Lisa O
Beverly Hills is more than just luxurious mansions and celebrity sightings. The city has a rich history, quirky landmarks, and little-known facts that even tourists might miss. From a failed oil venture to the world’s most exclusive boutique, Beverly Hills holds many secrets that only the locals know. Let’s uncover 15 fun facts about Beverly Hills that show there’s much more to this glamorous city than meets the eye.
Beverly Hills Almost Became “Morocco”
In the early 1900s, oil tycoon Burton Green tried to find oil in the area. After this plan failed, he switched to real estate development. While there’s no strong evidence that the area was seriously going to be named “Morocco,” Burton’s wife suggested “Beverly Hills,” inspired by Beverly Farms, Massachusetts. This decision gave the area its famous name, forever shaping its identity.
The World’s Most Expensive Store – Bijan
Located on Rodeo Drive, the House of Bijan is one of the world’s most exclusive stores. It operates on an appointment-only basis, with clients spending thousands of dollars per visit. Bijan Pakzad, the late founder, owned the signature yellow Bugatti often parked outside the store, a local fixture as recognizable as the bespoke men’s fashion inside. While not officially the world’s “most expensive” store, it is known for its luxurious and high-priced offerings.
The Famous Cupcake ATM
Beverly Hills is home to the world’s first cupcake ATM, courtesy of Sprinkles Cupcakes. Installed in 2012, this unique vending machine offers freshly baked cupcakes 24/7. It’s not just a quirky tourist attraction but a beloved treat for locals with a late-night sweet tooth. Flavors range from red velvet to chocolate marshmallow, with seasonal options always available. The cupcake ATM has since inspired similar machines in other cities, but the original is right here in Beverly Hills.
From Lima Beans to Luxury
Before the luxury homes and designer boutiques, Beverly Hills was a vast agricultural field dedicated to growing lima beans. The Hammel and Denker Ranch covered much of the land with these crops in the early 1900s. As the city grew, the bean fields were replaced with multimillion-dollar estates and high-end shops, but the area’s humble beginnings as a bean field are still a little-known fact among residents today.
The Beverly Hills Hotel – The Pink Palace
The Beverly Hills Hotel, affectionately known as “The Pink Palace,” opened its doors in 1912, making it one of the city’s oldest landmarks. Known for its luxurious pink exterior, lush gardens, and secluded bungalows, the hotel has hosted countless Hollywood stars, from Marilyn Monroe to Elizabeth Taylor. Its signature pink and green color scheme and the iconic poolside cabanas still represent the golden era of Hollywood glamor.
No Billboards Allowed
In a city that prides itself on maintaining a pristine image, Beverly Hills enforces strict regulations on advertising. Unlike nearby Los Angeles, you won’t find a single billboard in Beverly Hills. This decision was made to preserve the city’s aesthetic appeal and maintain an air of exclusivity. The absence of billboards contributes to the uncluttered, polished look that sets Beverly Hills apart from neighboring areas.
Fast Police Response
The Beverly Hills Police Department is known for its quick response times due to its high officer-to-resident ratio and excellent funding. While the exact response time can vary depending on the situation, the department consistently aims to arrive swiftly, especially in emergency scenarios. Though specific times are not always published, Beverly Hills’ commitment to safety ensures that residents and visitors can rely on prompt police assistance, contributing to the city’s reputation for security.
Greystone Mansion’s Hidden Hollywood History
Greystone Mansion, a 55-room estate, is not just a stunning piece of architecture but also a popular filming location. It has been featured in movies and TV shows like The Big Lebowski, X-Men, and Gilmore Girls. Locals know that the mansion’s gardens are open to the public, offering a quiet escape from the city, while film buffs may recognize its iconic interiors from their favorite Hollywood productions.
Pet-Friendly Paradise
Beverly Hills is as welcoming to pets as it is to humans. With several dog parks, including the popular Beverly Hills Dog Park, and pet-friendly hotels, locals and visitors alike bring their furry friends along. Many restaurants offer dog-friendly patios, and an annual “Pet Parade” celebrates pets of all kinds. Whether you’re a dog owner or just love animals, the city’s pet-friendly culture is one of its most charming attributes.
The Beverly Wilshire and Pretty Woman
The Beverly Wilshire Hotel became world-famous after being featured in the 1990 romantic comedy Pretty Woman. The hotel, located at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive, has long been a luxurious destination. Fans of the film can even book the “Pretty Woman Suite,” where parts of the movie were filmed, making it a must-visit for cinephiles and lovers of classic Hollywood romance.
The Beverly Hills Post Office – An Architectural Gem
Built in 1934, the Beverly Hills Post Office is not just a functioning postal service—it’s also an architectural treasure. With its Art Deco design, it stands as a historical landmark in the city. While many tourists pass it by, locals appreciate its beauty and cultural significance. The building’s unique design and rich history make it a must-see for those who enjoy blending function with architectural elegance.
The Failed Moroccan-Themed Development
In the late 1800s, developers considered a Moroccan-style residential project for the area, aiming to bring exotic architecture and design to what would later become one of the world’s most glamorous cities. However, due to financial issues and other challenges, the project never materialized. While it’s an interesting piece of local lore, Beverly Hills ultimately developed its own distinct identity, shaped by luxurious estates and modern architecture.
Beverly Hills Trolley Tours
One of the best ways to explore Beverly Hills is by hopping on the Beverly Hills Trolley. While many visitors take private tours, locals know that the trolley offers a fun, affordable way to see the city’s iconic landmarks, from celebrity homes to high-end boutiques. The trolley’s nostalgic design makes it a charming way to experience Beverly Hills, combining sightseeing with a touch of old-school fun.
Beverly Hills Is a Popular Filming Location
Beverly Hills has been featured in many iconic movies and TV shows like Clueless and Beverly Hills 90210, but calling it the “most filmed city in the world” might be an overstatement. While it’s certainly a favorite among filmmakers for its luxurious homes and famous landmarks, cities like Los Angeles and New York are more frequently used for filming.
The Iconic Beverly Hills Sign
Located in Beverly Gardens Park, the famous Beverly Hills sign is a popular photo spot for both tourists and locals. However, not everyone knows that the sign was originally created to promote the city as a prime real estate destination in the 1900s. Surrounded by a beautiful lily pond, the sign has become an iconic symbol of the city’s charm and prestige, offering the perfect backdrop for those Instagram-worthy moments.
