 In the 1920's, A.W. Ross developed a shopping area designed to accommodate cars by providing wider streets and parking behind retail stores. This strip of Wilshire Boulevard, between Sycamore Avenue to the east and Fairfax Avenue to the west, is strategically placed within Los Angeles.
The design of the building storefronts facilitated presentations by local merchants, combining the concepts of window shopping and driving into one activity. Associates of Ross began to see the Boulevard's potential and renamed it "Miracle Mile." Experiencing revitalization in the 90's, the islands are identified with historic neon signs and new landscaping. Extraordinary examples of Art Deco, Streamline Moderne and Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture continue to grace the area.
New businesses continue to appear along the boulevard. Old businesses are sporting new looks and many of our buildings are being restored and remodeled. As the plantings on the islands that line the boulevard mature, the look of Wilshire Boulevard is more appealing. Small tables are sprouting along the sidewalks in front of our cafes. The street is more community friendly and accessible with the addition of parking on the street and a new parking lot at Detroit, complete with newsstand service. The creation of a Community Design Overlay District for the Miracle Mile will serve to ensure that continuing and future developments augment and enhance the unique architectural character and environmental setting.
 Comprised of a colorful mix of retailers, restaurants, advertising agencies, law firms, public relations offices, publishing companies, art galleries, businesses and entertainment corporations, the Miracle Mile plays a defining part in the identity of the greater metropolis of our city. Several museums are permanent residents of Museum Row on the Miracle Mile.
Entertainment and events are an integral part of our community.
Hundred of thousands of visitors came to the Van Gogh exhibit at LACMA, the second of only two exhibition sites in the United States. The re-opening of Hancock Park surrounding LACMA and the Page Museum facilities was celebrated as the center piece for our community. Many non-profit organizations call the Miracle Mile "home." The beautiful Wilshire Courtyard office complex was site of the "Light the Night Walk" for the Leukemia Society of America. The first weekend in October includes the Annual County-wide Arts Open House with Museum Row on the Miracle Mile as a hub-site. The Boulevard, closed from Fairfax to Curson Avenues, features music, food and an array of booths for visitors to enjoy.
 For almost seventy-five years, the Miracle Mile, with its wealth of historic and new architecture, ethnic diversity and wide range of cultural amenities has drawn residents, business owners and visitors alike. Join the Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce now and share in the benefits of our community.
Become a part of this exciting
revitalization and experience the "miracle."
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