Hollywood attractions are some of the most legendary places in the world, drawing millions of visitors each year. From the historic Dolby theater and Universal Studios to the world-famous Hollywood Bowl, these sites define Hollywood’s identity.
Navigating through these timeless attractions gets tricky, especially in the peak seasons or after dark when LA nightlife is alive. We’re here to show you the top things to do in Hollywood. You will go through a list of well-known places, historic landmarks, and some unique destinations. So, without further ado, let’s delve deep into the heart of Hollywood.
Top Things to Do in Hollywood You Shouldn’t Miss
Hollywood is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the things to do in Hollywood are endless. From the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the Griffith Observatory, Hollywood offers attractions that are rich in history and culture. Here are some of the must-see Hollywood attractions:
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- TCL Chinese Theatre
- The Hollywood Sign
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Griffith Observatory
- Hollywood Museum
- Egyptian Theatre
- Dolby Theatre
Hollywood Walk of Fame: Iconic Star Spotting
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is home to the engraved stars of Hollywood legends. Each star honors the achievements of celebrities, musicians, directors, producers, and many others. You can walk the street to admire the stars dedicated to greats like Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, and James Cameron.
The Walk of Fame is a top Hollywood tourist attraction, and it’s also a perfect spot to engage with the history of the film and music industry. You can take pictures with your favorite star and also attend special ceremonies. It’s a must-see, whether you’re a movie buff or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
- Address: Hollywood Blvd, from Gower St to La Brea Ave, Hollywood, CA
- How to Get There: Take metro’s B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland or Hollywood/Vine stations.
- Hours: Open 24/7 (public sidewalk, no entrance fee).
- Ticket Price: Free to visit.
TCL Chinese Theatre: Hollywood's Iconic Movie Palace
The TCL Chinese Theatre is one of the most iconic Hollywood landmarks, famous for its handprints and footprints of movie legends in the forecourt. It is among Hollywood’s cinematic legacy with its great architecture and rich history. You can see the actual footprints and handprints of stars like Tom Hanks, Harrison Ford, and Judy Garland.
Inside the theater, you can also catch a movie in the historic IMAX theater, which is one of the most unforgettable Hollywood attractions to experience.
- Address: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
- How to Get There: Take the B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland.
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (varies based on movie schedules).
- Ticket Price: Forecourt (Handprints & Footprints) are free. Theatre Tours are $16-$19 per person. Movie Tickets vary from $15-$25.
The Hollywood Sign
Arguably the most famous landmark in Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign represents the magic of Hollywood and the film industry. The sign is visible from nearly every corner of the city and stands as a symbol of the glamour and charm of Hollywood. This will be your top place for taking a memorable photo.
Different trails lead to the sign, including the Griffith Park Trail, which is one of the most popular routes. On your way to the top, you’ll find plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to take in the panoramic views of Los Angeles, making this a must-do for anyone exploring things to do in Hollywood.
- Address: No direct address (best viewed from Griffith Park or Lake Hollywood Park).
- How to Get There: Best viewpoints include Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Reservoir, Lake Hollywood Park, or Mulholland Scenic Overlook.
- Hours: Always accessible, but best visited during daylight hours.
- Ticket Price: Free to visit
Since there are no direct routes to visit the Hollywood Sign, one of the best ways to go is to rent a car, drive to the nearest place, park your car, and continue on foot. Renting a car, especially in California, can be a game-changer.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is not just a theme park; it’s also a working movie studio that offers you a behind-the-scenes look at how blockbuster films are made. You’ll experience iconic attractions like the King Kong 3D ride, the Jurassic World ride, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, all while learning about the history of Universal Studios.
Universal Studios Hollywood has fantastic dining, shopping, and entertainment options, so don’t worry about anything. The park is divided into themed areas, including Springfield, the World of Harry Potter, and the Studio Tour, making it one of the best things to do in Hollywood for visitors of all ages.
- Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
- How to Get There: Take the B Line (Red) to Universal City/Studio City station, then take the free shuttle to the entrance.
