The Rainbow District in West Hollywood is a vibrant hub of nightlife, featuring a variety of bars, restaurants, and boutiques that showcase the area’s thriving LGBTQ community. Locally, it’s often referred to as WEHO or sometimes Boystown.
West Hollywood officially became a city within Los Angeles on November 29, 1984. It has its own mayor and city officials and is famous for hosting the renowned LA Pride Parade and Festival.
Check out my video walking tour of the Rainbow District in West Hollywood
The Rainbow District stretches along Santa Monica Blvd, from Doheny to La Cienega.
A notable landmark in the area is Doug Weston’s Troubadour, located at the corner of Doheny and Santa Monica, just next to Beverly Hills. Since opening in 1957, it has hosted a diverse array of live music acts, including folk singers, rock bands, punk groups, heavy metal artists, and contemporary performers.
Throughout its illustrious history, legendary artists such as Jackson Browne, the Byrds, Linda Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, the Eagles, Elton John, and Tom Waits have graced its stage.
Adjacent to the Troubadour is Dan Tana’s restaurant, renowned for its delicious Italian cuisine since 1964. It has long been a celebrity hotspot. Dan Tana, a Yugoslavian immigrant, previously worked as a maître d’ at both La Scala and Villa Capri before taking over the old Dominick’s in West Hollywood to open his namesake restaurant. I’ve dined there, and I can confirm it’s fantastic.
Mother Lode, established in 1979, holds the title of the oldest gay bar in West Hollywood. Nearby, you’ll find Bodega Louie, known for its delectable macaroons, and Rocco’s, owned by Lance Bass of *NSYNC fame.
At the corner of La Cienega and Santa Monica, you’ll discover Tale of the Pup, a whimsical hot dog stand that has been serving customers since 1946 and is uniquely shaped like a hot dog. Designed in the playful “programmatic” or “mimetic” architectural style by architect Milton Black, it’s a sight to behold.
Another interesting spot in the Rainbow District is Circus of Books. Initially opened in 1960 under the name Chi Chi LaRue’s Circus, it specializes in erotic literature but has historically served as a safe haven for the LGBTQ community, particularly during the AIDS crisis of the 1980s.
As you stroll down Santa Monica Blvd, keep an eye out for several colorful sculptures, including Rockin’ Angel and Murano, which can be found on the median.
Revolver, a gay video bar located in the historic Fife Building, constructed in 1929, features beautiful Spanish Gothic Revival architecture.
The Abbey, another striking Gothic-style venue, is a popular nightclub and restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and whimsical decor, including gargoyles. It’s a favored spot for Sunday Brunch, attracting a lively crowd.
West Hollywood Park, situated behind The Abbey, is a beautiful green space perfect for picnics and chess games.
Further along Santa Monica Blvd is Hamburger Mary’s, a drag-themed burger restaurant that is extremely popular, often featuring long lines to get in.
If you’re in search of a fantastic dining experience in West Hollywood, I highly recommend La Boheme Brasserie & Bar. It’s located just east of the Rainbow District and is known for its charming atmosphere.
A quirky landmark is the now-closed Alta Cienega Motel, located at the corner of Santa Monica and La Cienega. Legend has it that Jim Morrison frequented room 32 from 1968 to 1970. Across the street is the former workshop of The Doors.
The Rainbow District is just one vibrant part of West Hollywood, which also encompasses the Melrose Triangle and the Sunset Strip.
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