In a sprawling metropolis nicknamed the City of Angels, West Hollywood, Calif., maintains a unique identity as a quirky yet sophisticated urban village less than two miles square. Nestled between Beverly Hills, downtown Los Angeles and the Santa Monica Mountains, to visit West Hollywood is to travel through time, from Spanish Colonial to Art Deco with a side trip through Route 66 roadside honky-tonk, Post Modern quirkiness and contemporary sleekness. While smack in the middle of a region closely identified with automobiles, West Hollywood prides itself on being eminently walkable, so locals and visitors alike enjoy strolling along glittering thoroughfares with legendary names like Melrose Ave., Santa Monica Blvd. and the Sunset Strip. Known for designer boutiques, home-furnishings showrooms, galleries, hip restaurants, cafes, nightclubs and -- above all -- people-watching, these main arteries are among the most popular tourist attractions in Southern California. Notable heritage attractions include the striking 1922 Rudolf Schindler House, now home to the MAK Center for Art and Architecture, where exhibitions are enjoyed by 10,000 visitors annually, and Irv's, an iconic 1950s Santa Monica Blvd. burger stand, one of the last of a dying breed. Quaint historic bungalows that once belonged to early 20th-century railroad workers and elaborate courtyard buildings once occupied by early screen stars are today home to a diverse population, including a vibrant gay community.

For these reasons, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the country's largest private, nonprofit preservation organization, today named West Hollywood, Calif., to its 2007 list of America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations, an annual list of unique and lovingly preserved communities in the United States. It was selected from 63 destinations in 27 states that were nominated by individuals, preservation organizations and local communities.

"West Hollywood's 1.9 square miles encapsulate the best of Los Angeles," said Richard Moe, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. "Its walkable streets, small neighborhood parks and historic and architectural gems are complemented by a vibrant and diverse arts scene. Never boring, West Hollywood is a place of fascinating contrasts."