668 St. Cloud Road, Los Angeles: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction: The Legacy of 668 St. Cloud Road
Nestled in Los Angeles’ exclusive Bel-Air neighborhood, 668 St. Cloud Road stands as a symbol of American history, luxury architecture, and celebrity culture. Famously the post-presidential residence of Ronald and Nancy Reagan, this ranch-style estate embodies the privacy, elegance, and prestige that define Bel-Air’s most coveted addresses. While the property remains a private residence and is not open to the public, its enduring cultural significance continues to attract attention from historians, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers seeking to experience the ambiance of Bel-Air. This guide details the estate’s historical and architectural context, outlines respectful ways to view the property, and highlights nearby attractions that enrich a visit to the area.
For broader context on Bel-Air’s evolution and Los Angeles’ cultural landscape, see Los Angeles Times, Secret Los Angeles, and Wikipedia.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Background
- Visitor Information
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Final Tips and Summary
- References
Historical Background
Development of Bel-Air and the Estate
Bel-Air was established in 1923 with the vision of creating a secluded, luxurious enclave for Los Angeles’ elite. The area’s landscape is characterized by winding streets, verdant landscaping, and strict zoning to ensure privacy and exclusivity. 668 St. Cloud Road, originally designated as 666 St. Cloud Road, had its address changed at the request of the Reagans to avoid biblical associations (Los Angeles Times).
Architectural Features
The residence is a sprawling single-story ranch-style home, covering approximately 7,200 square feet on 1.2 acres. The design integrates classic Southern California elements—stucco walls, red-tiled roofs, and large glass expanses—with security features such as hedges, fencing, and a discreet guard kiosk. The interior, designed by Peter Schifando (a protégé of Ted Graber), balances classic elegance and Californian comfort, with rooms oriented to capture natural light and garden views (Haute Residence).
The Reagan Era
After leaving the White House in 1989, Ronald and Nancy Reagan made 668 St. Cloud Road their home, which became an epicenter for political and cultural gatherings. The residence was secured by advanced surveillance, a guardhouse, and regular Secret Service patrols, underscoring its high-profile status. Following Nancy Reagan’s passing in 2016, personal artifacts from the estate drew international attention at a Christie’s auction, cementing the property’s legacy (Wikipedia).
Visitor Information
Public Access and Viewing Guidelines
Is 668 St. Cloud Road Open to the Public?
No. The estate is a private residence. There are no public tours, visiting hours, or ticket sales. Interior access is strictly prohibited. However, the exterior can be viewed from public roads; visitors must respect privacy, avoid trespassing, and comply with local security.
Photography:
Discreet exterior photography from public streets is permitted, but sightlines are limited by landscaping and security features. Drone use is prohibited.
Directions and Transportation
By Car:
Bel-Air is most accessible by car. The neighborhood is reached from Sunset Boulevard and the 405 Freeway, but parking is scarce and often restricted. Ride-sharing services are recommended (TripSavvy).
Public Transit:
There are no direct public transit routes to St. Cloud Road. The area is not pedestrian-friendly.
Navigation:
Use GPS apps for the winding, unsigned roads of Bel-Air (Capture the Atlas). Avoid peak traffic hours (7–10am, 3–7pm).
Nearby Attractions
While 668 St. Cloud Road is not open to visitors, nearby attractions include:
- The Getty Center: Renowned museum with gardens and city views (Time Out Los Angeles).
- Griffith Observatory: Iconic for panoramic vistas and free exhibits (Time Out LA).
- Mulholland Drive: Scenic route with famous overlooks (Travellers Insight).
- Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive: Upscale shopping and sightseeing.
- Hollywood: Sites like the Walk of Fame and studio tours (Time Out LA).
Etiquette and Safety
- Respect Privacy: Do not block driveways, linger, or attempt to enter private property.
- Quiet Observation: Keep noise low—Bel-Air is a tranquil, residential area.
- Observe Laws: Security is vigilant; trespassing can result in legal action.
- Dress Code: Smart-casual attire is appropriate when visiting upscale neighborhoods or nearby attractions (Time Out LA).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I tour the inside of 668 St. Cloud Road?
A: No. The property is a private residence and not open to the public.
Q: Are there any visiting hours or tickets for 668 St. Cloud Road?
A: No. There are no tickets, visiting hours, or public tours.
Q: How can I see the property?
A: You may drive by and view the exterior from public streets but must respect privacy and security.
Q: What are the best alternatives to visiting the property?
A: Explore nearby attractions like the Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, and guided tours of celebrity neighborhoods.
Q: Are there events or guided tours specifically for 668 St. Cloud Road?
A: No, but some Los Angeles celebrity home tours pass through Bel-Air and may point out the estate from a distance.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Exterior shots from public roads are permitted; drones and trespassing are not.
Final Tips and Summary
668 St. Cloud Road is a landmark for its architectural beauty and its association with the Reagans and American history. Although it remains private, respectful visitors can appreciate its legacy from afar as they explore Bel-Air and the surrounding cultural sites. For an enriching experience, combine your drive-by with visits to public attractions, scenic drives, and guided tours of Los Angeles’ historic neighborhoods. Always prioritize respect for privacy, local regulations, and neighborhood tranquility.
To further enhance your visit, consider using travel resources and apps for up-to-date information, curated tours, and local tips.
References
- Los Angeles Times: Reagan’s Bel-Air Home
- Secret Los Angeles: Things to Do in Los Angeles
- Wikipedia: 668 St. Cloud Road
- Newsweek: There Goes the Neighborhood
- Haute Residence: Bel-Air Real Estate History
- TripSavvy: Be a Smart Los Angeles Tourist
- Time Out Los Angeles: Things to Do and Attractions
- Wikiwand: 668 St. Cloud Road
- Capture the Atlas: Los Angeles Map
- Travellers Insight: Los Angeles Tips