While today Escolta St is a fairly gritty and rundown strip, it remains of historical significance as one of the last remnants of swinging pre-WWII Manila, when it was a ritzy strip of upmarket department stores and theatres. Numerous heritage buildings remain along Escolta, including examples of art deco, Beaux Arts and neoclassical design. Opposite the Capital Theatre, pop into the Escolta Museum to view its collection of photos and pre-war Manila paraphernalia.
Also visit for the Saturday Future Market held weekly by 98b in the heritage First United buidling, selling art pieces, vintage items and bric-a-brac.
