Want to inject a dash of luxury into your trip to Southern California? Then a stopover to check out all the best things to do in Beverly Hills is a must! Home to the world’s most famous zip code, this vibrant city is a playground for the rich and famous.
Nestled against the Santa Monica Mountains in the Greater Los Angeles Area, this high-end hotspot has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a lima bean ranch. Today, Beverly Hills boasts mega-mansions, art galleries, public gardens, fabulous restaurants, and – of course – the opulent shops of world-famous Rodeo Drive.
Ready to get your glam on? Check out this complete guide to the best places to visit in Beverly Hills, CA, and head for the Hills!
Got more travel plans on the horizon? Check out all our other attractions guides and our California Travel Guide for more ideas on where to go, when to visit & what to do!
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Beverly Gardens Park
Looking for some family-friendly R&R without leaving the city? Then you’ll want to carve out some time for Beverly Gardens Park. When it comes to outdoor spaces, this is a prime piece of real estate and is near the top of the list for what to do in Beverly Hills.
This 1.9-acre park stretches from Wilshire Blvd to North Doheny Drive, next to Santa Monica Boulevard. Stroll the pathway, and you’ll reach the park’s iconic Beverly Hills Sign. The sign sits atop a lily pond and is surrounded by a beautiful courtyard complete with picnic benches.
Sit back and take in the beautiful view – or carry on strolling to enjoy an intriguing array of art installations, gardens, and two decorative fountains: the Electric Fountain at one end and the Doheny Fountain at the other. Very pic-worthy!
Visiting in the spring or fall? Check out the family-friendly Beverly Hills Art Show. This lively alfresco event features two blocks’ worth of innovative art. You might just discover the next Jean-Michel Basquiat!
Greystone Mansion
Want to see how the other half lived? Take Sunset Boulevard to the north end of Beverly Hills, and pay a visit to the spectacular Greystone Mansion. Built in 1927 by billionaire Ned Dohne Jr., this massive 55-room structure sits on 16 acres of land and is one of the top tourist attractions in Beverly Hills. Stroll the grounds and take in the enchanting setting of lush gardens, soaring trees, and flowing fountains.
The beauty of Greystone Mansion & Park has made it a popular spot for photoshoots and filming. Film fans will recognize it from numerous movies like The Big Lebowski, There Will Be Blood, Spider-Man, and The Social Network. It’s also enjoyed close-ups in hundreds of engagement photos and family portraits.
Tip: plan ahead! The mansion is only open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. There’s no fee, but reservations are required. Guided tours are held on Saturdays only and are sold out months in advance – so book early.
Rodeo Drive
What comes to mind when you hear the name “Beverly Hills”? Chances are, it’s one of the most famous streets in the world: Rodeo Drive. Chock-full of luxury retailers, upscale restaurants, and landmarks like the historic Beverly Wilshire Hotel, this two-mile stretch of pavement is a retail and sightseeing paradise.
Slip on your Ray-Bans and take a stroll through one of the world’s priciest shopping districts. Rodeo Drive is one-third of the city’s chi-chi “Golden Triangle,” part of a must-see trio that includes the legendary Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard. Browse over 100 high-end shops featuring international designers like Louis Vuitton, Gucci Beverly Hills, and Prada.
Looking for 5-star dining – or just a tasty stopover? Rodeo Drive brims with excellent eateries. Whether you crave Chinese cuisine or filet mignon, you’ll find something that hits the spot.
And if you hear a sudden blast of camera shutters on your travels, don’t be surprised: It just means an A-list celebrity is somewhere in the vicinity!
Franklin Canyon Park
Looking for a beautiful spot that’s off the beaten urban path? Then make time for a fresh-air break in Franklin Canyon Park. Set between Beverly Hills and the San Fernando Valley, this hidden gem will give you plenty of space to breathe deep.
Stretched out over 600 acres, this natural haven is one of the top places to go in Beverly Hills for scenic walking. Explore grasslands, lakes, oak forests, and a network of hiking trails. The trails are graded, so it’s easy to find one that suits your skills. The Discovery Trail, an easy loop through walnut groves, is a family favorite.
Wildlife enthusiasts will want to grab their binoculars and head for the north end of Franklin Canyon Park. Along the way, check out interpretive stops that detail the canyon’s unique history. Amble along the duck pond and reservoir, where you’ll get great sightings of over 50 species of native and exotic birds.
Coldwater Canyon Park
On the hunt for that perfect blend of family-friendly action and relaxation? Then plan to spend some time at Coldwater Canyon Park. Set on Mulholland Drive in the Santa Monica Mountains, this 45-acre destination offers loads of fun outdoor activities.
Over a century old, Coldwater Canyon Park is one of the most popular parks in Los Angeles. It boasts miles of recreational trails, acres of rich biodiversity, and a variety of cultural and conservation activities.
Let the kids cut loose on the playground. Enjoy a private family eco-tour, or get the kids involved in guided park activities for some fun hands-on learning.
