Santa Monica Boulevard has inspired decades of artists. From Nat King Cole’s “Route 66” to Sheryl Crow’s “All I Wanna Do,” the street has long been known as a place where just about anybody can have a good time. Spanning nearly the entire city of Los Angeles, from West Hollywood to the Santa Monica Pier, there’s plenty of fun to be had exploring the boulevard.
Where does Santa Monica Boulevard go?
Santa Monica Boulevard slices a horizontal line through the city, cutting through West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Century City, Westwood, West Los Angeles, and Santa Monica. A drive down the boulevard is a great way to explore greater Los Angeles. Whether you’re in it for the architecture, the food, or the people-watching, each neighborhood reveals a different side of L.A.
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier, just two blocks south of the beginning of Santa Monica Boulevard, makes for a natural starting point on your journey. The pier, which first opened on Sept. 9, 1909, juts out into the Pacific Ocean. It marks the official end of the famous Route 66 and features attractions including Santa Monica Trapeze School and Pacific Park, home to Pacific Wheel—the first solar-powered Ferris wheel—as well as other family-friendly rides.
There are plenty of souvenir shops and dozens of restaurants and bars for snacks and refreshments. Muscle Beach, made famous by bodybuilders like Jack LaLanne, is just a short walk away.
West L.A. to Beverly Hills
As you head east, you’ll pass through West L.A., where cozy cafes and sushi joints give way to Westwood, home to UCLA and a youthful, academic buzz. Century City brings a sleek, corporate energy with gleaming skyscrapers, high-end shopping at Westfield Century City, and some of the city's most polished dining rooms. Next up is Beverly Hills, where Santa Monica Boulevard delivers views of luxury at its finest—palm-lined Rodeo Drive, lavish hotels, and manicured parks.
West Hollywood
In West Hollywood, Santa Monica Boulevard transforms into a walkable, culture-rich corridor packed with creativity. Public art is everywhere—from murals to neon installations—thanks to the L.A. County city’s Percent for Art initiative. Look for iconic Route 66 signs as well as neon artwork honoring the road’s rich history and outposts like Irv’s Burgers, which serves up familiar favorites and delicious nostalgia.
This stretch is also the beating heart of L.A.’s LGBTQ+ community, with rainbow crosswalks, pride flags, and vibrant bars and eateries like The Surly Goat or Saddle Ranch Chop House. Start the night with Chinese comfort food at the retro-iconic Formosa Cafe—once a favorite of Sinatra and Elvis. Sip something strong at the two-story Beaches WeHo, then dance the night away at Micky’s West Hollywood.
Hollywood
As the boulevard hits Hollywood, the energy shifts again. Make a stop at Thunder Road Motorcycles to admire some classic bikes, then pay your respects at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, the final resting place for dozens of stars including Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille, and Mickey Rooney. Check out rising stand-up stars at The Zebra Room or wrap up your night at The Virgil, a vibey mashup of cocktail lounge and live entertainment venue.
Go Beyond: Silver Lake
Once you’ve explored all of Santa Monica Boulevard, keep the adventure going by continuing east to Silver Lake. This artsy enclave is a magnet for creatives, boutique browsers, foodie adventurers, and curious families alike. Don’t miss the neighborhood’s hidden gems and tucked-away treasures.