Nestled like a vibrant jewel within the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles and the glamorous enclave of Beverly Hills, lies West Hollywood, affectionately nicknamed WeHo. This compact city, spanning less than four square miles, pulsates with a unique energy, offering a diverse tapestry of experiences that captivate visitors from around the globe. Despite its small size, Top Things to Do in West Hollywood, California are plentiful.
Incorporated in 1984, West Hollywood holds the distinction of being one of the youngest cities in Los Angeles County, the 84th of 88. Carved from a previously unincorporated area bordering Hollywood at the base of the Hollywood Hills, it quickly established itself as a cultural hub, embracing diversity and innovation. Its history is a testament to its progressive spirit, a place where individuality thrives and creativity flourishes.
West Hollywood proudly stands as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the United States, a beacon of inclusivity and acceptance. Santa Monica Boulevard, a vibrant artery of WeHo, boasts a thriving LGBTQ+ club scene, a testament to the city’s welcoming embrace of its diverse population. This lively scene provides a striking contrast to the raw energy of the Sunset Strip, where the echoes of grunge, punk, hip hop, and rock n’ roll still reverberate. Remarkably, these seemingly disparate worlds coexist harmoniously, each contributing to WeHo’s unique character. Beyond its vibrant nightlife, West Hollywood shines as a design mecca, a haven for those seeking inspiration in interiors, fashion, and fine art. It is a place where creativity knows no bounds. Considering all these factors, Top Things to Do in West Hollywood, California include a wide array of experiences.
Here’s a curated list of experiences that capture the essence of this dynamic city:
Rock and Roll All Night: Exploring West Hollywood’s Legendary Music Scene
For music enthusiasts, West Hollywood is a veritable paradise. The city’s legendary music scene caters to a wide range of tastes, from classic rock aficionados to alternative music lovers. The Sunset Strip, a historic stretch of Sunset Boulevard, serves as a pilgrimage site for music lovers from around the world.
- Whisky A Go-Go: This iconic venue has hosted countless legendary performers and continues to showcase both established and emerging artists. Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere and pay tribute to the rock gods who once graced its stage.
- The Viper Room: Known for its intimate setting and edgy vibe, The Viper Room is a cornerstone of the Sunset Strip’s music scene. It offers a diverse lineup of performances, spanning various genres and attracting a dedicated following.
- The Roxy Theatre: Since its opening in 1973, The Roxy Theatre has been a go-to destination for live music on the Sunset Strip. This legendary venue continues to host a wide range of artists, from established stars to up-and-coming acts.
- Troubadour: Located on Santa Monica Boulevard, the Troubadour is a historic rock club that has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of numerous legendary performers, including Elton John, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Randy Newman. Experience the intimate atmosphere and soak in the history of this iconic venue.
Go to a World-Famous Comedy Club: Laugh the Night Away
West Hollywood is a haven for comedy lovers, boasting some of the world’s most renowned comedy clubs. Get ready for an evening of laughter and entertainment as you witness the comedic brilliance of established stars and rising talents.
- The Comedy Store: Located on Sunset Boulevard in the heart of West Hollywood, The Comedy Store is a legendary institution that has helped launch the careers of numerous comedy icons, including Johnny Carson, Richard Pryor, Arsenio Hall, Robin Williams, and Jim Carrey. This iconic venue regularly hosts performances by popular comedians, making it a must-visit for comedy enthusiasts.
- The Laugh Factory: Just outside the official boundaries of West Hollywood, The Laugh Factory is another legendary comedy club that has hosted a galaxy of stars. Known for its cutting-edge comedy and diverse lineup of performers, The Laugh Factory guarantees a night of unforgettable laughter.
- Hollywood Improv: Another must-visit comedy destination located just outside West Hollywood. It features a mix of established comedians and rising stars.
Visit the Pacific Design Center: A Design Lover’s Paradise
The Pacific Design Center, a sprawling complex of blue, green, and red structures located at the corner of Melrose Avenue and San Vicente Boulevard, is a design enthusiast’s dream come true. This iconic West Hollywood landmark houses over 130 showrooms catering to the interior design trade community.
- Showrooms and Galleries: Explore the vast array of showrooms and public galleries, showcasing the latest trends and innovations in interior design. Even if you’re not a designer, you can enlist the assistance of an on-site designer to help you shop for unique pieces.
