An unforgettable experience awaits you in one of the world's most glamorous cities, where Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards meet. Discover Beverly Hills luxury and elegance, indulge in the cuisine of chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and live the high life with the sights and sounds of Hollywood just moments away.
The Perfect Getaway: A pet-friendly long weekend in Beverly Hills
By Cassandra Brooklyn | April 3, 2024
Famous for celebrity sightings, glorious gastronomy and all the finer things in life, Beverly Hills is where the A-listers spend their time. And while its Hollywood fame and storied mystique are what made it famous, this sophisticated city promises more than glitz and glam. From impressive art to renowned restaurants and upscale boutiques, there’s no shortage of unique experiences — including many that are pet-friendly. Here are our suggestions for a lavish long weekend in Beverly Hills for you and your fur baby.
Friday
Morning
Arrive in Beverly Hills and settle into Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills — your sophisticated home away from home for the long weekend. Get comfortable in your suite that was luxuriously designed by legendary interior designer Pierre-Yves Rouchon. Your canine companion will feel as welcome as you do thanks to the complimentary squeaky toy and welcome snack. Let your pup munch on a bone-shaped dog treat with their name written on it in peanut butter before heading out to explore together.
Afternoon
If you and your pet want to stretch your legs after a long flight or drive to Beverly Hills, take a leisurely stroll down the iconic Santa Monica Boulevard to explore Beverly Garden Park, just 15 minutes from your hotel. Dogs are welcome, provided they remain on their leash. Some of the local dog parks require a key fob for entry, so if you plan on exploring town with your pup, speak with your concierge to help identify nearby dog parks open to the public.
Evening
For a relaxing first evening in Beverly Hills, head to your hotel’s heated rooftop pool, which features wellness and private cabanas, before savoring a memorable dinner at The Rooftop by JG. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and a flavorful meal in a unique garden setting with panoramic views of the city. Pets are not allowed in the restaurant, but they’ll be very comfortable in your room, relaxing in their cozy Waldorf Astoria branded dog bed while they await your return.
Saturday
Morning
No visit to Beverly Hills would be complete without a sophisticated shopping trip. After enjoying breakfast in the comfort of your suite (ordered via the convenient in-room iPad, of course), visit the distinguished, palm tree-lined strip of Rodeo Drive, where you’ll find a haven of renowned international designer brands. To take advantage of the stores’ hidden entrances, free-flowing champagne, open-air terraces and private salons, your concierge can arrange a bespoke shopping trip with private appointments and personalized experiences that are only available for VIP guests.
Afternoon
Head back to your hotel to revel in the splendor of afternoon high tea at the Lobby Lounge and savor seasonal treats, specialty teas and champagne while being serenaded with classical tunes played by a live harpist. With such a wide selection of finger sandwiches, scones, cakes and pastries, this decadent afternoon tea doubles as lunch for the day. Be sure to order something special off the hotel’s pet menu, such as Chompin’ California Chicken or the Waldorf Vegan Bowl, for your pet to enjoy in your room.
Evening
Since your pet couldn't accompany you for high tea, consider bringing them along for a dog-friendly dinner. Nearby your hotel you’ll find Il Pastaio, a sophisticated Italian eatery by renowned chef Giacomino Drago known for its celebrity clientele and particularly pleasing pasta — think pumpkin ravioli and tagliolini with truffle fondue sauce. This is a place to indulge all your senses. With your pet along for the meal, you can enjoy the crisp Californian air on the outdoor patio, perfect for people-watching.
Sunday
Morning
If you want to wake up like the Hollywood stars – that is, by working up a sweat with a sought-after instructor – make your way to your hotel’s rooftop at 8:30 a.m. for a complimentary fitness class. Having worked up an appetite, indulge in a lavish and flavorful meal at Espelette Beverly Hills, where nourishing dishes inspired by the coastal cuisine of Spain, Greece and Italy are made with locally sourced ingredients. Don’t be surprised if you want to return for dinner (we suggest the wood-grilled wagyu beef).
Afternoon
If you’re looking for another amazing shopping opportunity, head to nearby Larchmont Village. With so many beauty, fashion and wellness boutiques on Larchmont Boulevard, it’s sometimes called Beauty Row. Pop into niche perfumery, The Scent Room, where a scent guide will personally walk you through 500 globally curated and rare fragrances, conducting a scent pairing to match a perfume with your personality, style, wardrobe or beauty routine. You can even pick up perfume for your pet’s bed or clothing.
Evening
Continue the wellness trend with an evening of sublime relaxation and rejuvenation at Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills’ La Prairie Spa. Choose from an extensive menu of indulgent signature treatments, from massages that promote relaxation to invigorating body scrubs and more. While you’re getting lost in your facial, hot stone massage, reflexology, manicure or dry brushing treatment, your pet can relax in the room, or alternatively, enjoy the great outdoors. The hotel’s concierge can conveniently arrange for dog-walking or dog -sitting services to suit your needs.
Monday
Morning
Begin the final day of your long weekend in Beverly Hills with a quintessential California trip to the ocean and the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, where you’ll find a plethora of shopping, restaurants, attractions and more. Grab breakfast and coffee to enjoy along the beach, before taking a leisurely sunshine-filled stroll with your pet. Be aware that leashed pets are permitted on the Santa Monica Pier and surrounding boardwalks, but not on the beach.
Afternoon
If you were able to tear yourself away from the sun and sand in Santa Monica and want to squeeze in one more authentic Los Angeles experience, there are plenty to choose from. More superb shopping awaits in the nearby Melrose Avenue shopping district, where you’ll find a range of noteworthy designer boutiques and chic outdoor cafes and restaurants for you and your pet to enjoy.
Until next time!
All good things must come to an end, and it’s time to pack up and head for home. With a seemingly endless array of captivating culinary, cultural and shopping experiences, a long weekend in Beverly Hills simply isn’t enough. We have a feeling that this quick trip will get you excited for your (and your pet’s) return.
Cassandra Brooklyn is a freelance writer and guidebook author specializing in travel, accessibility, sustainability and all things outdoors. Originally hailing from the Midwest, she now lives in New York City but escapes to adventures around the world as often as possible. As the caregiver of a disabled parent - and as a hyper involved auntie of three - Cassandra is especially passionate about accessible, inclusive and multi-generational travel. She's the author of the cycling guidebook, Cuba By Bike, has contributed to multiple guidebooks about Egypt, Portugal and the United States, and has bylines in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, National Geographic, Forbes, The Daily Beast and Lonely Planet, among others.
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