusive items.
3. Visit the Galleries: Take time to explore the art galleries to admire the works of renowned artists.
4. Dine and Relax: Break for lunch or dinner at one of the many dining options available, such as The Farm at Beverly Hills or Connie & Ted's.
5. End at Saks Fifth Avenue: Conclude your visit at the luxurious Saks Fifth Avenue store for a final touch of high-end shopping.

Call to Action

Indulge in an unforgettable shopping experience at Big 56 La Cienega. Explore the finest designer boutiques, admire world-class art, dine at renowned restaurants, and create lasting memories. Visit the complex today and experience the ultimate in luxury and sophistication.

Key Statistics and Figures

• Over 56 acres: Spanning an impressive 56 acres, Big 56 La Cienega is one of the largest open-air shopping malls in Los Angeles.
• More than 100 stores: The complex houses over 100 stores, ranging from luxury boutiques to specialty shops, offering a wide variety of products and experiences.
• Home to leading luxury brands: Big 56 La Cienega is home to some of the world's most renowned luxury brands, including Gucci, Prada, Saint Laurent, and Bottega Veneta.
• Over $1 billion in annual sales: According to Forbes, Big 56 La Cienega generates over $1 billion in annual sales, making it one of the most successful shopping destinations in the United States.
• Significant pedestrian traffic: Attracting over 20 million visitors per year, Big 56 La Cienega is a major pedestrian destination in Los Angeles.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Anchor Stores at Big 56 La Cienega

Table 2: Specialty Boutiques at Big 56 La Cienega

Table 3: Dining Options at Big 56 La Cienega

Tips and Tricks

• Join the Rewards Programs: Many of the stores at Big 56 La Cienega offer loyalty programs that provide exclusive discounts and rewards.
• Book Private Styling Appointments: Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's offer personalized styling appointments to help you create the perfect outfit.
• Check for Special Events: The complex often hosts special events, such as fashion shows, art exhibitions, and celebrity meet-and-greets.
• Utilize the Concierge Services: The Nordstrom concierge can assist with shopping, dining, and transportation arrangements.
• Park Strategically: Park your car in the most convenient location based on the stores you plan to visit. Consider valet parking for added ease.