Movie magic
greatness, head to the Walk of Fame, where 2,500 terrazzo and brass stars are embedded along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard. Spot tributes to legends such as John Lennon, Marilyn Monroe and
Elvis Presley.
One block away is Grandmaster
Recorders – a former recording studio now transformed into a swanky restaurant and bar. Channel your inner rock star, knowing the likes of David Bowie, Kanye West, Stevie Wonder and the Red Hot Chili Peppers recorded some of their biggest hits here.
Just a short walk away is The tommie Hollywood, where I stayed. Its secluded rooftop bar and pool with vibes of Venice Beach feels miles away from the busy streets below. Rooms have views of the famous sign and Hollywood hills.
There’s even a robot, keeping guests entertained as the bar transforms into a live venue, with the likes of British rockers
The Struts often taking to the stage. Its restaurant Ka’teen offers a fresh take on the delights of the Yucatan Peninsula with zinging starters and moreish mains.
A great way to see more highlights is on a Hikes And Bikes Hollywood tour.
It takes in the famous Hollywood Forever Cemetery, the resting place of hundreds of Hollywood legends, including Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney and Johnny and Dee Dee Ramone (standard bikes £55, e-bikes £75, bikesandhikesla.com).
Or for something completely different, the Griffith Observatory is southern California’s gateway to the cosmos, where visitors can explore the exhibits and peer through telescopes – and
TRIBUTES Legends on the admission is free. The Signs of Life show is a fascinating insight into what it took to put life in the universe. (adults £8, children £5 griffithobservatory.org).
Downtown Los Angeles has been totally transformed since the dark days of the 700-room Cecil Hotel, just off Skid Row, which was plagued with death, drugs and crime.
The area now offers big city excitement with art, shopping, major league sports, markets and pop-ups. There’s also Grand Park, an urban oasis with views stretching from the Music Centre, including Walt Disney Concert Hall, to City Hall. The Conrad Los Angeles is a slice of heaven Downtown with huge rooms, giant beds and caviar for breakfast. The fresh-baked cookies on arrival were a lovely touch. With a rooftop bar and a gorgeous spa, it’s no wonder celebs stay here to glam up before for the Grammys.
If you want a truly memorable last night in LA, book a table at 71 Above in Downtown.
At a height of 1,000ft, the modern American menu is served with panoramic views from Malibu to Laguna Hills. Or simply grab a seat at the west-facing bar, order one of signature cocktails named after LA districts, and watch the sunset over the Pacific.
Vibes of Venice Beach feels miles away from the bustling streets below