24 Unmissable Things to Do in Hollywood, California (In 2023)

Welcome to Hollywood, California, the land of desires, glamour, and film stars! Hollywood is a must-visit vacation spot full of iconic landmarks, fascinating historical past, and a vibrant leisure scene. In this final information, we’ll take you on a journey via 24 unmissable issues to do in Hollywood, from exploring the well-known Hollywood Sign to indulging in basic American fare at Mels Drive-In. So seize your sun shades and let’s dive into the glamour and glamour of Tinseltown!

Best Things to Do in Hollywood

The greatest manner to get round Los Angeles is to drive, you’ll be able to examine automotive rental costs right here. If you might be flying into LAX, it’s your decision to guide a switch to your lodge.

Explore Hollywood’s iconic landmarks, from the Walk of Fame to the Hollywood Sign. Experience distinctive sights like Warner Bros. Studio Tour and Universal Studios Hollywood. Enjoy dwell music at The Bowl or discover artwork & tradition at Barnsdall Art Park!

1. Discover the Iconic Hollywood Sign

The well-known Hollywood Sign, an emblem of world fame, has graced the summit of Mount Lee in Beachwood Canyon since 1923. This landmark, nestled inside the Santa Monica Mountains, towers above Griffith Park’s 4,200 acres of parkland in LA. A Hollywood Sign mountaineering tour is one of the best ways to get an distinctive view of the enduring signal. You may take nice photographs from Lake Hollywood Park and Griffith Observatory.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many mountaineering trails in the realm, just like the Cahuenga Peak Trail, Brush Canyon Trail, and Mt. Hollywood Trail, main to the Hollywood Sign. Along the best way, you may spot some celeb houses and luxuriate in breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline. Just do not forget that mountaineering to the Hollywood Sign itself is unlawful, because it’s a protected landmark positioned in East Hollywood.

Take this authentic Hollywood signal tour – This tour is a straightforward flat stroll that takes you beneath the signal to seize iconic photographs of the enduring landmark.

2. Unleash Your Inner Movie Buff at Universal Studios Hollywood

With thrilling rides, dwell reveals, and a peek behind the scenes, Universal Studios Hollywood serves as each a theme park and a film studio. As a working movie studio, you’ll be able to expertise film magic up shut and private, making it a must-visit vacation spot for film buffs.

Some of the highlights at Universal Studios Hollywood embrace the Backlot Studio tour, which takes you behind the scenes of film manufacturing and showcases stunts, particular results, and units like Whoville and the Psycho House. You may embark on an journey via the worlds of Jurassic Park, The Simpsons, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the place your favourite tales come to life earlier than your eyes.

Get your Skip the Line Express Ticket to Universal Studios, the place you might have categorical entry to every journey, attraction, and present. Make certain to guide your tickets early as there are solely a restricted quantity. Details right here.

3. Experience Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Offering a behind-the-scenes peek at famend film units and soundstages, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood additionally contains interactive experiences reminiscent of developing your individual Batmobile. This tour is stuffed with superb sights. You can expertise the enduring Central Perk set from Friends and check out on the sorting hat from the Great Hall in Harry Potter. There’s extra to discover too! The deluxe Warner Brothers Studio. The tour lasts six hours, providing you with loads of time to discover and immerse your self in the world of movie and tv.

Located close by is the historic El Capitan Theatre, which homes a large Wurlitzer organ with over 2,500 pipes. Be certain to catch a present or take a tour of this magnificent theater earlier than heading again to the bustling streets of Hollywood. Book your tour right here.

4. Marvel at Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory, geared up with a planetarium and house theater, gives an awe-inspiring academic journey via reveals concerning the photo voltaic system and constellations. Located northeast of central Hollywood, in the Hollywood Hills, the observatory gives breathtaking views of Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign, and the encompassing panorama.

At Griffith Observatory, you’ve received so much in your plate! You can dive into the assorted reveals, catch a planetarium present, get a better have a look at the celebs via the telescopes, and collect heaps of information about our superb universe. It’s an entire universe of enjoyable packed into one place!

The observatory can be dwelling to varied occasions and actions, making it a dynamic and interesting vacation spot for guests of all ages. Purchase your Griffith Observatory Guided Tour and Planetarium tickets right here.

5. Attend a Show or Take a Tour at Dolby Theatre

Since 2001, the Dolby Theatre has served as the enduring stage for the Academy Awards, together with internet hosting varied dwell performances. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, the theatre additionally hosts comedy, music, and dwell theatre reveals all year long, making it a flexible and thrilling vacation spot for leisure fanatics.

