Explore the real-world places that appear in Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. Each location on the map shows what happens there in the novel, the real history of the place, and what's there today. Featured locations include California Institute of Technology, CBS Television City, Venice Beach, Griffith Observatory, Huntington Library and Gardens and 6 more.
1200 E California Blvd, Pasadena — Inspiration for Hastings Research Institute
Elizabeth Zott works at the fictional Hastings Research Institute, which mirrors institutions like Caltech. Here she conducts groundbreaking research in abiogenesis while facing constant discrimination from her all-male colleagues. Calvin Evans, the brilliant and lonely Nobel Prize-nominated chemist, falls in love with Elizabeth's scientific mind in their shared laboratory space. Their intellectual partnership becomes romantic, but Calvin's tragic death changes everything for Elizabeth.
Founded in 1891, Caltech became one of the world's premier research institutions by the 1960s. The institute was instrumental in advancing chemistry, physics, and engineering during the post-war scientific boom, though like most academic institutions of the era, it was overwhelmingly male-dominated.
Caltech remains one of the world's top scientific research universities, with a much more diverse faculty and student body than in Elizabeth's fictional 1960s era. The campus continues to house cutting-edge chemistry and biology research facilities.
Visit: California Institute of Technology Campus Tours (tour)
7800 Beverly Blvd — Where Elizabeth films 'Supper at Six'
Elizabeth reluctantly becomes the star of the cooking show 'Supper at Six' filmed at this major television studio. Her unconventional approach to cooking, using scientific terminology like 'combine one tablespoon acetic acid with a pinch of sodium chloride,' revolutionizes daytime television. Producer Phil Lebensmal initially sees her as a novelty act, but Elizabeth uses her platform to challenge women viewers to question the status quo and pursue their own ambitions.
CBS Television City opened in 1952 and became the West Coast hub for CBS programming. During the 1960s, it was home to major variety shows, game shows, and the emerging genre of daytime television that would include cooking shows like the fictional 'Supper at Six.'
CBS Television City continues to operate as a major production facility, hosting shows like 'The Price is Right,' 'The Young and the Restless,' and various CBS productions. Tours are occasionally offered to the public.
Visit: CBS Television City Tours (tour)
Venice Beach Boardwalk — Elizabeth and Mad's beach walks
Elizabeth takes her daughter Mad on contemplative walks along Venice Beach, where they discuss science, life, and the challenges of being different. These beach conversations become crucial bonding moments between mother and daughter. Mad learns about chemistry through Elizabeth's analogies to ocean waves and sand particles, while Elizabeth processes her grief over Calvin's death and her struggles as a single mother in the scientific community.
Venice Beach was developed in the early 1900s as 'Venice of America' by Abbot Kinney. By the 1960s, it had evolved into a bohemian enclave popular with artists, intellectuals, and nonconformists who appreciated its free-spirited atmosphere and beautiful coastline.
Venice Beach remains one of Los Angeles' most iconic destinations, famous for its boardwalk, street performers, murals, and eclectic community. The beach continues to attract visitors seeking both recreation and the area's unique countercultural vibe.
Visit: Venice Beach Boardwalk (park)
2800 E Observatory Rd — Calvin and Elizabeth's romantic evening
Calvin Evans takes Elizabeth to Griffith Observatory for a romantic evening, where they discuss the vastness of the universe and their place in it. This date deepens their intellectual and romantic connection, as Calvin shares his passion for astronomy alongside his love of chemistry. The observatory visit represents their shared wonder at scientific discovery and their growing relationship based on mutual respect for each other's minds.
Opened in 1935, Griffith Observatory became an iconic Los Angeles landmark and a popular destination for both serious astronomers and romantic couples. During the 1960s, it symbolized the era's fascination with space exploration and scientific advancement.
Griffith Observatory remains one of Los Angeles' most beloved attractions, offering free public access to telescopes, planetarium shows, and stunning views of the city and Hollywood Sign. It continues to inspire visitors with the wonder of astronomy and science.
Visit: Griffith Observatory (museum)
1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino — Research and reflection
Elizabeth visits the Huntington Library's research facilities to continue her scientific work after leaving Hastings Research Institute. The peaceful gardens provide her with space to think through complex chemistry problems and reflect on her future after Calvin's death. She often brings Mad here, teaching her daughter about botany and the scientific method through observation of the diverse plant collections.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens was established in 1919 by railroad magnate Henry Huntington. By the 1960s, it had become a premier research institution with extensive botanical gardens that attracted both scholars and families.
The Huntington continues to operate as a research library and cultural institution, featuring world-class art collections, rare books, and 120 acres of specialized gardens. It remains a popular destination for both serious researchers and casual visitors.
