20 Things To Do In Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is one of California’s most famous neighbourhoods, known for its expensive shopping, sprawling mansions and host of celebrity faces. So, of course, celeb spotting and hitting the boutiques are high on the list of things to do in Beverly Hills but there’s lots more to keep you busy in the area, including top-notch restaurants, beautiful outdoor spaces and historic buildings.

The area has homes belonging to the world’s rich and famous, gardens, museums and LA’s most famous hotel. So whether you’re a nature lover, art enthusiast or just want to let your inner paparazzi run free, you will be covered for activities and won’t run out of things to do in Beverly Hills.

Beverly Hills, California

20 Things To Do In Beverly Hills

1- Go Shopping On Rodeo Drive

Where else would you begin a tour of Beverly Hills if not at the ultra-famous Rodeo Drive?

This two-mile stretch of road lined with palm trees is well-known for having some of LA’s best (and most expensive shopping).

You’ll find flagship stores from the likes of Hermes, Gucci and Prada, among many others, so whether you’re out to splash the cash or just want to go window shopping, it’s a must-see while you’re in town.

The street is frequented by the world’s biggest stars, from actors to singers so look out for any familiar faces while you’re browsing.

Recommended tour:

• Private V.I.P Hollywood Shopping Tour from Beverly Hills
• Self-Guided Tour of Rodeo Drive Beverly Hills with Fun Facts and Best Photo Ops
• Los Angeles: Beverly Hills Food, Film & Fashion Walking Tour

2- Gape At The Mansions On Mulholland Drive

Mulholland Drive is like Rodeo’s residential counterpart.

Most visitors to Beverly Hills are excited by the prospect of celebrity spotting but an even better thing to see is where they live.

Everyone who is anyone has a house in LA and Mulholland Drive is where you’ll find the biggest and most opulent mansions in town.

Stars with homes here include Taylor Swift, Madonna and Eddie Murphy.

Take a drive or walk here and spend some time peering into the sprawling estates.

If it’s your lucky day, you may even see a celebrity or two.

Recommended tour:

• Los Angeles: Hollywood & Celebrity Homes Open-Air Bus Tour
• 2 Hour Private Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills Celebrity Homes

3- Explore The Grounds Of Greystone Mansion

This sprawling mansion was built in 1927 by multimillionaire Ned Dohne Jr. and is one of Beverly Hills’ most popular attractions.

Although you can’t enter the mansion itself, which has 55 rooms, you can explore the 16 acres (6.5 ha) of grounds outside, which are filled with fountains, pools and floral displays.

The mansion is often used for events and occasionally for filming, with features like The Big Lebowski and The Social Network being filmed here.

Stroll around the building and imagine what life was like for the rich and famous during the roaring 20s.

Greystone Mansion is at 905 Loma Vista Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

4- Visit Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation

Once the private collection of Frederick Weisman, the entire display is now open to the public.

With more than 400 pieces to view, it’s the perfect place to visit for any art lover.

You will see almost all of the most prominent names, such as Picasso, Andy Warhol and Kandinsky.

Despite this, all 400 pieces are never on show simultaneously, so each visit is unique.

The Foundation offers museum tours that include the surrounding gardens and estate, for a more educational and thoughtful day out.

Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation is at 265 N Carolwood Dr Los Angeles, CA 90077.

5- Explore Franklin Canyon Park

Outdoor lovers might be worried they need to travel further afield to find something to entertain them in Beverly Hills, but Franklin Canyon is certain to tick your boxes.

The park has more than 600 acres (242 ha) of parkland, forests and lakes, where you can go walking, hiking or cycling to your heart’s content.

There is also a nature centre and the park is popular with bird-watchers, as many species gather by the lake.

Franklin Canyon Park is a tranquil spot for a relaxed picnic or a more active day of hiking, with trails of varying difficulty looping across the area.

Franklin Canyon Park is at 2600 Franklin Canyon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

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6- Go On The Beverly Hills Trolley Tour

The best way to get your bearings is by doing a tour, and the Beverly Hills trolley tours are a fun way to get around.

The trolleys are classic old-fashioned vehicles that will cruise you around downtown Beverly Hills.

You’ll get to see all of the most famous spots, such as Rodeo Drive, Mulholland, and the Beverly Wilshire Hotel and learn plenty of information about the history and culture of Beverly Hills along the way.

This whistlestop tour is ideal for getting the lay of the land if you’ve just arrived or are short on time, so you can tick a few things off your sightseeing list.

