The Beverly Wilshire opened in 1928 where Wilshire Boulevard meets Rodeo Drive, at a time when Beverly Hills was still a young city. It has since become one of the landmark luxury hotels in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, closely tied to the history of Hollywood.
History
From its first years the hotel received film stars, studio heads and royalty, some of whom lived there for long periods. Its international fame grew again in 1990, when it served as a setting for the film Pretty Woman. Four Seasons has operated the hotel since 1992. It has a spa and a pool terrace above Wilshire Boulevard.
Architecture and design
The Los Angeles firm Walker & Eisen designed the original Wilshire wing in the Italian Renaissance style, in limestone and marble. A second wing, the Beverly wing, was added later, and the two are linked around a private street, El Camino Real. The hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Location
The hotel stands at the foot of Rodeo Drive, among the fashion houses of the Golden Triangle, with Hollywood, Bel Air and West Hollywood a few minutes off.
Weddings and events
The ballroom and salons of the Beverly Wilshire host weddings, galas and corporate events in the centre of Beverly Hills.
At a glance
What sets it apart
- 01Opened in 1928 at Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive
- 02Italian Renaissance Wilshire wing by Walker & Eisen
- 03A setting of the film Pretty Woman
- 04Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Chronology
Dates that matter
1924
The Beverly Hills Speedway, a board racing track, closes and the site is sold for development.
1928
The Beverly Wilshire opens on the site of the former speedway.
1971
The Beverly wing opens behind the original building, linked by a private street.
1985
Regent International Hotels takes over the hotel and begins a major renovation.
1990
The hotel appears in Pretty Woman, which brings it worldwide fame.
1992
Four Seasons takes over the management.
