Talk about a view!
The U.S. Bank Tower in downtown Los Angeles might be the second highest building in Los Angeles (second only to The Wilshire Grand Center), but its helipad is actually the highest in the United States – and the third highest in the world!
The L.A. monument was built in 1989 and is sitting pretty at 1,018 feet tall. On top of the 73 floors is the building’s helipad, open to pilots only for emergency use. The building is so iconic that it has been featured in various films, television shows, and even the Grand Theft Auto video games, where it’s known as the Maze Bank Tower.
Though the helipad is typically closed to the public, building owners Silverstein Properties gave Secret Los Angeles an exclusive look at the stunning view.
Can I see this view in person?
Maybe!
The building is typically closed to the public, and its many amenities are reserved for tenants. But even if you’re lucky enough to work for one of the businesses renting an office in the space, the helipad is typically locked, accessible only on very special occasions and with the building’s managers’ approval and supervision.
Then how can I see the view?
You might not be able to go atop the helipad, but you can get close!
The building has a gorgeous fine-dining restaurant on the 71st floor, 71 Above.
The property also hosts an annual charity stair climb with the Ketchum-Downtown YMCA. Around 4,000 participants climb 1,664 steps from the lobby level to the roof and get their own glimpse of the iconic view. The steps rise 1,005 feet, which makes it the tallest stairwell west of the Mississippi.
According to a representative, “This is the biggest fundraising event for the YMCA, raising nearly $700,000 for programs, education, childcare for youths and teens living in underserved communities in LA.”
Participants end the climb on the roof of the 75th floor, where they collect a crown. Once they receive their metal, they are directed back down to a recovery floor, typically the 61st, where they can take in the view and the YMCA provides participants with water and fruit. Following the event, participants take the elevator back down to the lobby level and walk across the street to Maguire Gardens for a block party featuring food, activities, music, and a beer garden.
This year’s stair climb is set for Friday, September 26, 2025. Registration for the 32nd Annual Climb opens July 1, 2025.
📍Location: 633 West Fifth Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071