From Los Angeles to Palm Springs, Special Events and Iconic Locations Honor the Hollywood Legend

Marilyn Monroe Turns 100: Commemorating an Icon

Born Norma Jean Mortenson on June 1, 1926, Marilyn Monroe’s centennial is a momentous occasion for fans and admirers around the globe. Although she passed away on August 4, 1962, her legacy continues to shine bright. This year, Los Angeles is rolling out a series of events to honor Monroe’s incredible life and timeless influence. Be sure to visit The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures and The Hollywood Museum, both hosting special exhibitions that highlight Marilyn’s impact on cinema and popular culture.

Palm Springs Has Their Own Celebration

Not far from Hollywood—about two hours east—Palm Springs is also paying tribute to Monroe. The city will host unique events, and its downtown is home to the awe-inspiring “Forever Marilyn” statue. With the San Jacinto mountains as a backdrop, this sculpture is a must-see for anyone seeking to honor Marilyn’s memory. Palm Springs events will have their own guides, docents and planners.  Activities include a 4-day party and an attempt to have 500+ people dressed as Marilyn to break a Guinness World Record. 

Forever Marilyn in Palm Springs, California

Marilyn’s Footsteps in Los Angeles

Throughout her life, Marilyn Monroe was known for her nomadic spirit, rarely staying in one place for long. In Los Angeles, she lived at several iconic locations: The Roosevelt Hotel, The Beverly Hills Hotel, West Hollywood apartments, her cozy Beverly Hills home with Joe DiMaggio, and Brentwood—where her journey ended.

Formosa Café in Hollywood

Marilyn frequented beloved LA restaurants like Formosa Café, Musso & Frank, Villa Nova (now Rainbow Bar & Grill), and Barney’s Beanery. Fortunately, these locations are still going strong, inviting visitors to experience the ambiance of old Hollywood and imagine Monroe herself enjoying a meal.

No tribute to Monroe would be complete without seeing her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame or her handprints and footprints at TCL Chinese Theatre, immortalized with Jane Russell in 1953 for “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.”

Marilyn’s Last Home in Brentwood

Final Resting Place

Monroe’s story concludes in a tranquil Westwood cemetery, where she rests beside Playboy founder Hugh Hefner. Other notable figures, such as Bettie Page, Dorothy Stratten, and Farrah Fawcett, are also interred here, adding to the site’s poignant history.

Marilyn Monroe Tour of Los Angeles

For those interested in Marilyn Monroe’s rich legacy, Glitterati Tours offers a specialized private guided tour highlighting her impact on Hollywood. Utilizing our distinguished “LA Story” tour as a framework, guests will visit essential landmarks across Hollywood, West Hollywood, and Beverly Hills, with particular attention given to Marilyn Monroe’s life and career. Experience the renowned sites and appreciate the enduring influence and cultural significance of Marilyn Monroe as Los Angeles commemorates 100 years since her birth.