In the heart of LA lies the history of old Hollywood film. From the lots of Paramount Pictures to the streets of Hollywood itself, the spirit and grandeur of the golden age of film and old Hollywood’s iconic celebrities still exist in certain historical places, shops, restaurants, and hotels around town. Immerse yourself in the history, glamour, and legendary venues that remind us of old Hollywood in LA.
1. Hollywood Heritage Museum
Location: 2100 N. Highland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Located conveniently across The Hollywood Bowl is the charming Hollywood Heritage Museum. Found in one of the oldest motion picture studios in town, guests who attend the museum will learn the history behind the studio and how it relates to Paramount Pictures. Designated a historic landmark in 1956, the first film was apparently produced here by the famed director Cecil B. DeMille. The museum also showcases a variety of exhibits throughout the year and will soon feature an “Out with the Stars” exhibit displaying some of Hollywood’s most famous and forgotten places, including The Brown Derby and The Coconut Grove at the Ambassador Hotel. Recently, the museum even held a “Judy” party to celebrate Judy Garland’s birthday, an LA icon of course. Be sure to check out their summer exhibits and stay updated on future events here.
2. Whisky a Go Go
Location: 8901 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Opened in 1964, Whisky a Go Go is a world famous venue and nightclub which has a long history of hosting some of rock’s most iconic bands and artists. Artists such as Johnny Rivers, The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Nirvana, and Janis Joplin have all performed here. The Beatles even visited the famed venue in 1964 while touring the US and infamously met up with actress Jayne Mansfield at one of the tables. Iconic with a thrilling history of rock and roll legends, The Whisky a Go Go is still thriving today and hosts numerous bands on a weekly basis. Plan our next visit here.
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3. Paramount Studio Tour
Location: 5515 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
The Paramount Studio Tour is an absolute must experience if you’re a film buff! As Paramount Pictures is known for it’s history and being one of the longest serving major studios in town, the tours offer a glimpse into historic filming locations, prop warehouse, and interactions with archivists, and more (varies dependent upon the tour you book). Currently, 3 tours are offered with the first being the daily “Studio Tour” at $65 for 2 hours. The other two tours offered are the “Premier Tour” at $150 for 3 hours during weekdays with Exclusive VIP Studio access to Paramount’s Archives and Backlot, and the “VIP Tour” offered at $215 for 4.5 hours. The “VIP Tour” comes with a private gourmet breakfast, lunch, or afternoon hors d’oeuvres. Buy your tickets here.
4. Larry Edmunds Bookshop
Location: 6644 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Larry Edmunds Bookshop has been around since the late 1930’s and is one of the longest serving bookstores in LA. The shop carries books fit for enthusiastic fans of old Hollywood film and the entertainment industry. Carrying both new and used books, you can find biographies, film history, screenwriting, directing and film production features. They even have science fiction, film noir, musicals, and television and theatre genres. If you’re lucky, you can also grab signed copies at certain times or spot celebrities popping in to promote their books along with hosting a meet and greet. The bookstore makes the perfect stop to grab a gift and learn a little more about Hollywood history and classic film stars.
5. Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Location: 6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038
One of the most historic places in the world is none other than the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Founded in 1899, the cemetery is the home and final resting place to some of the most iconic stars and celebrities in Hollywood history. You will find the burials for acclaimed stars, directors, musicians and more here including Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille, Chris Cornell, Rudolph Valentino, and Mickey Rooney just to name a few. Truly historic, the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is such an iconic place to show your respects to your favorite legends. Tours are also available here.
6. Fred Astaire Dance Studios
Location: 1650 S Pacific Coast Hwy 110 110, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Film and dance legend Fred Astaire can be credited with popularizing the elegant style of ballroom dance. Astaire became a leading man in many 1930’s and 40’s Hollywood musicals most notably with Ginger Rodgers, and was even paired with iconic actresses such as Rita Hayworth and Audrey Hepburn. Co-founded in 1947 by Astaire himself, his dance studio first location opened in New York City. Today the dance studio has multiple locations around the country which continue to incorporate Astaire’s style end elegance into their classes. For any film lovers and fans of Fred Astaire, this would be a great location to snap some photos and pay homage to the dancing king. Find more details here.
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7. The Desi House
Location: 13215 Altfillisch Ct, Eastvale, CA 92880
So, this may not be directly in LA, but it’s worth a little drive for the experience. The Desi House was originally located in Corona, CA but was moved to Eastvale in 1986 as it was cut into sections by construction builders and refurbished to its former look. Yes, Desi as in Desi Arnaz, beloved I Love Lucy actor, producer and television pioneer once owned the house in Corona and completed its design as well. After his passing, the house was then relocated to Eastvale and is now a beautiful event venue for weddings and celebrations. With the home still intact, it’s a great way to keep Arnaz’s legacy alive and a picturesque venue to visit and host events. Every Wednesday, The Desi House is open to visitors free of charge. Recently, Lucie Arnaz (daughter to Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz) visited the venue with her family.
Check out more classic Hollywood history with these iconic restaurants in LA.
