Name: Hollywood & Highland
Address: 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Beverly Hills and Hollywood! Top Tourist Attractions in L.A. and the Westside
Los Angeles, the city of entertainment, is instantly associated with the legendary Hollywood—the heart of the movie industry—as well as the luxury and trendsetting culture of Beverly Hills, and the vibrant coastal vibe of Santa Monica.
In this guide, we highlight four must-visit attractions in West Los Angeles (Westside), an area that perfectly captures the essence of the city. By exploring these iconic spots, you’ll experience the glamour, style, and excitement that make the West Coast and Los Angeles top destinations for travelers worldwide. Get ready to discover popular landmarks, immerse yourself in local culture, and enjoy an unforgettable adventure in this world-famous city.
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Beverly Hills and Hollywood! Top Tourist Attractions in L.A. and the Westside
1. Hollywood & Highland (Hollywood)
Hollywood is the most famous tourist destination on the Westside, known worldwide as the heart of the entertainment industry. It’s a must-visit spot where both movie lovers and casual travelers can truly feel the essence of Los Angeles.
Hollywood & Highland serves as the perfect starting point for exploring Hollywood. This massive entertainment complex is home to the Dolby Theatre, where the Academy Awards are held, and the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre, lined with the handprints and footprints of legendary stars. Visitors will also find a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions in the area.
At the Chinese Theatre, take time to search for your favorite star’s handprints or footprints. Be aware, though, that people dressed as movie characters or actors may approach you for a photo—and they almost always expect a tip. If you’d prefer not to, the polite and smart response is simply: “No, thank you.”
2. Rodeo Drive (Beverly Hills)
Beverly Hills, one of the most glamorous cities in America, is located on the Westside of Los Angeles. Its world-famous shopping street, Rodeo Drive, became iconic through the movie Pretty Woman.
Here, you’ll find nearly every luxury brand imaginable, with high-end boutiques lining the streets. It’s also common to see exotic supercars cruising by, adding to the luxurious atmosphere unique to Los Angeles. Rodeo Drive is a must-visit for travelers who want to indulge in glitz, glamour, and pure sophistication.
For those interested in the celebrity lifestyle, the Beverly Hills Trolley Tour operates every hour, taking visitors around celebrity mansions and historic Beverly Hills landmarks. It’s a great choice for fans of Hollywood gossip and star-studded stories.
Name: Rodeo Drive
Address: Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
3. Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica)
When visiting the Westside of Los Angeles, Santa Monica Beach is a must-see destination, and at the heart of it lies the world-famous Santa Monica Pier. Known as one of the oldest surviving piers in California, this 700-meter landmark combines history, entertainment, and breathtaking ocean views.
The pier is home to a variety of attractions such as Pacific Park amusement park, an aquarium, local food spots, and charming souvenir shops, making it a vibrant hub for tourists all year round. At sunset, the pier transforms into a magical scene, offering picture-perfect moments you won’t forget.
For shopping enthusiasts, the nearby Third Street Promenade is highly recommended. It’s lined with trendy fashion stores, stylish cafes, and is considered one of L.A.’s hottest lifestyle and shopping districts.
Name: Santa Monica Pier
Address: 1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Official/Related Website: http://www.healthebay.org/santa-monica-pier-aquarium
4. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (Mid-Wilshire)
If you want to deepen your artistic sensibilities on L.A.’s Westside, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art—better known by its initials LACMA—is a must-visit. Located along Wilshire Boulevard in Mid-Wilshire, just south of Hollywood, LACMA is one of the largest museums on the Westside, housing approximately 250,000 works. It’s fair to call it one of the most beloved museums among Angelenos.
This expansive museum lets you explore a wide range of art—from pop-inflected American art to European paintings and sculpture, plus photography and decorative arts. Around dusk, LACMA often hosts free jazz concerts, and there are ongoing children’s educational programs throughout the year.
The campus consists of multiple buildings, each with its own theme. If your schedule allows, set aside a full day to take it all in at a relaxed pace.
Name: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Official Website: http://www.lacma.org/
◎ Summary
We’ve highlighted four recommended spots to visit on Los Angeles’s Westside. Each destination reflects the area’s refined, stylish vibe—so appealing that no amount of time ever feels like enough. Since seeing everything can be challenging, focus on the places that interest you most and enjoy them thoroughly.
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