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TCL Chinese Theatre: A Hollywood Icon

Experience Hollywood history at the TCL Chinese Theatre, home to movie premieres and the iconic Forecourt of the Stars.

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The TCL Chinese Theatre, originally Grauman's Chinese Theatre, is a historic movie palace on Hollywood Boulevard. Opened in 1927, it's famous for its unique Chinese architecture and the Forecourt of the Stars, featuring celebrity handprints and footprints in concrete. A must-see for any visitor to Hollywood.

A brief summary to TCL Chinese Theatre

Local tips

  • Check the official website for movie showtimes and to purchase tickets in advance.
  • Arrive early, especially for movie premieres or special events, to secure a good viewing spot.
  • Don't forget your camera to capture photos of the famous handprints and footprints in the Forecourt of the Stars.
  • Consider taking a guided tour for a behind-the-scenes look at the theater's history and architecture.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The TCL Chinese Theatre is conveniently located near the Hollywood/Highland Metro Station on the Red Line. From Los Angeles Union Station, take the Metro B Line (Red) directly to the Hollywood/Highland Station. The subway ride takes approximately 25 minutes and costs $2. From the Hollywood/Vine station, take the Metro B Line (Red) to the Hollywood/Highland station. The journey takes approximately 6 minutes and costs $2.

  • Walking

    The TCL Chinese Theatre is located in the heart of Hollywood on Hollywood Boulevard. If you are already on Hollywood Boulevard, simply walk to 6925 Hollywood Blvd. From the Hollywood/Vine station, it is approximately a 22-minute walk.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hollywood. A taxi from Hollywood/Vine to the TCL Chinese Theatre will cost approximately $8-$11 and take about 3 minutes. From Warner Bros. Studio, a taxi will cost approximately $14.

  • Driving

    If driving, several parking garages are available near the TCL Chinese Theatre. Parking rates vary. The Hollywood & Highland Center (now Ovation Hollywood) and Loews Hollywood Hotel offer parking. Expect to pay around $12 for 2 hours of parking at the Hollywood & Highland Garage. Several other parking lots are available in the area, with prices ranging from $16 to $43. Parking validation may be available with purchase at select businesses.

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Discover more about TCL Chinese Theatre

The TCL Chinese Theatre stands as a monument to Hollywood's Golden Age. Since 1927, it has been the premiere venue for countless movie premieres and special events. Designed by Meyer & Holler, the theater's exterior resembles a giant Chinese pagoda, complete with coral-red columns, wrought iron masks, and a 30-foot-high dragon. Ming Dynasty Heaven Dogs, imported from China, still guard the entrance. The theater was designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument in 1968. The Forecourt of the Stars is perhaps the theater's most recognizable feature. Here, nearly 200 celebrities have left their handprints, footprints, and autographs in the concrete. Visitors can see the imprints of stars like Marilyn Monroe, Tom Hanks, and many more. According to the theater's official history, the tradition began when actress Norma Talmadge accidentally stepped into wet concrete. Inside, the theater boasts a large IMAX auditorium. Guided tours are available, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the theater's history and architecture. The TCL Chinese Theatre continues to be a vibrant part of Hollywood, hosting movie screenings, premieres, and special events.

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