If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles, chances are you’ve got the Hollywood Walk of Fame on your list. It’s one of those iconic attractions that blends old-school Hollywood glamour with modern tourist energy. But if you want to make the most out of your visit, a little planning goes a long way. Let’s break it down, step by step so that you can have the best experience.
Getting There: Navigating LA Traffic and Parking
First things first, Los Angeles traffic is no joke. So, depending on where you’re staying, getting to the Hollywood Walk of Fame might take a little patience. Here are a few options to help you get there without losing your mind:
- By Car: If you’re driving, be prepared for limited parking. The closest parking structures are usually at Hollywood & Highland Center, which is right near the Walk of Fame. It’s a good option for both convenience and safety, but keep in mind parking fees are usually $6 – $10 per hour, depending on the day. You can usually get the first two hours for $3 if you validate with one of the shops or restaurants in the Hollywood and Highland Center though.
- By Metro: The LA Metro Red Line stops at Hollywood/Highland Station, putting you just steps away from the action. This is probably the easiest and most stress-free way to visit the Walk of Fame if you’re not super keen on dealing with parking.
- By Rideshare: Uber or Lyft is another easy choice. It might save you time, especially since traffic can be unpredictable, and you won’t have to worry about parking. This depends on where you are coming from though and the best option is going to be Metro if you don’t have a car and are close to a stop.
What Is the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is that famous stretch of sidewalk where over 2,700 celebrities have left their mark—literally. You’ll find the names of stars from film, television, music, radio, and even live performance arts etched into brass stars set into the sidewalk along 1.25 miles of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. It’s a unique tribute to the entertainers who’ve shaped pop culture over the decades.
History of the Walk of Fame: Where It All Began
A little history always adds depth to any experience, right? The Hollywood Walk of Fame was first conceived in the 1950s as a way to maintain the glamour of Hollywood during a time when TV was beginning to overshadow movies. The first star was laid in 1960 for director Stanley Kramer, kicking off what would become one of LA’s most iconic attractions. You can still see it today at the corner of Hollywood and Glower.
Today, it’s not just about movies. You’ll find stars representing musicians, TV personalities, and even fictional characters (shoutout to Mickey Mouse). The Walk is an ever-evolving celebration of entertainment history, with 10 – 12 new stars being added each year.
How Much Does a Star on the Walk of Fame Cost?
Here’s something most people don’t know—a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame isn’t just earned, it’s bought. Well, sort of. Celebrities are nominated for a star, and if they’re approved by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, they (or their sponsors) have to pay a hefty fee.
- The current cost: Around $75,000. This fee covers the installation and maintenance of the star, as well as the ceremony itself, which is usually a pretty big deal with fans and media in attendance.
But it’s not just about paying the fee. The celebrity has to agree to the ceremony within two years of their selection and they have to agree to appear at the ceremony as well. So, while it’s an honor, there’s a bit of a financial and scheduling commitment involved too.
How to Best Experience the Walk of Fame: Tips and Must-Sees
Now that you’re there, how do you make sure you don’t miss anything important? The Walk of Fame stretches for 1.3 miles along Hollywood Boulevard, so there’s a lot to see, but these tips will help you get the most out of your visit.
- Start at Hollywood & Highland: This area is bustling with tourists, street performers, and the Dolby Theatre (where the Oscars are held). You’ll get those postcard-worthy views of the Hollywood sign from the upper levels of the shopping complex, and it’s a good starting point for your stroll along the stars. This is also the easiest place to park so it makes for a good starting point.
- Take a Map (or Use Your Phone): With over 2,700 stars, it can be easy to miss your favorite celebrity’s star if you’re not paying attention. Download a map or look up the locations online before you go. There are also apps that let you search for specific stars. I recommend having 5 – 10 you want to see as more than that can take a while to find.
- Visit During the Week: Weekends can get crazy, with tons of tourists and street performers filling up the sidewalk. If you can, go during the week when it’s a bit less crowded. Early mornings are even better if you’re after good photo ops without people in the background.
- Look for Iconic Stars: Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, Tom Hanks, Walt Disney—these are some of the biggest names that people flock to see. But don’t forget to check out some of the iconic characters like Godzilla, Mickey Mouse and Batman as well.
- Take Time for the Chinese Theatre: Right along the Walk of Fame, you’ll find the historic TCL Chinese Theatre. This place is famous for its celebrity handprints and footprints. It’s a fun stop to see how your hand compares to stars like Robert Downey Jr. or Meryl Streep. My favorites here are the Harry Potter cast wand prints and the R2D2 and C3PO ones from Star Wars.
- Grab a Souvenir: There are tons of tourist shops along the boulevard. You’ll find everything from vintage Hollywood posters to cheesy keychains. Perfect for taking a bit of Hollywood back home with you. My favorite shop is called La La Land and it is near the Chinese Theater.
- Take in a Museum: There are a lot of fun museums down here, ranging from the Hollywood Museum to Ripleys Believe it or not. Visit one or two while you are there.
Must See Spots on the Walk of Fame
Start of the Walk of Fame (Corner of La Brea and Hollywood)
Pantages Theater
TCL Chinese Theatre
Egyptian Theater and Netflix Store
El Capitan Theater
Capitol Records Building
Mel Drive In
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-see for any pop culture lover. Whether you’re a die-hard movie buff or just looking for that iconic Hollywood photo, it’s a place that truly embodies the spirit of LA. And while it might seem like just a stretch of sidewalk, the history and the stories behind each star make it a fascinating piece of American entertainment culture.
Hotels
If you want to stay on the Walk of Fame I recommend these two hotels – Lowes Hotel Hollywood or Hollywood Roosevelt
So, next time you’re in Los Angeles, plan to take a walk where Hollywood legends live on forever—literally at your feet. Have you been to the Walk of Fame yet? Let me know which stars you’re most excited to see!
