Avenue of Stars: Orbiting Through Hollywood

The Avenue of Stars is a renowned attraction that has been a landmark in the heart of Hollywood for decades. Located at the famous Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, it is a tribute to the biggest names in the movie industry, both past and present. Modeled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this stretch of street is lined with brass stars that proudly bear the names of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, actresses, directors, producers, and other entertainment icons.

The Beginning of the Avenue of Stars

The idea of creating a Walk of Fame in Hollywood was first suggested in 1960 by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. However, the project faced financial challenges and was abandoned. It was not until 1977 that actor and singer Gene Autry together with Johnny Grant, a radio and television personality, revived the concept and started the Avenue of Stars. They began by honoring 560 celebrities from the entertainment industry with a star on the sidewalk. The first star that was unveiled was that of actor and singer Joanne Woodward.

What to Expect at the Avenue of Stars

The Avenue of Stars currently has over 2,500 stars and continues to grow as more celebrities are honored. The brass stars are embedded in the sidewalk, and each one includes the name of the celebrity, as well as an emblem or logo that represents their work in the entertainment industry. The stars are also categorized into different sections, such as motion pictures, television, music, theater, and radio, making it easier for visitors to find their favorite stars.

In addition to the stars, the Avenue of Stars also features several other attractions such as handprints and footprints of famous celebrities, iconic movie props, and historical landmarks. There are also numerous street performers and vendors selling souvenirs, making it a lively and bustling atmosphere.

Must-Visit Stars at the Avenue of Stars

With over 2,500 stars to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to check out while strolling down the Avenue of Stars. Here are some of the must-visit stars that every movie enthusiast should see:

Marilyn Monroe

The immortal beauty, Marilyn Monroe, has a star at the Avenue of Stars, positioned above Hollywood’s most iconic subway grates. Located at the intersection of Hollywood and Highland, this is where Marilyn famously stood for a photo shoot in her white dress, with the breeze from the subway grates blowing up her skirt. This image has become one of the most iconic images in Hollywood history.

Michael Jackson

The King of Pop’s star is just a short distance away from Marilyn Monroe’s, making it a popular spot for visitors to snap photos. The star is located in front of the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, where Michael famously immortalized his hand and footprints in cement in 1984. His star is adorned with handprints and his signature, making it a must-visit for any fan of the late music legend.

Robin Williams

The late comedian and actor, Robin Williams, is honored with a star that showcases his hand and footprints, along with a quote from his iconic character in the film Dead Poets Society: “Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.” It is located in front of the TCL Chinese Theatre, which is another iconic landmark in Hollywood.

Events and Festivities at the Avenue of Stars

The Avenue of Stars is not just a popular tourist spot, but it also serves as a venue for various events and festivities. The most notable one being the annual Hollywood Christmas Parade that features floats, marching bands, and celebrities. The Avenue of Stars also hosts movie premieres, book signings, and other events, making it a hub of activity year-round.

Visiting the Avenue of Stars

If you’re planning to visit the Avenue of Stars, it is best to go during weekdays to avoid the large crowds that gather over the weekends. The best time to visit is in the morning, as the stars are less crowded, and you can take your time to appreciate each one. Wear comfortable shoes, as the walk to see all the stars can take a couple of hours. Also, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the experience and to take photos with your favorite stars.

The Avenue of Stars: A Hollywood Institution

The Avenue of Stars is not just a sidewalk with stars; it is a celebration of the most exceptional individuals in the entertainment industry. It serves as a reminder of the contributions and legacies of the stars that have graced the silver screen and continues to inspire future generations. So, the next time you’re in Hollywood, make sure to take a walk down this iconic avenue and be a part of its rich history.