- Architectural Marvel: Marvel at the architectural brilliance of the Pacific Design Center, a landmark structure that has become synonymous with West Hollywood’s design-centric identity. The striking colors and bold design make it a visual masterpiece.
Listen to Music Along the Sunset Strip: Experience the Heartbeat of Rock ‘n’ Roll
The Sunset Strip is a legendary stretch of Sunset Boulevard that has been the epicenter of rock ‘n’ roll for decades. Pilgrims from across the globe flock to this iconic street to pay homage to the famous names who got their start in its many live music clubs.
- Live Music Venues: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Sunset Strip’s live music venues, where you can catch performances by both established and emerging artists. Experience the raw energy and passion that defines this legendary music scene.
- Landmark Establishments: Enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the Sunset Strip’s many landmark establishments, each with its own unique history and character. Soak in the atmosphere and imagine the countless legendary moments that have unfolded within these walls.
Shop at the West Hollywood Design District: Discover Cutting-Edge Design
The West Hollywood Design District is a haven for design aficionados, boasting some of the most prestigious interior design shops in the world. This vibrant district also features big-name and local fashion designers, as well as a number of fine and contemporary art galleries.
- Unique Accent Pieces: Discover unique accent pieces to elevate your home décor or find the perfect outfit to express your personal style.
- District Boundaries: Explore the boundaries of the WeHo Design District, stretching along Melrose Avenue from La Cienega Boulevard to Doheny Drive and the parallel Beverly Boulevard from San Vicente Boulevard to Doheny Drive, as well as the north-south connector, Robertson Boulevard between Melrose Avenue and Beverly Boulevard, continuing south into Beverly Hills.
Party on Santa Monica Boulevard: Embrace the LGBTQ+ Scene
Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood boasts the second-greatest density of LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and shops on the West Coast, after San Francisco’s Castro District.
- Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife on Santa Monica Boulevard, where any night of the week is party night. The greatest concentration of LGBTQ+ establishments can be found between La Cienega Boulevard and Robertson Boulevard.
- Inclusivity: Embrace the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere of Santa Monica Boulevard, a haven for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.
Visit the MAK Center for Art and Architecture: Explore Architectural Innovation
Behind a wall of hedges and trees on residential North King Road sits the Schindler House, created by famed Vienna-born modern architect Rudolph M. Schindler.
- Schindler House: Explore the architect’s 1922 home and studio, now home to the MAK Center for Art and Architecture.
- Exhibits and Lectures: The MAK Center hosts exhibits, lectures, concerts, and other events that challenge conceptions of architectural use, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
Relax at the West Hollywood Library: A Haven for Book Lovers and Art Enthusiasts
The LEED-certified West Hollywood Library, which opened in 2011, is as much an inspiring art space as a book repository.
- Architectural Beauty: Admire the murals by famous artists, the formed wood ceiling, and the overall architectural beauty of this modern library.
- Free Amenities: Take advantage of the free WiFi, relax with a good book, and enjoy the excellent second-floor view of the Pacific Design Center.
Spot Celebrities at Sunset Plaza: Experience Hollywood Glamour
Sunset Plaza is an exclusive shopping complex along the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, known for drawing an A-list clientele to its designer boutiques and chic sidewalk cafes and restaurants.
- Celebrity Spotting: Increase your chances of spotting celebrities at the numerous sidewalk restaurants, including Cravings, Le Petit Four, Sushiya, Chin Chin, and Le Clafoutis.
- Book Soup: Visit Book Soup, a popular independent bookshop located nearby on Sunset Boulevard, known for hosting celebrity author book signings.
See a Play in West Hollywood: Experience the Performing Arts
West Hollywood is home to plenty of unique theatres and playhouses showcasing contemporary and original works.
- Diverse Performances: Whether you’re interested in LGBTQ+ productions, multi-cultural performances, or watching as actors hone their skills, you’ll be delighted by the sheer number of options in West Hollywood.
- Local Theaters: Explore favorite neighborhood spots like The Actors Studio and the intimate Coast Playhouse.
Top Things to Do in West Hollywood, California encompass a dynamic blend of culture, entertainment, and design. From the legendary music venues of the Sunset Strip to the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene on Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood offers a unique and unforgettable experience for every visitor. The Top Things to Do in West Hollywood, California are varied enough that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
