Hollywood is where dreams come true, and this iconic city has no shortage of fun activities. From exploring famous movie sets to strolling down the Walk of Fame, the options for entertainment are endless.
Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you will surely find something to tickle your fancy. This blog will highlight 10 of the most fun things to do in Hollywood. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
Page Contents
- Fun Things To Do On Hollywood Blvd
- 1. Start at Hollywood and Highland
- 2. Admire the “Stars” on the Walk of Fame
- 3. See A Musical At The Pantages Theatre
- 4. Take A Tour Of The Dolby Theatre
- 5. Take A Tour Or Watch A Movie At The Chinese Theatre
- 6. Visit One Of The Museums
- 7. See The Four Ladies of Hollywood Statue
- 8. Eat Or Drink At A Famous Hollywood Restaurant
- 9. Visit The Magic Castle
- 10. Stop At The Roosevelt Hotel
Fun Things To Do On Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, California, is a destination that needs no introduction. It’s known for its bright lights, star-studded streets, and iconic landmarks, and it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the entertainment industry.
Here are 10 fun things to do in Hollywood that will give you a taste of the city’s glitz and glamour.
1. Start at Hollywood and Highland
The Hollywood and Highland mall parking lots are among the best places to leave your car. The rates are reasonable, and you can often get validation at some of the stores and theatres in the area. There are several hidden restaurants in this area too. If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat away from the crowds and tourist traps, check out the smaller eateries in this shopping center.
Though be careful! Hollywood and Highland are one of LA’s most dangerous intersections, with distracted tourists often stepping into traffic. While pedestrians always have the right of way, getting cited for jaywalking in this area is possible. With all the bright lights and performers on the street, it’s easy to get distracted while crossing the road.
Pro Tip: Some high-traffic intersections have diagonal crossings. These intersections typically have different crossing and traffic light patterns. The entire intersection crosses simultaneously (instead of typical crossings matched with parallel traffic).
2. Admire the “Stars” on the Walk of Fame
Hollywood Blvd is one of the most iconic streets in LA and is one of the main reasons people worldwide come to see Hollywood. There’s a mix of film industry stars here and music, theater, television, and radio for more information on the stars.
It’s also a fun place for people to watch. You’ll witness people getting excited about finding their favorite stars. However, most LA natives avoid this area because of the crowds.
Pro Tip: You may find the same name on two separate stars. Please don’t assume that it’s the same person! For example, Michael Jackson appears twice on the Walk of Fame, but only one is the actual “King of Pop.”
3. See A Musical At The Pantages Theatre
The Pantages Theatre is one of the most famous theatres in Los Angeles. It’s a great place to catch the latest musical in town. It was opened in 1930 and featured some incredible art deco architecture.
It is a historic theater in Hollywood that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other events. Whether you’re a fan of musicals or want to see a great show, this theater is a must-visit.
Pro Tip: If you haven’t booked a ticket, but are interested in seeing a show, check the box office. Leftover tickets are often sold before the show at a discount rate.
4. Take A Tour Of The Dolby Theatre
Have you watched the Oscars? Then you’ve seen the Dolby Theatre on TV. It’s a live-performance auditorium in Hollywood and a great place to tour some of Hollywood’s entertainment history.
The Dolby Theatre is home to the Academy Awards and is one of the most famous theaters in the world. Please tour the theater and learn about its history and how it’s used for the Oscars and other big events.
You’ll also get to see the latest sound technology developed by Dolby. Tour tickets cost $25, and booking your tour time online is best.
Pro Tip: If you visit Hollywood in the summer or during a heat wave, the Dolby Theatre is a great place to escape the heat!
5. Take A Tour Or Watch A Movie At The Chinese Theatre
The Chinese Theatre is one of the most glamorous movie-going experiences anywhere. It’s complete with red curtains that swish open when the film starts. The theatre is also home to many film premieres.
The tour costs $18. Though if you want to see the hand and footprints outside, you can do that for free.
The TCL Chinese Theatre is one of the most famous movie theaters in the world. You can tour the theater, see a movie, or even put your hands and feet on the cement outside. This is a must-visit for any movie fan.
