Top Things To Do In West Hollywood: A Local Guide

March 29, 2022 by jordangassner

I recently moved from West Hollywood after over ten wild, glittery, taco-fueled years, and before the dust fully settles, I wanted to finally put together the updated guide I’ve always meant to share: the real-deal, no-fluff spots that made WeHo feel like home.

This isn’t a trendy hot list or a roundup of tourist traps. It’s my go-to coffee shops, late-night cravings, walkable hangs, and where I sent every friend who texted, “Hey, I’m in LA. What should I do?”

So if you’re visiting, moving in, or just craving a little sun-soaked nostalgia, here’s my take. Save it, share it, and let me know what you’d add.

Where to Lounge Outside

The Chamberlain Rooftop: If you’re in need of a pool day, sign up for a day pass or a cabana on this hotel’s rooftop. And with a poolside bar, you won’t have to go far for drinks and snacks either!

Kings Road Park: A quiet and shady park that’s usually filled with dogs living their best lives. Great for journaling or sneaking in a call.

The Restoration Hardware Rooftop: No purchase necessary. Just go up, grab a seat, and pretend you live there. Perfect at sunset.

Where to Catch a Show

Landmark Theatres Sunset: Surprisingly chill for a mall-adjacent theater. Great popcorn. A cocktail bar inside. Reserved reclining seats. Plus, you can walk to dinner after.

Laugh Factory: One of West Hollywood’s world-famous comedy clubs, known for hosting some of the biggest names in stand-up. The space feels exclusive enough that no seat is a bad one. I once saw Leslie Jones here, and it felt like she was performing in my living room (if my living room served cocktails and had a two-drink minimum).

Leica Gallery: For exclusive photography exhibits and chances to meet and connect with emerging artists.

The Troubadour: A legendary venue with deep roots in music history (Elton John played his first U.S. show here!). It’s intimate, loud, and the drinks pack a punch. I’ve seen The Score, Avi Kaplan, and even Creed Bratton from The Office grace its stage. No matter who’s playing, this spot is always a great time.

Where to See Iconic Horror Movie Locations

1530 Orange Grove Ave: The house where Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) babysits in Halloween (1978).

1537 Orange Grove Ave: The house where Michael Myers goes on his killing spree from the same Halloween film (1978).

1428 North Genesee Ave: The home where Nancy Thompson was haunted by Freddy Krueger in A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984).

1419 North Genesee Ave: Also from A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), this is the home where Johnny Depp’s character Glen was murdered.

Where to Eat (and eat again)

Breakfast and Coffee

Croft Alley: A hidden, quiet, leafy cafe inside Melrose Place. The yogurt bowl is famous for a reason.

Farm Cup Coffee: Trendy, pretty, solid caffeine. My sister loves this spot.

Go Get ‘Em Tiger – A great spot for quick and healthy bites!

Pantheon Cafe: A hidden cafe along Fairfax Avenue that’s perfect for cozy-ing up with a laptop, pastry and cup of Joe.

Tectonic Coffee: An Australian-owned spot that “keeps it Bogan” with vegemite caramel lattes and milo mochas (as well as more classic-style options). Did I mention they supply fresh pastries from Sugarbloom Bakery daily? Offers vegan and gluten-free friendly options.

Lunch, Dinner, and Sweet Things

Ardor: For moments you want to feel fancy (and healthy) on the strip. Go for an early dinner (the restaurant opens around 6PM) to have most of the space to yourself.

Awan: As someone with a dairy allergy, finding this coconut-based, Indonesian-inspired ice cream shop has been nothing short of a miracle! Their blood orange flavor is especially delicious.

Formosa Cafe: Come for the classic Hollywood atmosphere, stay for General Tso’s Cauliflower (trust me).

Hugo’s: The best happy hour in town. Love their inclusive offerings for those with dietary restrictions (just try not to get overly excited with the food and spill vegan ranch on yourself like I did).

Irie: A restaurant and lounge serving up amazing food (their Cast-Iron Chocolate Chip Cookie puts BJ’s Pizookie to shame), zero-proof cocktails and cannabis offerings? The best kind of people watching experience.

Jones Hollywood: Did I happen to run into Jason Momoa here one time during lunch? Yes. Do they also have (arguably) the best martinis in town? Also yes.

Laurel Hardware: Come for the aesthetic, stay for the truffle fries. Bonus points if you grab a drink in the back patio.

Night + Market: Thai street food with serious flavor. Get the Tom Yum Goong and a natural wine.

Where to Grab a Drink

Bar Lubitsch: A classic vodka bar that’s equal parts sultry and spirited, Bar Lubitsch is a Russian-inspired vodka bar with a split personality: moody lounge up front, full-on dance party in the back. It’s dimly lit, always buzzing, and definitely comes alive after dark.

Bar Next Door: A darling classic cocktail bar tucked away on Sunset.

Barney’s Beanery: Perfect for trivia nights, watching the game, or playing a round of pool over strong drinks and hearty chili.

Hamburger Mary’s: The food may not be the best in all of West Hollywood, but it’s certainly worth the visit on Sundays for the Drag Queen Bingo and bottomless mimosas alone.

