Beverly Hills: A Guide to Attractions, Shopping, and History

Beverly Hills is one of California's most iconic destinations, where luxury intertwines with history and a distinctive atmosphere. This small city, nestled between Los Angeles and Hollywood, has long been a symbol of high status, fashion, and glamour. Here, you can stroll along the famous Rodeo Drive, marvel at the opulent mansions of global celebrities, and discover hidden gems away from the tourist crowds. But Beverly Hills is more than just upscale boutiques and five-star hotels. The city captivates with its lush green parks, cultural landmarks, and the quintessential Californian lifestyle.

The History of Beverly Hills

It's hard to imagine, but the site of today's luxurious villas and boutiques was once grazing land and orange groves. Until the late 19th century, this area was a simple rural expanse. The first landowners raised livestock and cultivated crops. In 1868, Maria and Henry Hammel acquired the land, hoping to develop a farm, but the arid climate and water scarcity rendered the venture unprofitable.

In 1900, oil exploration began. Burton Green and his partners founded the company tasked with developing the oil fields. However, the deposits were too meager, and the oil project was quickly abandoned. The owners then decided to utilize the land for residential development, thus giving rise to a plan for an elite district with large plots and spacious streets.

The name Beverly Hills emerged in 1906, inspired by the picturesque hills and the town of Beverly in Massachusetts. The first houses were built in 1912, and in 1914, the settlement officially gained city status.

A pivotal moment in Beverly Hills' development was the attention from Hollywood. In the early 20th century, the film industry was rapidly expanding, and actors and directors sought secluded yet prestigious places to live. Soon, stars began settling here — Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks built the renowned Pickfair mansion, hosting lavish gatherings for the elite.

By the 1920s, Beverly Hills had transformed into a district inhabited by the film industry's elite. In 1928, the Beverly Wilshire Hotel opened, followed in the 1930s by the legendary Beverly Hills Hotel, known as the "Pink Palace." Both venues swiftly became symbols of luxury and popular meeting spots for celebrities.

In the latter half of the 20th century, the city continued to evolve. Global brand stores began appearing on Rodeo Drive, and mansions grew increasingly grand and expensive. By the mid-1980s, Beverly Hills had solidified its status as the premier hub of luxurious living in California.

Today, it is one of the most recognizable and prestigious neighborhoods in the world. Although it has long transcended its Hollywood origins, its connection to the film industry remains strong. Many celebrities still choose Beverly Hills as their home, and tourists flock here to witness the legendary sites and experience the city's unique ambiance.

Rodeo Drive: The Heart of Shopping

Rodeo Drive is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world. Its length is only three blocks, but that's enough for the street to become a symbol of luxury and high fashion. It is home to boutiques of leading designers, prestigious jewelry houses, and rare car showrooms.

The street began its history in the 1960s, when the Gucci brand opened its first store here. It was followed by boutiques of Chanel, Cartier, and other famous brands. By the 1980s, Rodeo Drive had firmly established itself as a center of elite shopping.

Today, you can find brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Dior, Hermès, and Valentino here. The stores are decorated with special grandeur — many of them resemble art galleries more than ordinary retail outlets. Even if shopping is not in your plans, a walk along the street can be exciting.

One of the main places on Rodeo Drive is the Two Rodeo Drive shopping complex. It features European-style architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and staircases decorated with lanterns. This complex offers exclusive boutiques and fine dining restaurants.

Rodeo Drive attracts not only shopaholics but also movie lovers. The street often appears in films, and it was made iconic by a scene from "Pretty Woman" with Julia Roberts. Many tourists come here to feel part of Hollywood history.

At the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard is the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, where Elvis Presley, Oprah Winfrey, and other celebrities have stayed. Its restaurant, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, is among the best in the city.

Another iconic landmark is the Torso monument, created by sculptor Robert Graham. It has become a kind of symbol of the street and one of the most recognizable art objects in Beverly Hills.

On weekdays, a business atmosphere prevails here, and on weekends, the street turns into a place for walks and photo shoots. Tourists and locals look at the shop windows, go to cafes, and watch the expensive cars parked near the boutiques.

