West Hollywood
Westwood, located on the Westside of Los Angeles, is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a unique blend of commercial and residential areas. Developed in the early 20th century, Westwood showcases the vision of its founders, with architectural charm and a rich history. The heart of Westwood is the iconic Westwood Village, a bustling shopping and commercial district that boasts cultural attractions like the Hammer Museum and Geffen Playhouse. Just north of Westwood Village lies the renowned campus of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), adding a youthful energy to the neighborhood. Whether you're exploring the cultural landmarks or strolling along the charming streets, Westwood offers a delightful experience that combines history, education, and entertainment.
Nestled among the hills, Westwood exudes a college town atmosphere, thanks to its close proximity to UCLA. Known as "The Village," this vibrant area offers a diverse range of experiences for residents and visitors alike. With its Mediterranean-inspired architecture and inviting streets adorned with shops and eateries, Westwood is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Immerse yourself in the cultural fabric of the neighborhood by visiting its renowned museums, catching a play at one of the theaters, or discovering hidden gems that showcase the unique essence of West LA. Whether you're a student, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking to soak up the lively atmosphere, Westwood promises an enriching and memorable experience in the heart of Los Angeles.
Discover the best hotels in Westwood, Los Angeles, California, where luxury and sophistication meet personalized service and exceptional amenities. W Los Angeles offers a vibrant urban retreat with high-energy interiors and indulgent suites, just steps away from UCLA and a short drive from iconic shopping destinations and beautiful beaches. Kimpton Hotel Palomar captivates guests with its elite boutique atmosphere and designer-selected materials, providing a blend of residential charm and a social club vibe. Plaza La Reina offers an exquisite boutique experience with well-appointed suites, private balconies, and upscale amenities. The Beverly Hills Plaza Hotel & Spa envelops visitors in opulence and refined elegance in the heart of Beverly Hills, with easy access to exclusive shopping and renowned attractions. Whether you're seeking a stylish stay, a relaxing escape, or a memorable event venue, these hotels promise exceptional comfort, personalized service, and an unforgettable experience in the heart of Westwood.
Westwood, Los Angeles, California is a haven for discerning food enthusiasts, boasting some of the finest restaurants in the city. STK Steakhouse stands out with its vibrant blend of sophistication and lounge vibes, creating a dynamic atmosphere and offering exceptional cuisine. Wolfsglen Restaurant, located in a historic building, provides a captivating venue for events and a menu filled with delectable salads, pastas, and enticing main courses. Skylight Gardens enchants guests with its Italian cuisine, serving authentic handmade dishes and an extensive selection of wines in a picturesque setting. Lulu, nestled in the enchanting courtyard of the Hammer Museum, celebrates exceptional cuisine and sustainability, offering a daily changing menu influenced by nearby farms. Whether you seek a lively steakhouse experience, a taste of Italy, or a sustainable dining adventure, the finest restaurants in Westwood promise an unforgettable culinary journey for both locals and visitors alike.
Located in the heart of Westwood, Los Angeles, the Westwood Historic Cinemas consist of two iconic movie theaters: the Fox Theater, also known as the Fox Village Theater, and the Bruin Theater. The Fox Theater, currently operated by Regency Theaters as the Regency Village Theatre, has been a landmark cinema since its opening in 1931. Designed by architect Percy Parke Lewis in the Spanish Mission style, the theater features a towering 170-foot white Spanish Revival/Moderne tower with a distinctive blue and white Art Deco "Fox" sign. It has hosted numerous Hollywood premieres over the years and continues to attract movie enthusiasts with its showtimes and glamorous red carpet events. Across the street, the Bruin Theater, named after the UCLA mascot Joe Bruin, opened in 1937 and is known for its elegant design and Streamline Moderne marquee. Operated by Regency Theaters as the Regency Bruin Theatre, it often serves as a backdrop for movie premieres and is a popular venue for private events. Together, these historic cinemas embody the rich cinema culture and history of Westwood Village, captivating visitors with their architectural charm and cinematic experiences.
