If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles, chances are you’ve already bookmarked the Hollywood Walk of Fame, one of those must-see landmarks you’ve seen in movies, TV shows, and countless travel photos. But if you’ve also heard people call it “just a fancy sidewalk,” you’re not alone.
So… is it actually worth visiting?
Here’s my honest take: yes, if you know how to do it right.
The Walk of Fame isn’t just a stretch of pink stars on the ground. It’s a living timeline of pop culture, a place where decades of movie magic, music legends, and entertainment milestones come together, all along bustling Hollywood Boulevard.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what makes it worth visiting, where to find the best Hollywood Walk of Fame stars, and insider tips to make your experience unforgettable (plus how to snag your own star for the day, no acting award required!).
What Is the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
The lively streets and colorful shops along Hollywood Boulevard | Photo from Abhishek Navlakha on Pexels
The Walk of Fame in Hollywood, California, began in the 1950s as a tribute to entertainers who shaped the world of film, television, and music. Today, there are more than 2,800 brass stars embedded along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, each honoring icons like Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, and even fictional favorites like Godzilla.
Each star represents one of six categories: motion pictures, TV, music, radio, live performance, and (newest addition!) sports entertainment. And yes, celebrities actually pay for their own stars, about $55,000–$75,000 to be exact, as part of the installation and ceremony costs.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a star unveiling ceremony, which is free and open to the public.
Why the Hollywood Walk of Fame Is Worth Visiting
1. It’s the Heart of Classic and Modern Hollywood
The world-famous Dolby Theatre, home of the Oscars in Hollywood
Start your adventure at Ovation Hollywood (formerly Hollywood & Highland). It’s right in the middle of the action, and the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards, is here. Walk the same path the stars take during Oscar night, and don’t miss the columns that list every Best Picture winner since 1929.
Klook Tip: Head to the third-floor terrace of Ovation for an Insta-worthy shot of the Hollywood Sign.
If you want to go beyond the sidewalk and really immerse yourself in LA’s entertainment scene, hop on the Los Angeles Hollywood City Half-Day Tour. It covers not only the Walk of Fame but also Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Sign, and Sunset Strip, all in one comfortable, guided ride. Perfect for first-timers who want a quick yet fun intro to the city’s star-studded spots!
2. You’ll Find More Than Just Stars
Inside the historic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood
A few steps from the Dolby Theatre lies the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre, famous for its “Forecourt of the Stars.” Here, you can literally step into the footprints of icons like Marilyn Monroe, Kobe Bryant, and R2-D2.
Fun Fact: The tradition began by accident when actress Norma Talmadge stepped in wet cement in 1927, and the rest is Hollywood history.
Don’t forget to explore nearby attractions like Madame Tussauds Hollywood or book your own celebrity moment with the Get Your Own Star Walk of Fame Experience. You’ll pose with a custom-made star bearing your name; it’s the ultimate Hollywood souvenir!
3. Every Step Tells a Story
The historic Musso & Frank Grill, Hollywood’s oldest restaurant since 1919 | Photo from Loren Javier on Flickr
If you want to go beyond the crowds, take time to walk east and west from the main hub.
Stop by the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, a gorgeous 1920s gem that once hosted the first-ever Oscars. Marilyn Monroe lived here for two years, and her reflection is said to appear in one of the mirrors!
Grab a drink at Musso & Frank Grill, Hollywood’s oldest restaurant (est. 1919), where Charlie Chaplin and classic screenwriters once dined. Every inch of the place whispers stories from the Golden Age.
Further down Hollywood Boulevard, check out the Capitol Records Building, shaped like a stack of vinyl records, and the Pantages Theater, where hit shows like Hamilton and Wicked light up the stage.
And if you’re the type who wants to explore every major LA icon in a single day, the Full-Day Grand Bus Tour in Los Angeles is a must. You’ll see not just the Walk of Fame but also Santa Monica Pier, Beverly Hills, Griffith Observatory, and more — all while your guide shares fascinating Hollywood trivia along the way.
Must-See Stars and Stops Along the Way
Michael Jackson’s iconic star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame | Photo from Klook User cheng *******
If you’re short on time, here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
- ⭐ Marilyn Monroe’s Star: The ultimate icon of Hollywood glamour.
- ⭐ Michael Jackson’s Star: Always surrounded by fans and flowers.
- ⭐ Mickey Mouse’s Star: The first animated character to be honored!
- ⭐ Muhammad Ali’s Star: Uniquely placed on the wall of the Dolby Theatre instead of the ground.
- ⭐ Stan Lee’s Star: A must-see for Marvel fans.
Tips Before You Go
Strolling along the star-lined Hollywood Walk of Fame on a sunny Los Angeles day | Photo from Klook User
1. Start early (or go at sunset): Mornings are quieter, but golden hour gives everything a cinematic glow.
2. Bring comfortable shoes: The full stretch spans 15 blocks, so trust me, you’ll want good footwear.
3. Parking is easiest at Ovation Hollywood: They validate if you shop or dine.
4. Be mindful of characters: Costumed performers (like Spider-Man or Jack Sparrow) expect tips for photos.
5. Join a guided tour: Want juicy Hollywood stories and insider trivia? Go for a Hollywood Walk of Fame tour to uncover the legends behind the names.
6. Stay safe after dark: Hollywood can get rowdy beyond the central area, so stick to well-lit spots at night.
FAQs about the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Who is the most famous Hollywood Walk of Fame star?
Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, and Mickey Mouse are among the most visited. But the honor of most unique might go to Muhammad Ali’s star; it’s mounted on a wall instead of the ground!
Where should I start on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
Begin at the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue. It’s close to public transport, has convenient parking, and is surrounded by top attractions.
What’s the best time to visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
Late morning or just before sunset—it’s bright enough for photos but not as crowded.
Can I see a star ceremony?
Yes! They’re free and open to the public. You can check the Hollywood Walk of Fame’s official website for schedules.
Can I get my own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
You can, at least temporarily! Join the Get Your Own Star Walk of Fame Experience to create your custom souvenir star and live out your celebrity dream.
So, is the Hollywood Walk of Fame worth visiting?
Absolutely! Sure, it can be touristy, but that’s part of the fun! The Hollywood Walk of Fame isn’t just about celebrity names; it’s about walking through decades of entertainment history. It’s one of the few places in LA where the past and present of Hollywood truly meet.
Take a moment to find the stars of your heroes, admire the handprints of legends, and enjoy that unmistakable Hollywood energy.
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
