Above us towers the Beverly Center a striking eight-story structure. Its imposing presence dominates the intersection. It’s more than just a shopping mall. It’s a piece of Los Angeles history.
Before the gleaming glass and steel stood Beverly Park a small amusement park. Children shrieked with delight on the Ferris wheel and the merry-go-round. Ponyland a charming pony ride added to the charm. This was Kiddieland a beloved spot. It inspired the legendary Walt Disney himself.
The Beverly Center opened on February 4 1982. A. Alfred Taubman Sheldon Gordon and E. Phillip Lyon poured $100 million into its creation. Bullock’s and The Broadway were its original anchor stores. The mall’s unusual shape a kidney-like design is a result of its location. It sits atop the Salt Lake Oil Field. Oil wells still operate beneath the western section. This hidden fact makes the Beverly Center even more unique.
On July 16 1982 the Cineplex Beverly Center 14 opened. This 14-screen multiplex was the largest in the US at the time. Its grand opening was national news. The New York Times even covered the event. The mall’s dramatic six-story escalators offer breathtaking views. You can see the Hollywood Hills Downtown Los Angeles and the Westside.
The Beverly Center also hosted America’s first Hard Rock Cafe. This iconic restaurant opened on October 24 1982. It was the third Hard Rock Cafe worldwide after London and Toronto. Sadly it closed in 2006. Over the years the mall has undergone renovations. The most recent in 2016 cost $500 million. This update added a food hall new restaurants and a skylight. It even included an updated parking structure with technology to help drivers find their cars.
The Beverly Center continues to hold a special place in Los Angeles. It’s a hub for celebrity sightings. It’s a backdrop in films and books. It’s a place where history and modern luxury intertwine. The Beverly Center is more than just a shopping destination. It’s a living testament to the dynamic energy of Los Angeles.