Recommended tours:

• Beverly Hills Segway Tour
• Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour
• Beverly Hills and Hollywood: Helicopter Tour

7- Eat Brunch Like A Celebrity At The Polo Lounge

The Beverly Hills Hotel is a destination in itself, and if you have the chance (and the money) to stay here, then put it at the top of your list.

The hotel has welcomed the world’s biggest stars throughout its fascinating history, and where else would celebrities dine but the hotel’s Polo Lounge.

The lounge, which serves breakfasts, brunches and drinks, is a go-to for Hollywood’s most important names, and you can join them if you book ahead.

The best time to go is for brunch when you’ll experience live music and excellent cuisine, plus you could be sat next to a movie star.

Beverly Hills Hotel is at 9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

8- Go For A Walk At La Cienega Park

La Cienega Park is Beverly Hill’s most comprehensive outdoor athletics space if you’re craving a bit of outdoor activity after all the eating and driving you’ve been doing.

The park has three baseball diamonds, which are football fields in winter, jogging track, exercise equipment, tennis courts and a picnic area.

It’s an ideal place to keep fit and soak up the sunshine, and if you have kids, you can bring a ball and play the day away or relax with a picnic while you watch the locals in a game.

La Cienega Park is at 8400 Gregory Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90211.

9- Smell The Roses At Virginia Robinson Gardens

Another stunning outdoor space in Beverly Hills, Virginia Robinson Gardens, is more suited to admiring than playing sports.

The estate was once owned by department store moguls Harry and Virginia Robinson (the First Lady of Beverly Hills) who used to throw the area’s most lavish parties.

The property is six acres (2.4 ha) and is filled with multiple manicured gardens which you can explore, such as the Rose Garden, the Renaissance Gardens and the Kitchen Gardens, which is filled with fresh fruit and vegetables.

You can also do guided tours of the property and pool, if you book in advance, to learn about the mansion’s architecture and history.

Virginia Robinson Gardens is at 1008 Elden Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

10- Visit The Gottlieb Native Garden

The Gottlieb Native Garden is a must-see if you’re in Beverly Hills at the right time.

The gardens are private, so they aren’t open to the public during the year, however they often open for special occasions and events, which is when you’ll want to book.

The gardens are owned by Susan and Dan Gottlieb, who turned the one-acre area into Beverly Hills’ most unique outdoor space.

There are 200 species of plant life, as well as 400 species of wildlife such as insects and birds.

The project was intended to rewild a small section of California and if you get the chance to visit, you’ll be rewarded with an oasis in the heart of the city.

11- Admire Art At LACMA

Not far from Santa Monica Boulevard, which runs through the centre of Beverly Hills, you’ll find the world-famous LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art).

The museum welcomes over one million visitors each year, and it’s no surprise with the vast and varied art collections inside.

The museum has more than 120,000 pieces in its permanent collection, as well as frequent exhibitions showcasing all types of art, from ancient to contemporary.

One of the most popular installations for any Instagrammers out there is Urban Light outside the museum, where you can wander and snap photos among 202 brightly lit white lampposts.

The museum is a must-see whether or not you’re an art enthusiast and is one of LA’s most iconic venues.

LACMA is at 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036.

12- Explore Sunset Boulevard

While you don’t want to drive the whole of Sunset Boulevard, you should make time to visit the most famous section known as Sunset Strip, which connects West Hollywood with Beverly Hills.

Although the strip is not as popular as it was in its heyday, it is still a haunt for celebrities.

The area is filled with great local shops, restaurants, bars, clubs and hotels, including the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Make sure to stop for an iconic photo with the Beverly Hills sign and check out the mansions of Hollywood stars.

The name comes from the iconic sight of this road in the evening, where people cruise in convertibles down the strip, billboards and palm trees flashing past and an epic sunset in the distance, which you can’t leave LA without seeing.

13- Take A Photo At The Beverly Hills Sign

If you’re already driving down Sunset, you can combine your visit with a trip to Beverly Gardens Park, which is the location of the giant Beverly Hills sign.

However, the park itself is just as pretty so after you’re finished taking photos, take a moment to explore the gardens and fountains, which span 22 blocks.

There’s a rose and cactus garden and ponds, plus lots of outdoor sculptures and art installations.

The gardens are a cool and scenic break from the heat and bright lights nearby, even if you only go for the photo.