Pro Tip: If you plan to watch a movie here, know that only one of the screens is the original theatre. The other screens are like any other movie theater (not worth the extra cost).
6. Visit One Of The Museums
Hollywood is home to many museums dedicated to the entertainment industry. The Hollywood Museum is home to the largest collection of Hollywood memorabilia. Several specialized museums include the Hollywood Wax Museum, Madame Tussauds, and many more.
Pro Tip: If you plan to visit multiple museums, consider getting a VIP pass from the Hollywood Wax Museum. For $36, you’ll get access to the Hollywood Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and the Guinness World Records Museum.
7. See The Four Ladies of Hollywood Statue
The Four Ladies of Hollywood Statue at Hollywood and La Brea is the start of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
This statue, located in front of the Hollywood & Highland shopping center, honors the four women who have shaped Hollywood’s history: Dolores del Río, Mae West, Anna May Wong, and Dorothy Dandridge. It’s a great place to take a photo and learn about the women who helped make Hollywood what it is today.
It’s not the most impressive piece of art in Los Angeles, but it’s a very iconic art-deco piece that’s a tribute to the multi-ethnic women of Hollywood. It was created in the early 90s and marked the western gateway (or west end) of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Pro Tip: If you started your tour at the Hollywood and Highland mall and walked toward this statue, you’ll want to turn around and head back down Hollywood Blvd toward the Pantages theatre to complete your tour.
8. Eat Or Drink At A Famous Hollywood Restaurant
Hollywood is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, and there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Hollywood glamour or cutting-edge cuisine, you will find a great place to eat or drink.
For an old Hollywood experience, check out Musso and Frank Grill. It’s like stepping back in time and into “La La Land.” Grab a drink at the bar or a meal at a booth while imagining the Hollywood movie deals and scripts discussed in this classy restaurant.
For something a bit more modern, check out Yamashiro. It is on top of the hill just north of the Chinese Theatre and is a Japanese restaurant with one of the city’s most spectacular views.
The food may not be the best in LA, but that’s not what it’s known for. The architecture and view are what make this restaurant so special. I recommend ending your day of exploring with a drink and dessert here.
Pro Tip: If visiting Musso and Frank Grill, check out the old phone booth in the back. It’s supposedly the oldest public phone in LA!
9. Visit The Magic Castle
The Magic Castle is a private club for magicians, but visitors can get in by attending a magic show or taking a tour. This historic venue is home to some of the world’s best magicians and is a must-visit for anyone interested in magic.
It’s the Academy of Magical Arts clubhouse and is an invite-only venue. Getting in can be tricky but not impossible.
You must know a member or an accepted magician to be invited or a paying member. Staying at the Magic Castle Hotel also gets you a pass to the Magic Castle.
Pro Tip: Try contacting LA-based magicians on Yelp to see if they can get you an invite. Also, checking the performance schedule online and contacting performers is a great way to get on the guest list.
10. Stop At The Roosevelt Hotel
The Roosevelt Hotel has been a legendary Hollywood landmark since the 1920s. Located right in the heart of Hollywood, this hotel has hosted some of the biggest movie stars in history and is still a popular place for tourists and locals alike.
It is a historical LA building that has a hidden gem. The Spare Room is a bar, bowling alley, and board game room. It’s a perfect place to get a drink or meal.
Though it’s on Hollywood Blvd, it’s unlikely that you’ll see many tourists here. It’s more of a local LA hangout. Stroll through the lobby, grab a drink at the bar, or even book a room for the night.
Pro Tip: The bowling alley only has two lanes, so make a reservation in advance if you plan to visit.
In conclusion, Hollywood offers a multitude of exciting and entertaining destinations for people of all ages. From the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame to the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre, there is something for everyone in this city of stars.
If you’re a movie buff, visit the Museum of the Moving Image or the Hollywood Museum. And if you’re looking for some fun in the sun, head to Hollywood Beach or Runyon Canyon Park.
No matter your interests, Hollywood is sure to provide a memorable experience. So, pack your bags, grab your friends, and head to the city of dreams to make unforgettable memories!