Exploring West Hollywood's Sunset Strip

Sunset Boulevard, once notorious for being a sordid red-light district plagued with prostitution, remains one of the most popular spots for California visitors to venture into. And why not! This windy and poorly maintained road stretching 22 miles long and passing through some of the most famous neighborhoods of Los Angeles exhales Hollywood history. From Bel-Air to Beverly Hills to Hollywood and back, in this street lies the shattered dreams of some and the realized dreams of others. Dubbed the Sunset Strip by all in the know, the most famous portion of Sunset Boulevard begins at Marmot lane from the east and extends towards the west ending at Phyllis Street. Cutting through the heart of West Hollywood, the Sunset Strip embodies the spirit of Hollywood. A visitor can certainly get lost in the advertisements and old buildings; after all, how can one tell which is a historical landmark that shaped the brightest stars and which is just another shady dive that is littered along this street. Fear not! This guide will highlight some of the must see sights on the Sunset Strip and transform any lost tourist into a knowing local!

1. Rocky & Bullwinkle Statue - Rocky and Bullwinkle were truly representative of American ingenuity and wit. This 15 foot statue, located on 8200 W. Sunset Blvd, stands proudly outside the original Jay Ward studios to celebrate the location where the original Rocky & Bullwinkle cartoons were created. This landmark pleases children and adults alike. As an added treat for the uberfans, look for the autographs of the writer hidden inside the courtyard.

2. Chateau Marmot - From Marilyn Monroe to Britney Spears, from James Dean to Johnny Depp, this famous hotel at 8221 W. Sunset Blvd. has housed them all. While it might not be impressive looking on the outside, many celebrities consider this hotel one of best secret gems of Hollywood. Stop by, browse around, and if you're lucky you might run into someone famous!

3. The Comedy Store - A comedy club located at 8433 W. Sunset Blvd, the Comedy Store featured many famous comedians over the years. Tim Allen, Jerry Seinfeld, Whoopi Goldberg, Robin Williams, the list of comedic powerhouses who had once called this place home goes on. Make sure you check out the walls of the club and see exactly which comedian had been here!

4. Hyatt West Hollywood - Located at 8401 W. Sunset Blvd., this famous hotel was the base for mega rockbands of the 60's and 70's. The Rolling Stones, Led Zepplin, and The Who had all made their marks here. The hotel is also dubbed the "riot house" due to the wild antics from the bands there, such as dropping TV's out of the window! The hotel is currently being renovated to become "The Andaz".

5. Sunset Plaza - After all that sight seeing, if you wish to take a break and grab a refreshing soda and a filling sandwich. Stop by one of the sidewalk cafe's located from 8600 to 8700 on Sunset Blvd. The cafe's will not only recharge the tired tourist, but are also fantastic camping grounds to spot a celebrity passing by!

6. Tower Records - Similar to other Tower Records stores you'd find anywhere, except unique events are held here sometimes. Doesn't hurt to stop by to see if there's a concert or autograph session happening. 8801 W. Sunset Blvd.

7. Viper Room - A nightclub painted black at 8852 W. Sunset Blvd. Once owned by Johnny Depp, this club was one of the hottest spots for young actors to hang out. River Phoenix died of a drug overdoes here in 1993. If you are into nightclubs, other famous ones to check out include The Roxy Theater and Whisky a Go Go.

8. Rainbow Bar & Grill - A small bar and restaurant that might be dismissed by tourist with the undiscerning eye. This little place is filled with Hollywood history. This was the restaurant where John Belushi consumed his last meal. This was the restaurant where Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe met for a blind date. This was the restaurants where rockers and a-list celebrities frequent. As the times has passed by, the celebrities that frequent this spot has also passed by. Nonetheless, this is still one of the more interesting place to visit and hey, try the lentil soup.

The Sunset Strip is a fantastic tourist spot for those who love the glitz and glamour of Hollywood past and highly recommended for true fans of the entertainment industry. Whether you are into movies, stand-up comedy, or rock and roll, the Sunset Strip has a piece of history for you.