- Hours: Usually 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM, but hours vary seasonally.
- Ticket Price: General admission starts at $109. Express pass starts at $189 (skip the lines). VIP tickets start at $369 (behind-the-scenes tour + priority access).
Griffith Observatory: Stunning Views of LA and the Hollywood Sign
The Griffith Observatory offers one of the best views of Los Angeles, including a direct sightline to the Hollywood Sign. The observatory is an iconic spot in the city and a fantastic place to learn about space and science.
You can explore interactive exhibits, enjoy a live show in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, or take in the panoramic views of LA and the stars above.
The observatory is particularly popular at night when you can look through telescopes and star-gaze while enjoying the view of the city lights. It’s one of the few Hollywood attractions where you can experience both nature and science in an urban environment.
- Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
- How to Get There: Take metro’s B Line (Red) to Vermont/Sunset, then take the DASH Observatory Shuttle ($0.50 fare).
- Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Saturday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.
- Ticket Price: General admission is Free. Planetarium Shows cost $10 for Adults, $8 for Seniors, and $6 for Kids.
Hollywood Museum
If you’re looking for a place to explore art and creativity, head on to the Hollywood Museum. This museum has over 10,000 pieces of movie memorabilia, including costumes, props, and set pieces from some of Hollywood’s most famous films.
In addition to the static displays, the museum often hosts rotating exhibits that focus on different aspects of Hollywood’s history. It’s a great place to learn more about the film industry’s evolution while seeing firsthand the iconic objects that have defined movie history.
- Address: 1660 N Highland Ave, Hollywood, CA 90028
- How to Get There: Take the B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland.
- Hours: Wednesday to Sunday open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Monday & Tuesday.
- Ticket Price: $15 for Adults, $12 for Seniors/Students, $5 for Kids.
Egyptian Theatre: Historic Hollywood Landmark
The Egyptian Theatre is one of Hollywood’s most iconic and historic venues. With its luxurious interior, including a fancy ceiling and décor, the Egyptian Theatre offers a peek into the greatness of early cinema.
Today, the Egyptian Theatre serves as a venue for a variety of events you can attend, from film festivals to special screenings and live performances. It’s home to the American Cinematheque, which hosts regular movie showings, often focusing on classic films or indie releases that pay homage to Hollywood’s golden age.
Visiting the Egyptian Theatre is an opportunity to experience a piece of cinematic history while enjoying modern-day screenings in a stunning, vintage setting.
- Address: 6712 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
- How to Get There: Take the B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland.
- Hours: Varies based on film screenings and events.
- Ticket Price: General admission is between $10 to $20 (varies by event).
Dolby Theatre: Home of the Iconic Hollywood Performances
The Dolby Theatre is perhaps best known as the home of the Academy Awards (Oscars), where the most prestigious awards in the film industry are presented every year. You will have the opportunity to tour the venue and see the stage where Hollywood’s most famous celebrities grace the red carpet.
Whether you’re visiting for a backstage tour or catching an unforgettable performance, the Dolby Theatre remains one of the best things to do in Hollywood for fans of the performing arts and entertainment.
- Address: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
- How to Get There: Take metro’s B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland.
- Hours: Guided tours run daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM (varies based on events).
- Ticket Price: Guided tours are $25 for Adults and $19 for Kids.
Must-Visit Hollywood Attractions for Tourists
There aren’t many things more exciting than visiting Hollywood, and the place delivers. These are the top Hollywood tourist attractions:
Starline Tours
Starline Tours offers a complete Hollywood sightseeing experience, including the iconic Movie Stars Homes Tour, where you can see the celebrity mansions in Beverly Hills and beyond. Their guided tours delve deep into Hollywood’s history, providing fascinating facts and behind-the-scenes stories of stars past and present.
What makes Starline Tours one of the best things to do in Hollywood is the fact that they ensure you experience Hollywood’s glamour up close and personal.
- Address: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028.
