TCL Chinese Theatres
TCL Chinese Theatres
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About
Walk in the steps of the Tinseltown's stars: visit the theater's famous forecourt and gaze down at the stars' footprints, handprints and autographs immortalized in cement.
Duration: < 1 hour
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from C$47.02
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Top ways to experience TCL Chinese Theatres
The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Hollywood
Hollywood undoubtedly conjures up images of movie stars and high-end lifestyles, and to this day, tourists flock here from around the world to see the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, Chinese Theatre and to catch a glimpse of the famed Hollywood sign up close. Celebrity impersonators and crowds give these areas the feeling of an amusement park while many clubs and hotels fill up around the weekends for late-night partying - the Hollywood club scene is a haven for thumping music and table-side bottle service. But parties aren’t the only way to enjoy this area, many visitors come to the neighborhood to sit back with a picnic to watch a performance at the Hollywood Bowl and those looking to stay fit trek along nature trails in the Hollywood hills and in Griffith Park.
How to get there
- Hollywood/Vine • 2 min walk
- Hollywood/Highland • 2 min walk
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See what travellers are saying
- SumsulDhaka Division, Bangladesh181 contributionsWalk around the TCL Chinese TheatreHave seen so much images of the Theatre !! Finally when i stand infront of the same, it was great. It is very much fun to spend some moments and look for the famous stars ... Unlike Walk of Frame... TCL Chinese Theatre have the hand / foot signage of some iconic stars including Will Smith etc..Visited December 2022Written December 22, 2022
- Tommy599Two Rivers, Wisconsin873 contributionsOnce seen no need to go againSurprisingly at this time of the day there were very few tourists on the street. The area out front of the theater is the only place where the stars of the past (long ago) put their footprints, handprints in the concrete slabs. The “STARS” that you hear about are on all of 15 street blocks, with 2,700 individual acknowledgement stars movies / music / theater / radio / vaudeville (or was it something else Tom forgot), with the individuals name and a brass plaque of the specialty they excelled at. Each new slab cost the city $5,500 to install. The only performer to be recognized under all 5 categories was Gene Autry. Mohamad Alley (Cassis Clay) refused to have his star as a sidewalk square, as he DID NOT want ANYONE walking on him, so his star is the only one hanging on the wall outside the Chinese Graman treater entrance. This area is a lot different than the image Tom had in his head (Narrow Street with a lot junk shops); in reality the street is wide, and yes there are shops, but not junky. We did not tour the inside of the theater, but from the back area (shoping area) there is a good view of the Holly Wood sign.Visited May 2022Written December 29, 2022
- jehenson81Washington DC, District of Columbia22,263 contributionsGo EarlyThe only other time I visited LA, the area in front of the theater was closed off for Christopher Walker’s hands in cement ceremony. This time I was actually able to wander around, get some photos and test out my hands verses the stars. There were a few people I had never heard of, but lots I had. It was really fun and for most of my time there, I had the place basically to myself since it was before most of the tourists arrive.Visited January 2023Travelled soloWritten January 6, 2023
- dodobuckPhoenix, Arizona165 contributionsCongested but worth a visit.It’s very congested, you have to be careful not to run into other visitors or step on the homeless people on the sidewalks but it’s an experience you should have when in Hollywood. The history and the area in front where the stars hand and footprints are is not to be missed. Also check out the Walk of Stars.Visited February 2023Travelled with familyWritten March 5, 2023
- SMZ21 contributionsNice area to walk around in LA but congestedIt was nice to see the handprints of all the stars and actually see this theater and area in person. Nothing special about the inside theater, but a nice experience to watch a movie in the theater if you have time. Area is congested like a typical city area. You can also walk the stars along the sidewalk.Visited March 2023Travelled with familyWritten March 20, 2023
- Kerri GSalt Lake City, Utah36 contributionsSee a movie for an easy Chinese theatre experienceWe went to see a movie here on an afternoon on a recent trip to LA before we headed to the Griffith Observatory. It was a good way to spend a little bit of time in the area. The theatre is fine, but definitely not fancy. It was fun to walk around outside afterward and see the hand and feet prints, and we got our parking validated which made parking very reasonable.Visited April 2023Written April 23, 2023
