The Inside Scoop by our Local Expert
What would a trip to Hollywood, California, be without a visit to Grauman's Chinese Theatre? Arguably one of the most famous theatres in the world, this Hollywood landmark opened with much fanfare in 1927 and has been a stop on for many tourists since.Sid Grauman, a showman himself, already owned the Egyptian Theatre and the Million Dollar Theatre, but the Chinese Theatre was his real pride and joy and one that he shared with partners Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks. As its name suggests, the Chinese Theatre's style is inspired by that of the Chinese and comes complete with temple bells, pagodas, and stone Heaven Dogs, two of which loyally guard the entrance. The whole endeavor cost a cool two million dollars, but it was an investment that paid off handsomely in the number of patrons, celebrity or otherwise, that have come to enjoy movies.Although many tourists will settle for a picture in front of the theatre, many forget that Grauman's Chinese Theatre is an actual working theatre, and one that is tops on the wish list for many Hollywood movie premieres. Thanks to a major renovation and structural support that allows it to withstand earthquakes, Grauman's Chinese Theatre will continue to be a prized Hollywood landmark for many decades to come.