Hi Alex-

In LA I would recommend the Bradbury Building- classic old, black iron elevator in center of landmark building. As you travel up or down, you can see every aspect of the building.

For fast, glass elevators- The Westin Bonaventure in downtown. A unique 5-cylindric tower hotel with glass elevators that travel b/w the towers.

In Toronto- the CN tower is extremely fast and goes VERY high!

Hope this helps-
Kevin