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Westwood in Los Angeles, you'll discover a trio of exceptional museums that showcase the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the city. These museums—Hammer Museum, Fowler Museum, and Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden—combine to create a vibrant cultural scene that celebrates art, diversity, and the transformative power of creativity. Explore these unique institutions to discover the wealth of artistic treasures and engage with the dynamic programs they offer. The Hammer Museum, founded in 1990, is a renowned contemporary art museum and cultural center located at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The Fowler Museum at UCLA is a prestigious museum located in the heart of the UCLA campus, internationally recognized for its extensive collection of art and material culture from Africa, Asia, the Pacific, and the Americas. The Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden, situated on the campus of UCLA, is a remarkable outdoor sculpture installation that spans over five acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, featuring over 70 sculptures by renowned artists. Together, these museums contribute to the cultural landscape of Westwood, inviting visitors to explore art in its various forms and engage with the global artistic community.
The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Gardens, located on UCLA's South Campus in Los Angeles, is a captivating 7.5-acre public garden, outdoor classroom, and research facility. Established in 1929, the garden has grown to showcase an impressive collection of over 3,500 plant species and varieties, thanks to contributions from various botanical resources. Visitors can explore the garden at their own pace and enjoy a self-guided audio tour. The garden's mission is to promote botanical knowledge by curating collections that emphasize biogeography, conservation, and natural history. Through education, research, and public outreach, the garden aims to inspire environmental and cultural appreciation of plants and their significance in society. With its beautiful setting, the Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Gardens provides a serene environment that fosters well-being and tranquility for the community. The garden's collections are thoughtfully organized, highlighting different geographic regions, taxonomic groups, climates, and themes, offering a diverse and immersive experience for visitors to learn and explore.
Geffen Playhouse has been a dynamic and influential presence in the Los Angeles theater scene since its establishment in 1995. With its reputation for offering a captivating blend of classic and contemporary plays, as well as thought-provoking world premieres, this not-for-profit organization consistently delivers a remarkable body of work that garners national recognition. Named in tribute to the esteemed entertainment mogul and philanthropist David Geffen, whose initial donation played a pivotal role, the theater was founded by Gilbert Cates and is currently led by Executive Director Gil Cates, Jr. and Board Chair Adi Greenberg. As a proud associate of UCLA, the Geffen Playhouse attracts an annual audience of over 130,000 people, while actively engaging with the community through comprehensive education and outreach programs that aim to involve underserved youth and promote widespread artistic appreciation. Housed in one of Westwood Village's original structures, the theater's rich history dates back to its construction in 1929 as the Masonic Affiliates Club. The Geffen Playhouse, owned by the University of California Los Angeles, features two stages and offers three to five plays each season, showcasing the talents of acclaimed film and television actors. With its commitment to artistic excellence and community enrichment, the Geffen Playhouse stands as a beacon of creativity and cultural engagement in the heart of Los Angeles.
Conveniently located just one block south/east of the bustling intersection of Wilshire and Sepulveda, Westwood Recreation Center is a haven for community members seeking an active and engaging lifestyle. Boasting an impressive array of amenities, the center offers something for everyone to enjoy. From Aidan's Place Playground, a specially designed inclusive play area, to outdoor turf soccer fields, indoor racquetball courts, and both indoor and outdoor basketball courts, the options for sports and recreation are limitless. With two gymnasiums, an indoor aquatics facility, tennis court concessions, and the famed Bad News Bears Ball Diamonds, Westwood Recreation Center provides the perfect setting for individuals of all ages to come together and have fun. In addition to its excellent facilities, the center offers a diverse range of programs, including the Parent & Me Program, ballet and piano classes, adult fitness, ceramic classes, seasonal camp programs, and various sports classes and programs. With its commitment to promoting an active lifestyle and fostering a strong sense of community, Westwood Recreation Center is the go-to destination for those seeking fun, fitness, and camaraderie.
Step into the captivating world of astronomy at the UCLA Planetarium. Located on the rooftop of the Mathematical Sciences Building, this unique planetarium offers free lectures, mesmerizing shows, and telescope viewing. Discover the beauty of the night sky, learn about the universe from UCLA's Astronomy graduate students, and immerse yourself in a remarkable celestial experience. Join astronomers of all ages and unlock the secrets of the cosmos at the UCLA Planetarium.
IPIC Westwood sets the standard for a premium dine-in cinema experience. From the moment you enter the theater, you'll be transported to a world of luxury and relaxation. Whether you're reclining in a Premium Plus seat, enjoying the delectable menu offerings, or exploring The Tuck Room's culinary delights, every visit to IPIC Westwood promises a new and unforgettable experience. So sit back, relax, and let IPIC Westwood take your movie night to the next level.