10,000 steps exploring LA’s iconic Sunset Strip

In our 10K steps series, we've invited writers to share their favorite spots for walking while soaking in the city's sights, ideal routes, and hidden gems. Here, James March guides us through LA’s Sunset Strip – a notorious nightlife hub that also boasts surprising beauty.

“Drive west on Sunset, to the sea,” croons Donald Fagan in Steely Dan’s 1980 hit “Babylon Sisters.” Accompanied by a smooth, organ-driven rhythm, Fagan’s voice captures the excess of LA – and nowhere embodies the city’s quirky charm quite like the Sunset Strip.

While the legendary Sunset Blvd stretches 23 miles from downtown Los Angeles to the Californian coastline, it’s the small, 1.7-mile stretch known as the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood that steals the spotlight. Although it's tamer now compared to the days when Guns ’n’ Roses tossed TVs from hotel windows, the charm remains, highlighted by adorable delivery robots gliding near Sunset and Holloway. WeHo is now home to some of LA’s trendiest restaurants and chicest hotels.

In many ways, WeHo’s streets feel quintessentially “LA” – picture slender coconut palms, dedicated joggers, tiny dogs, whispering Teslas, and buzzing helicopters overhead. Yet, despite being a city that loves cars, West Hollywood (independent of Los Angeles) offers a surprisingly walkable experience with its winding streets and quaint side avenues that hint at European flair. It’s truly a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll.

With numerous enticing spots along the way, there’s much to explore. We recommend this tour that showcases Sunset Blvd’s greatest hits along with some lesser-known gems. As the real magic happens after dark, it’s best to start this walk post-lunch.

Starting point: Chateau Marmont

If it’s good enough for Anthony Bourdain, it’s good enough for me. Tony’s top choice for an LA hotel was the Chateau Marmont – its turreted white structure perched high above Sunset and Marmont Lane, at the eastern edge of the Sunset Strip, makes for a striking starting point for our stroll. Established in 1929, it has served as both an exclusive and occasionally infamous hideaway for LA’s elite, and you’ll need a substantial budget to spend a night or two here.

Need some energy for your westward stroll? The relaxed Mexican eatery Pinches Taco is located on the south side of Sunset Blvd, right beneath the Chateau Marmont. Their indulgent breakfast burrito ($11.25) might just become your new go-to dish.

Discover both timeless and trendy accommodations

Speaking of hotels, some of West Hollywood’s most legendary establishments line Sunset as it gracefully descends – so take a brief walk west from Pinches Taco into West Hollywood. The stunning Sunset Tower, built in 1931, stands out as a beautifully designed gem to explore (especially its elegant mahogany bar), while across the street, the Andaz used to be a raucous rock ’n’ roll hotspot and the favorite residence for Led Zeppelin (who sometimes booked entire floors). In the lobby, you can see large photographs of rock legends like Robert Plant and Jimi Hendrix who once enjoyed their time here.

The walk: Cross back to the south side of Sunset and continue heading west, passing by sparkling newcomers like The Pendry and 1 Hollywood West. A great budget choice, the music-centric Hotel Ziggy features live performances and DJs in the evenings, while its quirky B-side Pizza serves up delicious slices and whole pies. Turn left on La Cienega and descend the steep street until you reach Santa Monica Blvd.

Grab a hot dog at a uniquely charming food truck

An LA landmark since 1946 and a prime example of 20th-century novelty architecture, Tail o’ the Pup is a vibrant hot dog stand shaped like a giant hot dog. It may sound ridiculous – but in a city that can take itself too seriously, a hot dog from a hot dog-shaped stand might be just what you need. Plus, there’s a lively new speakeasy tiki bar hidden upstairs behind a certain door (but I won’t say more).

The walk: If you’d like to explore more of LA on two wheels, swing by Bikes and Hikes next door and book one of their fantastic guided e-bike tours.

The tranquil backstreets of WeHo are a delightful escape. Cross Santa Monica Blvd onto W Knoll Dr: the easily overlooked Chamberlain Hotel is not only a wonderfully discreet place to stay, but its corner spot also provides a lovely tree-framed view of the colorful Pacific Design Center. Continue past the charming pink geraniums on Westmount Dr, cross over Holloway Dr, and challenge your legs by climbing the steep Alta Loma Rd to reach the Sunset Marquis.

Visit the ultimate music gallery

While the Sunset Marquis is already a landmark, just to the right of the lobby lies the Morrison Hotel Gallery, where an incredible collection of rock and pop culture photography decorates the walls. From Mötley Crüe in a bubbly jacuzzi to the Rolling Stones in drag and the Doors peering through the Morrison Hotel window, the images here are as legendary as the hotel itself. You’ll find even more captivating photos in the underpass between the pool and Cavatina restaurant. Just play it cool if Ringo Starr happens to stroll by.

The walk: Make your way back to Sunset and take a left (no more hills, I promise). Mel’s Drive-In on the north side is one of LA’s last classic diners (open 24/7 if you get hungry in the middle of the night). Continue down to the quirky Rocky and Bullwinkle statue at the intersection of Sunset and Holloway, where the scent of cigar smoke might waft over from State Social House. The brunch favorite Dialog Cafe is a prime spot for people-watching – consider pausing for a coffee break here before crossing Palm Ave toward Book Soup.

Immerse yourself in literary paradise

Established in 1987, Book Soup is filled with the scent of freshly printed pages; once inside, you could easily lose track of time for an hour or two. The dedicated section featuring books about and set in Los Angeles is particularly captivating, while the diverse collection of pop culture, architecture, and LGBTIQ+ titles perfectly reflects WeHo’s vibe. Next door, the charming Mystery Pier specializes in first editions, offering remarkable finds like an 1816 printing of Jane Austen’s Emma and a 1929 edition of Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms.

The walk: The next two to three blocks heading west highlight some of the Sunset Strip’s most renowned (and notorious) venues. As the sun casts its golden glow over Beverly Hills and transitions into evening, it’s all about choosing your adventure. The journey begins across Larrabee St at Johnny Depp’s Viper Room and continues past the bright neon of the Roxy to Lemmy’s legendary hangout, The Rainbow.

Experience a live show at an iconic venue

When the Doors were the resident band, you know this venue is a must-visit. Established in 1964, the Whisky a Go Go was the first live music venue to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and its cozy stage hosts performances nearly every night. While there are a few leather booths available, they’re usually booked – the true Whisky experience involves grabbing a cold beer from the back bar and getting close to the action.

The walk: If you’re planning to enjoy the night at this venue or one of the many others on Sunset, I completely understand; they’re all fantastic. However, if you’d like to cap off your evening with some humor, head back east on Sunset to The Comedy Store.

Bonus stop: Unwind with some late-night humor

The laughter continues well into the night at the iconic Comedy Store. Legends like Jerry Seinfeld and Richard Pryor have graced this stage, and with three rooms available, you’ll find plenty of options for last-minute bookings. If you’re looking for late-night laughs, the Original Room’s “After 11pm Headliners” is the must-see show. A handy tip is to check their Instagram page on the day, as they often announce surprise headliners there.

Continue planning your trip to Los Angeles:

• No-cost LA: 7 free activities in the city

• Local delights: top dining spots from an insider's perspective

• The finest neighborhoods in Los Angeles