Visit: The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens (museum)
2301 N Highland Ave — Community gathering place
Elizabeth occasionally attends concerts at the Hollywood Bowl with Mad and their neighbor Harriet, finding solace in music after Calvin's death. These outings represent Elizabeth's gradual re-engagement with community life and her efforts to provide Mad with cultural experiences. The outdoor amphitheater's natural setting appeals to Elizabeth's scientific appreciation for acoustics and the way sound waves travel.
The Hollywood Bowl opened in 1922 and became Los Angeles' premier outdoor concert venue. During the 1960s, it hosted everything from classical music to popular artists, serving as a cultural gathering place for Angelenos from all walks of life.
The Hollywood Bowl continues to be one of the world's most famous outdoor amphitheaters, hosting the Los Angeles Philharmonic and major touring acts. Its iconic shell and hillside setting make it a beloved Los Angeles landmark.
Visit: Hollywood Bowl (theater)
630 W 5th St — Research and refuge
Elizabeth and Mad frequent the Central Library, where Elizabeth researches scientific journals and Mad discovers her love of reading. The library becomes a sanctuary for both mother and daughter, offering access to knowledge and a quiet space away from the pressures of television fame. Elizabeth uses the library's resources to stay current with chemistry research after leaving the institute.
The Los Angeles Central Library, built in 1926, was a major cultural institution serving the growing city. During the 1960s, it provided essential research services and was particularly important for independent researchers and students without university affiliations.
The Central Library, restored after a major fire in 1986, remains the flagship of the Los Angeles Public Library system. It houses millions of books and continues to serve as a research center and community gathering place in downtown LA.
Visit: Los Angeles Central Library (library)
200 Santa Monica Pier — Mother-daughter bonding
Elizabeth takes Mad to Santa Monica Pier for rare moments of childhood fun and bonding. While Mad enjoys the carnival rides and games, Elizabeth explains the physics behind the Ferris wheel and carousel, turning every experience into a learning opportunity. These visits represent Elizabeth's attempts to give Mad a more conventional childhood experience while still honoring their shared love of scientific inquiry.
Santa Monica Pier, dating to 1909, became one of Southern California's most popular seaside destinations. By the 1960s, it featured classic amusement park rides and represented the quintessential American family entertainment experience.
Santa Monica Pier remains an iconic Los Angeles attraction, featuring the historic carousel, Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and arcade games. It continues to draw families and tourists seeking classic seaside amusement park fun.
Visit: Santa Monica Pier (landmark)
6333 W 3rd St — Shopping for cooking show ingredients
Elizabeth shops at the Original Farmers Market for fresh ingredients for both her cooking show and her family meals. Her scientific approach to ingredient selection amuses vendors and shoppers alike. She explains to Mad how different vegetables contain various chemical compounds, turning grocery shopping into chemistry lessons. The market becomes a place where Elizabeth's practical application of science meets everyday life.
The Original Farmers Market opened in 1934 and became a Los Angeles institution, providing fresh produce and prepared foods to locals and visitors. During the 1960s, it maintained its reputation as a place where quality ingredients and community atmosphere converged.
The Original Farmers Market continues to operate as a beloved LA institution, featuring dozens of vendors selling fresh produce, prepared foods, and specialty items. It remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic LA food culture.
Visit: Original Farmers Market (landmark)
Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood — Entertainment industry backdrop
Elizabeth occasionally finds herself on the Sunset Strip for television industry meetings and events related to her cooking show. The glamorous but superficial entertainment world contrasts sharply with Elizabeth's scientific background and values. She navigates this environment with the same analytical approach she applies to chemistry, observing the social dynamics while remaining true to her mission of empowering women through education.
The Sunset Strip became the heart of Los Angeles' entertainment industry during the 1960s, lined with nightclubs, restaurants, and music venues. It represented the glitzy, sometimes shallow world of show business that was rapidly expanding during the television boom.
The Sunset Strip remains one of West Hollywood's most famous stretches, featuring iconic music venues like the Whisky a Go Go and comedy clubs, continuing its role as an entertainment industry hub with a mix of historic venues and modern establishments.
Visit: Sunset Strip (landmark)
1001 Rose Bowl Dr — Community sports and gatherings
Elizabeth and Mad occasionally attend events at the Rose Bowl, where Elizabeth uses football as an analogy to explain physics concepts like momentum and trajectory. These community gatherings allow Mad to experience normal childhood activities while Elizabeth continues to turn every situation into a teaching moment about science and critical thinking.
The Rose Bowl, built in 1922, became one of America's most famous sports venues. By the 1960s, it was not only home to the annual Rose Bowl Game but also served as a community gathering place for various cultural and sporting events in the Pasadena area.
The Rose Bowl remains an iconic sports venue, hosting UCLA football games, the annual Rose Bowl Game, and major events like concerts and festivals. It's also surrounded by popular recreational areas for families and fitness enthusiasts.
Visit: Rose Bowl Stadium (landmark)
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