To absolutely immerse your self in the glamour and status of the Dolby Theatre, take into account taking a guided tour the place you’ll study concerning the theatre’s star-studded previous and get an insider’s perspective on this iconic venue.

Whether you’re attending a present or exploring the theatre on a tour, the Dolby Theatre gives a singular and memorable Hollywood expertise. Grab your entrance ticket right here.

6. Stroll Along the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Featuring over 2,700 brass stars set in pink terrazzo, the well-known Hollywood Walk, also called the Hollywood Walk of Fame, pays tribute to the most important names from show-biz, movie, and music over the previous few many years. The Walk of Fame stretches throughout three blocks of Vine Street and 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard, making it the proper place to spend a day exploring.

As you stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, don’t miss out on the fascinating Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, and the intriguing Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, the enduring TCL Chinese Theater, and the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Fun Fact: The Hollywood Walk of Fame started in 1953 with E. M. Stuart, a member of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, and has since develop into a significant image of stardom worldwide. To find a selected star, use the Walk of Fame listing, and immerse your self in Hollywood’s wealthy historical past and tradition.

You can guide this highly-rated tour takes you not solely to the Hollywood Walk of Fame however additionally, you will see the oldest home in Hollywood, the Capitol Records Building, the Dolby Theater, The TCL Chinese Theater, and the Egyptian Theater.

7. Embrace Art and Culture at Barnsdall Art Park

Perched on a hill, Barnsdall Art Park is a particular neighborhood spot that hosts artwork courses, wine tastings, and out of doors film nights together with the traditionally vital Hollyhock House. Designed by the famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Hollyhock House is his first fee in Los Angeles and is one in every of eight of his creations which were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When you go to Hollyhock House, open from Tuesday to Sunday, you’ll get the possibility to wander round its lush gardens, marvel on the intricate water options, and loosen up in the out of doors dwelling areas. You’ll be amazed by the Mayan-inspired stone partitions and the fantastically carved fireplaces. And don’t overlook to try the eclectic furnishings – it’s undoubtedly a sight to behold!

In addition to the Hollyhock House, Barnsdall Art Park can be dwelling to the LA Municipal Art Gallery, which showcases works by up-and-coming and underrepresented artists. With its wealthy cultural choices and gorgeous views, Barnsdall Art Park is a must-visit vacation spot for artwork lovers.

8. Join a Behind-the-Scenes Hollywood Walking Tour

So, you’re eager about diving into the Hollywood scene? Well, a behind-the-scenes strolling tour may simply be your ticket to a singular and immersive Hollywood expertise. Picture this: You’re uncovering the secrets and techniques of well-known landmarks and cultural websites, listening to legendary tales of stars, getting your thoughts blown with cool trivia, and even taking part in reenactments. Plus, there are interactive actions that basically make Hollywood’s historical past come alive. Sounds like a blast, proper?

Led by skilled guides, these excursions present a behind-the-scenes have a look at Hollywood and supply a memorable expertise for guests. This tour is an efficient overview of movie places, historic structure, well-known websites, and iconic theaters.

Some standard stops on a Hollywood strolling tour embrace the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and celeb houses. These excursions are a unbelievable manner to immerse your self in the glamour and glamour of Hollywood whereas studying concerning the metropolis’s wealthy historical past and iconic landmarks.

9. Delve into Movie History at The Hollywood Museum

A treasure trove for film fanatics, The Hollywood Museum showcases the biggest assortment of memorabilia, costumes, props, and photographs from basic movies, unfold over 4 flooring filled with Hollywood historical past. Located in the historic Max Factor Building, the museum gives an immersive expertise into the world of cinema, showcasing iconic objects reminiscent of Hannibal Lector’s cell from Silence of the Lambs, Marilyn Monroe’s Million Dollar Dress, and Elvis Presley’s private bathrobe.

The museum additionally options rotating shows and reveals specializing in particular film genres, well-known actors and administrators, and adjustments in filmmaking over time. With its huge assortment and interesting reveals, The Hollywood Museum is a must-see attraction for anybody in the historical past and magic of films.

10. Shop and Dine at Hollywood and Highland Center

A buzzing hub for vacationers, the Hollywood and Highland Center homes a shopping center, eating choices, resorts, and cultural hotspots. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, this heart is dwelling to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Dolby Theatre, and loads of character impersonators, making it a energetic and entertaining vacation spot for guests.

