Pershing Square

Pershing Square is a small public park in Downtown Los Angeles, covering one square block bordered by 5th, 6th, Hill, and Olive streets. Originally dedicated in 1866 as La Plaza Abaja by Mayor Cristóbal Aguilar, it was renamed in 1918 to honor General John J. Pershing. Visitors can enjoy this compact urban green space, notable for its long history and role as a downtown gathering spot. In 2026, the Los Angeles City Council approved renaming it Biddy Mason Park, after former slave and entrepreneur Biddy Mason, adding a layer of local heritage to the park.