Bogart footprints Chinese Theater on best Hollywood tour

The Best Things to See and Do In Hollywood: Our List

The best things to see and do in Hollywood are many and you’re limited only by the amount of time you have to spend. If you’re here for more than a day, there’s more than enough to keep you enthralled. Here for a day? Doesn’t matter. Either way, the best way to see the most the Hollywood and Beverly Hills have to offer is with us on a Star Track tour.

Known worldwide as the home of movie stars and iconic landmarks, Hollywood offers a wealth of attractions and activities that celebrate its rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a film buff, a history enthusiast, or simply looking to soak up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. Here, we explore the best things to see and do in Hollywood, starting with its most famous sights.

  1. The Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is perhaps the most iconic symbol of Hollywood’s enduring allure. Stretching along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street, the Walk of Fame honors the stars of the entertainment industry with over 2,600 terrazzo and brass stars embedded in the sidewalks. Each star celebrates a celebrity from the world of film, television, music, radio, and theater.

Walking along this famous path, you’ll encounter the stars of legendary figures such as Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, and Walt Disney, as well as contemporary icons like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Jennifer Aniston. The Walk of Fame offers a unique opportunity to connect with the history of entertainment and is a must-visit for anyone coming to Hollywood.

  1. TCL Chinese Theatre

Just a stone’s throw from the Walk of Fame is the TCL Chinese Theatre, another landmark steeped in Hollywood history. Opened in 1927, this iconic movie palace is renowned for its distinctive architecture, which includes a pagoda-like roof, dragon statues, and intricate details reminiscent of a Chinese temple.

Bogart footprints Chinese Theater on best Hollywood tour

Bogart footprints Chinese Theater on best Hollywood tour

The theater is famous for its forecourt, where the handprints and footprints of countless stars have been immortalized in cement. Visitors can compare their hands and feet to those of legends like Judy Garland, Clint Eastwood, and Marilyn Monroe. Inside, the theater boasts one of the largest IMAX auditoriums in the world, offering a cutting-edge cinematic experience.

  1. Hollywood Sign Tour

No trip to Hollywood is complete without a tour of the Hollywood Sign. Perched atop the Hollywood Hills, this iconic sign originally read “Hollywoodland” when it was erected in 1923 to advertise a real estate development. Today, the shortened sign is a symbol of the entertainment industry and the city itself.

While the sign is visible from various points throughout Hollywood, one of the best ways to get up close is by hiking the trails in Griffith Park. The Mount Hollywood Trail, the Brush Canyon Trail, and the Cahuenga Peak Trail all offer different perspectives and photo opportunities of the sign. For those looking for a less strenuous option, the Griffith Observatory also provides stunning views of the Hollywood Sign along with panoramic vistas of Los Angeles.

  1. Beverly Hills Tours

Hollywood’s neighboring city, Beverly Hills, is renowned for its luxury and opulence. Taking a guided tour of Beverly Hills is an excellent way to explore its iconic sights and celebrity homes. These tours often include stops at famous locations such as Rodeo Drive, known for its high-end boutiques and designer stores, and the Beverly Hills Hotel, a legendary landmark frequented by celebrities.

Many tours also offer the chance to see the mansions of the rich and famous, with knowledgeable guides providing insights into the lives of Hollywood’s elite. Whether you’re cruising in an open-air bus or a vintage car, a Beverly Hills tour is a glamorous adventure that provides a glimpse into the world of luxury and celebrity.

  1. Movie Locations

Hollywood is the epicenter of the film industry, and exploring its famous movie locations is a thrill for any cinema enthusiast. Many iconic scenes have been filmed around Hollywood, making it a treasure trove of cinematic history. From the Griffith Observatory, featured in films like “Rebel Without a Cause” and “La La Land,” to the Bradbury Building, known for its role in “Blade Runner,” there are numerous sites to discover.

Guided tours are available that focus specifically on movie locations, taking visitors to places like the TCL Chinese Theatre, where countless premieres have taken place, and the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, known for its connection to the first Academy Awards ceremony. Walking in the footsteps of your favorite stars and seeing where legendary scenes were filmed brings the magic of movies to life.

  1. Stars Homes Tours

Stars’ homes tours in Beverly Hills offer a unique and glamorous glimpse into the lives of Hollywood’s elite. These guided tours take visitors through the luxurious neighborhoods where celebrities reside, showcasing opulent mansions and estates belonging to stars of the past and present. Passengers can see the homes of icons like Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and contemporary stars such as Jennifer Aniston and Leonardo DiCaprio. These tours often include entertaining and informative commentary about the history and anecdotes of the celebrities and their lavish lifestyles, providing an intimate look at the world of the rich and famous.

  1. The Hollywood Museum

Located in the historic Max Factor Building, the Hollywood Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of Hollywood. The museum’s extensive collection includes over 10,000 costumes, props, photographs, scripts, and other memorabilia from the golden age of Hollywood to the present day.

Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to Marilyn Monroe, including her famous dresses and personal artifacts, as well as displays featuring the history of makeup and special effects. The museum’s impressive collection provides an in-depth look at the evolution of the film industry and the stars who have defined it.

  1. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is both a working film studio and a theme park, offering a unique blend of entertainment and behind-the-scenes experiences. The studio tour takes visitors through real film sets and sound stages, providing insights into the movie-making process and special effects. Highlights include the famous Bates Motel from “Psycho,” the set of “Jaws,” and the immersive “Fast & Furious” experience.

The theme park features a variety of rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, such as “Harry Potter,” “Jurassic Park,” and “The Simpsons.” Universal CityWalk, an adjacent entertainment complex, offers dining, shopping, and live entertainment, making Universal Studios Hollywood a full-day destination.

