On Location:
STAPLES Center (Downtown) -- Two days before he passed away, Michael Jackson rehearsed at STAPLES Center for his “This Is It” tour. STAPLES Center was also the site of Michael's public memorial service.
Gibson Amphitheatre (formerly the Universal Amphitheatre) -- Jackson attended friend, Liza Minelli’s sold out concert at Universal Amphitheatre in 1983 and continued to enjoy Universal CityWalk’s shops and restaurants with his friends and family throughout his career.
*Universal CityWalk became "Universal MoonWalk" for one night with Southern California's largest outdoor public celebration of Michael Jackson's life and music on Thursday, July 9, 2009 as part of CityWalk's ongoing Summer Block Party free summer marathon of movies and music. Entertainment included free outdoor screenings of “Thriller” and “The Wiz” and a live dance retrospective.
The GRAMMY Museum (Downtown) -- Michael Jackson received thirteen GRAMMY Awards and in celebration of his life and work, the GRAMMY Museum is sharing a collection of Jackson’s most iconic wardrobe pieces. The museum is offering a special $10 admission, which includes 2 hours free parking with validation through September 2009.
100 North Carolwood Drive (Westwood) -- Michael Jackson moved from Neverland Valley Ranch to this estate in the prominent Holmby Hills enclave. Carolwood Drive remained his home until he passed away in 2009. It is a stop on many Hollywood tours including Starline Tours and Dearly Departed.
Hollywood Walk of Fame (Hollywood) -- Jackson’s star is located at 6927 Hollywood Boulevard outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. The star for the Jackson 5 is located on Vine Street just north of Sunset Boulevard. Michael Jackson is one of very few entertainers to receive two stars in the same category.
Leimert Park (South LA) -- In the days following Jackson’s death, fans gathered at Leimert Park to celebrate his life and work, and to mourn the passing of the beloved entertainer. Several generations of fans attended the candle light vigil held June 26, 2009 to remember Michael Jackson with songs and performances.
Shrine Auditorium (Downtown) -- Fans will remember the Shrine as the filming location of the 1984 Pepsi commercial featuring the Jackson 5. During filming, a surge of pyrotechnics singed Michael’s hair and scalp. Jackson later returned to Shrine to accept the Artist of the Century award at the 29th Annual American Music Awards. Westlake Audio Studios (West Hollywood) -- Legendary albums “Off the Wall” and “Thriller” were recorded here. Michael Jackson also teamed up with Sir Paul McCartney during sessions at Westlake.
A & M Records (Hollywood) -- The most celebrated talent in music joined Michael Jackson here to record “We Are the World” in support of Africa. The A&M Records building is now home to the Jim Henson Company.
Sunset Strip (West Hollywood) -- The world famous Sunset Strip is a section of Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood lined with shopping, restaurants and exciting nightlife. In 2001, traffic was treated to the premiere of Jackson’s short film “You Rock My World” on the mega screen outside the House of Blues on the Sunset Strip.
First AME Church (Downtown) -- Michael Jackson, with his brother Randy Jackson and close friend Steve Harvey, surprised fans by attending services and visiting a class of Sunday school children at First AME Church in 2004.
Pantages Theatre (Hollywood) -- Now home to Broadway LA, the Pantages was once the filming location for Michael Jackson’s “You Are Not Alone” video.
Guinness World of Records Museum (Hollywood) -- Jackson broke several Guinness World Records during his illustrious career including Most Successful Solo Artist of All Time. Michael was on site to receive his nod for Lifetime Achievement in 1993.
Petersen Automotive Museum (Westside) -- Michael Jackson wished his close friend, designer Christian Audigier, Happy Birthday with a special performance at the Petersen in 2008.
Hollywood Wax Museum (Hollywood) -- Michael Jackson is commemorated here in a wax installation of the “We Are the World” recording session.
Shopping and Dining:
Off the Wall Antiques (West Hollywood) -- Michael Jackson was praised for his collection of rare treasures. He often shopped for new pieces at this Melrose Avenue boutique. Melrose Avenue shopping runs east from Beverly Hills to Hollywood, offering a taste of everything from high-end designer boutiques to trendy vintage specialty stores.
Hennessey + Ingalls Art and Architecture Bookstore (Hollywood) -- Jackson frequented this recently opened boutique in the new Cahuenga Corridor warehouse for all things art and fashion, Space 15Twenty.
Tom’s Toys (Beverly Hills) -- Just over a month before the superstar passed away, Jackson shopped for toys for his three children at this sophisticated toy store.
Wacko (Hollywood) -- Known as one of the best toy stores in Hollywood, Michael often shopped for his children in this exciting collection of toys, costumes and games.
Rodeo Drive (Beverly Hills) -- Jackson’s wardrobe was a reflection of the artist’s unique style and eccentricity. He often shopped for custom designer pieces at the shops on Rodeo Drive. He shopped regularly for Dior, Dolce & Gabbana and Christian Audigier’s ED Hardy line.
Spago (Beverly Hills) -- Following the 1991 Academy Awards, Madonna joined Michael Jackson for an after party at the acclaimed Wolfgang Puck eatery.
The Ivy (Beverly Hills) -- A favorite among celebrities, The Ivy attracts entertainers and industry executives for lunch and dinner daily. Madonna and Michael Jackson ate here in 1991, hounded paparazzi relentlessly seeking a shot of the emerging luminaries.
*Long after a celebrity passes away, their legacy remains in the history and landmarks of Los Angeles. The Los Angeles area is home to the final resting places of many of Hollywood’s most well known celebrities, and many local historic landmarks and museums offer ways to experience Los Angeles as the famed entertainers did. Honor the legacy of your favorite celebrity at some these additional locations. CLICK HERE
Rachael Rollins is a nightlife, arts & entertainment writer living in West Hollywood. Rachael has lived in seven major cities worldwide and loves to travel to exotic destinations, but she never stays away long. Los Angeles is Rachael’s favorite city for glamorous nightlife and exciting entertainment.
