One of the most recognizable landmarks in Los Angeles, Grauman's Chinese Theater is a marvel of design.
One of the most recognizable landmarks in Los Angeles, Grauman's Chinese Theater is a marvel of design. Built by Sid Grauman in 1926, the theatre is a red Chinese pagoda with dragons decorating its façade and copper roof and two stone lions guarding the main entrance. Just as impressive is the inside with its elaborate murals, red and gold columns, and intricate Chinese chandelier.
Over two thousand red seats fill the main auditorium, with four private boxes for celebrities hovering overhead. Of course the main attraction is the Grauman's forecourt where over two hundred legendary Hollywood stars have placed their imprints in the cement. Begun quite by accident in 1927 when actress Norma Talmadge stepped in wet cement, the tradition has carried on and the site has become one of the most-visited places in Hollywood. The forecourt is free and visitors can pick up a map of the prints in the Grauman's gift shop, where they can also make prints of their own.