At Hollywood & Highland, you’ll be able to store at standard shops, dine at quite a lot of eating places, and benefit from the leisure hub. Don’t overlook to go to Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, only a brief stroll away, for an interactive expertise with lifelike wax figures of well-known stars from sports activities, music, tv, and movie.

11. Enjoy Live Music on the Hollywood Bowl

Tucked away in the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood Bowl is a buzzing out of doors amphitheater that’s all about dwell music performances in a scenic setting. Whether you’re into classical live shows, jazz performances, rock and pop live shows, Broadway musicals, movie screenings, or hip-hop artists, the Hollywood Bowl has received you lined. It’s all about selection and a terrific vibe right here!

The Hollywood Bowl caters to all musical tastes and preferences.

In addition to the distinctive music, the Hollywood Bowl gives a singular leisure expertise, full with Michelin-starred delicacies, advantageous wine, and cozy seating. To profit from your go to, arrive early and benefit from the free picnic areas, or indulge in the venue’s world-class eating choices earlier than the present.

12. Experience Old Hollywood Glamour at The Hollywood Roosevelt

The historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel gives a glimpse into Old Hollywood glamour, with luxurious lodging and quite a lot of eating choices. This iconic lodge has been a star hangout since its opening in 1927 and is understood for its opulent rooms, rooftop pool, and varied eating places and bars.

The Hollywood Roosevelt gives an unforgettable keep for visitors, who can benefit from the lodge’s distinctive ambiance and wealthy historical past in the leisure business. Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the pool or exploring the lodge’s gorgeous structure, you’ll be transported again in time to the golden age of Hollywood glamour.

13. Snap Photos with Celebrities on the Hollywood Wax Museum

Boasting lifelike wax figures of celebrities and iconic characters throughout sports activities, music, tv, and movie, the Hollywood Wax Museum is a well-liked vacationer attraction. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, the museum has been essentially the most visited attraction since 1965, providing guests an up-close and private expertise with their favourite stars.

From real looking dioramas to interactive actions reminiscent of dressing up in tiaras and cowboy hats, the Hollywood Wax Museum gives a enjoyable and interesting expertise for guests of all ages. Don’t miss the possibility to snap a selfie with Taylor Swift or dance alongside Michael Jackson at this distinctive Hollywood vacation spot.

14. Get Up Close and Personal at Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Located close to the TCL Chinese Theatre, Madame Tussauds Hollywood is an interactive wax museum that options lifelike figures of famend stars from sports activities, music, tv, and movie. Visitors can take pleasure in an up-close and private expertise, posing with their favourite celebrities and iconic characters in quite a lot of themed rooms, such because the Marvel Super Heroes room and the Sci-Fi Invasion room.

At Madame Tussauds Hollywood, you are able to do extra than simply snap selfies along with your favourite stars. Take a leisurely stroll via the Spirit of Hollywood exhibit and say hiya to legendary figures like Marilyn Monroe, Fred Astaire, and Judy Garland. Or, should you’re a comic book guide fan, you’ll be able to’t miss the interactive Marvel Super Heroes 4D expertise. If you’re into the spooky stuff, step into the world of horror with the Chamber of Horrors. Ever questioned how these lifelike wax figures are made? You can take a behind-the-scenes have a look at the method! It’s a enjoyable and interesting expertise that guests of all ages will take pleasure in.

15. Relax and Unwind at Lake Hollywood Park

A peaceable oasis amidst the town’s bustle, Lake Hollywood Park gives gorgeous views of the Hollywood Sign. Located on the sting of Mulholland Drive, this park options serene picnic areas, paved trails for strolling or jogging, and dog-friendly actions.

Whether you’re wanting to loosen up with a superb guide on a blanket in the grassy areas or take pleasure in a leisurely stroll along with your furry buddy, Lake Hollywood Park is the proper vacation spot to unwind and respect the pure great thing about the Hollywood Hills.

16. Dine with a View at Yamashiro Restaurant

Yamashiro Restaurant is perched excessive on a hill and gives a eating expertise you received’t overlook in a rush. It’s received jaw-dropping views of Hollywood and serves up conventional Japanese dishes which were cherished for over a century. The surroundings is solely breathtaking and the ambiance is one-of-a-kind. Trust us, you don’t need to miss out on this! It is a must-visit vacation spot for meals lovers.

The menu at Yamashiro Restaurant encompasses a vary of beautiful dishes, together with koshu-braised wagyu brief ribs, sake-marinated lamb chops, and belly-on pork handles with yama-hog sauce. In addition to its scrumptious delicacies, Yamashiro additionally hosts the Hollywood Night Market, that includes over 30 meals distributors and dwell music performances.

