Take a look at some of the coolest nightclubs on the Sunset Strip!
The historic mile and a half stretch on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, CA, today know as the Sunset Strip, has always been a center for nightlife. The strip transitioned into a hub for music venues, some that have come and gone, but that remain iconic in the narrative of the ever-changing boulevard…
Pandora’s Box
The 60’s in California would be nothing without a little rebellion coming from the young crowds that roamed its streets. This nightclub became the core rally location for what we know today as the Sunset Strip curfew riots. Store owners and nearby residents were fed up with teenagers clogging the streets! The locals worked with local law enforcement to pass strict curfew and loitering laws to reduce crowds. The venue closed down soon after and was finally demolished in 1967.
Whisky a Go Go
The Whisky created an important scene for several musicians get their start in the business. Artists like The Doors, Frank Zappa, Neil Diamond, Guns N’ Roses, and Mötley Crüe were launched on this stage. As per its name, the nightclub also popularized go-go dancing. Even suspended cages above the crowded dance floor were born here! It was the music scene and scandalous dance culture that kept The Whisky an iconic part of the Sunset Strip. So iconic that it was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006!
The Roxy Theatre
The 70’s brought the strip this famous nightclub along with good acoustics and a perfect setting for various recording artists. Musicians including Bob Marley, The Ramones, Bruce Springsteen, and U2 have graced the stage of this intimate venue since its opening. The intimate venue is also home to a small bar that sits above the main space. On the Rox, started out as a private VIP setting for regulars such as John Lennon, Alice Cooper, and Keith Moon of The Who. Today, locals still regularly come out to hang out at the bar or to catch an exclusive performance on the main floor!
The Viper Room
The Viper Room opened its doors in 1993 and was partly owned by actor Johnny Depp. During its first year, actor/musician River Phoenix died of a drug overdose outside the venue before he was set to perform later that night. The tragedy didn’t damage the club’s reputation and remained a prominent hangout spot for Hollywood’s most famous actors and musicians. Today the nightclub continues to host metal, punk, and alt rock acts at its 250 person capacity room. The room also maintains a large basement whisky bar stocked with well known brands and rare, local distilled whisky.
Were you ever part of LA’s rock and roll scene? Comment below and tells us the details, or experience it for yourself on our Glamorous Hollywood & Beverly Hills Highlights Tour!