Rodeo Drive, Los Angeles (must see)

Rodeo Drive runs for about two miles (or 3.2 kilometers) through Beverly Hills, but its most famous section covers three blocks between Wilshire Boulevard and Little Santa Monica Boulevard. This luxury district, part of the Golden Triangle, contains more than 100 designer boutiques, elegant restaurants, and prestigious hotels.

Begin at the southern end of Rodeo Drive, at Wilshire Boulevard. On the southwest corner, look for the large cream-colored Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, distinguished by its grand façade and striped awnings. Opened in 1928, it is one of Beverly Hills’ oldest luxury hotels and is widely known as the “Pretty Woman hotel” because of its appearance in the movie.

Cross Rodeo Drive to the northeast corner, where you will see the entrance to Two Rodeo Drive. It is easy to identify by its stone staircase and cobblestone pedestrian lane climbing between European-style façades. Walk uphill past ornamental lamps, fountains, flower displays, and boutiques, such as Versace, Jimmy Choo, and Tiffany & Company. Turn around near the top for an excellent view back toward the Beverly Wilshire.

Near the lower entrance, 208 Rodeo Restaurant offers outdoor seating beside the steps. The complex is also home to Urasawa, an exclusive Japanese restaurant known for its elaborate tasting menus.

Return to Rodeo Drive and continue north. Look down at the sidewalk for the bronze plaques of the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style. Inspired by the Hollywood Walk of Fame, it honors major figures in fashion and design, including Giorgio Armani, Tom Ford, Salvatore Ferragamo, Manolo Blahnik, Princess Grace of Monaco, and Gianni and Donatella Versace.

As you proceed along the boutique-lined street, watch for the House of Bijan, an exclusive menswear store traditionally operating by appointment only. Its most famous landmark is the bright yellow Rolls-Royce associated with Iranian-American designer Bijan Pakzad. The matching yellow parking meter and House of Bijan pavement plaques make this a popular photo stop, although the vehicle may occasionally be absent or replaced.

Rodeo Drive is less about affordable shopping and more about atmosphere. Even without entering the boutiques, visitors can admire the elaborate window displays, polished sports cars, elegant architecture, and carefully landscaped sidewalks. It is an enjoyable place for people-watching, photography, and a leisurely afternoon walk through one of Los Angeles’ most recognizable luxury districts.