- How to Get There: Take the B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland.
- Hours: Varies by tour, most run from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Ticket Price: Movie Stars’ Homes Tour starts at $55, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus at $49, and Celebrity Homes & Hollywood Sign tour at $35.
Visit the Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl is an open-air amphitheater with incredible views of the city skyline, perfect for enjoying world-class performances under the stars. You can attend everything from orchestral symphonies to rock concerts in this place.
- Address: 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068.
- How to Get There: Take the B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland, then take the Bowl Shuttle.
- Hours: Showtimes vary; the Hollywood Bowl Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Ticket Price: Varies by event; museum entry is free.
Japan House
Japan House in Hollywood is a unique cultural experience, displaying the best of Japan’s art, design, technology, and cuisine. Japan House features rotating exhibits, film screenings, and events that explore Japan’s history and contemporary innovations.
What makes this Hollywood attraction so great is the total immersion of the visitors into the culture of the Japanese.
- Address: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Level 2 & 5, Los Angeles, CA 90028.
- How to Get There: Catch the metro B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland.
- Hours: Monday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Sundays from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Ticket Price: Free admission to gallery; special events may have fees.
El Capitan
The El Capitan Theatre is a historic movie palace famous for its grand architecture and its status as the main location for Disney movie releases. In addition to showing the latest Disney blockbusters, the El Capitan also hosts live performances, special events, and exclusive premieres, making it a Los Angeles attraction that should not be ignored.
- Address: 6838 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028.
- How to Get There: Metro B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland.
- Hours: Box office opens daily at 10:00 AM, movie showtimes vary.
- Ticket Price: Movie tickets start at $18; VIP seating and special screenings cost more.
Musso & Frank Grill
Musso & Frank Grill is the perfect place for tourists looking for a classic Hollywood dining experience. Known for its old-school charm, this iconic restaurant has served generations of movie stars, writers, and filmmakers.
With its vintage atmosphere, classic cocktails, and a timeless menu featuring dishes like the famous Musso Burger and prime steaks, dining here is like stepping back into the golden age of Hollywood.
- Address: 6667 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028.
- How to Get There: Take the B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland.
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM, Sundays from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
- Ticket Price: Entrees range from $30-$60.
Best Free Hollywood Attractions to Visit
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Hollywood attractions without spending a dime. Here are some of the best things to do in Hollywood for free:
- Runyon Canyon: Runyon Canyon is a popular hiking spot that provides stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and the LA skyline. It’s a great place to get outdoors, enjoy nature, and get a workout in the heart of Hollywood.
- Lake Hollywood Park: Lake Hollywood Park offers a peaceful setting with panoramic views of Hollywood. It’s an ideal spot to relax, have a picnic, or take a walk around the lake without the crowds.
- Hollywood Forever Cemetery: This is a historic site where many famous Hollywood figures are buried. You can walk through its peaceful grounds, learn about the city’s history, and attend free cultural events.
- Sunset Strip: The Sunset Strip is an iconic stretch of Sunset Boulevard known for its legendary music venues and nightlife. Walking along the Strip allows you to soak in Hollywood’s culture and entertainment history.
- Hollywood Farmers’ Market: The Hollywood Farmers’ Market is an open-air market that has fresh produce, local goods, and a positive atmosphere. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and shop for fresh items, all while enjoying the community spirit.
Getting around the town and finding all these things to do in Hollywood can get too much without a vehicle. The public transportation of the city offers some help, but it’s not sufficient. You can make these visits more enjoyable by renting a car for a couple of days.
Historic Hollywood Attractions
Hollywood isn’t just about glitz and glamour; it’s a place cemented in history, with landmarks that have shaped the entertainment industry for over a century. From legendary restaurants to architectural icons, these historic Hollywood attractions offer a peek into the past of the entertainment capital of the world.
- The Magic Castle: A private, members-only club that serves as the Academy of Magical Arts headquarters. Inside this historic mansion, you can experience world-class magic performances, hidden passageways, and an exclusive, vintage Hollywood atmosphere. Entry requires an invitation from a magician or a special reservation.
