The famed town of Beverly Hills is arguably synonymous with Los Angeles. From opulent mansions to the glamour associated with Hollywood, Beverly Hills embodies the essence of LA's fanciful lifestyle. There is a lot to enjoy here, enough to justify a day visit, if not more. You may start by exploring the heart of Beverly Hills; the fabulous Rodeo Drive and the adjacent streets, all lined with some of the best world-class boutiques from coast to coast. Visit a few art galleries, such as the Gagosian and William A. Karges, located in the same area. Grab a bite to eat at one of the more casual cafes and bakeries, or splurge at the legendary Spago. Dozens of top-notch spas are at your fingertips. A mid-afternoon stroll through the lush Beverly Hills Park provides a nice change of pace and a natural respite in between your urban explorations. West Melrose and Robertson shopping districts await insatiable shoppers looking to explore further.
It isn't exaggerating to say that Rodeo Drive contains some of the most expensive real estate on the planet. Remember Julia Roberts' shopping spree in Pretty Woman? Rodeo Drive is where she went. The place boasts of a great mixture of clothing, restaurants, unique shops and celebrity spotting. Be warned, however, some of the stores are so exclusive, shopping is by appointment only.
Vintage locomotives and autocars are featured at The Nethercutt Museum, making it a haven for an automobile enthusiast. The founder J.B. Nethercutt began his collection in 1956, which was later transformed into a museum that could be enjoyed by the public. Apart from cars, this place also exhibits antique furniture and musical instruments. Though the museum can be visited without a guide, The Nethercutt Collection, located across the street, can only be perused through a guided tour.
This is where the Walt Disney Company has been working its magic since 1923. Relocated from its original studio at Silver Lake, the Burbank studio was established after the monumental success of the 1937 film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The international headquarters of this iconic company, this state-of-the-art facility offers its services in the fields of film production, music publishing, stage production, distribution, and marketing. The site spans over 51 acres (21 hectares) and features notable structures like the Michael D. Eisner Building, Disney Legends Plaza, and the Frank G. Wells Building, among others. There is also a provision at the Main Theater to showcase first-run Disney movies for special guests. A colossal landmark on 500 South Buena Vista Street, the studio is unfortunately not open to the public, but hoists gigantic head constructions of Mickey Mouse and the Seven Dwarves over its steep red-bricked walls for passers-by to savor.
One of the most noted places in the world, the Warner Brothers Studio has played home to some of the entertainment worlds most famous comedy and drama series. The studio has numerous sets for various scenes all of which have excellent facilities, props and sound and light systems. On location here are also craft and set shops where patrons can purchase memorabilia. There is a tour of the entire studio which takes guests on a journey into the entertainment world with guides who are well versed with the place.
Burbank’s answer to the Hollywood Bowl, this marvel is a much-loved and frequented concert venue near Stough Park. A wide variety of concerts, from classical to pop, are held in this stunning setting throughout the summer. This beautiful natural bowl offers ample seating, both on benches and in the grass, where guests may enjoy their favorite performers and amazing acoustics to the transporting views of sunsets gradually superceded by starry skies. Visitors are invited to pack a picnic, including drinks of their choosing with no express restrictions imposed, other than non-interference with other patrons’ enjoyment of the event. Pricing is very affordable, enabling music buffs to get their fill during the summer months, after rationing their patronage of rather more expensive concert halls and arenas during the rest of the year.
Constructed in 1922, the Schindler House was a wonder in itself with designs being finished within 2 months. The four rooms in the house is used by the MAK Center for Art and Architecture to showcase artistic talents with respect to the culture and love for art. Exhibits are showcased all year round with rotating events.
This unique house-studio was designed by Austrian draftsman Schindler in 1921 and served as his home until his death in 1953. Unlike many of its neighbors, the structure moves away from the art deco style that characterizes much of the early Hollywood structures. Schindler took inspiration from desert camps and built the house out of concrete walls, canvas covers and sleeping lofts. It also served as a meeting place for avant-garde architects, including Richard Neutra, who lived here in the late 1920s. Today the Schindler House is home to the MAK Center for Art and Architecture where visitors can view year-round exhibits and attend events.
Make the most of your sightseeing adventure and opt to tour the sunny Los Angeles area in a health conscious and eco-friendly way. Whether on foot or a high end hybrid road bike provided by Bikes and Hikes LA, you'll cruise pass famous landmarks like the Sunset Strip, celebrity homes, Venice Canals, Santa Monica Pier and beach, UCLA and many more! Tours include a friendly and knowledgeable guide, complimentary souvenir water bottle, helmet, and bike.
The brainchild of artist Haleh Mashian, Mash Gallery opened its doors in 2018. This contemporary art gallery is not only a platform for established and upcoming artists, or even those in their mid-career, but also for independent curators who are passionate about bringing art to the people through intimate shows. If you are intrigued by the current contemporary art scene and want a glimpse into curated exhibitions, then this place is worth a look.
This non-profit gallery is dedicated to exposing the work of emerging artists. It hosts the Los Angeles Art Association (LAAA) and has helped launch the careers of many successful artists. Private gallery owners and art collectors in the know have recognized the amount of talent that abounds here, and often attend these shows. There is no tension in the atmosphere, as the gallery management is easygoing, with all lectures and workshops open to the public.
The Improv Comedy Club Hollywood is one of the most important comedy clubs in the city. Famous artistes such as Jay Leno, Richard Lewis and Damon Wayans perform here as well as talented newcomers and a slew of aspiring comedians. Drew Carey and his co-stars from the Drew Carey Show perform here most Thursday nights. You can order food in the showroom, and it is the only comedy club in Los Angeles with a full bar. Head to the great in-house restaurant that serves Italian-influenced dishes. Tickets are available over the phone or at the Box Office. Call for upcoming shows and headliners.