Don’t miss the possibility to dine with a view at this iconic Hollywood restaurant.

17. Confront the Macabre on the Museum of Death

Catering to these intrigued by the macabre, the Museum of Death shows an eerie assortment of artwork, photographs, coffins, and execution gadgets. This uncommon museum encompasses a numerous assortment of things associated to dying, together with crime scene photographs, post-mortem instruments, investigation studies, weapons, and extra.

While the Museum of Death will not be appropriate for everybody, it gives a singular and thought-provoking expertise for these in exploring the darker facet of humanity. Confront your fears and delve into the morbid world of dying at this one-of-a-kind Hollywood museum.

18. Saddle Up at Sunset Ranch Hollywood

Sunset Ranch Hollywood gives the chance to expertise the fantastic thing about Griffith Park and the Hollywood Hills on horseback, offering guided excursions with gorgeous metropolis views. From leisurely one-hour rides to adventurous two-hour sundown excursions, Sunset Ranch Hollywood caters to riders of all expertise ranges and pursuits.

In addition to the breathtaking views and unforgettable horseback driving expertise, Sunset Ranch Hollywood additionally gives night barbecue choices and in a single day stays at their charming mattress and breakfast. Saddle up and discover the pure great thing about Hollywood on this distinctive and memorable journey.

19. Tour the Iconic Stahl House

Renowned for its fashionable design and breathtaking views of Los Angeles via floor-to-ceiling glass home windows, the Stahl House stands as a well-known architectural landmark in Hollywood. Designed by architect Pierre Koenig and constructed in 1959, the Stahl House is a notable instance of Twentieth-century modernist structure and has been featured in quite a few movies, tv reveals, and ads.

Visitors can tour the enduring Stahl House, taking in its distinctive design and gorgeous views of the cityscape beneath. This architectural gem gives a glimpse into the world of recent design and is a must-see attraction for structure fanatics and design aficionados alike.

20. Indulge in Classic American Fare at Mels Drive-In

Starting as a basic American diner in San Francisco in 1947, Mels Drive-In has grown to develop into an iconic image of American popular culture. Located in Hollywood, Mels Drive-In is understood for its scrumptious menu of basic American fare, together with burgers, milkshakes, and fries, all served in a retro Nineteen Fifties-style setting.

With its energetic ambiance and historic location, Mels Drive-In is a must-visit vacation spot for anybody looking for a style of basic Americana. Whether you’re in the temper for a juicy burger or a hand-spun milkshake, Mels Drive-In gives an genuine eating expertise that’s certain to fulfill your cravings.

21. Discover Star-Studded Homes with Ultimate Hollywood Tours

Let skilled guides lead you on an open-air bus tour with Ultimate Hollywood Tours to uncover the glamorous houses of your favourite celebrities and the enduring landmarks of Hollywood. These excursions supply a behind-the-scenes have a look at star-studded houses, well-known landmarks, and the tales behind among the most legendary stars in Hollywood.

When you hop on an Ultimate Hollywood Tours bus tour, you’re in for a deal with! You’ll get to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the place stars of all types are honored. Then, it’s off to the TCL Chinese Theatre, a spot full of Hollywood historical past. But the actual spotlight? Getting to see celeb houses! You may move by the homes of legends like Michael Jackson and Elton John, or present superstars like Taylor Swift and Julia Roberts. It’s a star-studded expertise you received’t need to miss!

With fascinating tales and insider data, Ultimate Hollywood Tours gives a singular and interesting manner to discover the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown.

22. Savor Authentic Mexican Cuisine at Ernie’s

Ernie’s, a well-liked North Hollywood restaurant, gives a style of genuine Mexican delicacies, famend for its high-quality dishes and distinctive cheese melter expertise. Offering a variety of scrumptious menu objects, together with:

Tacos Burritos Enchiladas And extra

Ernie’s is a must-visit vacation spot for meals lovers looking for a style of Mexico in the center of Hollywood. In addition to its mouthwatering menu, Ernie’s additionally gives a energetic and welcoming ambiance, making it the proper spot for a enjoyable night time out with buddies or a household dinner. Don’t miss the possibility to indulge in genuine Mexican delicacies at this beloved Hollywood eatery.

23. Experience TCL Chinese Theater

Serving as an leisure hub for moviegoers for over 95 years, Grauman’s Chinese Theater, now renamed the TCL Chinese Theater, is an iconic Hollywood landmark. This historic theater, positioned on Hollywood Boulevard, is understood for its imported Chinese parts, pink carpet premieres, and the well-known forecourt, the place the fingers and footprints of legendary Hollywood stars are immortalized in cement.