Rodeo Drive is not just shops, but a real attraction that shapes the image of Beverly Hills.

Hollywood Luxury: Mansions and Hotels

Beverly Hills has long been a haven for famous actors, musicians, and entrepreneurs. Here, you can witness impressive mansions hidden behind tall hedges, as well as legendary hotels where stars reside. The architecture and atmosphere of these places capture the spirit of Hollywood and the city's status as a symbol of luxury.

Star Mansions

The first elite homes in Beverly Hills began to be built in the 1920s. Pioneers of the film industry settled here — Charlie Chaplin, Gloria Swanson, Mary Pickford, and Douglas Fairbanks. Their Pickfair villa was long considered one of the most famous in Hollywood.

Today, the area remains a prestigious place for celebrities to live. Among the modern mansion owners are Jennifer Aniston, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Adele. Many homes are surrounded by vast gardens, equipped with pools, tennis courts, and panoramic terraces. Architectural styles range from classic Hollywood chic to ultra-modern minimalist structures with panoramic windows.

One of the most famous places is Benedict Canyon Drive. It winds through the hills and is renowned for secluded mansions overlooking Los Angeles. Mulholland Drive, offering breathtaking scenery, is equally popular.

Although most mansions are hidden from prying eyes, tourists can see some of them during special tours. Beverly Hills offers car tours where guides tell stories about the owners of luxurious homes and show famous locations.

Legendary Hotels

Some Beverly Hills hotels have become more than just places to stay; they are part of Hollywood history.

• Beverly Hills Hotel
  One of the city's most iconic hotels, opened in 1912. It's called the "Pink Palace" because of its distinctive facade color. It attracted wealthy and influential people and later became a favorite spot for stars. Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Elizabeth Taylor stayed here at various times. The hotel is surrounded by palm gardens, and its interior conveys the atmosphere of Hollywood's golden age.
• Beverly Wilshire
  Another iconic location, situated at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard, opened in 1928. It has hosted world leaders, actors, and musicians. It became most famous after the release of the film "Pretty Woman" with Julia Roberts. Inside, you'll find luxurious suites, a restaurant by chef Wolfgang Puck, and a world-class spa complex.
• Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills
  This hotel opened in 2017 but has already joined the list of California's best hotels. Its rooms offer panoramic views of the city, and its rooftop restaurant has become a popular meeting place for the Hollywood elite.

The hotels and mansions of Beverly Hills shape the city's unique image. They reflect its connection to the film industry, showcase the lifestyle of local residents, and attract guests eager to see legendary places with their own eyes.

Parks and Natural Areas

Beverly Hills is known not only for its expensive boutiques and mansions but also for its well-maintained green spaces. Despite the city's small area, there are several parks where you can escape the urban hustle, stroll among palm trees, and enjoy beautiful panoramic views.

Beverly Gardens Park

One of the city's most famous parks stretches along Santa Monica Boulevard for 3 kilometers. This green corridor with alleys, flowerbeds, and fountains serves as a boundary between residential neighborhoods and the business district.

Here is the famous Beverly Hills sign, one of the city's main photo locations. The park has many benches, shaded areas, and walking paths. In spring and autumn, art festivals are held here, where local artists exhibit their works.

Will Rogers Memorial Park

This park is named after the American actor and writer Will Rogers. It is located directly opposite the Beverly Hills Hotel and was opened in 1915. It is one of the oldest parks in the city, originally created as a public garden for local residents.

The central place is occupied by a large pond with a fountain, around which palm trees and flowering shrubs grow. Here you can often see ducks and turtles. The park has a quiet and cozy atmosphere, and thanks to the thoughtful landscape, it looks picturesque at any time of the year.

Franklin Canyon Park

This natural park is located on the northern border of Beverly Hills and occupies about 250 hectares. Unlike the manicured city parks, here you can see wildlife.

