Many tourists visiting Los Angeles wish to pay tribute to their favorite celebrities, and the best place to do that is Hollywood. Two key locations here celebrate stars who have significantly influenced the entertainment industry: the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the forecourt of the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, now known as the TCL Chinese Theatre (more on that later).
However, it’s essential to distinguish between the two. The Walk of Fame features over 2,600 stars lined along Hollywood Boulevard and beyond, while the TCL Chinese Theatre, also located on Hollywood Boulevard, is renowned for its celebrity handprints and footprints embedded in the cement of its forecourt.
Fortunately, you don’t need to choose one over the other, as they are conveniently situated near each other, allowing you to experience both attractions in one visit.
Interested in learning more? Below, I’ll discuss the history of each location and provide tips for your visit.
Hollywood and the Walk of Fame
The concept for the Hollywood Walk of Fame originated in 1953, proposed by the then-volunteer president of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. The plans were finalized in 1956, and it took another two years to turn the vision into reality.
In August 1958, the initial eight stars were unveiled. However, the complete Walk of Fame wasn’t finished until 1961, with an additional 1,550 stars installed.
Fun Fact: The stars on the Walk of Fame are spaced six feet apart, making them excellent markers for social distancing.
Initially established on Hollywood Boulevard, the Walk of Fame now extends over 15 blocks (about 1.3 miles), including three blocks on Vine Street. While you search for your favorite stars, you can enjoy some amusing people-watching, as tourists take selfies and street performers in superhero costumes pose for pictures.
Other popular attractions on Hollywood Boulevard include Madame Tussauds Hollywood and the Egyptian-themed American Cinematheque. Plus, strolling along the boulevard to enjoy the sights is free!
Travel Tip: If you want to capture a photo with one of the street performers in costume, feel free, but remember that a tip is usually appreciated for the experience.
Getting a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Currently, there are 2,691 stars on the Walk of Fame, so if you plan to see each one, it might take some time.
Anyone can be nominated for a star, but nominees must be approved by a special selection committee through a rigorous process. Once selected, a considerable fee of $50,000 is required for the star’s installation and maintenance.
The stars are crafted from terrazzo and brass, featuring engraved names in gold lettering alongside a symbol encircled in gold that designates the category for which the celebrity is recognized.
The Walk of Fame recognizes five categories:
- Motion Pictures
- Television
- Music or Audio Recording
- Radio
- Theater or Live Performance
Who’s Featured on the Walk of Fame
Some stars on the Walk of Fame belong to individuals whose achievements extend beyond the five categories mentioned earlier. For instance, boxer Muhammad Ali received a star in the “live performance” category and his star is uniquely mounted on the wall of the Dolby Theatre, as he requested that his name, which he shares with the Prophet Muhammad, not be walked upon.
Several celebrities hold stars in multiple categories, such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Bob Hope.
Determining the “most famous” stars on the Walk of Fame is subjective. However, here are a few stars frequently noted as popular attractions:
- Marilyn Monroe — One of the most visited stars, located at 6774 Hollywood Boulevard.
- Michael Jackson — His star is possibly the most photographed, located at 6927 Hollywood Boulevard. (Be mindful not to confuse him with another Michael Jackson, a radio personality.)
- Harrison Ford — There are two stars for Harrison Ford; the one you want is at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard.
- Walt Disney — His significant contributions to the entertainment industry make his star, located at 7201 Hollywood Boulevard, a popular stop.
- Mickey Mouse — The first cartoon character to receive a star, located at 6925 Hollywood Boulevard.
- James Dean — The legendary actor’s star is found at 1719 Vine Street.
- Nicole Kidman — Spot her star at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard.
Quick Tip: To discover more stars easily, utilize the online Star Directory.
Attending a Star Ceremony on the Walk of Fame
If you’re interested in witnessing a star ceremony, where the star is unveiled in the presence of the honored celebrity, you can attend for free.
Check the Walk of Fame’s website for announcements regarding upcoming ceremonies, which are typically held about 24 times a year. They are announced ten days in advance.
