As a Jersey resident, I thought I already knew what good nightlife looked like – but walking along the West Hollywood Strip was a whole different kind of fun. This legendary stretch was alive and full of energy with flashing neon signs and iconic venues.
However, it’s not just about the nightlife. The Strip has a way of combining fun and history – every corner feels like it has a story to tell, and I was ready to listen to each of these stories carefully.
In today’s article, I’ll share my experience walking along the West Hollywood Strip.
Planning my journey from Hudson, NJ, to West Hollywood
The first step in any dream trip is getting there, of course. I was flying out of Newark Liberty International Airport and was lucky enough to snag a direct flight to Los Angeles International Airport on short notice. Pro tip: don’t rely on luck like I did – plan your trip at least a couple of weeks in advance to secure the best options. Once I landed, the next challenge was making my way to West Hollywood. While public transportation is available, I opted for a car rental because you won’t get far in LA without a car. The drive from LAX to my hotel near the Sunset Strip took about 40 minutes, and I didn’t mind. It was the perfect chance to soak in the palm trees and iconic boulevards – a world apart from Hudson County.
Arriving in Los Angeles – First Impressions as a Jersey Resident
Overwhelming but thrilling, that’s what I’ll say about LA. I was struck by how different LA felt compared to the compact streets of Jersey. The skyline stretches wide rather than high – there’s an undeniable energy in the mix of cars, culture, and creative people, too.
Finding the perfect place to stay near the Sunset Strip
For my stay, I chose the former Jeremy Hotel (now The 1 Hotel), just steps from Sunset Boulevard. A nice blend of calm and convenience, if you ask me. One of the biggest perks was being within walking distance of the top spots on the Sunset Strip, which meant I didn’t have to stress about parking – a major win in this part of LA.
The hotel’s modern, eco-friendly design was another standout feature, complete with a stunning rooftop bar where I could unwind after a day of exploring. The views were truly breathtaking, showcasing the glittering city skyline on one side and the Hollywood Hills on the other. And, of course, the rooftop pool was a personal favorite, offering a relaxing escape with LA lights as the backdrop.
Stepping onto the Sunset Strip
From the moment I set foot on the Sunset Strip, it was clear – I had entered a place filled with stories. Towering billboards loomed overhead, advertising everything from luxury brands to the latest Netflix series. The sidewalks were alive with energy: tourists snapping photos, musicians carrying guitars, and locals walking their dogs.
The Strip has its own rhythm, which is best experienced by walking its length. Stretching about 1.5 miles from Doheny Drive to Crescent Heights, it’s manageable for most people and offers plenty to see along the way. I began at the western end and slowly made my way east, soaking in the unique atmosphere. Along the way, I spotted the massive, rotating billboards showcasing movies, music, and celebrities. Tucked between high-end clothing stores were boutique shops waiting to be discovered. Every step felt like uncovering a new layer of LA’s iconic culture.
Music history and legendary venues
The Strip is all about the music, like walking through a piece of history – rock ‘n’ roll history, to be exact. I had to stop at the Whisky-a-Go-Go. Everyone from Led Zeppelin to The Doors performed here. A little farther down is the Roxy Theatre, another iconic spot. The bright red exterior makes this one impossible to miss.
My favorite musical moment, though, was visiting the outside of the Rainbow Bar & Grill. I spotted a group of rock fans taking selfies next to a Lemmy statue (from Motörhead, yes).
Popping into iconic bars and restaurants
Walking builds up an appetite, and the Strip delivers, oh yes! My first stop – Pink Taco. Fun, vibrant place where I downed some carnitas tacos with a spicy margarita. Later, I stopped by BOA Steakhouse to check out the chic décor and those fancy filets. At night, I ventured into The Viper Room, a dimly lit bar once owned by Johnny Depp. Live music set the tone, and I slowly sipped an Old Fashioned while basking in the space’s history.
Street art & shopping
One unexpected highlight, you ask? The street art. Between the murals lining the walls of various establishments and the oversized billboards, this place is teeming with creativity everywhere. Now, I also ducked into the Sunset Plaza. That is a cute shopping area with boutique stores like Zadig & Voltaire. And if high-end fashion isn’t your thing, fear not – there are plenty of quirky stores scattered across the Strip selling everything from vintage vinyl to custom jewelry.
Unexpected gems and personal favorites
The famous venues and restaurants were exciting, but what I loved most were the small, unexpected moments – stuff like watching a local artist sketch on the sidewalk, spotting a Chihuahua in a rhinestone jacket outside a café, or just catching a street performer belting out ‘80s rock classics. It’s details like that that make all the difference.
Want more of my travels? Check out my article about restaurants in Texas.
Exploring West Hollywood beyond the Sunset Strip
For the traveler with extra time, don’t stop at the Strip. Just a few streets away is Melrose Avenue, where you can find more shopping and spots like Commissary Coffee. Take a short drive to the Hollywood Hills for unbeatable views of the city. It’s a big city after all!
My thoughts on walking along the West Hollywood Sunset Strip
Walking along the Sunset Strip was a mix of awe, nostalgia, and good, clean fun. Coming from Hudson, NJ, I was drawn to the energy, not gonna lie. The history fused with modern LA cool is hard to resist. It was all like a reminder of how vibrant and diverse our world can be. If you haven’t walked the Strip, add it to your list. It’s not just a destination – it’s a story waiting to unfold, one neon light at a time. Stay safe, and thanks for tuning in!
Walking along the West Hollywood Sunset Strip – FAQs
Is it safe to walk around Sunset Blvd?
Yes, walking along Sunset Boulevard is generally safe, especially around the busy and well-lit Sunset Strip. The area is lively, with plenty of people around, including tourists and locals. Just like in any city, it’s a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to the main areas. As long as you use common sense, you’ll be fine exploring this iconic stretch.
Why is Sunset Blvd so famous?
Sunset Boulevard is famous because it’s a symbol of LA’s history and culture. The Sunset Strip, in particular, is known for its iconic music venues, buzzing nightlife, and massive billboards showcasing everything from movies to celebrities. It’s been featured in countless films, songs, and stories, making it a huge part of Hollywood’s legacy.
Is West Hollywood walkable?
Yes, West Hollywood is very walkable, especially around popular areas like the Sunset Strip and Santa Monica Boulevard. Many restaurants, shops, and attractions are close to each other, making it easy to explore on foot. However, keep in mind that some parts of the city are hilly, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.
