What Beverly Boulevard Is
Beverly Boulevard is a vibrant Los Angeles thoroughfare stretching approximately 10 miles from Beverly Hills to downtown LA. It brings together entertainment history, varied architecture, culinary landmarks, and cultural innovation.
History and Cultural Significance
Beverly Boulevard emerged as Los Angeles expanded rapidly in the early 20th century. Initially paved in the 1910s, it connected Beverly Hills with the city center, reflecting the region’s transformation from rural land to urban metropolis. Beverly Hills was named after Beverly Farms in Massachusetts, reflecting the aspirations of early city planners.
The boulevard’s palm-lined avenues, vibrant art, and proximity to Hollywood have made it a backdrop in films, television, and literature. Its connections with Sunset and Wilshire Boulevards add to its place in LA’s cultural mythology.
Preservation efforts have safeguarded landmarks such as CBS Television City and Historic Filipinotown amid ongoing development. Community organizations and the Los Angeles Conservancy play a role in balancing modernization with cultural heritage (Common Edge).
What to See
CBS Television City
At the intersection of Beverly and Fairfax, CBS Television City is an iconic studio complex and a National Register of Historic Places site. Designed by Pereira & Luckman in the International Style, it opened in 1952 and became a pioneering television-broadcasting hub. It has hosted shows including “The Price Is Right” and “American Idol,” and remains a leading TV production facility.
Guided tours are occasionally available. Tours may be offered by appointment or during special events, generally between 10 AM and 4 PM; check the official site for schedules and ticketing. Live-taping tickets are available through official CBS channels, and booking early is recommended for popular shows. Standard security protocols apply, and photography is restricted inside studio areas. The facility is fully accessible for guests with mobility impairments.
The Original Farmers Market and The Grove
Across from CBS Television City, the Original Farmers Market, established in 1934, has food stalls and specialty shops. Next door, The Grove offers open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment. Both are popular with locals and tourists.
La Cienega Design Quarter
The intersection of Beverly and La Cienega marks the entrance to the La Cienega Design Quarter, a district of antique shops, art galleries, and designer showrooms.
Original Tommy’s
At Rampart and Beverly, Original Tommy’s has been a Southern California institution since 1946 and is known for its chili burgers.
Westlake Recording Studios
Westlake Recording Studios is associated with music history: iconic albums, including Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” were recorded there.
La Brea Tar Pits
The La Brea Tar Pits preserve Ice Age fossils in natural asphalt seeps. The site’s adjacent George C. Page Museum has fossil displays and interactive exhibits.
Practical Visiting Information
Getting There and Accessibility
Beverly Boulevard is accessible by car, bike, and Metro bus lines 14, 16, 20, 720, and Rapid 720. Ample parking is available at major destinations such as The Grove and CBS Television City, while street parking can be limited during peak hours.
The boulevard is pedestrian-friendly and wheelchair accessible, with ramps, curb cuts, and accessible public transit options. Most attractions have accommodations for visitors with mobility needs.
Hours and Tickets
- Beverly Boulevard A public street, open 24/7. No tickets are needed to visit the boulevard itself.
- CBS Television City Guided tours and live tapings are typically available by appointment or during special events. Tours are generally 10 AM–4 PM; check the official site for schedules and ticketing.
- The Original Farmers Market and The Grove Open daily; hours vary by business (Jen on the Run).
- La Brea Tar Pits Open daily, 9:30 AM–5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and students, and free for children under 3. Purchase at tarpits.org or on-site. See the official website for ticket prices and special events.
The La Brea Tar Pits are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators. Metro lines 20, 720, and Rapid 720 serve the site. Paid parking is available onsite; street parking is limited. Guided tours are offered daily, and advance booking is recommended.
Tips
Suggested Itinerary
- Morning Have breakfast at the Original Farmers Market and explore The Grove’s shops.
- Midday Visit CBS Television City; book a tour or check for audience-taping opportunities.
- Afternoon Walk to the La Cienega Design Quarter for art and design.
- Evening Have a burger at Original Tommy’s and stroll through the Fairfax District.
Tours, Events, and Photography
Beverly Boulevard itself does not offer official guided tours, but city tours may include stops along the boulevard. Local tour operators include the boulevard in some tours; CBS Television City and the La Brea Tar Pits offer specialized tours.
Art walks, pop-up exhibitions, and community festivals are common; check local listings for current programs. The La Brea Tar Pits also hosts fossil discovery days, family workshops, and rotating exhibits. Photography is welcome outdoors, and early mornings offer the best light.
Dining is available along Beverly Boulevard, and the museum store sells fossil-themed items.
Nearby Places
Pan Pacific Park, an urban green space with recreational amenities, is near CBS Television City.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Beverly Boulevard open year-round?
A: Yes. It is accessible 24/7 as a public street.
Q: Are tickets required to visit Beverly Boulevard?
A: No tickets are needed for the boulevard itself, but some attractions, including CBS Television City and the La Brea Tar Pits, require tickets.
Q: What’s the best time to visit?
A: Mid-morning to early evening, when the weather is pleasant and businesses are open.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Many local tour operators include Beverly Boulevard. CBS Television City and the La Brea Tar Pits offer specialized tours.
Q: Is the area accessible for wheelchairs?
A: The boulevard and major attractions are wheelchair accessible.
