The Making of Los Angeles
A driving tour through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and beyond
What to Expect
Experience the best of Los Angeles on this comprehensive self-guided driving tour through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, and more. Skip the crowded tour bus with this flexible, GPS-activated audio journey, and discover the stories behind LA’s most iconic landmarks. From Paramount Studios to the winding turns of Mulholland Drive, you’ll explore famous film locations, historic landmarks like the Griffith Observatory, and notorious celebrity estates. The tour weaves together Hollywood’s Golden Age glamour with modern pop culture, supported by behind-the-scenes photos and a bonus celebrity homes map. Enjoy the freedom to pull over for a photo or grab a bite at the Original Farmers Market whenever you choose.
Ready to go? Book below or download our app and purchase directly from your phone.
📍 Location: Los Angeles, CA
🚗 Type: Driving tour
⏱ Duration: Approx. 4-8 hours (flexible)
✅ Includes: GPS-triggered audio, + bonus celebrity homes map
📶 Works Offline: Download ahead of time - no cell service required
🎧 Multiple Languages: English, Spanish
Get Ready for Your Hollywood to Beverly Hills Driving Tour
See Los Angeles the way insiders do on this in-depth self-guided driving tour from Hollywood to Beverly Hills.
Instead of sticking to surface-level sightseeing, you’ll explore how the entertainment capital of the world learned to showcase celebrity in public while fiercely guarding it behind gates and hedges.
From glowing marquees to hidden canyon estates, the route reveals the studios, scandal sites, and cultural landmarks that built an industry where fame is manufactured, magnified, and sometimes consumed.
This experience goes far beyond pointing out star homes. It unpacks the machinery of Hollywood itself—how neighborhoods, architecture, and geography all support the business of storytelling.
Feel the cultural gravity of the Hollywood Bowl, cruise the electric stretch of the Sunset Strip, and wind through the guarded calm of Bel Air.
Along the way, you’ll hear about visionaries, risk-takers, and rebels who shaped the industry from silent films to streaming empires.
Arrive curious and leave fluent in the language of Los Angeles—ready to watch your favorite films with a sharper eye and a deeper understanding of the city that made them possible.
What You’ll See on Your Hollywood to Beverly Hills Driving Tour
The Hollywood Sign
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without seeing the iconic Hollywood Sign, originally built in 1923 as a temporary real estate advertisement. Today, this 45-foot-tall historic landmark stands as the ultimate symbol of the entertainment industry, making it a must-see stop on any Hollywood driving tour.
Griffith Observatory
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Pacific Ocean from the historic Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park. This free public science facility offers an up-close look at a 12-inch Zeiss telescope and serves as a premier destination for stargazing and Hollywood Sign photo ops.
Paramount Studios & RKO Radio Pictures
Drive past Paramount Pictures, the last major working film studio remaining in the historic Hollywood district. The surrounding lot also features the legacy of RKO Radio Pictures, offering visitors a tangible connection to the Golden Age of cinema and the dawn of "talkies."
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
Delve into the art and science of filmmaking at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, the premier Los Angeles destination dedicated to cinema history. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of iconic movie props, original costumes, and interactive exhibits curated by the organization behind the Oscars.
Warner Bros. / Sunset Gower Studios
Discover the birthplace of synchronized sound in film at the original Hollywood home of Warner Bros., now operating as the bustling Sunset Gower Studios. This active production lot remains a vital part of the modern entertainment industry, frequently hosting major television shoots and independent film productions.
Walt Disney’s First Studio
Step back into animation history at the modest Los Feliz storefront where Walt and Roy Disney founded their first California studio in 1923. It was at this exact Los Angeles location that the groundbreaking Alice Comedies were created, laying the foundation for the global Walt Disney Company.
Sunset Boulevard
Drive along legendary Sunset Boulevard, the iconic thoroughfare that seamlessly connects downtown Los Angeles to the beaches of the Pacific Ocean. This world-famous route captures the evolving spirit of the city, bridging classic Hollywood glamour with the vibrant, modern culture of the Westside.
Sunset Strip
Experience the vibrant nightlife and rock-and-roll history of the Sunset Strip, West Hollywood's most famous stretch of entertainment venues. From Prohibition-era speakeasies to legendary music clubs, this dazzling corridor of neon and billboards remains a top Los Angeles destination for live music and pop culture.
Rodeo Drive
Stroll down Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, internationally recognized as one of the most exclusive luxury shopping districts in the world. Originally a quiet residential street favored by classic movie stars, it has transformed into a premier destination for high-end designer boutiques and celebrity sightseeing.
The Beverly Hills Hotel
Discover the timeless elegance of The Beverly Hills Hotel, the iconic "Pink Palace" that has hosted Hollywood royalty since 1912. Nestled among lush palm trees, this luxurious landmark offers visitors a glimpse into the exclusive world of historic celebrity retreats and high-stakes industry deal-making.
