In 2025, the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles has gained notoriety as one of the “most dangerous tourist attractions in the US,” and it represents a paradox for visitors: an iconic destination shadowed by very real safety concerns.
Hollywood Walk of Fame: Glamor and Grit
Why It’s Notorious
Situated along Hollywood Boulevard, this famous stretch attracts millions each year with its legendary stars and theaters. Tourists flock here hoping to glimpse a slice of Hollywood history—but the Walk’s popularity also turns it into a target for crime and social challenges that have worsened significantly since the pandemic. Reviews and recent reports consistently mention:
High levels of property crime and pickpocketing: Tourists are frequent targets for theft, especially in crowded sections between the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Dolby Theatre, and petty crime is common at all hours, rising after nightfall.
Aggressive panhandling and scams: Hustlers, street performers, and opportunists crowd the pavement, some becoming confrontational in attempts to solicit money or tips.
Visible homelessness and public disorder: The area is home to a large unsheltered population, and visitors often witness public intoxication, drug use, and sometimes alarming behavior that can make the area feel unsafe, especially at night.
Occasional violent incidents: There have been recent violent crimes, such as stabbings, homicides, and fights—some occurring shockingly close to, or even on, the popular star-lined sidewalks.
Tourists’ Experiences
Many first-timers express disappointment and sometimes shock at the grittiness of Hollywood Boulevard. Crowded conditions, the “scuz factor” (dirt, odor, and trash), and a general sense of disorder make some visitors uneasy, as reflected in thousands of mixed reviews. Crime data suggests that while daylight hours are generally safer, risks increase after dark, aligning with warnings from the LAPD and local guides.
Expert and Local Advice
Visit during daylight: Crime rates and unsafe encounters drop significantly in the morning and early afternoon. Locals recommend avoiding the area late at night.
Stay alert and protect your belongings: Conceal money, hold bags tightly, and be cautious of pickpockets and distraction scams.
Travel in groups and avoid isolated areas: Stray just a few blocks from the tourist core, and the safety situation can worsen rapidly.
Plan your route: Consider starting your visit at Hollywood & Highland, which is heavily patrolled and more secure. Avoid wandering deeper into less-trafficked blocks, especially east beyond Vine Street.
Recent Safety Measures and Ongoing Issues
Despite increased police presence and community efforts to revitalize the boulevard, real safety and cleanliness remain ongoing challenges in 2025. While you’ll still see excited tourists snapping photos and attending film premieres, the Walk’s “walk of shame” reputation continues to grow in travel forums and news outlets. Some recent events, like protests and acts of vandalism, even briefly disrupt the star ceremonies.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an essential, if flawed, LA rite of passage—with both unforgettable glitz and undeniable risk. It stands as a cautionary tale for travelers: know before you go, take basic precautions, and remember that even the most glamorous sites can have a dangerous side in America’s big cities today.
Sources
[1] https://amberstudent.com/blog/post/most-dangerous-areas-in-los-angeles
[2] https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/is-los-angeles-safe
[3] https://www.mightytravels.com/2025/01/los-angeles-safety-guide-7-essential-areas-to-avoid-and-where-to-stay-instead-in-2025/
[4] https://carriegreenzinn.com/is-la-safe/
[5] https://patch.com/california/hollywood/person-fatally-stabbed-near-hollywood-walk-fame-police
