Tall, thin palm trees rise above the enchanting gardens of Will Rogers Memorial Park. This historic park was built in 1912 and was posthumously named in 1952 for the honorary mayor of Beverly Hills, Will Rogers. The beloved American actor, humorist and cowboy had often visited here with his family. Arrive in this pleasant setting and spot the sign showing off the site’s name in golden lettering.
Make your way along the various trails that meander through the park, which is shaped like a triangle and covers an area of 5 acres (2 hectares). Bring food and drink for a picnic on the lawn under the sun. Relax beside the Margaret J. Anderson Fountain, named for the first owner of the Beverly Hills Hotel that stands across the street.
Stroll around the edges of the pond containing the fountain and check out the turtles and fish. Rose gardens beautify the surrounding area, while a dragon tree provides an exotic touch. Wander along the walkways that are made with decomposed granite.
Note that the site was initially known as Sunset Municipal Park, before being renamed in the 1950s. A plaque provides background context for the park, which was renovated in the late 1990s. Watch people go by and chat with locals about the history of this setting, where George Michael was arrested for committing a lewd act in the park restroom in 1998. Renovated bathroom facilities are available on site.
Will Rogers Memorial Park is in the district of the Flats in the heart of Beverly Hills. Ride a bus to a stop on Sunset Boulevard or drive west for 13 miles (21 kilometers) from Downtown Los Angeles. While you’re in the Beverly Hills area, visit some of the other nearby highlights, such as Beverly Gardens Park, the Paley Center for Media and the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts.