In the center of the park is a small lake surrounded by hills and forest trails. Deer, rabbits, and many species of birds are found here. The park has hiking trails of varying difficulty, and the hills offer views of Los Angeles.

Coldwater Canyon Park

Another green place for walks and recreation. It has a playground, a picnic area, and several hiking trails. The park is especially popular with locals, as it is always less crowded with tourists.

A good place for a morning jog or a leisurely stroll. The park is home to eucalyptus, oak, and various species of flowering trees. On hot days, you can hide in the shade and relax by a small pond.

Greystone Mansion and Park

This area combines the historic Greystone Mansion and its surrounding park. The building itself was built in 1928 for an oil magnate, and today it belongs to the city and is used for tours and events.

The park is open to everyone, and you can come here for free. It has manicured lawns, fountains, terraces, and paved paths with views of the valley. Thanks to its cinematic atmosphere, this place is often used for filming and wedding photo shoots.

Beverly Hills parks are an opportunity to see the city from a different perspective. They create a balance between the dynamic urban rhythm and natural beauty, and their diversity makes them attractive to both tourists and locals.

A Gastronomic Paradise

The city offers a wide range of dining options, from fine dining restaurants and cozy cafes with innovative dishes to establishments serving classic American cuisine. Many venues are famous for their chefs, unique interiors, and rich histories.

Fine Dining Restaurants

Beverly Hills is home to some of Los Angeles's best restaurants, attracting celebrities, businesspeople, and gourmets from around the world.

• CUT by Wolfgang Puck. This restaurant, located in the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, is run by the legendary chef Wolfgang Puck. It is known for its prime steaks, exquisite sauces, and extensive wine list. The service is impeccable, and the dishes are prepared using only the finest ingredients.
• Spago. This iconic restaurant has become a hallmark of Californian cuisine. It offers dishes that blend European and Asian traditions, as well as the chef's original recipes. The menu is updated seasonally, with an emphasis on fresh farm produce.
• Mastro's Steakhouse. A must-visit for steak and seafood lovers. It serves generous portions of meat dishes, baked oysters, and lobsters. In the evening, live music enhances the cozy atmosphere.

Popular Cafes and Bistros

In addition to upscale restaurants, Beverly Hills boasts numerous cafes where you can enjoy coffee, fresh pastries, or a light lunch.

• The Polo Lounge. This legendary cafe inside the Beverly Hills Hotel was a popular gathering spot for Hollywood actors in the 1950s. Today, it's a favorite for business meetings and terrace breakfasts. The menu features classic American dishes, including omelets, burgers, and salads.
• Urth Caffé. A place to savor organic coffee and healthy desserts. They offer lattes with oat and almond milk, homemade pies, and light breakfasts. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the courtyard is adorned with citrus trees.
• Chaumont Bakery & Café. A French bakery renowned for its freshly baked croissants and baguettes. Breakfasts here are light yet satisfying, featuring avocado toast, cheesy scrambled eggs, and fresh juices.

Global Cuisine

Beverly Hills is a city where you can sample dishes from almost any national cuisine.

• Nobu Beverly Hills. This Japanese restaurant is famous for its sushi, sashimi, and crab rolls. The menu is crafted by chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and the interior is dominated by natural materials and minimalism.
• Il Pastaio. One of the city's finest Italian restaurants. They prepare pasta by hand, using truffles, fresh seafood, and premium cheeses. The summer terrace is always bustling, and reservations are essential.
• Avra Beverly Hills. A Greek restaurant specializing in fish and seafood. The interior is designed in a Mediterranean style, and the menu includes grilled octopus, fresh oysters, and traditional Greek appetizers.

Beverly Hills caters to all tastes, from elite restaurants to cozy bakeries. The city attracts those who appreciate high quality, fresh ingredients, and a unique ambiance.

Cultural Attractions

Beverly Hills is known not only for its boutiques and upscale restaurants but also for its cultural venues that reflect the city's rich history. Here, you can see historic buildings, visit art galleries, and attend theaters where legendary artists have performed.

