Designer brands, lavish window displays, towering palm trees, and luxury cars lining the streets are all characteristics of the famous Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California. While there are several small, remote towns in Northern California worth visiting and spots where you can still pan for gold in the foothills of California, many travelers are drawn to the glitz and glamor of the Los Angeles area.

Among the ten neighborhoods in LA travelers should visit, Beverly Hills is a popular choice. The Virginia Robinson Gardens, Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation, and Greystone Mansion and Gardens are all must-visit places in Beverly Hills. While in Beverly Hills, vacationers should also explore the iconic Rodeo Drive. Before exploring this three-block shopper’s paradise, however, there are a few things to know.

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10 The History Of Rodeo Drive

This elegant shopping area began with the installment of a luxury boutique by Fred Hayman in 1961. His store, Giorgio Beverly Hills, drew the eyes of other luxury retailers, and soon Gucci, Tiffany, Van Cleef & Arpels opened up shop on Rodeo Drive. Today, visitors from all around the world walk the streets of Rodeo Drive to enjoy some shopping and admire the glamorous feel of this area.

Travelers looking to expand their knowledge on this famous street should listen to Rodeo Drive- The Podcast, a podcast sharing episodes about art, entertainment, fashion, and Rodeo Drive’s history.

9 Where To Park

Before arriving at Rodeo Drive, it is important to understand the parking situation. Despite the rows of expensive stores, parking is free. Free two-hour parking is offered in three nearby garages. One underground garage can be found at 438 N. Beverly Drive. Another nearby parking area can be found at 439 North Canon Drive and a third option at 345 N. Beverly Drive. One big misconception about a major US city is that it is hard to drive in LA. Freeways are well-marked, and streets are laid out in a straightforward manner, so do not be afraid to drive (and park) in LA.

8 What Stores Are There

There are over 100 notable stores spread throughout Rodeo Drive’s three blocks. A full store directory can be found online. Popular designer stores include Dior, Cartier, Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Saint Laurent.

Guests looking to grab a bite to eat can splurge at the luxurious and delicious 208 Rodeo Restaurant. This bistro has been serving up delicious dishes since 1991.

  • Address: 208 N Rodeo Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
  • Hours: Lunch Monday-Sunday 11 am-4:30 pm, dinner Sunday-Tuesday 4:30-10 pm, dinner Friday-Saturday 4:30-11 pm

7 What The Most Expensive Store Is

While Rodeo Drive is known for being home to expensive stores, there is one luxury brand that stands above the rest. The most expensive store on Rodeo Drive (and arguably in the world) is The House of Bijan. This luxury menswear store first opened on Rodeo Drive in 1976 and has an interesting history. In May 2010, for instance, the city of Beverly Hills publicly announced that May 8th is Bijan Day. Unfortunately, vacationers can only admire this luxury store from the street, as it is a “by appointment only” establishment.

  • Address: 443 N Rodeo Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

6 Other Shopping Nearby

Rodeo Drive is not the only area in Los Angeles with great shopping. A few streets over from Rodeo Drive, one can find cozy coffee shops, scrumptious dessert spots, and less expensive clothing stores. Individuals looking to indulge in sweets after an afternoon of shopping should visit Café Sheera Beverly Hills, an aesthetic café offering stuffed dates, gourmet chocolates, milkshakes, matcha, and various Mediterranean sweets.

  • Address: 443 N Bedford Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
  • Hours: Monday-Wednesday 8:30am-5pm, Thursday-Friday 8:30am-7pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 10am-4pm

Related: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Los Angeles & Southern California & Things To Do There

5 Your Chances Of Running Into Celebrities

People who visit Rodeo Drive in the hopes of casually bumping into a celebrity will not be pleased to hear that this type of casual encounter is unlikely. While celebrities do shop on Rodeo Drive, their shopping experience differs from the average consumer. The luxury stores offer VIP shopping experiences for famous customers, including private shopping lounges. Visitors looking to get their celebrity fix should visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, one of eight things travelers should not miss when visiting LA. At the Walk of Fame, visitors can find their favorite celebrity stars and snap a picture.

4 There Is A “Walk Of Style”

Speaking of walks, Rodeo Drive has its very own “Walk of Style.” This section of the drive contains bronze plaques, with each plaque honoring an icon who contributed to the fashion and entertainment industries. Created in 2003, this walk also features the bronze sculpture “Torso” by artist Robert Graham. Visitors will find this attraction at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way.

  • Address: 328 N Rodeo Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

3 There Is Unique Architecture On Two Rodeo

Los Angeles is known for its beautiful murals, but the city features some cool architectural designs as well. Two Rodeo, also known as the gateway to Rodeo Drive, is a section of this elegant drive featuring unique architecture and charming features. The European-style buildings exude European charm, while the designer store window displays create an added layer of elegance. The street is lined with cobblestones, streetlamps, and dozens of flowers. Popular luxury stores on Two Rodeo include Versace, Jimmy Choo, and Tiffany & Co.

2 You Can Spend The Night On Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive offers more than a unique shopping experience; visitors can spend the night on this iconic drive. The gorgeous Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, sits at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard. The 5-star hotel first opened its doors in 1928 and has welcomed celebrities, successful entrepreneurs, and plenty of the top 1%. Beverly Wilshire features a Mediterranean-style outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art spa, and multiple culinary experiences, making this hotel the perfect place for a relaxing and lavish getaway. Travelers should also check out these ten luxury Los Angeles hotels perfect for a pampered stay.

  • Address: 9500 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212

1 Events Happening On Rodeo Drive

Before visiting, travelers should research what events are happening on this famous street. Father’s Day is marked by Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance, an annual car show featuring some of the most exotic and extravagant cars from around the world. There is no admission charge for spectators, making this event entirely free to the public.

Another exciting Rodeo Drive event is Fashion’s Night Out in September. This event is all about celebrating fashion (and consumerism as well). The stores along Rodeo Drive stay open late during this event. The stores are filled with music, champagne, balloons, and special decorations, creating a unique and exciting shopping experience. Fashion’s Night Out is also a star-studded event, perfect for visitors hoping to spot a celebrity on Rodeo Drive.