Along the famous Sunset Boulevard lies the 1.5-mile (2.4-km) stretch of land in West Hollywood known as the Sunset Strip. It is today one of the most iconic centers of entertainment in the America, thanks to its history as a playground of celebrities and a springboard for some of the most well-known musicians in the world.

Not restrained by the more austere laws imposed in the past in nearby locations like Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, the strip became a gaming and nightlife hub that is now a thriving entertainment district with a motley collection of restaurants, clubs, bars, and colorful advertising structures.

The Sunset Strip first rose to prominence in the 1920s, when nightclubs and gambling establishments made their home in this corner of West Hollywood. Even during the Prohibition era, alcohol flowed here freely, albeit discreetly in the backrooms of saloons. The area became a favorite hangout of Hollywood A-listers during the pre-war and WWII eras, and since then, it has been a gathering place of many popular and up-and-coming musicians.

The Sunset Strip has had a long history of notoriety, but it is likewise a celebrated American cultural icon. Here, architectural marvels like the French manor-style Chateau Marmont and the art deco Sunset Tower Hotel mix with legendary nightclubs like The Viper Room, The Roxy Theatre, and The Whisky a Go Go, which has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. These are great places to check out not only for the music but also for their historical significance. 

If enjoying a humorous night out with your friends is what you have in mind, then make sure to visit the stand-up comedy mecca of The Comedy Store. On the other hand, if you want to catch sight of stunning views of the West Hollywood and Los Angeles skylines, then drop by some of the strip’s most exclusive retreats like The Skybar at Mondrian and The Tower Bar at the Sunset Tower Hotel. Finally, your luxury vacation won’t be complete without a visit to the Sunset Plaza, which hosts a collection of high-end boutiques and al fresco dining venues.

The Sunset Strip is home to many other world-class hotels, upscale shopping establishments, luxury spa resorts, and sumptuous bars and restaurants, so make sure to explore the district on foot to discover all the best places to see.

Visit the Sunset Strip in California, and experience the vibrant heart of West Hollywood on your next holiday. Reserve one of Villaway’s luxury vacation rentals in this pulsating entertainment district today.