Introduction to West Hollywood, California
West Hollywood, California, in Los Angeles county, is 7 miles SW of Burbank, California (center to center) and 7 miles W of Los Angeles, California. The population swells during the night hours and on the weekends when residents from neighboring cities show up to enjoy the shops, restaurants and the entertainment. The Halloween and the Gay & Lesbian Pride Parade attract a huge crowd. The city includes a large number of gay-oriented businesses and is one of the prominent gay communities in the nation. West Hollywood also has a large Jewish population. It's a green community and known for being "pet friendly."
West Hollywood History
The Tongva Indians were the original inhabitants. Juan Cabrillo arrived during the late 18th century and claimed the area for Spain. By 1771 disease severely decimated the Indians. Most of the acreage became part of the Rancho La Brea. During the end of the 19th century the town of Sherman was founded. During these years the town began its reputation as being liquor friendly and slightly regulated.
The city later became known as West Hollywood in order to take advantage of the glamour associated with Hollywood. During the 1920s The Sunset Strip became filled with nightclubs and casinos. The town was often visited by well known movie stars. During the late 1960s the Sunset Strip became known for its hippie culture. Later, it became a prominent gay village.
West Hollywood Attractions and Activities
- The well known Sunset Strip includes prominent boutiques, restaurants, rock clubs and night clubs. The strip is known for colorful billboards and is a popular destination for rock and movie stars.
- The Roxy Theater is a famous nightclub which offers well known music performers.
- The West Hollywood Halloween Carnival is regarded as one of the largest Halloween Street parties in the country.
- Christopher Street West is a popular gay pride parade.
- The Pacific Design Center is a unique looking building.
- The portion of Santa Monica Boulevard from La Cienega Boulevard to Robertson Boulevard is often called "boys town" and is one of the world's most popular gay neighborhoods. It features numerous bars, restaurants and nightclubs.
- The Sunset Marquis is a well known hotel which includes the famous Whisky Bar and a recording studio.
- The western portion of Melrose Boulevard has a large number of popular clothing boutiques, antique stores, restaurants and interior design businesses.
- The district near Fountain Avenue, Harper Avenue and Havenhusrt Drive features a collection of Spanish Revival and Art Deco style apartment buildings designed by prominent architects.
- The city includes numerous popular spas.
- The MAK Center at Schindler House features unique architecture.
- Sunset Plaza offers chic boutiques and popular bistros.
The city features a large number of popular venues including the Comedy Store, Formosa Cafe, Hyatt West Hollywood, Barney's Beanery, Whisky a Go Go, The Troubadour, The Viper Room, Rainbow Bar and Grill and it offers well known restaurants such as Lucques, Ago and Morton's.