Everything You Need to Know About the Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most visited landmarks in the world — over 10 million visitors annually walk its star-studded sidewalks. Stretching 1.3 miles along Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street, the Walk features more than 2,700 five-pointed terrazzo and brass stars embedded in the sidewalk, each honouring a notable achievement in the entertainment industry.
A Brief History
The Walk of Fame was conceived in 1953 by E.M. Stuart, volunteer president of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. Construction began in 1958, and the first star was installed in 1960. The Walk was declared a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 1978.
Stars are awarded in five categories: Motion Pictures (camera), Television (TV set), Audio Recording/Music (phonograph), Radio (microphone), and Live Theatre/Performance (comedy/tragedy masks). Each category is represented by a different emblem on the star.
How Stars Are Selected
Contrary to popular belief, celebrities don't just "get" a star. The process involves:
- Nomination — anyone can nominate a celebrity, but the nominee (or their representative) must agree
- Application fee — currently $75,000, which covers creation, installation, and maintenance of the star
- Committee review — the Walk of Fame Selection Committee evaluates nominees based on career longevity, contributions to the entertainment industry, and community involvement
- Ceremony — honourees must attend a public unveiling ceremony within two years of selection
Most Photographed Stars
- Michael Jackson — consistently the most visited star on the Walk
- Marilyn Monroe — near the corner of Hollywood and Highland
- Elvis Presley — located on the south side of Hollywood Blvd
- The Beatles — John Lennon's star draws constant crowds
- Donald Duck — one of several fictional characters with stars
Tips for Visiting
- Best time: Weekday mornings (9-11am) for smaller crowds and better photos
- Use the app: The official Walk of Fame app helps you locate specific stars
- Start at Highland: The Hollywood & Highland area has the densest concentration of stars and the best Hollywood Sign views
- Watch your belongings: Hollywood Blvd is busy — keep valuables secure
- Wear comfortable shoes: You'll walk more than you expect
- Don't miss: The TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman's), with handprints and footprints of legends in the cement courtyard
How to Visit from Las Vegas
The Walk of Fame is a featured stop on the Vegas2Hollywood tour. We drop you right on Hollywood Boulevard with ample time to explore — find your favourite stars, photograph the Chinese Theatre, and see the Hollywood Sign from Highland Center. The tour includes breakfast, restaurant lunch, and hotel pickup from Las Vegas — all for $215.