One of Los Angeles’ essential hangouts for music fans for nearly 30 years, the Viper Room is particularly celebrated for its calendar of alternative, punk, and metal shows. Ever since Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers played the Viper on its opening night, the venue has been known for its ability to attract A-list acts—as well as A-list celebrities. Stars like Leonardo DiCaprio, Angelina Jolie, and Tobey Maguire have all frequented the club, and you may just spot a famous face in the crowd during your next visit.
The Viper Room features on numerous Los Angeles tour itineraries, including open bus tours of Hollywood, bike excursions, daytime walking tours, and evening bar crawls along the Sunset Strip. You can also head to the club independently to take in a nighttime performance.
Head past the cashier and downstairs to discover the Viper Room’s secret whiskey bar, which is open nightly and boasts an impressive spirits portfolio.
Keep an eye out for tributes to actor River Phoenix, who tragically overdosed at the nightclub in 1993.
The Viper Room is considered a mecca visit for rock ‘n’ roll fans: Counting Crows, Muse, Oasis, Queens of the Stone Age, and Kings of Leon have all played there.
The Viper Room is located on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood. To reach the nightclub using public transportation, use local bus services such as the 2, 30, 105, 302, and 330. The Viper Room can also be reached by taxi and rideshare services, by bike, and on foot.
The Viper Room hosts live music events, from concerts featuring internationally renowned bands to playful karaoke gigs, seven nights a week. Typically, doors open at 4pm and close at 2am, though hours may be subject to change depending on the event.
West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip has long been one of Los Angeles’ music and nightlife meccas, and it’s still home to a number of legendary venues. Beyond the Viper Room, venture to Whisky a Go Go to see where bands like Led Zeppelin and the Doors once played, or continue to The Roxy Theatre, where the Ramones and U2 have graced the stage. Other nearby highlights for visiting music lovers include the Hollywood Palladium and Fonda Theatre.