Beverly Gardens Park is at 9439 Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

Recommended tour: Los Angeles Instagram Photoshoot: Chic Beverly Hills with Personal Photographer

14- Watch A Performance At Wallis Annenberg Centre

The Wallis Annenberg Centre for the Performing Arts is a venue consistently popular with both locals and tourists.

The centre is made up of two buildings, the Post Office, a more historic venue, and the Bram Goldsmith Theatre, which is ultra-modern and can seat 500 people.

The arts centre hosts various performances from music to theatre and dance, put on by local and international artists.

The outside gardens are the perfect spot to wait to go inside, with a sculpture garden and terrace to enjoy.

Make sure to check the programme in advance and book tickets to a world-class show in LA’s best arts venue.

Wallis Annenberg Centre is at 9390 N Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

15- Eat A Meal At Mr Chow

Few restaurants are worthy of being a destination in themselves but Mr. Chow is different.

The famous Chinese restaurant began in London before opening a hugely successful space in Beverly Hills.

The food here is some of the best Chinese in California, if not beyond, which is why you’ll need to reserve a table.

Despite the slightly high prices, the excellent cuisine draws everyone from locals to tourists and celebrities for a taste, and portion sizes are large.

Although it has multiple locations, Beverly Hills remains a favourite spot for famous faces, so if you’re searching for a dinner spot, Mr Chow is a Beverly Hills experience.

Mr Chow is at 344 N Camden Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

16- Dine Like A Star At Spago L’Exterieur

Another of the select few restaurants that deserve a place on the list, Spago is the flagship restaurant of famous chef Wolfgang Puck.

The restaurant has recently expanded to include outdoor dining, however, at all times of day, you will need a reservation due to the sheer popularity of the place.

While there’s no denying this restaurant may break the bank, it serves some of the best food in California, and every famous chef and celebrity has eaten here.

The food is quintessential Californian cuisine, in fact, many argue Puck invented the term, serving seasonal menus using local produce.

Plus, they have a wine list of 30,000 bottles, which you may have a hard time choosing from.

Spago is at 176 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

17- Shop For Tasty Treats At Wally’s Beverly Hills

For another foodie experience that you can simply browse (or spend) when you choose, visit Wally’s Beverly Hills, which is one of the foremost shops for high-end treats in the neighbourhood.

It’s most famous for its huge selection of locally produced cheeses, however, it has an equally impressive array of wines and spirits, including more than 100 that you can order by the glass for a taste of California’s best vino.

They also sell meats, caviar and chocolates, so you can’t go wrong when making a trip here and it’s perfect for sampling some of their food or buying some tasty treats to take back home.

Wally’s is at 447 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 9021.

18- Treat Yourself To A Stay At The Beverly Wilshire

The Four Seasons Hotel Beverly Wilshire is arguably the most famous place to stay in LA and one of the most well-known in America.

The hotel has been popular throughout its history with the rich and famous, hosting names such as Elton John, Elvis and even the Royal Family.

The rooms are as lavish as you’d expect, with marble bathrooms, there’s a stunning pool and some of the city’s best dining.

If you can afford to stay here, you’ll be among the stars of today, but if not, it’s still worth heading inside to see the stunning building and grab a drink or even dinner as it’s probably the most famous landmark in the area.

Beverly Wilshire is at 9500 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212.

19- Wander Around The Beverly Hills Farmer’s Market

For a real slice of authentic Beverly Hills life, not just tourist hotspots, make your way to the Beverly Hills Farmer’s Market.

Open on Sundays come rain or shine, the market is filled with stalls selling super fresh seasonal produce, pastries, drinks and local handicrafts.

The market often also hosts special events such as the annual Pie Bake, so you might get a few free tastings.

This is where the locals shop, including some of the city’s best chefs, making it a top spot to spend a few hours while you pick up some excellent Californian food and drink.

Beverly Hills Farmers Market is at 9300 Civic Center Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

Recommended tour: Bike Adventure Tour in Beverly Hills with Lunch

20- Explore Coldwater Canyon Park

Coldwater Canyon Park is another one for the outdoor types.

The park is one of LA’s most popular recreational spots and offers acres of beautiful hiking trails, diverse parkland, wildlife and activities.

The park is built over an 8,000,000-gallon reservoir with a jogging track, picnic areas, fountains and sculptures, so there’s plenty to admire as you wander around.

There is also a lovely playground if you’re travelling with kids.

The park is ideal for escaping the city heat or as a short stop in nature for lunch and a walk through nature.

Coldwater Canyon Park is at 1100 N Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

Recommended tour: The Best of LA Tour: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Griffith Park