North Highland Ave, West Hollywood

Highland is a run of the mill major street but it definitely has the most going on; and, it's the prettiest of all the big ones on the east side. Not that it's pretty, but compared to La Brea, Fairfax and Cahuenga, it's the most aesthetically pleasing to drive on. Obviously, Hollywood and Highland is a major attraction for tourists and locals. It's always a nightmare trying to get off the freeway because of this and the Hollywood Bowl. And, on the weekends, it's a nightmare to walk around. But, I have some sort of weird affection for Hollywood and Highland. Yeah, it's kind of like the Times Square of LA but it really is responsible for turning around the neighborhood so I'm not going to complain. This area was so sketchy before the mall went in and now there is all sorts of life on the street. It also raised the rent of the surrounding area but at least you're 50% less likely to be stabbed by a crack addict on Highland.
Once you get south of Sunset, traffic picks up but I would avoid Highland north of it if you want to get somewhere before next week. I actually go over to Cahuenga to get on the 101 even if I'm coming from the west side. Highland does get a little sketchy again but then picks up around Melrose. There are actually some really lovely houses in this area. And, it's right next to Paramount so if you want to lurk around to see some big wigs, this is the area. Not really a lot of shopping on the street other than the Hollywood area. And, no real notable restaurants either. But, it's far superior to La Brea.