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TCL Chinese Theatre: A Hollywood Icon

Experience Hollywood history at the TCL Chinese Theatre, home to celebrity handprints and movie premieres on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame.

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The TCL Chinese Theatre, formerly Grauman's Chinese Theatre, is a historic movie palace on Hollywood Boulevard. Famous for its celebrity handprints and footprints in the forecourt, it continues to host movie premieres and screenings, drawing millions of visitors annually.

A brief summary to TCL Chinese Theatre

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season, to get the best views of the celebrity handprints and footprints.
  • Check the theater's schedule for movie premieres or special events, as these can impact access to the forecourt.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the theater's history and architecture.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and standing.
  • Look down! Some celebrity signatures are etched into the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame surrounding the theater.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hollywood/Highland Metro station, walk east along Hollywood Boulevard. The TCL Chinese Theatre is located on the south side of the street, a short walk from the station. The walk is flat and well-paved.

  • Public Transport

    The Metro B Line (Red) stops at the Hollywood/Highland station, directly adjacent to the TCL Chinese Theatre. Several bus lines also serve the area, with stops along Hollywood Boulevard. A single Metro fare is $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hollywood. A short ride from nearby locations such as the Sunset Strip or the Hollywood Bowl will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic.

  • Parking

    Parking is available at the Hollywood & Highland Center, adjacent to the TCL Chinese Theatre. Hourly rates typically range from $3-$5, with daily maximums around $20-$30. Limited street parking is also available, but can be difficult to find and may have time restrictions.

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Discover more about TCL Chinese Theatre

The TCL Chinese Theatre stands as a monument to Hollywood's Golden Age, drawing millions to its iconic forecourt each year. Originally opened in 1927, the theater was the brainchild of Sid Grauman, who sought to create an opulent movie palace that celebrated Chinese art and culture. The exterior boasts a striking Chinese pagoda design, complete with intricate carvings, a dragon-emblazoned facade, and towering columns. The theater's true allure lies in its forecourt, where over 200 celebrities have left their handprints, footprints, and signatures in cement. From Marilyn Monroe to Tom Hanks, these imprints immortalize some of the biggest names in entertainment history. Visitors can compare their hands to those of their favorite stars, creating a tangible connection to Hollywood's past. Beyond the forecourt, the TCL Chinese Theatre continues to operate as a state-of-the-art movie theater, hosting premieres and screenings of the latest blockbusters. Its massive IMAX screen and cutting-edge sound system provide an immersive cinematic experience. The theater also offers guided tours, providing insights into its history, architecture, and celebrity lore. A visit to the TCL Chinese Theatre is a quintessential Hollywood experience, blending history, celebrity, and cinematic magic.

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