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Whisky a Go Go: A Sunset Strip Rock 'n' Roll Landmark

Experience rock 'n' roll history at the Whisky a Go Go, the legendary Sunset Strip nightclub that launched the go-go craze and hosted music icons.

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The Whisky a Go Go, a legendary nightclub on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, has been a cornerstone of the Los Angeles music scene since 1964. Known as the 'first real American discothèque,' it launched the go-go craze and hosted iconic performances by rock legends. Today, the Whisky continues to showcase live music, retaining its historic charm and all-ages appeal.

A brief summary to Whisky a Go Go

  • Monday 9 am-2 am
  • Tuesday 9 am-2 am
  • Wednesday 9 am-2 am
  • Thursday 9 am-2 am
  • Friday 9 am-2 am
  • Saturday 9 am-2 am
  • Sunday 9 am-2 am

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially for popular shows, as the venue is general admission and can get crowded.
  • Check the Whisky a Go Go's official website for the most up-to-date event schedule and ticket information.
  • Be aware that the box office accepts cash only, though the cocktail bar accepts Visa and Mastercard.
  • Consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation, as parking in the area can be limited.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central West Hollywood, the Whisky a Go Go is accessible via the Los Angeles Metro bus system. Several bus lines serve the Sunset Strip area. From Hollywood, you can take the Metro Bus Line 2. The cost for a single ride on a Metro bus is $1.75. Purchase or reload a TAP Card for day and week passes at several locations around West Hollywood. The Cityline Local bus route generally follows Santa Monica Blvd and deviates from the boulevard to serve the majority of the city's neighborhoods. All services are free to the general public.

  • Ride-Sharing Services

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to reach the Whisky a Go Go. From Hollywood to West Hollywood, the average price for a trip is $23. The travel times and costs are approximate and subject to change depending on traffic conditions and other factors.

  • Walking

    The Whisky a Go Go is located in a walkable area on the Sunset Strip. If you are already on the Sunset Strip, walking to the venue is a straightforward option. Be mindful of traffic and pedestrian signals.

  • Parking

    Parking is limited. There is a valet lot located directly behind the venue; the entrance is located through the alley on Clark St. Other parking options include nearby parking garages and lots. Parking rates vary, but you can expect to pay around $6 to $29. Free parking is located at 8770 Shoreham Drive, West Hollywood.

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Discover more about Whisky a Go Go

The Whisky a Go Go stands as a monument to rock 'n' roll history on the Sunset Strip. Founded in 1964 by Elmer Valentine, the club quickly became a hub for emerging musical talent and a popular hangout for Hollywood stars. The Whisky owes its name to the first discothèque, the Whisky à Gogo, established in Paris. The Sunset Strip Whisky was the first live music venue to be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. The Whisky is credited with popularizing go-go dancing in America. When the club needed a DJ to fill time between sets, a female DJ was mounted in a glass-walled booth above the dance floor, and the go-go craze was born. Johnny Rivers, whose band played at the Whisky's opening, rode the Whisky-born “go-go” craze to national fame. Over the decades, the Whisky has hosted legendary performers such as The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Led Zeppelin, The Ramones, Blondie, and Van Halen. Many British performers made their first headlining performances in the area at the Whisky, including The Kinks, The Who, Cream, Led Zeppelin, Roxy Music and Oasis. In the early 1990s, the Whisky hosted a number of Seattle-based musicians who would later be dubbed "the godfathers of grunge," such as Soundgarden, Nirvana, Mudhoney, and The Melvins. While the Whisky fell on hard times and closed its doors in 1982, it reopened in 1986 and remains an active and relevant part of the Sunset Strip. Today, the Whisky a Go Go continues to host live music events, retaining its all-ages policy and historic atmosphere.

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