  1. Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is an iconic outdoor amphitheater nestled in the Hollywood Hills. Since its opening in 1922, the Bowl has hosted countless concerts and performances, featuring artists from a wide range of genres. Its distinctive band shell and beautiful setting make it a favorite venue for both performers and audiences.

During the summer season, the Hollywood Bowl Symphony Orchestra and the Los Angeles Philharmonic perform regularly, often featuring renowned guest artists. The Bowl’s picnic-friendly policy allows visitors to bring their own food and drinks, creating a unique and relaxed concert-going experience under the stars.

  1. Sunset Boulevard

Sunset Boulevard, one of the most famous streets in Los Angeles, stretches from downtown LA to the Pacific Coast Highway. The section known as the Sunset Strip, located in West Hollywood, is particularly renowned for its vibrant nightlife, music venues, and restaurants.

Historic music clubs such as The Roxy, The Whisky a Go Go, and The Viper Room have hosted legendary performances by artists like The Doors, Led Zeppelin, and Johnny Cash. The Strip’s eclectic mix of entertainment options, from comedy clubs to chic bars, makes it a dynamic destination for a night out.

  1. The Hollywood Forever Cemetery

The Hollywood Forever Cemetery is not only a resting place for many of Hollywood’s greatest stars but also a cultural hub offering unique events and screenings. Founded in 1899, the cemetery is the final resting place for celebrities such as Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, and more recently, Chris Cornell.

In addition to its historical significance, Hollywood Forever hosts “Cinespia” outdoor movie screenings during the summer, where classic and contemporary films are shown on the cemetery’s Fairbanks Lawn. These events, accompanied by live DJs and themed photo booths, provide a memorable way to enjoy cinema in a historic setting.

  1. The Dolby Theatre

Home to the Academy Awards since 2002, the Dolby Theatre is an iconic venue located at the Hollywood & Highland Center. This state-of-the-art theater hosts a variety of live performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and special events.

Visitors can take guided tours of the Dolby Theatre, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the glamorous world of the Oscars. The tour includes access to the VIP room, the Dolby Lounge, and the grand staircase, offering a taste of Hollywood’s red carpet experience.

  1. The Pantages Theatre

Another historic venue, the Pantages Theatre, opened in 1930 and is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. Originally a movie palace and vaudeville theater, the Pantages now hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and special events.

Located at the intersection of Hollywood and Vine, the theater is known for its opulent interiors and has hosted numerous premieres and award shows over the years. Catching a performance at the Pantages is a chance to experience world-class entertainment in a setting that captures the glamour of old Hollywood.

  1. Runyon Canyon Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, Runyon Canyon Park offers some of the best hiking trails in Los Angeles, with breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. Located just a few blocks from Hollywood Boulevard, the park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Runyon Canyon’s trails range from easy to moderately challenging and are frequented by fitness buffs, dog walkers, and even celebrities. The main trail provides panoramic vistas of downtown LA, the Griffith Observatory, and the Pacific Ocean on clear days. Runyon Canyon is an excellent place to get some exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of Hollywood.

  1. Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Madame Tussauds Hollywood offers a fun and interactive experience with lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, the museum features over 125 wax figures representing stars from film, television, music, and sports.

Visitors can pose for photos with wax figures of iconic personalities such as Marilyn Monroe, Johnny Depp, and Beyoncé. The museum also includes themed exhibits that allow guests to immerse themselves in movie sets and historical scenes, making it an entertaining stop for families and fans of pop culture.

  1. The Museum of Broken Relationships

For a unique and poignant experience, visit the Museum of Broken Relationships on Hollywood Boulevard. This museum features a collection of personal objects and stories donated by people from around the world, each representing a broken relationship.

The exhibits range from the humorous to the heartbreaking, providing a deeply human and relatable look at love and loss. The museum’s intimate and reflective atmosphere offers a different perspective on the human experience, making it a fascinating addition to Hollywood’s array of attractions.

  1. Amoeba Music

Amoeba Music, located on Sunset Boulevard, is the largest independent record store in the world. This iconic store is a paradise for music lovers, offering an extensive selection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and more.

In addition to its vast inventory, Amoeba Music hosts live performances and artist signings, providing a space for music fans to connect with their favorite artists. Whether you’re looking to discover new music or find rare collectibles, a visit to Amoeba Music is a must for anyone with a passion for music.

  1. The Hollywood Sign Viewing Deck

For a convenient and accessible view of the Hollywood Sign, head to the viewing deck at the Hollywood & Highland Center. This shopping and entertainment complex offers a designated viewing area that provides unobstructed views of the iconic sign.

In addition to the viewing deck, the Hollywood & Highland Center features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including the Dolby Theatre. It’s a great place to take in the sights, enjoy a meal, and do some shopping, all while getting that perfect photo of the Hollywood Sign.

Conclusion

Hollywood, California, is a destination like no other, offering a blend of history, culture, and entertainment that captivates visitors from around the world. From walking the star-studded Hollywood Walk of Fame and exploring the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre to hiking to the iconic Hollywood Sign and touring the opulent neighborhoods of Beverly Hills, there is no shortage of things to see and do.

Whether you’re immersing yourself in the cinematic magic of Universal Studios Hollywood, enjoying a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, or discovering hidden gems like the Museum of Broken Relationships, Hollywood provides an endless array of experiences that celebrate its status as the entertainment capital of the world. With its rich history and vibrant present, Hollywood continues to be a place where dreams are made and legends are born.

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