Romantic ComedyDrama

🎬 Where Was Pretty Woman Filmed? Complete Los Angeles Location Guide

1990

Garry Marshall

Added January 15, 2024

6 Locations

Discover iconic Pretty Woman filming spots in Beverly Hills, LA. Relive the magic, explore luxury, and plan your romantic Hollywood adventure!

About 🎬 Where Was Pretty Woman Filmed? Complete Los Angeles Location Guide

🎬 Where Was Pretty Woman Filmed? Complete Los Angeles Location Guide

Get ready to step into a real-life fairy tale! ✨ "Pretty Woman," the beloved 1990 romantic comedy, swept us off our feet with its charm, wit, and, of course, the undeniable chemistry between Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. But beyond the unforgettable characters and quotable lines, the film's true magic lies in its stunning L.A. backdrop.

This movie isn't just a story; it's a love letter to the glamorous, sun-drenched streets of Beverly Hills and Hollywood. The locations aren't merely scenery; they're characters in themselves, witnessing Vivian Ward's transformation from street-smart escort to sophisticated lady.

Imagine strolling down Rodeo Drive, soaking in the opulence, or gazing up at the grand Beverly Wilshire. These aren't just movie sets; they're real places you can visit, touch, and relive those iconic cinematic moments.

So, buckle up, film buffs and travel enthusiasts! We're about to take you on an exclusive tour of the real-world spots where the magic of "Pretty Woman" unfolded. Get ready to explore Los Angeles like never before, blending Hollywood history with practical travel tips.

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🗺️ Major Filming Locations

🎬 The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel - The Grand Transformation 🌟

Scenic view of The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel showing its iconic facade and grand entrance

🏛️ The Location

The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, is an emblem of luxury and elegance located at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Since 1928, this grand hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers from around the globe. Its iconic facade and opulent interiors make it a landmark in its own right.

🎥 In the Film

This legendary hotel served as Edward Lewis's temporary residence and the primary setting for Vivian's transformative journey. From her initial arrival in the lobby to the breathtaking reveal of her post-Rodeo Drive makeover, countless pivotal scenes took place within its luxurious walls. The exterior shots of the hotel are instantly recognizable to any fan.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 9500 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212

🕒 Hours: Hotel open 24/7 (restaurants/bars have specific hours)

💰 Admission: Free to visit the lobby, restaurants, and bars. Reservations recommended for dining.

🌐 Website: https://www.fourseasons.com/beverlywilshire/

💡 Pro Tip: Even if you're not staying, pop into the lobby or enjoy a drink at THEBlvd restaurant for a taste of the "Pretty Woman" luxury. You might even spot a celebrity! 🎬 Fun Fact: While the exterior and lobby were used, many interior scenes within Edward's penthouse were actually filmed on a soundstage set recreated to match the hotel's style.

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🎬 Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills - The Retail Therapy Dream 🛍️

Stunning architecture of Rodeo Drive featuring luxury boutiques and palm trees

🏛️ The Location

Rodeo Drive is arguably the most famous luxury shopping street in the world, stretching for two miles in the heart of Beverly Hills. Lined with designer boutiques, high-end jewelers, and exquisite restaurants, it's a global mecca for fashionistas and a symbol of aspirational elegance. The iconic palm trees add to its quintessential L.A. glamour.

🎥 In the Film

This is where Vivian had her legendary "big mistake, huge mistake" shopping scene, initially being turned away from high-end boutiques before her triumphant return. It's also where she learns the joys of a lavish shopping spree, transforming her wardrobe and her confidence. The street epitomizes the world Edward introduces her to.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Rodeo Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (specifically the 200/300 blocks are most iconic)

🕒 Hours: Shops typically open 10 AM - 6 PM, but street is accessible 24/7

💰 Admission: Free to walk and window shop; spending depends on your budget!

🌐 Website: https://lovebeverlyhills.com/rodeo-drive

💡 Pro Tip: Don't miss stepping onto the "Walk of Style" near the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way, highlighting influential figures in fashion. It's Beverly Hills' answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame! 🎬 Fun Fact: The boutique where Vivian was initially snubbed, although portrayed by a real store, had its name changed for the film purely for storytelling purposes.

