Top 5 Landmarks in West Hollywood

When people think of Los Angeles and its many neighborhoods, it is usually Hollywood that springs to mind first. Yes, the Walk of Fame, Chinese Theater and Capital Records building are all icons of this sprawling metropolis, but there is another part of Hollywood that, in many ways, offers even more culture and famous landmarks: West Hollywood. This smaller enclave of the most famous of American neighborhoods has been around long enough that it has developed a flavor of its own – complete with a host of stand-out businesses and historic buildings.

And more and more visitors to LA are beginning to discover all the gems West Hollywood has to offer. So for those planning their first trip out west to Hollywood, here are some top sights to behold in West Hollywood itself.

Credit: Whiskey A Go-Go

Whiskey A Go-Go – 8901 Sunset Blvd.

No fan of rock history should visit Los Angeles without a trip to the landmark Whiskey A Go-Go club on Sunset Blvd. in West Hollywood. Since its doors first opened in 1964, the Whiskey has played host to bands spanning all eras of rock, from the Doors and Led Zeppelin to Guns N’ Roses. In fact, the club is such a rock staple that it became the first music venue ever to be inducted into the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame.

Credit: Pacific design Center

Pacific Design Center – 8687 Melrose Avenue

Drive down Santa Monica Blvd. from central Hollywood long enough and you will run right alongside one of the architectural gems of the city of Los Angeles. The Pacific Design Center is the work of renowned architect Cesar Pelli and is the LA hub of the interior design trade. Inside the building, visitors will find over 130 showrooms and 2,200 product lines.

Credit: Visit West Hollywood

Coast Playhouse – 8325 Santa Monica Blvd.

There is no shortage of cozy theaters in Hollywood, and the Coast Playhouse is one of the best West Hollywood has to offer. This small, 99-seat theater hosts contemporary plays that are often geared toward the LGBT community. That said, there are a number of offerings on hand every year that cater to a wide variety of audiences.

Credit: The Troubador

The Troubador – 9081 Santa Monica Blvd.

It may not have the cache of the Whiskey, but the Troubador, opened in 1957, is in many ways a much a part of rock history as its more famous counterpart. This live music venue has helped to launch the careers of some of the world’s most iconic performers. Elton John and Tom Waits played there early in their careers, and it’s still a popular performance spot for modern artists passing through California. It’s the perfect place for those who like a bit of intimacy with their rock shows.

Credit: Chateau Marmont

Chateau Marmont – 8221 Sunset Blvd.

Those who don’t mind a bit of luxury with their sightseeing will want to check out the Chateau Marmont. This boutique hotel has been given the seal of approval by countless Hollywood stars dating back to the 1950s and remains a popular hotspot today. Just cruising the grounds and taking in the charming bungalows and lush pool area, one can’t help but understand how this landmark was able to so successfully work its charms on everyone from Marilyn Monroe to Lindsay Lohan.

The above list is just a smattering of the unique and famous sites specific to West Hollywood. Indeed, no trip to greater Los Angeles would be complete without taking in the beaches, the theme parks – and the myriad sights on offer in West Hollywood.

Ivy Harriss writes for visitwesthollywood.com. Explore their West Hollywood, Los Angeles restaurant guide. Taste your way through West Hollywood and experience the best restaurants in LA.