Beverly Hills City Hall

This is one of the city's most recognizable buildings. Built in 1932, the city hall combines Spanish and Mediterranean architectural styles. The facade is adorned with columns, arches, and decorative elements, and the central tower is crowned with a gilded dome.

Municipal services are located inside, but tourists are free to stroll through the courtyard, which features a small garden with fountains and benches. In the evening, the building is beautifully illuminated, creating an atmosphere of old Hollywood.

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

This is the venue where the Academy Awards ceremony is held every year. Beverly Hills is home to the Academy's headquarters and a museum dedicated to the history of the film industry.

The museum displays rare movie posters, costumes from iconic films, and technical equipment used in filmmaking. Here, you can see the original screenplay of "The Godfather," Darth Vader's mask, and much more.

Greystone Mansion

A historic estate built in 1928 by oil magnate Edward Doheny. It is one of the largest private estates in California, spanning 18 acres.

The main building is designed in the neo-Gothic style, and it is surrounded by manicured gardens, terraces, and fountains. Today, Greystone is open to the public, offering tours, and its interiors are frequently used for film shoots.

Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts

A cultural center located in the former post office building, built in 1933. In 2013, the building was renovated and transformed into a modern art space.

It hosts exhibitions, theater productions, and music concerts. One of the halls houses a small stage where young actors and musicians perform.

Gagosian Gallery

One of the most famous private art galleries in the world. It exhibits works by contemporary artists, as well as renowned 20th-century masters such as Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso.

Exhibitions are regularly updated, and admission is free for visitors. The gallery attracts not only art enthusiasts but also collectors looking to acquire unique pieces.

Beverly Hills is not just about luxury and shopping; it is also a city with a vibrant cultural life. Its museums, theaters, and historic buildings make it attractive to those who want to learn more about cinema, art, and architecture.

What to See Near Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is conveniently located among many iconic Los Angeles landmarks. Within a short drive, you'll find legendary film studios, museums, picturesque beaches, and parks.

Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame

One of the world's most famous avenues begins just 15 minutes from Beverly Hills. Hollywood Boulevard is known for its theaters, museums, and, of course, the Walk of Fame. Here, you can see stars dedicated to actors, directors, and musicians, and visit the TCL Chinese Theatre, where celebrity handprints and footprints are preserved.

Nearby is Madame Tussauds Hollywood with wax figures, and the Dolby Theatre, the venue for the annual Academy Awards ceremony.

Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign

The mountain where the Hollywood sign and the observatory are located is 25 minutes from Beverly Hills. You can climb to the sign via one of the hiking trails, which offers a view of all of Los Angeles.

Griffith Observatory is not only a viewing platform but also a science center with telescopes and exhibits. Inside, you can learn about planets, stars, and the history of space exploration.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The largest art museum on the West Coast of the United States. Its collection spans works from antiquity to the present day. In the evening, the "Urban Light" installation lights up in front of the entrance — rows of vintage street lamps that have become one of the city's most recognizable photo locations.

Nearby is the Petersen Automotive Museum, where you can see rare and collectible cars, including models from iconic films.

Santa Monica and Venice Beach

Just a 30-minute drive away, and the Pacific Ocean appears before your eyes. In Santa Monica, you can stroll along the famous pier, ride the Ferris wheel, and sample fresh seafood.

A little further south is Venice Beach with its unique atmosphere. Street musicians perform here, artists work, and the promenade is filled with skaters and cyclists.

The Getty Center

A modern museum on a hilltop, known for its architecture and collection of European paintings. It displays works by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and other great masters. In addition to paintings, the museum features antique furniture, sculptures, and manuscripts.

The center's terraces offer panoramic views of Los Angeles, and the surrounding gardens are adorned with fountains and rare plants.

Beverly Hills is surrounded by places that make a trip to Los Angeles particularly vibrant. Here, you can immerse yourself in the Hollywood atmosphere, see famous landmarks, and relax on the coast.

If you want to see more, it's worth setting aside time to visit museums, beaches, and iconic avenues. The distances are short, and the variety of experiences makes this region one of the most interesting in California.