Though synonymous with glamour and celebrity, Beverly Hills’ sun-drenched appeal is just as enjoyable on a budget as it is with a splurge. Once a lima bean farm, this city of roughly 35,000 residents is rich in tree-lined streets and public gardens, with fragrant plantings from pink cedar to southern magnolia that make it an arborist’s delight.
First settled by Spanish ranchers in the 19th century, Beverly Hills was incorporated in 1914 after oil prospects proved disappointing. The arrival of The Beverly Hills Hotel and the construction of Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford’s mansion in the early 20th century helped establish the city as a destination for the rich and famous.
Despite its hill-oriented name, much of the city sits in “The Flats,” a relatively level area between West Hollywood and West Los Angeles. Running through the center of the city along Santa Monica Boulevard, Beverly Gardens Park stretches for 22 blocks and is shaded by century-old cypress and ficus trees. The park also features contemporary sculptures, adding visual interest to its green corridors.
Sitting above Sunset Boulevard, the imposing Greystone Mansion and its formal English gardens are open to the public as parkland. Built by oil baron Edward Doheny in a Tudor style, the estate has been a setting for numerous films and continues to draw visitors who appreciate historic architecture and landscaped grounds. Media enthusiasts will enjoy the Paley Center for Media, which highlights television and radio history through exhibits, screenings and a large archive of programs.
For shopping, Rodeo Drive remains the city’s most famous stretch, home to an array of luxury boutiques and designer storefronts. Yet Beverly Hills also offers community-focused experiences: every Sunday, the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market on Civic Center Drive attracts locals with fresh produce, flowers and gourmet prepared foods, creating a lively and approachable taste of the city.
Those seeking pampering can choose from renowned hotel spas in Beverly Hills. Spa services range from customized facials to therapeutic massages, and many hotels provide additional amenities such as rooftop pools and stylish bars. Whether you prefer a relaxed afternoon at a poolside terrace with a glass of wine or a refined evening in a wood-paneled lounge, Beverly Hills offers a variety of ways to unwind.
With its mix of lush public spaces, historic sites, cultural attractions and high-end shopping, Beverly Hills delivers experiences for visitors of all interests and budgets. From tranquil garden walks and free public art to iconic hotels and upscale boutiques, the city’s blend of natural beauty and cultivated elegance is accessible and inviting.