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🎬 Ambassador Hotel (site of former Cocoanut Grove) - The Glimpse of Grandeur 🌴

Beautiful view of the Ambassador Hotel entrance gate showcasing its historic architecture

🏛️ The Location

The Ambassador Hotel, famed for its Cocoanut Grove nightclub, was once one of Los Angeles's most iconic and storied hotels, hosting numerous Academy Awards ceremonies and presidential figures. Although the original hotel was largely demolished in 2005, its legacy remains, and the site is now home to the Robert F. Kennedy Community Schools complex, preserving some original elements like the entrance gates.

🎥 In the Film

While interior ballroom scenes from "Pretty Woman" were actually filmed on a soundstage, the Ambassador Hotel's former grandeur and its legendary Cocoanut Grove served as the inspiration for the ballroom scenes. The film evokes the kind of sophisticated, historic L.A. venues that defined an era, even if not directly using the hotel's interior.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 3400 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010 (site of former hotel)

🕒 Hours: Not accessible to the public (private school grounds). Can view gates from street.

💰 Admission: N/A

🌐 Website: N/A (historical references online)

💡 Pro Tip: While you can't enter, driving by the remaining structures and the impressive entrance gate offers a connection to L.A.'s lost architectural elegance and film history. Research the history of the Ambassador Hotel beforehand for a deeper appreciation. 🎬 Fun Fact: The Ambassador Hotel is also infamous as the site where Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1968, a tragic event that contributed to its eventual demolition.

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🎬 Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Exposition Park - The Opera Facade 🎶

Impressive facade of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County displaying its grand entrance and steps

🏛️ The Location

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, located within Exposition Park, is the largest natural history museum in the Western United States. Its majestic Beaux-Arts building, complete with grand steps and columns, makes it a striking architectural landmark, housing vast collections of natural and cultural artifacts.

🎥 In the Film

In one of the film's most iconic scenes, Vivian and Edward attend the opera. While the interior opera scenes were likely shot on a set, the exterior shots portraying the gorgeous building they enter are, in fact, the Natural History Museum. This beautiful facade adds to the illusion of a sophisticated cultural outing.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 900 W Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007

🕒 Hours: Typically 9:30 AM - 5 PM (check museum website for current hours)

💰 Admission: Adults starting at $18, Seniors/Students/Youth with discounts. Free for children 2 and under. (Check website for current pricing).

🌐 Website: https://nhm.org/

💡 Pro Tip: Combine your visit with other attractions in Exposition Park, such as the California Science Center (home of the Space Shuttle Endeavour) or the Rose Garden, for a full day of exploration. 🎬 Fun Fact: The opera Vivian and Edward attend is Giuseppe Verdi's "La Traviata," which tells the story of a courtesan who falls in love with a wealthy man – a poignant parallel to Vivian and Edward's own story.

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🎬 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Los Angeles - Where it All Began ⭐️

Authentic street scene of Hollywood Boulevard capturing its vibrant energy and famous sidewalks

🏛️ The Location

Hollywood Boulevard is the pulsing heart of Tinseltown, famous for the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Dolby Theatre. It's a bustling tourist destination, packed with street performers, souvenir shops, and the vibrant energy that defines the entertainment capital of the world.

🎥 In the Film

This iconic stretch of road is where Vivian Ward's story begins. The opening scenes of "Pretty Woman" prominently feature Hollywood Boulevard, establishing Vivian's life on the streets before her fateful encounter with Edward. It's the gritty, lively backdrop from which her Cinderella story emerges.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA (most iconic stretch between La Brea Ave and Vine St)

🕒 Hours: 24/7 (as a public street)

💰 Admission: Free to walk around; attractions vary in price.

🌐 Website: https://www.hollywoodblvd.com/

💡 Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes! Hollywood Boulevard is best explored on foot. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds if you want good photos of star's names on the Walk of Fame. 🎬 Fun Fact: While much of Hollywood Boulevard was used, the specific street corner where Vivian is picked up was reportedly shot on the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Las Palmas Avenue.

