The incident happened about 11:30 p.m. near West Katella Avenue and Clementine Street in front of the new J.W. Marriot Hotel.
Police said he was on the crane for more than an hour and at one point took his pants off. He also used his own rope to climb down.
The man was arrested at the base of the crane, where he threw some PVC glue on officers.
No one was hurt, but the suspect was taken to a hospital. Police believe he may have been under the influence or suffering mental health issues.