Staff in livery standing over rows of Rolls Royces, Tom Cruise disembarking from a stretch limo, cellphone-addicted fat-cat producers cutting poolside deals in pleasure-palace hotels, slinky young things in black – this is Beverly Hills where the smell of money drapes the very breeze. But there is more than just opulence and wealth here. Adjacent Westwood is home to UCLA, one of the finest public universities in the country. The nearby Getty Center serenely lords above it all in its white majesty. Bel Air mansions have routinely passed from Fairbanks and Bogart to Streisand and Diaz. Beverly Hills and its environs offer glimpses into a fairytale lifestyle unattainable for most.
The Fowler Museum at UCLA is open noon–5pm Wed–Sun (until 8pm Thu); entry is free-
One of Frank Lloyd Wright’s later buildings (1953), the zigzagging ramp cradling a well of light is reminiscent of the New York Guggenheim Museum.
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The wealth of a city is often reflected in its public buildings, so it should come as no surprise that Beverly Hills has the kind of civic center that’s the envy of other towns. Its centerpiece is the elegant City Hall, built in 1932 in Spanish Renaissance style and harmoniously incorporated into a contemporary Spanish-style complex with palm-lined walkways and curved colonnades. It houses a beautiful library as well as the local police and fire departments.
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LA’s most famous hotel has been part of Hollywood history since its 1912 opening. Douglas Fairbanks Sr. and Will Rogers got drunk in the bar, Howard Hughes rented Bungalow 3 for 30 years, and Marilyn Monroe reportedly romanced both JFK and RFK here. Political leaders, royals, and Hollywood headliners have all stayed, partied, and cavorted at the legendary Pink Palace. It’s been featured in movies and on the cover of the Eagles’ Hotel California album. And stars still come – Elton John celebrated his 55th birthday here in 2002.
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This boutique stocks quality menswear, said to be the world’s most expensive. Client names from Prince Charles to Steven Spielberg are etched into the window.
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A Beverly Hills hot spot, this French Colonial restaurant serves refined Vietnamese cuisine. Try anything made with owner/chef’s “secret spices.”
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A Rodeo Drive fixture since 1958, this luxury emporium is famous for its antique silver, unique jewelry, and limited edition designer watches.
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The store is a sure-fire winner in the looks department, but most customers have eyes only for the trademark shoes, handbags, and accessories.
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On Oscar night, when the stars come out dripping with diamonds, they’re most likely on loan from the family-owned Harry Winston, one of the world’s most exclusive jewelers.
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Book a romantic table beneath a star-lit sky in the enchanting garden and enjoy the classic and delicious fare.
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This busy upscale diner in the heart of Beverly Hills serves standard American fare including chicken pot pie, meatloaf and power breakfasts.
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Restaurant price categories
Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
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