Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most recognisable stretches of pavement in the world, a 2.5-kilometre corridor of terrazzo and brass stars embedded in the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street that pays tribute to the entertainers who have shaped American popular culture since the dawn of the entertainment age. More than 2,700 five-pointed stars bear the names of actors, musicians, directors, fictional characters, and even animals who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

History and Creation

The Walk of Fame was conceived in 1953 by E.M. Stuart, a civic leader who wanted to maintain Hollywood glamour after the major studios began relocating. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce developed the concept and the first stars were unveiled in 1960. Joanne Woodward received the very first star, followed by Burt Lancaster, Kirk Douglas, Edward G. Robinson, and Ernest Borgnine in the initial ceremony.

Today the Walk of Fame is divided into five categories: Motion Pictures, Television, Live Theatre/Performance, Radio, and Recording. Each star is dedicated to a specific person or entity in one of these fields. A Selection Committee reviews nominations annually and approximately 24 new stars are added each year, with honorees required to contribute to the installation costs.

• Over 2,700 stars embedded in 2.5km of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street
• Five categories: Motion Pictures, Television, Live Theatre, Radio, and Recording
• Joanne Woodward received the first star in 1960
• Approximately 24 new stars are added each year
• The Walk of Fame was designated a Los Angeles Historic Landmark in 1978

What to See Along the Walk

The most visited sections are along Hollywood Boulevard between La Brea Avenue and Gower Street, and along Vine Street. The iconic intersection of Hollywood and Vine is a natural focal point where visitors gather for photographs. Notable stars to seek out include Michael Jackson’s star in front of the Mann Chinese Theatre (now TCL Chinese Theatre), Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and the star of fictional detective Sherlock Holmes.

Beyond the stars themselves, the surrounding area offers much more. The TCL Chinese Theatre with its celebrity handprints and footprints in cement is directly adjacent, the Hollywood Museum occupies the historic Max Factor Building, and the Dolby Theatre hosts the Academy Awards ceremony each spring.

Practical Information

• Entry: Free – the Walk of Fame is public pavement
• Hours: 24 hours, though daytime visits recommended for safety
• Duration: 1-3 hours depending on how many stars you seek out
• Star maps: Available from street vendors or the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce website
• Caution: Be aware of street performers requesting tips and avoid unlicensed tour operators

Local Insights

• Download the official Walk of Fame app or get a star map to locate specific names efficiently
• Visit early morning (before 9am) for the best photography without crowds in the frame
• The Hollywood and Highland complex has free parking validated by many surrounding businesses
• Star induction ceremonies are free public events – check the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce calendar
• The area around Vine Street tends to be less crowded than the Hollywood and Highland stretch

Getting There

• Metro: Red Line to Hollywood/Highland or Hollywood/Vine stations
• Bus: Multiple Metro bus lines on Hollywood Boulevard
• Driving: Hollywood and Highland complex has parking; street parking very limited
• Rideshare: Uber/Lyft drop-offs at Hollywood and Highland intersection