To absolutely respect the historical past and glamour of the TCL Chinese Theater, take into account taking a tour the place you’ll study all concerning the theater’s star-studded previous and insider tales about its well-known visitors.

With its gorgeous structure and wealthy historical past, the TCL Chinese Theater is a must-visit attraction for any Hollywood fanatic.

24. Join the Drunken History of Hollywood Walking Tour

Join the Drunken History of Hollywood Walking Tour for a enjoyable, unconventional exploration of Hollywood. This 2-hour strolling tour gives a singular mix of historical past, trivia, reenactments, comedy acts, and drinks at native bars, making for a really entertaining and memorable expertise.

So, what’s the take care of The Drunken History of Hollywood Walking Tour? Well, all of it begins exterior the Egyptian Theater. From there, you’re off to discover a few of Hollywood’s most iconic landmarks and listen to their tales. And one of the best half? You get to take pleasure in some alcoholic drinks alongside the best way! It’s excellent for historical past buffs, comedy followers, or anybody in search of a enjoyable night time out in Hollywood.

Join us for an unforgettable journey that’s certain to go away you laughing and studying. This tour is just not presently working however preserve checking again as it would re-open once more.

FAQs About Things to Do in Hollywood

From exploring iconic landmarks to indulging in scrumptious delicacies, Hollywood gives all kinds of sights and actions for guests of all ages and pursuits.

Alright, so that you’ve received questions on Hollywood? No worries, we’ve received you lined! Let’s speak about among the cool stuff you are able to do on a day journey, the sights you completely can’t miss in LA, some enjoyable actions to preserve you entertained, and at last, let’s clear up a typical query – is Hollywood an precise metropolis? So, let’s dive proper in!

What are you able to do in Hollywood for a day?

You can pack a lot into simply at some point in Hollywood! Start by exploring the Hollywood Walk of Fame, then head over to the TCL Chinese Theatre for a tour. Don’t overlook to try the Hollywood Museum and possibly even take a hike up to the Hollywood Sign in Griffith Park. If you’re a movie buff, a studio tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is a should. Round off your day with a dwell present on the Pantages Theatre. And that’s just the start – there’s a lot extra to uncover!

With a lot to see and do, Hollywood gives a full day of pleasure and leisure for guests of all ages.

What ought to I not miss in LA?

When you’re in Los Angeles, there are some spots you simply can’t miss! Get your artwork repair on the Getty Center, gaze on the stars from the Griffith Observatory, stroll among the many stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, or get your adrenaline pumping at Universal Studios Hollywood. Don’t overlook to catch a sundown on the Santa Monica Pier, discover the huge Griffith Park, dive into historical past on the Getty Villa, or immerse your self in artwork at LACMA. For a contact of prehistoric occasions, go to La Brea Tar Pits. And in fact, no journey to LA is full with out a go to to the enduring Hollywood Sign.

What is enjoyable in Hollywood?

In Hollywood, enjoyable is the secret! You can discover studio backlot reveals, dive into the world of movie at movie-themed museums, or get the within scoop on Hollywood with guided excursions. Don’t overlook to take a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and when you’re there, try the TCL Chinese Theatre. For a dose of historical past, the Hollywood Museum is a must-visit. And should you’re into the bizarre, the Guinness World Records Museum is simply the ticket!

Is Hollywood an precise metropolis?

Yes, Hollywood is an actual neighborhood positioned in Los Angeles, California. Known because the hub of the American movie and leisure business, Hollywood is dwelling to iconic landmarks, historic theaters, and a vibrant leisure scene that draws tens of millions of holiday makers every year. One of essentially the most well-known streets in this neighborhood is Hollywood Blvd, the place you’ll find many of those sights. Just a brief distance away, you can too discover the equally thrilling West Hollywood space.

From exploring the enduring Hollywood Sign and attending dwell performances on the Hollywood Bowl to indulging in genuine Mexican delicacies at Ernie’s and discovering star-studded houses on an Ultimate Hollywood Tours bus tour, Hollywood gives a wealth of unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages and pursuits. With its wealthy historical past, numerous leisure choices, and gorgeous surroundings, Hollywood is actually a must-visit vacation spot that guarantees to captivate and encourage. So seize your digicam, put in your greatest pair of sun shades, and prepare to expertise the magic of Hollywood!