West Hollywood

West Hollywood has been dubbed “The Creative City,” and for good reason. Bordering Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, West Hollywood is easily accessible from anywhere in the city, and the area has plenty to see and do, all packed into 1.9 square miles. From legendary music venues and LGBTQ+ landmarks to celebrity-loved restaurants and luxury hotels, WeH, as locals call it, offers something for everyone.

Where to Stay in West Hollywood

If you like to stay where the action is, the Sunset Strip is home to some of the most glamorous hotels in the city. The Sun Rose with its sumptuous rooftop pool, spa, and two Wolfgang Puck restaurants, takes up an entire block, and boutique hotel The Valorian is right across the street.

At The London West Hollywood, guests can enjoy sweeping city views, a state-of-the-art screening room, and weekend afternoon tea. For a more wellness-focused stay, 1 Hotel West Hollywood blends luxury accommodations with sustainable design and a rooftop pool overlooking the city. Those looking for a taste of the rockstar lifestyle can check into Sunset Marquis, a lush, laid-back retreat that has long been a favorite among musicians, actors, and other creatives.

Where to Dine and Drink in West Hollywood

West Hollywood’s dining scene ranges from old Hollywood institutions to reality TV–famous hot spots and everything in between. A neighborhood landmark since 1939, Formosa Café is one of the area’s most beloved restaurants. Housed in a historic red trolley car, it has welcomed generations of Hollywood stars, including Ava Gardner and John Wayne, while continuing to serve classic cocktails like the Mai Tai and modern Asian-inspired cuisine. 

Across the street is the perfect spot for late-night bites at Jones. Known for their pizza. chopped salad, and red-checkered tablecloths, Jones is open until 2 a.m., seven days a week. For another classic, venture to Tail O’ the Pup, where the hot dog–shaped stand hides a secret, tiki-themed speakeasy above.

Nearby, Dan Tana’s remains one of Los Angeles’ most legendary Italian restaurants, beloved for its old-school atmosphere, celebrity clientele, and classic red-sauce dishes. Next door, Anderson Paak.’s retro inspired bar Andy’s serves up elegant cocktails, small bites, and excellent live music.

Vanderpump Rules Restaurants in West Hollywood

Bravo fans will recognize several familiar names around town. SUR Restaurant & Lounge, made famous by the reality TV series Vanderpump Rules, remains one of the neighborhood’s best-known dining destinations, while nearby bar TomTom and sandwich shop Something About Her (owned by Ariana Madix and Katie Maloney) have become must-visits for devoted viewers of the hit reality series.

Is There a Pink Pony Club in West Hollywood?

Alas, there is no real Pink Pony Club in West Hollywood. However, fans of Chappell Roan’s hit song often make the connection because The Abbey, West Hollywood’s long-running LGBTQ+ nightclub, is widely reported to have inspired the track. Located on Santa Monica Boulevard, The Abbey remains one of the city’s most famous nightlife destinations and a cornerstone of West Hollywood’s LGBTQ+ culture.

When Is West Hollywood Pride?

West Hollywood Pride, commonly known as WeHo Pride, takes place annually in late May and early June. The celebration includes a colorful parade, live music performances, community events, and cultural programming that draws visitors from around the world. As one of the country’s largest LGBTQ+ celebrations, WeHo Pride reflects the city’s longstanding role as a center of LGBTQ+ culture, activism, and community.

Where Is the Rainbow District?

The Rainbow District is a 1-mile stretch located along Santa Monica Boulevard in the heart of West Hollywood’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood. One of its most recognizable features is the series of rainbow-colored crosswalks that line the boulevard. The district is also home to many of West Hollywood’s best-known bars, restaurants, and community organizations, making it a focal point for nightlife and Pride celebrations throughout the year.

Dance your heart out at Revolver Video Bar, sip cocktails at Mickey’s, or watch the big game at Hi-Tops. Right at home amid the neighborhood’s rock ‘n’ roll legacy is The Wild, the restaurant and bar opened by Adam Lambert and Roger Taylor of Queen. The new Mic Drop Karaoke bar offers 13 private rooms and a high-end menu that includes caviar, truffle popcorn, and charcuterie boards.

Things to Do in West Hollywood

Visit the Sunset Strip

No visit to West Hollywood is complete without experiencing the fabled Sunset Strip. This iconic stretch of Sunset Boulevard is home to famed music venues including The Roxy and The Viper Room, where such legends as Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen have recorded live albums. Visitors can spend an evening venue hopping, catching a live show, or simply soaking up the history of one of Los Angeles’ most famous streets.

More: Check out ways to explore the Sunset Strip

Catch a Show at the Troubadour

Just beyond the Sunset Strip, the Troubadour remains one of the most influential music venues in America. The intimate club has hosted legendary performances by artists including Elton John, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and countless others, making it a must-visit for music lovers.

Explore the West Hollywood Design District

In the West Hollywood Design District, fashion and the arts rule. This trendsetting neighborhood includes intimate galleries and the massive Pacific Design Center, a decorator’s dream located on Melrose Avenue. More interior design showrooms line Beverly Boulevard, while luxury boutiques and designer storefronts can be found along Robertson Boulevard. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities browsing between appointments. 

Insider tip: Community Goods, the beloved Los Angeles coffee shop known for great drinks and hour-long lines, has a tiny outpost right in front of the PDC building on Melrose, beat the crowds and order the popular Einspänner latte.

Visit the AIDS Memorial

West Hollywood has long played an important role in LGBTQ+ history and activism. Visitors can pay their respects at local memorials and public art installations that honor those impacted by the HIV/AIDS epidemic and recognize the resilience and advocacy of the community.

Tour the Schindler House

Tucked away on a quiet residential street sits one of Southern California’s architectural treasures: the Schindler House at the MAK Center for Art and Architecture. Completed in 1922, the home is considered a landmark of modern architecture and an early example of California’s signature indoor-outdoor design philosophy.

Browse Book Soup

A beloved independent bookstore on the Sunset Strip, Book Soup has hosted readings and signings by some of the world’s most celebrated writers. Its carefully curated shelves and longstanding literary reputation make it a favorite stop for both locals and visiting book lovers.

West Hollywood and Route 66 History

Though known for being progressive and forward-looking, West Hollywood has managed to preserve traces of its past. Fun fact: Santa Monica Boulevard marks the final stretch of historic Route 66, celebrating its centennial in 2026, and visitors can still spot reminders of the road’s enduring place in American culture.