So you’ve just picked up your rental car in West Hollywood — the city where art, culture, celebrity, and nightlife all collide in one electric square mile. Whether you’re here for a quick trip or a weekend escape, having your own wheels gives you total freedom to explore the glitz, glam, and hidden gems that make WeHo unforgettable.
Here’s a guide to the Top 5 things to do once you’ve rented a car in West Hollywood, so you can hit the road and make the most of your adventure.
1. Cruise Down Sunset Boulevard (And Catch the Vibe)
West Hollywood sits right on the legendary Sunset Strip, home to famous clubs, neon-lit billboards, rock history, and celebrity sightings. After grabbing your keys from your rental (ideally at a local provider like 24Seven Rent A Car — located right in the heart of West Hollywood), set your GPS and head west on Sunset.
Pull over for photos at:
- The Comedy Store or Whisky a Go Go — where legends got their start.
- The Chateau Marmont — an old-school Hollywood icon.
- The “WeHo” mural — perfect for your Instagram story.
Insider tip: Rent a convertible and lower the top — it’s the West Coast way.
2. Explore the Hills — Mulholland Drive & Hollywood Bowl Overlook
With your own rental car, one of the best things to do is get out of the city grid and up into the hills. Mulholland Drive offers a scenic drive with jaw-dropping views of Los Angeles, and the Hollywood Bowl Overlook is a must-see.
These are not the places Uber will take you unless you specifically beg your driver. But with your own ride? You’re free to stop, take in the views, and soak in that L.A. magic.
Pack a small picnic or coffee and catch a quiet sunset. It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and just minutes from WeHo — but feels a world away.
3. Spend a Day at The Grove and Melrose Avenue
If shopping is your cardio, Melrose Avenue and The Grove will keep you happily exhausted.
- Melrose Avenue is edgy and eclectic. Think designer boutiques, vintage shops, graffiti walls, and coffee shops with people watching for days.
- The Grove is more polished: a luxury outdoor mall with fountains, food halls, and pop-up events year-round.
Both are just a short drive from your West Hollywood car rental pickup. And hey — those shopping bags? Easier to stash in your rental car trunk than juggle on a crowded rideshare.
4. Discover L.A.’s Food Scene — From Tacos to Vegan Delights
West Hollywood is a foodie paradise, and when you’re rolling with your own wheels, you can hop from one hotspot to the next with zero hassle.
Hit these local legends:
- Gracias Madre – Upscale vegan Mexican
- Pink’s Hot Dogs – A quirky L.A. classic (drive-up friendly!)
- Joan’s on Third – Artisan deli and brunch heaven
- In-N-Out Burger (near Sunset) – Late-night bites done right
Having your own car gives you flexibility — no waiting for a ride, no sharing a seat with strangers, and you can hit the drive-thru or dine in whenever you’re ready.
5. Day Trips: Malibu, Venice, or Beverly Hills
Renting a car in West Hollywood doesn’t mean staying put. Some of L.A.’s most iconic destinations are just 30–45 minutes away (depending on traffic). A few favorites:
- Malibu: Cruise along the Pacific Coast Highway, stop at Zuma Beach or the Malibu Pier.
- Venice Beach: Check out Muscle Beach, quirky shops, and that famous skate park.
- Beverly Hills: See Rodeo Drive, grab coffee at The Beverly Hills Hotel, or just drive around admiring luxury homes.
This is where car rentals shine. Public transport won’t get you here conveniently, and rideshares add up fast. With a trusted local provider like 24Seven Rent A Car, you’re free to go as far (or as local) as you like.
Bonus: Parking Tips in West Hollywood
Worried about parking? Don’t be. West Hollywood offers plenty of metered spots and public garages. Here are some quick tips:
- Look for green signs for 2-hour free parking zones.
- Avoid red curbs and street cleaning days — tickets are no joke here.
- Use apps like ParkMobile or SpotHero to reserve spots ahead.
FAQs – Renting in West Hollywood & What to Do
Q1. Is it easy to park in West Hollywood?
Yes — especially if you’re aware of the rules. Use apps or park in lots near Sunset Boulevard or Santa Monica Boulevard.
Q2. What type of car is best to rent in West Hollywood?
For tight city driving, go with a compact or midsize. But if you’re heading to Malibu or want to feel L.A. chic, a convertible or luxury SUV adds to the experience.
Q3. Can I rent a car just for a day trip?
Absolutely! Most companies like 24Seven Rent A Car offer flexible short-term rentals. Great for day trips to Malibu, Santa Monica, or the Hollywood Hills.
Q4. What should I visit if I only have half a day?
Start with the Sunset Strip, then cruise through Mulholland Drive for a photo stop. Grab lunch on Melrose and you’ll feel like you lived a full day of L.A.
Q5. Is West Hollywood safe to explore by car?
Yes, very much. It’s one of the safer neighborhoods in L.A., with well-maintained roads and lots of street activity day and night.
Final Thoughts
West Hollywood is more than just a stop on the map — it’s a vibe. And once you rent a car, that vibe expands into a full-blown adventure. Whether you’re cruising through the hills, grabbing iconic bites, or heading west toward the ocean, freedom is the real luxury here.
So if you’re planning your trip, remember — picking up a car rental from a local expert like 24Seven Rent A Car doesn’t just get you around. It opens the city up to you.