Chateau Marmont
Uncover the mystique of the Chateau Marmont, the legendary Sunset Boulevard hotel famous for its discreet atmosphere and deep-rooted celebrity history. Built in the 1920s to resemble a French castle, this secluded hideaway remains a fascinating Los Angeles landmark known for sheltering generations of musicians and actors.
Hollywood Bowl
Catch a live performance or simply admire the architecture of the Hollywood Bowl, Southern California's premier outdoor amphitheater since 1922. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Hollywood Hills, this iconic venue is famous for its perfect acoustics and unforgettable summer concerts under the stars.
The Egyptian Theatre
Walk the courtyard of the historic Egyptian Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard, the very site of Hollywood's first-ever movie premiere in 1922. This beautifully restored cinema landmark showcases the opulent, exotic architecture that defined the Golden Age of Los Angeles movie palaces.
Musso and Frank Grill
Dine in classic Hollywood style at Musso and Frank Grill, the oldest operating restaurant in Hollywood, established in 1919. Famous for its vintage red booths and legendary martinis, this historic dining destination was once the preferred gathering spot for icons like Charlie Chaplin and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Forever Hollywood Cemetery
Visit Hollywood Forever Cemetery, the final resting place for hundreds of entertainment industry pioneers right next to Paramount Studios. This historic Los Angeles landmark also serves as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting popular outdoor summer movie screenings and lively music events.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Explore the largest art museum in the western United States at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) on Miracle Mile. Don't miss the chance to photograph Urban Light, the museum's famous installation of restored vintage street lamps that has become an iconic Los Angeles photo op.
La Brea Tar Pits
Witness active Ice Age fossil excavations right in the heart of Los Angeles at the world-famous La Brea Tar Pits. This unique geological site and accompanying museum offer an incredible look at the prehistoric mammoths and saber-toothed cats that roamed Southern California over 38,000 years ago.
Petersen Automotive Museum
Immerse yourself in Southern California's legendary car culture at the Petersen Automotive Museum, housed in an unmissable, architecturally stunning building on Museum Row. Inside, auto enthusiasts can marvel at hundreds of historic vehicles, including famous screen cars like the Batmobile and the Ghostbusters Ecto-1.
Greystone Mansion
Wander the beautifully manicured grounds of Greystone Mansion, a historic 1927 Beverly Hills estate now operating as a free public park. With its stunning architecture and formal gardens, this massive 55-room property is also one of the most frequently used filming locations in Hollywood history.
Capitol Records
Marvel at the distinctive, circular design of the Capitol Records Building, a 13-story Hollywood landmark built to resemble a stack of vinyl records. Since the 1950s, this historic tower has been the undisputed hub of the West Coast music industry, featuring a famous blinking spire that spells "Hollywood" in Morse code.
Melrose Avenue
Shop and explore along Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles' premier destination for eclectic street fashion, vintage boutiques, and vibrant public art. This highly walkable district is famous for its dynamic, ever-changing murals and remains a must-visit spot for trendsetters and pop culture enthusiasts.
Mulholland Drive
Take a scenic cruise down Mulholland Drive, the legendary winding road that traces the ridgeline of the Santa Monica Mountains. Famous for its breathtaking Los Angeles basin views and heavily guarded celebrity estates, this iconic route is an essential part of any Hollywood driving tour.
Beverly Hills Shield
Snap a memorable photo at the iconic Beverly Hills Shield, a classic landmark originally designed by the Warner Bros. art department. This prestigious marker welcomes visitors to one of the world's most famous zip codes, perfectly capturing the exclusive, glamorous brand of Beverly Hills.
The Original Farmers Market
Savor the diverse flavors of Los Angeles at The Original Farmers Market, a historic culinary landmark established during the Great Depression. Located at the corner of Third and Fairfax, this bustling open-air market features over 100 specialty grocers and food stalls, making it a top destination for foodies.
Comedy Store
Experience the pinnacle of stand-up comedy at The Comedy Store, the legendary Sunset Strip venue that has launched countless entertainment careers. This iconic Los Angeles comedy club remains a vital proving ground for rising talent and a frequent surprise drop-in spot for comedy superstars.
Whiskey a Go-Go
Dive into rock history at the Whisky a Go Go, the influential West Hollywood nightclub that popularized go-go dancing in the 1960s. As the launching pad for legendary acts like The Doors and Led Zeppelin, it remains an essential pilgrimage site for live music fans visiting the Sunset Strip.
Viper Room
Check out the Viper Room, an intimate, low-key Sunset Strip music venue co-founded by Johnny Depp in the early 1990s. Known for its dark, storied past and incredible live acoustics, this legendary club continues to host a mix of rising bands and established rock acts.
Meeting Point
Your Hollywood to Beverly Hills driving tour begins at Hollywood High School, located at 6833 Hawthorn Avenue.
Hollywood High School is on the corner of Highland Avenue, between Sunset Boulevard and Hollywood Boulevard. Once you're there, open the Drives & Detours app and tap "Start Tour".
FAQs About Our Hollywood to Beverly Hills Driving Tour
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Hiking to the Hollywood Sign is more complicated than you might expect. Tips are available in the app when taking our Hollywood to Beverly Hills Insider Drive tour, and we’ve written a guide to the hikes here.