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🎬 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

"Pretty Woman" holds a special place in cinematic history, but its journey to the screen was as dramatic and surprising as the film itself. From script overhauls to improvised moments that became iconic, the production was full of fascinating twists.

🎭 Director's Vision

🎯 Location Strategy: Director Garry Marshall chose real, iconic L.A. landmarks to firmly root Vivian's fantastical transformation in a tangible world. The stark contrast between Hollywood Boulevard and Beverly Hills was essential to visually convey her journey.

🎨 Visual Style: Marshall aimed for a vibrant, aspirational, yet grounded look. The locations were selected to enhance the Cinderella narrative, making the "dream" tangible and the "reality" stark, highlighting Vivian's progress through the film's visual language.

🎪 Production Highlights

🎬 A Dark Beginning: The film was originally titled "$3000" and had a much grittier, darker tone, with Vivian being a drug addict and the story ending ambiguously, without a "happily ever after."

🎭 The Red Dress Saga: Vivian's show-stopping red opera dress was nearly black. The costume designer, Marilyn Vance, initially wanted a black dress, but Garry Marshall insisted on red for more pop and cinematic impact. Good call!

🎨 Necklace Magic: The moment where Edward playfully snaps the necklace box on Vivian's fingers was completely improvised by Richard Gere. Julia Roberts' genuine, infectious laugh in that scene is real!

🎯 Cameo King: Director Garry Marshall himself makes a brief cameo appearance in the film as a homeless man on Hollywood Boulevard, blending into the very landscape he helped bring to life.

🌟 Cast & Crew Stories

😄 Gere's Piano Skills: Richard Gere actually plays the piano himself during the hotel lobby scene. He also composed the short piece of music he plays. Talk about multi-talented!

😮 Almost a Miss: Julia Roberts was close to passing on the role due to the initial dark tone of the script. It was Garry Marshall's warm vision and commitment to a romantic comedy that convinced her.

🎉 Wardrobe Wizardry: The film's costume designer, Marilyn Vance, was crucial to Vivian's transformation, creating looks that perfectly captured her evolution from street style to high fashion.

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🗺️ Plan Your Visit

Ready to follow in Vivian and Edward's footsteps? Los Angeles offers a fascinating mix of glamour and history. Here’s how to make your "Pretty Woman" film tourism adventure truly magical!

🏨 Where to Stay

💰 Budget: Hollywood Orchid Suites - ~$150-200/night - Excellent location right off Hollywood Blvd, offering good value and proximity to initial film locations.

🏛️ Mid-Range: Hotel Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills - ~$250-400/night - Close to Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, providing a comfortable stay with a touch of French elegance.

✨ Luxury: The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel - $700+/night - Go all out and stay in the iconic hotel from the film itself! Experience the ultimate luxury and live the "Pretty Woman" dream.

🚗 Getting Around

🚇 Metro: Los Angeles has a growing Metro system, particularly useful for getting to Hollywood and Exposition Park (Natural History Museum). The Metro Red Line serves Hollywood Boulevard.

🚗 Car: For maximum flexibility, especially between Beverly Hills and downtown L.A., renting a car is advisable. Be prepared for L.A. traffic and plan parking in advance, especially in Beverly Hills.

🚶 Walking: Beverly Hills, particularly around Rodeo Drive and the Beverly Wilshire, is very walkable. You can explore the glamour on foot, but distances between major film locations mean you'll need transportation.

📸 Photo Tips

🌅 Best Times: For Rodeo Drive and the Beverly Wilshire, visit early morning (before 10 AM) for fewer crowds and beautiful soft light. Evening lights offer a different, glamorous glow.

📱 Instagram Spots: At the Beverly Wilshire, capture its grand entrance. On Rodeo Drive, pose under the archway of the "Walk of Style" or in front of the iconic storefronts.

🎬 Movie Moments: Recreate Vivian's "huge mistake" moment on Rodeo Drive (but with a happy ending!). Or pose outside the grand Beverly Wilshire, imagining your own Cinderella transformation!

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❓ Quick Answers

🎬 Is this based on a true story?

