Nearly 100 years after opening, the TCL Chinese Theatre remains the one place where Hollywood’s past and present literally intersect on the same sidewalk. While tourists snap photos of the cement square honoring Marilyn Monroe, new celebrity handprints are still drying from this year’s blockbuster stars—making it the only place in LA where you can touch the same surfaces as both Clark Gable and the cast of Marvel’s latest film.
You’ll see it up close on our Celebrity Homes Tour, which makes a stop right in front for photos, stories, and a look at one of LA’s most iconic locations. In this post, we’ll cover what the theatre is, why it matters, what to look for, and how to experience it without the stress.
Where Is the TCL Chinese Theatre?
Located on Hollywood Boulevard, the TCL Chinese Theatre sits next to the Dolby Theatre and along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Finding it is easy—dealing with the crowds and parking is another story entirely.
That’s exactly why our Celebrity Homes Tour includes it as a featured stop. You get the perfect vantage point from our open-air bus, plus stories and context you’d miss while dodging street performers and hunting for a parking spot.
A Brief History of the Theatre
The theatre opened in 1927 as Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, created by showman Sid Grauman who envisioned a movie palace unlike anything Los Angeles had ever seen. He imported authentic Chinese artifacts, hired craftsmen from China, and designed a space that would transport moviegoers the moment they walked through the doors.
From its opening night, the theatre became Hollywood’s premiere destination for film premieres. The Wizard of Oz premiered here in 1939, and many major blockbusters since have followed—from classic Hollywood epics to today’s biggest action franchises that draw thousands of fans to the same red carpet.
In 2013, the theatre was renamed TCL Chinese Theatre after a sponsorship deal. The theatre has preserved its historic architecture and many traditions, though some modern updates have been made for technology and safety.
What to Look For When You Visit the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood
The Forecourt of the Stars
The main attraction is the Forecourt of the Stars, where over 200 celebrities have left their prints and signatures in cement. Golden Age legends share space with current Hollywood royalty—each square telling its own story about when that particular celebrity was at the height of their fame.
The details get creative beyond simple hand and footprints in cement. The Harry Potter cast left wand imprints, Star Wars characters contributed Wookiee footprints, and some stars chose specific shoes from their most famous roles to be immortalized in the concrete.
Whoopi Goldberg included her dreadlocks, while Denzel Washington added his autograph and handprint. Betty Grable’s famous legs earned their own special square, and R2-D2 got his own metal imprint despite being a droid. Each ceremony creates a time capsule of that moment in entertainment history.
The Theatre’s Façade
The building itself commands attention from every angle. Massive red columns frame the entrance, while bronze guardian lions stand watch over the forecourt. The pagoda-style rooftop rises above Hollywood Boulevard, topped with a green copper roof that’s become one of LA’s most recognizable silhouettes.
Details matter here—from the hand-carved Chinese dragons that spiral up the columns to the intricate metalwork that frames the marquee. The unique Chinese-inspired design stands apart from Hollywood’s typical art deco buildings, creating a silhouette that photographs beautifully nearly 100 years after the theatre was built.
Fun Facts Worth Knowing
- The theatre’s first ceremony happened by accident. In 1927, actress Norma Talmadge supposedly stepped in wet cement outside the theatre, inspiring Sid Grauman to turn the mishap into a tradition.
- Handprint ceremonies are still ongoing, with recent additions including stars from Fast & Furious and Spider-Man films. Each ceremony draws hundreds of fans and continues a tradition that spans nearly 100 years.
- The building’s original construction included importing artifacts, furnishings, and even craftsmen from China to ensure authenticity. Many of these original details are still visible today.
- This Hollywood landmark houses the largest IMAX theatre in the world, featuring a massive screen, state-of-the-art sound, and stadium seating for an unmatched movie experience.
- Right next door is Ovation Hollywood (formerly Hollywood & Highland), a lively shopping and dining center where you can grab a bite, pick up souvenirs, or catch an unbeatable view of the Hollywood Sign.
How to See the Theatre Without the Hassle
The TCL Chinese Theatre is one of the featured stops on our Celebrity Homes Tour. Rather than navigating Hollywood Boulevard on foot—dealing with crowds, street performers, and limited parking—guests can enjoy a curated view from the comfort of our open-air bus.
Our guides share stories about the theatre’s history, celebrity appearances, and nearby landmarks while you take photos and soak in the atmosphere. It’s a smooth, no-stress way to experience the area without missing the details that make it special.
The tour also includes other Hollywood highlights, like Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Sign, and the Sunset Strip—giving you a complete Hollywood experience in one efficient trip.
Why It’s Still a Must-See
For visitors interested in film history, celebrity culture, or simply wanting an iconic LA photo, the theatre delivers on all fronts. It represents Hollywood’s rare ability to create lasting traditions while staying current with each new generation of stars.
The tradition of handprint ceremonies is still going strong, with new stars stepping up to leave their mark alongside the greats. You might spot fans gathering to see the latest blockbuster cast pressing their hands into fresh cement, adding another chapter to Hollywood’s story.
Walk through the Forecourt of the Stars and you’ll see why this place stands out. One moment, you’re comparing your hands to legends from the 1930s. Next, you’re taking a photo beside impressions left just last month. It’s a timeline you can touch—a place where Hollywood’s past and present always meet.
The TCL Chinese Theatre is where the excitement of today meets the stories that made Hollywood famous. Every visit reminds you that LA’s most famous sidewalk is always in motion.
See the Best of Hollywood Without the Guesswork
The theatre is just one of many highlights on our Celebrity Homes Tour. If you want to see Hollywood’s essential stops without the parking hassles or crowded sidewalks, our tours deliver exactly that—comfortable transportation, expert guides, and stops at all the iconic Hollywood locations.
Our guides know the stories behind the handprints, the history that shaped each ceremony, and the best angles for photos. Book your tour today and experience LA’s most iconic landmarks the way they’re meant to be seen.
