Hollywood is the unofficial capital of the entertainment industry for television, movie and music stars and their staff. Visiting famous nightclubs in the area offers plenty of celebrity spotting opportunities and, in many nightclubs, a glimpse into the famous moments in Hollywood history. The Sunset Strip is one of the most famous sections of the club area of town. During the 1940s and '50s, this was a glitzy, glamour-ridden spot.
The Tropicana Lounge is a famous hotel bar located in the Roosevelt Hotel, another famous Hollywood landmark. The Tropicana Lounge has a pool party-style ambiance, a swim-up bar and getting in is difficult. You have to be a celebrity, a hotel guest or have reserved bottle service for the night to get a table. Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable were frequent visitors at The Tropicana for many years. As of 2010, visitors have included the Olsen twins and Lindsay Lohan. As of 2009, renovations to the pool included the addition of towering palm trees and cabana lounge chairs. The exterior retains its historic pink-lit "Hotel Roosevelt" sign. This Hollywood hot spot combines West Coast poolside fun with old world Hollywood history.
Formerly known as The Palace, this is a legendary Hollywood nightclub. Some of the most famous acts in musical history, including Madonna, Prince, The Rolling Stones, Judy Garland and even Frank Sinatra have performed in this venue, many performing before its transition from "The Palace" to "Avalon Hollywood." During its legendary lifespan as one of the most historic and well-known nightclubs in Hollywood, it has also gone through several ownership changes. In 2002, it was purchased by Hollywood Entertainment Partners. Other names associated with this club include The Jerry Lewis Theatre and the Hollywood Palace.The decor and interior style is avant garde, with a touch of Hollywood glamour. The club has its own "club within a club" in the Bardot Lounge. This venue accommodates 1,100 people. Late night dining may be available. Both Avalon Hollywood and its interior club, the Bardot, opened in 1927.
The Viper Room was established in 1993 by Johnny Depp and his business partners. Although Depp is no longer involved in this intimate lounge, it is still a Hollywood hot spot that is known throughout the world as an area landmark. Drinks, live music from well-known and the best up-and-coming groups, as well as a celebrity-spotting worthy atmosphere are other reasons to visit The Viper Room. Being owned by Depp is only partially what made this establishment famous. The music and drinks, as well as celebrity guests, also heightened knowledge of this club.
The Troubadour has been around since 1962. During its reign as one of Hollywood's most famous clubs, it has hosted some of the best and biggest names in rock 'n' roll in an intimate, classic rock venue. Elton John had his American stage debut at this club, Bruce Springsteen has rocked the stage and Joni Mitchell also debuted on this stage.
