Historic Beverly Hills Celebrates 100 Years of Dazzle With Free Concerts And More

An Insider’s Guide To Historic Beverly Hills

“Historic” may not be the first word that comes to mind when you think about Beverly Hills, but the city has much more to offer than world-class shopping and cars that cost more than your (and my) house. On January 28, 2014, the City of Beverly Hills marked its centennial and kicked off a year-long celebration featuring free concerts, public art exhibits, special offers from local hotels and restaurants and much more. If you want to experience the history of luxury, glamor and elegance, Beverly Hills is the place to go.

What to do when you get to Beverly Hills?

Get the lay of the land. Hop on an old fashioned-style Trolley and take a ride through Beverly Hills on a 40-minute narrated tour of art, architecture, historical and renowned areas of the City, including Rodeo Drive. Fares are $5.00 per adult and $1.00 per child 12 and under.

Visit the historic Greystone Mansion. Built in 1927 by oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny and perched in the storied and scenic hills of one of the most elegant neighborhoods in America, Greystone Estate is a Beverly Hills and Los Angeles treasure. In 1976 it was recognized as a historic landmark in the national registry of Historic Places. The City of Beverly Hills purchased the property in 1965 and in 1971 the entire 18.3 acre site was formally dedicated as a public park. The park is open to the public free of charge during regular business hours and one of my favorite things to do is to grab a picnic and my favorite book and enjoy this peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city.

Where to eat?

Beverly Hills is known for its world-class cuisine prepared by celebrity chefs. But real insiders know exactly where to go for some of the best local comfort food in one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Established in 1945, Nate ‘n Al has a long and wonderful history and a tradition of serving delicious meals while bringing together great friends and honoring one simple commitment: to serve the finest deli favorites prepared with the best ingredients. I recommend the brisket! They use certified Angus beef and the meat is always so juicy and tender it practically melts in your mouth.

Where to stay in Beverly Hills?

Why not live a little Hollywood history while you are here? In 1955, hotelier Conrad Hilton first opened The Beverly Hilton, a Forbes Four-Star hotel that combines the excitement and entertainment of Hollywood with the prestige of Beverly Hills. The hotel’s famed Aqua Star Pool is Beverly Hills’ largest pool and is the setting for numerous recognizable photo and film shoots and remains the place to see-and-be-seen. The hotel has also been the home of the Golden Globe Awards for nearly 50 years and plays host to the Oscar Nominee Luncheon and Pre- Grammy Gala, as well as over 100 star-studded red carpet events each year. So don’t be surprised if the person who gets into the elevator with you is one of your favorite celebrities. If I can, I opt for a deluxe room with a balcony in the hotel’s Wilshire tower.  In the morning I put on the hotel’s signature plush bathrobe and enjoy a cup of coffee and room service breakfast while overlooking the city and the surrounding Hollywood Hills…and feel like a real celebrity.

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About the Author:  Nicole Fisher is an avid traveler and foodie. Working in the travel industry, Nicole has the pleasure and privilege of being able to visit many places across the U.S. and the world. Combining her wanderlust with her education in communications and journalism, she shares her experiences with other travelers via blogs and social media. When she is not on the road, Nicole likes to explore her home city of Los Angeles, hike, ride her bike along the beach and watch the occasional reality TV show.
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Photo Source:  Wikimedia Commons