- WikumjBromley, United Kingdom317 contributionsMust see for any movie fanNot sure why this doesn't have a higher average review score here - it is a must see for any movie fan going to Hollywood - and was in fact the highlight of our visit to Hollywood, outside of the studio tours. We came mainly to see the messages and signatures of stars in the pavement, which itself was interesting seeing the history of the stars and celebs. However the real highlight was the 45 minute tour of the building. I highly recommend this at it was not too expensive and they validate your car parking ticket so that covers the cost anyway. The tour allows you to go inside the building which is very beautiful and unusual from the inside with it's grand Chinese theme, and the tour guide was incredibly informative about how the theatre was built and it's history. Crazy to think that this is where most movie red carpets have been hosted over the last century right up to the present day.Visited May 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten May 14, 2023
- CasandraTPSydney, Australia1,056 contributionsHollywood historyThis really Is Hollywood history with so many stars hand and foot prints from the past and present. The theatre is beautiful and is definitely worth a visit to see up close. As it is on the Walk of Fame it is full of tourists but if you get there early enough you can avoid the large crowds. To walk around the outside is free and it is amazing the calibre of stars there are.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten July 30, 2023
- Jim FGreensburg, Pennsylvania208 contributionsAn integral part of entertainment historyOur tour of the theater was exceptional. Our guide was so knowledgable of the history of this theater as well as the many, many premiers of films, the stars, directors and entertainment personnel who were a part of the history of this theater. This theater steeps in entertainment history. The hand and foot prints of the stars at the entrance of the theater, the actual dresses and costumes worn by various stars and the beauty of the theater made for and inspiring visit. A tour of this theater is a must for anyone visiting Las Angeles. Highly recommended!Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten November 2, 2023
- joaniemariaEldridge, Iowa2,395 contributionsGo to a movie here if you have a chance!We watched “Napoleon” on the IMAX screen. It is a great place to watch a movie. I like the decor and the displays in the lobby. Go to a movie here if you have a chance. The seats are retro, but quite comfortable with plenty of legroom.Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten November 25, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
3,514 reviews
Excellent
1,134
Very good
1,413
Average
776
Poor
128
Terrible
63
joaniemaria
Eldridge, IA2,395 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Family
We watched “Napoleon” on the IMAX screen. It is a great place to watch a movie. I like the decor and the displays in the lobby. Go to a movie here if you have a chance. The seats are retro, but quite comfortable with plenty of legroom.
Written November 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim F
Greensburg, PA208 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
Our tour of the theater was exceptional. Our guide was so knowledgable of the history of this theater as well as the many, many premiers of films, the stars, directors and entertainment personnel who were a part of the history of this theater. This theater steeps in entertainment history. The hand and foot prints of the stars at the entrance of the theater, the actual dresses and costumes worn by various stars and the beauty of the theater made for and inspiring visit. A tour of this theater is a must for anyone visiting Las Angeles. Highly recommended!
Written November 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ingrid T
1 contribution
Oct. 2023 • Family
I will never use TripAdvisor again, because when I received my voucher online, it never gave me an actual time to get into the TCL Chinese theater. Also never mentioned that I'm not suppose to go at 1pm, because they will have a private audience. I got there at 12pm with my family and they didn't want to let us in at first, but thanks to that wonderful man (he's a tour guide at the Chinese theater, unfortunately forgot his name, but will post a photo of him), we were able to get a private tour, only for us. So the special thanks goes to this amazing man and not the TripAdvisor! I will never use TripAdvisor again, because it doesn't give me the information I need.
Written October 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Diane H
1 contribution
Oct. 2023 • Solo
Visiting for the second time I was impressed by the guide Lacey’s knowledge about the theater. She was nice and helpful.
