TCL Chinese Theatre

Visiting the Chinese Theatre: What to Know Before You Go

The TCL Chinese Theatre works on two levels at once: it is a functioning first-run cinema and one of Los Angeles's busiest tourist stops. That double life shapes almost every practical decision a visitor makes, from when to arrive to which entrance to use.

The forecourt and its traditions

The courtyard in front of the theatre is open to the public and holds the famous concrete slabs bearing the handprints, footprints and signatures of film stars, directors and other figures from across the history of the industry. New ceremonies are still held from time to time, often timed to a major release. Because the forecourt sits directly on Hollywood Boulevard beside the Walk of Fame, it gets crowded at midday and on weekends. Early morning is usually the calmest time for photographs. Costumed performers who pose for pictures nearby typically expect a tip, so agree on terms before you snap.

Seeing a film here

The main auditorium, with its ornate interior inspired by Chinese architecture, was converted into a large-format IMAX house in the 2010s. It is one of the largest screens of its kind in the region and a popular choice for opening weekends of big studio releases. Smaller auditoriums in the adjoining multiplex show a wider rotation of titles. If you want the main room specifically, check that your showtime is listed for the IMAX auditorium rather than one of the multiplex screens. Reserving seats in advance is wise for opening nights and fan events.

Premiere days and getting there

When a red-carpet premiere is scheduled, parts of the forecourt and nearby sidewalks can be closed for setup, sometimes for much of the day, and regular screenings may be affected. Before planning a visit around a specific date, check the theatre's official channels and our upcoming releases page for likely premiere windows. The Metro B Line stop at Hollywood/Highland is a short walk away and is often easier than driving. Paid parking is available in the adjacent shopping complex, though it fills quickly on event nights.

For more historic and premiere venues across Los Angeles and New York, browse our theaters guide.