Las Perlas: A mezcal bar with bottles spanning from across all of México. Check out the back patio for a small food stand as well (with vegan and gluten free options!). And don’t miss their Tequila and Mezcal tastings every Tuesday from 7-8PM.

The Lucky Tiki: A speakeasy hidden behind a hotdog stand and inside The Doors’ 1970 workshop and recording studio.

Melrose Umbrella Co.: Cozy, candlelit, and ideal for pretending you’re in a noir film. Plus, they typically have live music on the weekends!

Schmitty’s Bar: The front patio is the perfect place to hang out for Pride (just get there EARLY). And inside? Strong drinks and great music. Also, don’t miss their Musical Bingo Mondays (Mondays at 8PM) or amazing happy hour specials (Mon-Thurs from 4-8PM and Fri-Sat from 3-7PM).

The Tower Bar: A classic establishment that’s known for having an occasional celebrity or two. Perfect for evenings you want to dress up, just because.

Where to Shop

Books and Gifts

Book Soup: Independent bookstore magic. Staff picks that actually hit. Come for the signed copies, stay for the eavesdropping.

Candle Delirium: For high-end scented and unscented candles, florals and other gifts for hard-to-shop-for folks.

The Give Store: Another gift store, this spot has great succulents, ceramics, and kitchenware. It’s been my go-to for housewarming gifts.

Vintage and thrifting

Melrose Trading Post: For artisanal goods (including furniture!), eclectic artwork, unique crafts, & vintage fashion. I’ve curated my fair share of records and vintage film poster prints here!

Crossroads: Yes, it’s a chain, but it has great prices (for LA) and unique finds.

Shabon Vintage: Colorful and quirky pieces on Melrose Ave.

Home and Design

Atacama Home: A woman-owned small business offering unique textiles, tableware, and decor for your home. The real treasures here are the coasters, placemats, and ceramic dishes!

Ken Fulk: Don’t let the high price tags scare you off, this is a great place to walk around and gather inspiration for your space.

The Restoration Hardware: If you’re already visiting the rooftop, why not browse the furniture offerings as well?

Rove Concepts: Interesting furniture and decor pieces that are worth stopping by to shop for whenever there’s a sale!

Where to See Cool Architecture

Harper Avenue Historic District (Locations at Link): My favorite hidden gem to walk around. Quiet, shaded, and lots of dogs walking around the beautiful buildings. Features a variety of architectural styles, including Spanish Colonial Revival and Craftsman, and was a popular residential area for famous Hollywood figures, including Marilyn Monroe.

Lloyd Wright Studio-Residence (855 Doheny Dr): Designed in 1927 by Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright, this two-story home and studio exemplifies Mayan Revival architecture with its textured concrete blocks and geometric forms. Serving as both his personal residence and workspace, it’s a testament to Wright’s innovative design blending living and creative spaces.

Schindler House (835 N Kings Road): Completed in 1922 by architect Rudolph M. Schindler, this pioneering modernist residence broke conventions with its open floor plan, tilt-up concrete walls, and integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. It’s a lovely spot to escape the hustle and bustle and catch an occasional art installation.

Stahl House (1635 Woods Drive): Built in the mid-late 1950s, the Stahl House is a wonderful modernist style home set in the West Hollywood hills. The Stahl House’s unique views and architecture have made it a popular filming spot for movies and shows like Galaxy Quest and Columbo.

Day trips and Quick Escapes

Culver City: Once the heart of classic Hollywood filmmaking, Culver City has reinvented itself as a hub for art, dining, and design. Head here for a tour of Sony Pictures, a drink at The Culver Hotel, a bite at Citizen Public Market, and the galleries at the Helms Design District.

Franklin Canyon: If you’re looking for a nearby hike, skip Runyon Canyon (it’s crowded and there’s not a lot of shade there anyway) and enjoy 1 of 3 trails in this spot. Just don’t miss the duck (and turtle) pond during your visit!

Griffith Observatory at golden hour: Technically not WeHo, and also not a “locals-only” kind of spot, but absolutely worth the drive. Hike up, catch the view, pretend you’re in La La Land.

Pasadena: Historic charm, tree-lined streets, and the stunning architecture of places like the Gamble House and City Hall. Spend the day browsing boutiques in Old Town, going Back to the Future, or grabbing brunch on a shaded patio, or exploring the Norton Simon Museum.

Other West Hollywood Recommendations

For workouts: Speir Pilates, Drenched LA, Barry’s Bootcamp, The Yard, or Training Mate

For nails: BASE, Blush LA(for nail art) orIbiza Nails (for a no frills experience)

For spas: Pause, Spencer’s, or Maison d’Emilie

For groceries: If you’re not brave enough to face the madness that is the Whole Foods parking lot, just embrace Trader Joe’s on Santa Monica or on Sunset. Everyone’s in a daze and there’s surprisingly a solid amount of underground parking.

If you’re headed to West Hollywood soon, I hope this guide helps you feel a little more like a local! Let me know what you find, I’ll be cheering you on from my new zip code.