Ready to relax? Stake out a spot in one of the beautiful seating areas or picnic spots. Unpack a picnic hamper, stretch out under a shaded trellis, and savor panoramic views of the city.
Beverly Cañon Gardens
Craving a breather inside the city? Take a stroll over to Beverly Cañon Gardens on North Canon Drive. This tranquil oasis lets you take a break without having to leave town.
Set next to the Maybourne Beverly Hills, this little gem boasts 33,000 square feet of open space, fountains, and beautiful public gardens. Meander along the colonnaded walkways and trellised arcades.
Soak up the sun as you relax on the grass – or take a seat at one of the outdoor cafes to do some people-watching while you enjoy a bite. If you’re there after dark, be sure to take in “Concerts on Canon,” a popular concert series that features live music ranging from jazz to standard classics to local bands.
Enjoy the beat and end your day under the stars!
Will Rogers Memorial Park
Craving a sweet spot to chill out after an exhausting day of (window) shopping and gawking at obscene prices? Look no further than the enchanting Will Rogers Memorial Park. Set in the heart of Beverly Hills on Sunset Boulevard, this public park has been a magnet for visitors since its creation in 1912. It’s named for the beloved American humorist Will Rogers, who often brought his kids here to kick back and enjoy some family time.
Take time to amble the paths that wind through Will Rogers Memorial Park. One of them will lead you to a large pond that’s capped by a stunning fountain dedicated to Margaret J. Anderson, the Beverly Hills Hotel’s first owner. Meander over the park’s spacious lawns, and savor the tranquil beauty of rose gardens and swaying palm trees.
Feeling refreshed? Hmm, maybe you’re not all shopped out after all …
Spadena House
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a world of make-believe, you’ll want to make a pilgrimage to Spadena House. Also known as “The Witch’s House,” this spooky spot looks like something out of a Grimms Brothers fairytale.
Built in 1921 by art director Harry Oliver as a whimsical studio office in Culver City, it eventually became a private residence. But it’s still got all the makings of a haunted fairytale cottage, complete with a straw roof, cobblestones, bizarre shapes, and gnarly trees.
It’s a rare surviving example of “storybook architecture,” which had a moment in the United States and England in the 1900s. Though it’s not open to the public, you’re welcome to get a sidewalk view – and it’s quite a sight! The whole family will get a kick out of the otherworldly vibes.
Now, stake out a spot by the old creaking gate. Dare you to take a selfie!
Virginia Robinson Gardens
Want to see the ultimate in Beverly Hills mansions? Drop into Virginia Robinson Gardens to get an opulent eyeful. Built in 1911 by retail magnate Harry Robinson and named for his wife, this was the city’s first luxury estate, and it’s now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The six-acre estate boasts a magnificent mansion, gorgeous gardens, and a palatial pool pavilion. Book an appointment to explore the remarkable home of “The First Lady of Beverly Hills.”
Take in the splendor of the estate’s landscaped courtyards and multi-themed gardens. Marvel at the majestic King Palm Forest. Savor the vivid beauty of the Rose Garden, and soak in the tranquility of the Italian Terrace Gardens.
Virginia Robinson was legendary as Hollywood’s first Hostess with the Mostest – so close your eyes and imagine sipping champagne with famous personalities like Charlie Chaplin and Fred Astaire. If this place could talk!
Beverly Hills Sign
Beverly Hills is chock-full of great spots for selfies, but if you’re looking for the ultimate “I-was-really-there” destination, make your way to Beverly Gardens Park. Nothing says “90210” like the 40-foot-high Beverly Hills Sign. This is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Beverly Hills – and a favorite photo spot.
The Beverly Hills Sign sits atop a lily pond that stretches an entire city block, and it’s surrounded by the largest section of the beautiful Beverly Gardens Park. Take a leisurely stroll down a scenic pedestrian trail that stretches over eleven blocks.
Sit back on a picnic bench, or meander the park’s pathway to view the lovely gardens, courtyard, and fountains. And there’s more to please the eye: the park is a kind of alfresco gallery. Take time to enjoy viewing the intriguing sculptures and public art installations.
Spago Beverly Hills
If you want to taste the crème-de-la-creme of Hollywood restaurants, you’ve got to book yourself a table at Spago Beverly Hills. Co-owned by world-renowned chef Wolfgang Puck, this award-winning hotspot has been wowing the tastebuds of fashionable foodies for over 30 years.
As early adopters of “fresh and local,” the Puck gang essentially created California Cuisine – and at Spago Beverly Hills, they continue to set the standard for superb SoCal dining.
Head chef and James Beard Award-winner Lee Hefter carries on the tradition by creating imaginative seasonal menus that feature the very best from California’s farmers, ranchers, and fishermen.
So much of the menu looks tempting that you’ll have a hard time choosing. A good bet is to opt for the California Tasting Menu. You’ll enjoy the “Best of the West” in eight scrumptious courses.
Oh, and did someone say “wine”? Spago did, with a spectacular list of over 30,000 bottles. Salut!
Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts
Ready for a hit of live entertainment? Then plan a visit to the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. Set right in the heart of Beverly Hills, this vibrant center for the performing arts is renowned in Southern California for its diverse and eclectic programming.
This unique venue has transformed its neighborhood into a lively, family-friendly cultural hub that features local, national, and international artists. The Wallis Annenberg Center features two buildings: the renovated 1933 Italianate-style Beverly Hills Post Office (listed on the National Register of Historic Places), and the contemporary 500-seat, state-of-the-art Bram Goldsmith Theater.
Check their schedule and book a seat to enjoy world-class theater, dance, or music. Afterward, browse the gift shop or relax in the cafe. Step outside and meander through the lovely sunken sculpture garden, or take a stroll along the promenade terrace to take in views of the beautifully landscaped grounds.
Roxbury Park
Are you up for some activity in the Great Outdoors? Then Roxbury Park is where you want to be. Stretched out over 11 acres, this beautiful green space is a perfect spot for all kinds of family-friendly outdoor activities.
Start with a perfect warmup: a scenic stroll over Roxbury Park’s gently rolling hills. If you’ve got youngsters in tow, freestyle it and let them loose in the state-of-the-art playground.
Want to get your own heart pumping? Gear up and take your pick from a roster of popular activities, including basketball, volleyball, baseball, soccer, croquet, golf, and lawn bowling. Phew!
Need a break from the sun? Pop into the newly renovated Roxbury Park Community Center and check out their slate of classes in everything ranging from sculpting to aerobics.
Brought a picnic hamper? When you’re ready to refuel, stake out a table, fire up one of the grill stations—and enjoy!
Mastro’s Steakhouse
Got an appetite for a steakhouse with serious chops? Satisfy your cravings at the hugely popular Mastro’s Steakhouse, hailed by critics and customers alike as one of the best steakhouses in the US. This snazzy spot serves up palate-pleasing plates and delicious drinks to a glam crowd in a hot, Haute setting.
Offering everything from delectable sushi to mouth-watering Kobe beef, Mastro’s is a foodies’ dream. And it’s as big on ambiance as it is on food. The proof is in the movie star clientele that flocks to this hotspot for libations and a late-night bite. (Check out the paparazzi parked outside.)
Sashay up to the Penthouse, the restaurant’s sleek rooftop bar & lounge. Sit back, sip a craft cocktail, and take in the Late Show. Very entertaining!
Wally’s Beverly Hills
Looking for an elegant but laid-back way to end a perfect day in the city? Then head over to Wally’s Beverly Hills on North Canon Drive and get comfortable. Whether you’re in the mood to shop, sit down for a bite, or grab some tasty takeout, this unique spot is a one-stop shop.
Browse a mouthwatering selection of cheeses, caviar, charcuterie, and hand-crafted chocolates. Check out delicious take-home nibbles like figs and artisanal crackers.
And what would a decadent snack be without a sip of something fabulous? Don’t worry: Wally’s Beverly Hills has you covered with a superb choice of rare spirits and a selection of over 100 wines by the glass.
But if you’re in the mood to relax and settle back, no problem! Get cozy in Wally’s warm and welcoming dining area, and treat yourself to culinary delights ranging from melt-in-your-mouth baked brie to delectable King Salmon.
Bon appétit!
Sunset Strip
If you really want to get a taste of the fun and funky side of Beverly Hills, cruise on over to Sunset Strip, the iconic stretch of Sunset Boulevard connecting West Hollywood with Beverly Hills. It may have lost some of its sheens, but the Strip is still a major see-and-be-seen hangout for both celebs and one of the top points of interest in Beverly Hills for sightseers.
Stroll the stretch and soak up the vibe. Packed with unique boutiques, historic restaurants, groundbreaking nightclubs like the Whisky a Go Go, and luxury hotels like the Beverly Wilshire, the Strip vibrates with energy. And above it all looms those enormous billboards flashing ads for everything under the sun. Is your head spinning yet?
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One of the best things to do in Beverly Hills, CA, is to take your time, browse the shops, and grab a bite. The golden glam may be gone, but Sunset Strip still exudes a one-of-a-kind charisma that makes it one of SoCal’s most enduring and beloved icons. The legend lives on.
La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
Indiana Jones fans: get your game face on and head over to the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. If you’ve ever wanted to dig into the past, this is the place to do it! This amazing site, improbably set in the heart of Los Angeles off Wilshire Boulevard, is nothing less than a gateway to the Ice Age.
The world’s only active urban Ice Age fossil project, the La Brea Tar Pits have fascinated scientists and civilians alike for generations. Over a period of tens of thousands of years, Ice Age animals, insects, and plants were trapped in tar – transforming them into the beautifully preserved fossils being excavated today.
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See paleontologists in action, and work alongside them. Step into the museum to view amazing Ice Age discoveries, ranging from microfossils to woolly mammoths to the museum’s crown jewel: the riveting fossil of the 9,000-year-old La Brea Woman. Goosebumps guaranteed.