Written October 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrea P
1 contribution
Mar. 2023 • Solo
First of all, this gem of a treasure needs some serious care. The building is being used as a cash cow and as it falls into more disrepair as time goes by, it's a travesty and should be taken over by the National Trust. The forecourt is swept daily, but little care is given to the legendary signatures and prints themselves. Ugly steel moveable fences are set up as a "promenade". The forecourt fountain has yet to be restored, nor is the wonderful dragon mural and marquee cleaned from the heaps of dirt and pigeon dung that has built up over the years. Inside is almost as cringeworthy with badly-fitting plastic cases displaying iconic Hollywood fashions that are gathering dirt under hot lights that damage them. Please Hollywood, save this treasure. Go and see a film here, by all means. You won't regret it, but pay attention to loving the building too.
Written October 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
elizabethlascheid
Los Angeles, CA4,815 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Family
If you are not going to the main theater that has the 70 MM screen, I would not bother. The place is crowded, not clean and filled with people taking photos of the cement with the names in it and they don't seem to care if they push or knock you over.
Now, as to the main theater. There is only one and you will know when you look up the movie you want to see. The other theaters are smaller and not comfortable.
This main theater is beautiful. It has all the old art deco that was the pride of the Chinese for decades. They have redone all the seats and there is not a bad seat in the house. Each row is lifted so you can see and the backs of the chairs go back. They are super comfortable.
The concessions are nothing to write home about. They are the same as any movie house. They are pricey and not great.
The service is super nice.
The sound is great and the picture is amazing. We saw Oppenheimer there and are so happy we did. We will be back for another great movie like this one, but as to the smaller theaters that are now part of the Chinese Theater, we will pass.
If you are a tourist, your wallet is in your front pocket. Take all the photos you want but be considerate of others. Have a great time.
Now, as to the main theater. There is only one and you will know when you look up the movie you want to see. The other theaters are smaller and not comfortable.
This main theater is beautiful. It has all the old art deco that was the pride of the Chinese for decades. They have redone all the seats and there is not a bad seat in the house. Each row is lifted so you can see and the backs of the chairs go back. They are super comfortable.
The concessions are nothing to write home about. They are the same as any movie house. They are pricey and not great.
The service is super nice.
The sound is great and the picture is amazing. We saw Oppenheimer there and are so happy we did. We will be back for another great movie like this one, but as to the smaller theaters that are now part of the Chinese Theater, we will pass.
If you are a tourist, your wallet is in your front pocket. Take all the photos you want but be considerate of others. Have a great time.
Written September 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Debbie P
Glen Waverley, Australia260 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Family
The TCL Chinese theatre is an amazing theatre. The seats are comfortable with lots of leg room. They slightly recline which was nice.The IMAX is amazing. The theatre’s decoration is just sensational. It’s hard not to get distracted. Everywhere you look there are beautiful details. The food and drink is typical movie fare. The hot dog was good as was the popcorn. There were ample bathrooms. In the foyer there are some costumes to look at. We enjoyed the Darth Vader and storm trooper. You also need time to look at the foot and hand prints of celebs outside the theatre. Great fun.
Written September 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Waddler
York, UK10,072 contributions
Aug. 2023 • Family
We checked out the messages and prints in the concrete outside the theatre - these are clearly visible. The exterior of the building is reasonably interesting, but really its just a quick photo stop.
Written September 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CasandraTP
Sydney, Australia1,056 contributions
Jul. 2023 • Couples
This really Is Hollywood history with so many stars hand and foot prints from the past and present. The theatre is beautiful and is definitely worth a visit to see up close. As it is on the Walk of Fame it is full of tourists but if you get there early enough you can avoid the large crowds. To walk around the outside is free and it is amazing the calibre of stars there are.
Written July 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gsmartinf
Mississauga, Canada8 contributions
Jul. 2023 • Couples
We couldn't visit the theater on the date we booked because they had an event. It was not reported when they gave us the ticket from the theater website, nor when we bought the ticket with a large bus tour, so we wasted time (we needed to continue our trip to another city) and money (the ticket was the most expensive).
