Things To Do
in West Hollywood
West Hollywood sits along the Sunset Strip and Santa Monica Boulevard, blending glamorous nightlife with boutique shopping and cutting-edge dining. It’s a compact, walkable enclave known for LGBTQ+ culture, inclusive vibes, and iconic hotels. Cafes, art galleries, and design-forward storefronts line the streets, making it easy to wander on foot.
The area is well connected to the broader Los Angeles region, making it a stylish gateway to the Westside and the mountains beyond.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café along Sunset Boulevard, savoring the iconic California avocado toast. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll to admire the unique architecture and famous landmarks that line the boulevard. Don’t forget to stop by the iconic Viper Room, known for its live music scene.
Head over to the Sunset Plaza for some boutique shopping and enjoy lunch at one of the many trendy restaurants. The area is perfect for people-watching as you soak up the vibrant atmosphere. In the early afternoon, take a guided tour of the nearby Hollywood Hills to get a view of the famous Hollywood sign.
As dusk falls, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city skyline. After dinner, experience the nightlife by visiting a lounge or bar with live music in West Hollywood. End your night with a show at The Troubadour, a legendary venue that has hosted countless rock and pop stars.
Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading to The Getty Center, a stunning art museum surrounded by lush gardens. Take your time exploring the impressive art collections from the Middle Ages to the present. Be sure to wander the gardens for beautiful views of Los Angeles.
After a cultured morning, enjoy lunch at The Getty’s café that offers breathtaking views of the city. Post-lunch, immerse yourself in the various exhibitions, focusing on contemporary art and photography. You can also attend a guided tour to learn more about the artworks and the history behind them.
Wrap up your day with a serene walk through the gardens as the sun sets, creating a magical ambiance. Head back to West Hollywood for dinner at a nearby upscale restaurant known for its cuisine. Conclude the evening with a performance at the Los Angeles Philharmonic if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-18 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city centre) per month | $2,500-4,000 |
| ⛽Gasoline per gallon | $4-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant LGBTQ+-friendly culture and nightlife
- Walkable neighborhoods with diverse dining and shopping
- High costs of living and dining
- Congested traffic on peak hours and popular routes
Places to Visit in West Hollywood
Visit one of these nice places.
The neon signs and celebrity-era façades along Sunset Strip provide dramatic, quintessential Hollywood photography after dark.
Colorful street art and storefronts along Melrose offer vibrant backdrops for lifestyle and fashion photography.
Historic hotel on Sunset Boulevard with classic Hollywood architecture and a moody, photogenic exterior.
Food in West Hollywood
West Hollywood Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Iconic California fast-food staple; order Animal Style for extra flavor and enjoy a classic West Coast experience.
Must-Try!
Juicy marinated beef served with banchan at many Melrose-area restaurants, a staple of the LA Korean dining scene.
Crispy or grilled white fish with pico de gallo and lime, reflecting the city’s strong Mexican and coastal influences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, flowers, and local goods in a relaxed, community atmosphere.
Rotating stalls and mobile vendors along Melrose and nearby corridors offering global street eats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
WeHo is renowned for its inclusive, welcoming atmosphere; respect for people of all orientations and backgrounds is the norm.
Casual-chic to upscale-casual attire is typical in dining and nightlife; polite conversation and punctual arrival are appreciated.
Evening street noise is common; be mindful of quiet hours in residential areas and respect neighbors after late hours.
Safety
Tipping in West Hollywood
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant service 15-20% of the bill before tax; bar service typically $1-2 per drink; taxis and rideshares commonly 15-20%.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Wallet) are common; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with plenty of sunshine; plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and crowds.
Warm days with cooler evenings; great for outdoor dining and rooftop photos as the light softens.
Mild temperatures with occasional rain; rain gear recommended for street photography and market visits.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for walking tours and gallery hopping.
West Hollywood at Night
Hiking in West Hollywood
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular urban hike with city views and varying routes; ideal for a morning workout or sunset photos.
Extensive network of trails in one of LA’s largest urban parks; great for longer hikes and panoramic vistas.
Airports
How to reach West Hollywood by plane.
Major gateway serving global destinations; about 18-25 miles from West Hollywood depending on route and traffic; rideshares and shuttles are common ways to reach the city.
Convenient for domestic flights; about 12-15 miles from West Hollywood; typically quicker to navigate than LAX during peak times.
Smaller–but popular for domestic travel; farther away but an option for some routes and carriers; roughly 25-40 miles depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
WeHo is renowned for its welcoming LGBTQ+ culture and events; diverse amenities cater to this community.
A dynamic mix of designers, cooks, artists, and media professionals contributing to a vibrant local scene.
Residents include Latino, Asian, and other communities, enriching the area’s cultural and culinary offerings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of LA culture with local leagues, pick-up games, and community courts throughout the area.
Rec leagues, youth teams, and casual games are common; nearby parks host regular matches and training.
Public and private courts across the Westside; convenient for weekend matches and social play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting West Hollywood.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer robust vegetarian options and vegan menus; look for plant-based pastas, veggie bowls, and cheese-free plates. Don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions or to customize dishes.