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A Paramount Studio tour starts at $71 for a two-hour tour that runs every day. Premier and VIP tours are also available. Visit the Paramount Studios website for more information.
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General admission to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures costs the following:
Adults: $25
Seniors (62+): $19
Students (18+, With Valid ID): $15
Children (17 and Under): Free
Academy Museum members, Academy members, and CA EBT cardholders: Free
Visit the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures website for more information.
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General admission to Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood starts at the following prices:
Adult (Age 11+): $76
Child (Age 5–10): $65
Visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood website for more information.
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Tickets to the Hollywood Bowl depend on the show and the seats you choose. Visit the Hollywood Bowl website for more information.
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Tickets to the Egyptian Theatre are priced as follows:
Adults: $15 (unless otherwise noted)
Seniors (62 & Over): $12
Children (12 & Under): $12
Students (22 & Under): $12
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General admission to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art costs the following for those living outside of LA County:
Adults: $30
After 3 pm, Mon–Fri: $30
Seniors (65+ With ID): $26
Students (18+ With ID): $26
Visitor with Disability: $26
Teens (13–17): $15
Youth (3–12): $15
Members: Free
Youth (2 & under): Free
Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art website for more information.
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General admission to thePetersen Automotive Museum costs the following:
Adult: $22
Child (4–11): $12
Youth (12–17, With ID): $13
Senior (62+, With ID): $20
Visit the Petersen Automotive Museum website for more information.
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The cost of tickets to the Comedy Store depends on the show and the seats you choose. Visit the Comedy Store website for more information.
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The cost of tickets to Whisky a Go-Go depends on the show and the seats you choose. Visit the Whisky a Go-Go website for more information.
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The cost of tickets to the Viper Room depends on the show and the seats you choose. Visit the Viper Room website for more information.
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The cost of tickets to the Roxy Theatre depends on the show and the seats you choose. Visit the Roxy Theatre website for more information.
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Tours are fully refundable up to 24 hours in advance.
If it’s within 24 hours or you had an issue during your tour, email support@drivesanddetours.com. We review all requests individually and will always do our best to make things right.
Our goal is to ensure every traveler has a great experience exploring with Drives & Detours.
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Yes, downloading the Drives & Detours app will give you full access to the tour you have purchased, as well as many other self-guided tours.
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Download the tour before you go. Some areas have poor signal, which can make downloading the tour difficult. Once the tour is downloaded, it will work without any cell signal
The tour audio plays automatically as you approach each stop
Want to see more? Tap “View Stop” to see photos and bonus content
To return to the map, tap the small down arrow between the “previous” and “next” buttons
Follow the blue line and audio directions to stay on route
Use audio controls to pause, rewind, or skip—just like a podcast
Safety first: Keep your eyes on the road or sidewalk, follow traffic laws, and stay aware of your surroundings
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No—download your Hollywood to Beverly Hills Driving tour before you go, and you won't need a cell signal. Drives & Detours’ tours work without any cell signal once they are downloaded to your device.
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Once you have purchased your Hollywood to Beverly Hills driving tour from Drives & Detours, you can use it whenever you want. You can always take the tour another day if the weather is bad on the day you plan to take it.
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Unfortunately, Dives & Detours cannot guarantee that the Hollywood to Beverly Hills driving tour is accessible. People with wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility impairments are very welcome, but we recommend checking the Discover LA website for detailed information.
Pro Tips for Your Drives & Detours Hollywood to Beverly Hills Driving Tour
Download before you go.
Enable location services—GPS triggers the audio.
Use earbuds, headphones, or your car speakers.
Pause and resume anytime. If you take a break, just reopen the app and head back toward your last stop.
Lost your way? Tap any pin on the map, then tap the right-turn-arrow icon to open your default maps app for turn-by-turn directions to that spot.
Drives & Detours' Los Angeles Tours
Hollywood & Beverly Hills Walking Tour Combo Pack
Discover the best of Hollywood Boulevard and Beverly Hills with this discounted combo of two self-guided walking tours. In Hollywood, stroll past grand movie palaces, filming locations, and star-studded landmarks that reveal the real stories behind Tinseltown’s golden age and modern sparkle. Then head to Beverly Hills, where palm-lined streets, designer boutiques, and historic hotels showcase decades of glamour, celebrity, and style.
Hollywood Boulevard: Ready and Action!
Discover the stories behind the glitz, grit, and glamour of the entertainment world on a self-guided walking tour through the heart of Tinseltown. You'll explore iconic landmarks like the Chinese Theatre, Capitol Records building, and Roosevelt Hotel, while a Hollywood local shares exclusive stories and rare glimpses into areas and topics not widely known.
Beverly Hills on Foot
Step into the dazzling world of luxury and celebrity on our exclusive walking tour of Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hills. Join us as we window shop down the iconic palm-lined boulevard, passing high-end boutiques and fashion houses, and hear captivating stories about this legendary town.
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