- Capitol Records Building: One of Hollywood’s most recognizable landmarks, and was built in 1956 to resemble a stack of vinyl records. It has recorded legendary artists like The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and Nat King Cole. While the building isn’t open for tours, you can admire its unique architecture and visit the nearby Hollywood Jazz Mural.
- The Formosa Café: A historic bar and restaurant that has been a Hollywood staple since 1939, located next to a former film studio lot. It was once a favorite of stars like John Wayne and Elvis Presley and was recently restored to its former glory, featuring vintage Hollywood décor and a menu inspired by its golden-age past.
Hollywood’s Most Famous Film Industry Attractions
Hollywood’s legacy is built on filmmaking, and some of its most famous attractions are directly tied to the entertainment industry. Whether it’s legendary studios, award-show venues, or behind-the-scenes tours, these film industry landmarks bring visitors closer to the magic of Hollywood.
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour: One of the best behind-the-scenes experiences in Hollywood. It offers a close-up look at real movie sets, soundstages, and famous props from films like Batman and TV shows like Friends. The tour includes interactive exhibits and an in-depth look at how Hollywood productions come to life.
- Paramount Pictures Studio Tour: As Hollywood’s last remaining major film studio, Paramount’s guided tours provide a rare chance to explore historic soundstages, iconic filming locations, and live sets. The studio has been home to classics like Sunset Boulevard and Indiana Jones.
- Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: A massive museum dedicated to the history of filmmaking, featuring legendary props, iconic costumes, and interactive displays. You can see real Oscar statuettes, learn about special effects, and explore bits about legendary directors and actors.
- Hollywood Forever Cemetery: More than just a cemetery, this historic site is the final resting place of Hollywood icons like Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille, and Johnny Ramone. It also hosts outdoor movie screenings, concerts, and cultural events, making it one of the most unique Hollywood attractions.
Lesser-Known Hollywood Attractions
While Hollywood’s most famous landmarks get most of the attention, some of its most fascinating attractions remain hidden gems. These lesser-known spots offer a mix of history, entertainment, and quirky fun that you should give a shot.
- Hollywood Heritage Museum: Located in the historic Lasky-DeMille Barn, this museum focuses on early Hollywood filmmaking, featuring rare artifacts, original cameras, and memorabilia from Hollywood’s silent film era. It’s a hidden gem if you’re interested in the origins of the movie industry.
- Guinness World Records Museum: An interactive and family-friendly attraction showing record-breaking achievements in film, music, sports, and science. You can compare your skills to world record holders and explore exhibitions dedicated to Hollywood’s most extraordinary stars.
- The Museum of Illusions: A fun and immersive attraction with optical illusions and perspective-bending programs. You can take interesting photos in upside-down rooms, distorted mirrors, and mind-tricking spaces designed for a unique Hollywood experience.
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Hollywood: A quirky museum packed with oddities, from shrunken heads to bizarre Hollywood collectibles. This museum is known for its unusual shows and interactive programs and is a great stop if you’re looking to experience Hollywood’s weirder side.
Last Words
There are plenty of things to do in Hollywood, and that can become overwhelming. We know how hard it can get trying to choose the right activities. That’s why we gathered all the best Hollywood attractions in one place for you.
We catered to different tastes, different ages, and different budgets. We hope to have made it easier for you to pick from the best things to do in Hollywood.
FAQs
What Is The Most Famous Part of Hollywood?
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is the most famous part, featuring over 2,700 stars dedicated to celebrities in the entertainment industry.
Why Do Tourists Go to Hollywood?
Tourists visit Hollywood to see famous landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, the Walk of Fame, and the TCL Chinese Theatre, and to experience the city’s rich film history.
What Is Hollywood Most Known for?
Is It Worth Visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
Yes, it’s worth visiting as it’s an iconic part of Hollywood with stars honoring famous figures in entertainment.