However, not every star recipient will have a ceremony that year, as they have a two-year window to schedule their event.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre (Also Known as TCL Chinese Theatre)
Just east of Bruce Lee’s star on the Walk of Fame lies Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, another iconic spot popular among Hollywood tourists. This historic theater opened its doors in 1927 and has hosted numerous real-life celebrities for movie premieres and major events over the years.
In recent times, it’s often referred to as the TCL Chinese Theatre due to a partnership with a Chinese manufacturing company that began in 2013, bringing significant renovations to the venue.
Fun Fact: TCL stands for “The Creative Life,” making the full name “The Creative Life Chinese Theatre,” although this is rarely used.
The theater’s original name comes from its partial ownership by Sid Grauman, who was instrumental in building it. Its Exotic Revival architecture and lavish decor quickly made it one of Los Angeles’ most recognizable landmarks. Grauman collaborated with architects to design the theater in Chinese style and imported artifacts from China for its decor.
Celebrity Hand and Footprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre
The Grauman’s Chinese Theatre also features tributes to stars directly on its grounds. Celebrities’ handprints and footprints are embedded in the forecourt, known as the “Forecourt of the Stars.”
The tradition began by accident. The first celebrity footprint was made by silent film star Norma Talmadge in 1927 when she inadvertently stepped into wet cement, inspiring Grauman to create this now-famous feature.
Did You Know? The forecourt also includes prints from non-human celebrities, such as R2-D2 and C-3PO!
Over the years, some handprint and footprint ceremonies have been sponsored by movie studios for promotional events. However, due to space limitations, not all of these prints have made it to the forecourt. For instance, Alvin and the Chipmunks left their “paw prints” in wet cement for promotional purposes, but these did not get installed.
Visiting Inside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre
While many come for the handprints outside the theater, you might also be interested in exploring the interior. You can either catch a movie or take a 30-minute guided tour that highlights the theater’s history, along with interesting stories about the premieres that have taken place there.
However, watching a movie here is highly recommended. The Chinese Theatre features not only standard auditoriums, but also a large IMAX theater and an MX4D immersive experience. In the MX4D theater, your movie experience is enhanced with synchronized effects like moving seats, sprays of water, fog, and more, similar to 4D experiences found in theme parks.
Local Tip: If you opt for a regular movie, try to secure a ticket for the main auditorium, where you can fully appreciate the glamorous decor reminiscent of Old Hollywood. The other auditoriums resemble typical movie theaters, though the main lobby still showcases the stunning interior.
The Best Way to Experience the Walk of Fame and Forecourt of the Stars
So, which should you prioritize? Both the Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre’s Forecourt of the Stars are must-see spots for movie enthusiasts, especially if it’s your first time in Hollywood. Each location offers numerous opportunities for great photographs.
If your goal is simply to find a star’s name or prints and snap a photo, that’s straightforward enough. However, if you wish to fully appreciate the history and excitement of these landmarks (and perhaps gather some Hollywood gossip), consider visiting with someone knowledgeable about the stars.
We’re here to assist! Hollywood Boulevard is a cherished highlight of our private LA tours. Our guide provides insights into this remarkable street, covering everything from the life-size Oscar statues near the TCL Chinese Theatre to the Dolby Theatre, where the real Oscars take place.
Don’t hesitate to ask for a photo too — this is Hollywood, after all! Our tour guide is happy to take pictures for you or your group. For serious star enthusiasts, we can even customize an experience catered to your private group.
No matter how you choose to explore, Hollywood Boulevard is an essential stop when you’re in the city. More than 10 million people visit annually, making it one of LA’s top attractions — come see what it has to offer (and don’t forget to bring your camera)!
Capturing the Essence of Hollywood in Stars, Prints, and Photos
Now that you understand the differences between these two iconic destinations, remember that you don’t need to choose between them. Both are free and easy to visit, so why not hunt for the stars while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Hollywood? It’s one occasion when we recommend looking down as you walk!
For more movie-themed fun, consider setting aside a day for Universal Studios Hollywood. My insider guide covers what to see and tips to enhance your visit. If you’re pressed for time or prefer a guided experience, many Los Angeles tours include stops at these iconic Hollywood destinations. These guided excursions often combine visits to the Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, and other must-see attractions, providing a comprehensive overview of LA’s entertainment heritage.