No, "Pretty Woman" is not based on a true story. It's a modern fairy tale, a fictionalized romantic comedy with strong Cinderella motifs.

🗺️ Can I visit all locations in one day?

It's ambitious but doable! You could hit the highlights of Beverly Hills, then take transportation to Hollywood and Exposition Park. A full day, involving a mix of walking and driving/rideshare, would be required.

💰 How much should I budget?

Excluding accommodation, budget around $50-100 per person for museum admission and casual dining. Luxury shopping and fine dining can significantly increase costs. Transportation costs will vary based on your method.

📱 Are there guided tours?

Yes, numerous guided tours of Beverly Hills and Hollywood include stops at "Pretty Woman" filming locations, often alongside other famous movie spots. Look for bus tours or specialized walking tours.

🎭 When was this filmed?

"Pretty Woman" was filmed primarily in Los Angeles during the summer and fall of 1989, releasing in March 1990.

🌍 Is Los Angeles safe for tourists?

Generally, Los Angeles is safe for tourists, especially in the main tourist areas like Beverly Hills and Hollywood. Like any major city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and take standard precautions like securing valuables.

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🎬 Ready for Your Cinematic Adventure?

"Pretty Woman" isn't just a film; it's an experience. The locations in Los Angeles played such a vital role in bringing Vivian and Edward's story to life, adding layers of glamour, fantasy, and reality to their unlikely romance. Visiting these places isn't just about seeing where a movie was made; it's about connecting with a beloved story on a deeper level, feeling the magic that resonated with millions.

Whether you're planning a full-blown film tourism pilgrimage or just curious about specific landmarks, Los Angeles offers an incredible journey into the heart of Hollywood history. So, pack your bags, queue up the "Pretty Woman" soundtrack, and get ready to create your own unforgettable L.A. story! Share your adventure with us using #WhereWasItFilmed and inspire other film fans to explore the world through cinema.

Year Released

1990

Director

Garry Marshall

Filming Locations

6 locations

Behind the Scenes

Garry Marshall's vision for 'Pretty Woman' took a raw, darker script called '$3000' and transformed it into a modern Cinderella story. He aimed for a genuine, heartfelt connection between the characters, grounding the fantasy in relatable human emotion. The choice of iconic Los Angeles locations wasn't just about glamour; it was about setting the stage for Vivian's transformation, showcasing her journey from the vibrant chaos of Hollywood Boulevard to the sophisticated elegance of Beverly Hills. Marshall's warm, collaborative approach fostered a lively set, encouraging improvisation and ensuring the film's charming, optimistic tone shone through, captivating audiences worldwide.

The original script was a gritty drama titled '$3000', focusing on drug addiction and a much darker ending.
Julia Roberts wasn't the first choice for Vivian; many other actresses were considered, including Drew Barrymore and Sandra Bullock.
Richard Gere reportedly almost turned down the role of Edward Lewis multiple times.
The famous necklace scene, where Edward snaps the box shut on Vivian's fingers, was improvised by Richard Gere.
Vivian's iconic red opera dress was nearly black; Garry Marshall insisted on red for more vibrancy.
The opera scene was filmed at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, not an actual opera house.
Garry Marshall himself has a cameo role as a homeless man on Hollywood Boulevard.
The film's poster famously features Julia Roberts' head Photoshopped onto a body double, with Richard Gere's hair also being a wig.
The song 'Oh, Pretty Woman' by Roy Orbison was originally not meant to be in the film but was added by Marshall.
The classic car Edward drives is a Lotus Esprit, known for its sleek, sporty look.
The ending was changed from Vivian returning to her old life to the romantic 'knight in shining armor' rescue.
Tim Spinks, the doorman at the Beverly Wilshire, was a real employee and had a small role in the film.

Location Gallery

The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

Rodeo Drive

Ambassador Hotel (site of former Cocoanut Grove)

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Hollywood Boulevard

Beverly Hills

Travel Tips

Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.
Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.
Guided tours are available that cover The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, Rodeo Drive, Ambassador Hotel (site of former Cocoanut Grove) in one day.