Written July 28, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Renatahehu92
3 contributions
Hola, actualmente se pueden hacer tours dentro del Teatro o están suspendidos? Y se puede ver alguna pelicula ahi? Gracias por sus comentarios.
Alguien tomó el tour que incluye la tarjeta GO LOS ANGELES? hay que reservar? Quisiera un horario por la noche después del tour de Warner de las 3 pm .Envié correo pero no me ha contestado
_pequitas_org
Province of Pontevedra, Spain253 contributions
Hola. Se lo puedo decirte y recomendar como lo hicimos nosotros, por separado en un día cada uno. Así se disfruta y ve mejor. Es mi consejo. Un saludo
Derek T
Denver, CO28 contributions
Where is the best place to park? I’m taking my kids to look at the walk of fame and hand prints.
Nancy D
Los Angeles, CA1,788 contributions
You can pay $3 for two hours if you get a validation from a store in the Hollywood Highland center. This site does not allow me to post a link. If you google Hollywood Highland parking, you will get more details. Have fun.
Chantelle M
Melbourne, Australia4 contributions
i see on the website there are 2 tours avaliable :
LOBBYISTS & HANDPRINTS TOUR (NR) and
TCL CHINESE THEATRE TOUR.
does anyone know the difference between them? and are they worth doing?
thanks
DrCDB
Chile499 contributions
Agree with the other reviewers, the best value option is to get to see the inside by seeing a movie. The handprints you can do it yourself (no tour needed).
Eva Krupova
Istanbul, Türkiye9 contributions
Unfortunatelly the Chinese Theater was closed. The big truck was in front of the theater so we did not see anything.
itaca117
150 contributions
Ciao, vorrei sapere se si può visitare da soli il teatro e poter vedere le lastre di cemento senza una guida, se si, quanto costa e se si può entrare a qualsiasi orario. Grazie
epistocuro
Turin, Italy2,951 contributions
Penso proprio che si possa
Lauren M
Melbourne, Australia9 contributions
What are the opening hours for tours?
cszostak
Doylestown, PA556 contributions
Tours start in the morning. The best place to go for specifics is their website. They have tour options as well as times. You can book everything in advance, guaranteed a spot. Have fun!
Lauren M
Melbourne, Australia9 contributions
What are the opening hours for tours?
Michael S
Los Angeles, CA96 contributions
Christine from New York posted the hours but this theatre chain hosts many special events from Academy events, (there is more than one academy), to industry screenings to film festivals, so worth a phone call before you go.
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Claim your listingTCL CHINESE THEATRES - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about TCL Chinese Theatres
- TCL Chinese Theatres admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost C$46.39, while a popular guided tour starts around C$7.13 per person.
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience TCL Chinese Theatres:
- Madame Tussauds Hollywood Admission Ticket (From C$46.39)
- Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes Tour (From C$37.01)
- Los Angeles: City Sightseeing Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour (From C$67.17)
- Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Bus tours (From C$47.98)
- Hollywood Walking Sunset Tour with LA Skyline Views (From C$37.01)
- Hotels near TCL Chinese Theatres:
- (0.03 km) Apartment in the Heart of Hollywood
- (0.10 km) The Hollywood Roosevelt
- (0.20 km) Hollywood Celebrity Hotel
- (0.17 km) Samesun Hollywood
- (0.18 km) Orange Drive Hostel
- Restaurants near TCL Chinese Theatres:
- (0.05 km) Randy's Donuts
- (0.05 km) JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles
- (0.05 km) Hollywood Rock Cafe
- (0.06 km) Pokinometry
- (0.13 km) Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop
- Attractions near TCL Chinese Theatres:
- (0.01 km) City Sightseeing Los Angeles
- (0.04 km) Have Fun Tours
- (0.04 km) Anvio VR Hollywood
- (0.05 km) Virtual Room Los Angeles
- (0.05 km) Red Line Tours