Table of Contents

• Introduction
• The History of Hollywood
• Where to Stay in Hollywood
  • Room and House Rentals
  • Motels
  • Hotels
  • Hostels
• Arrival, Parking, and Transportation Within Hollywood
• Safety in Hollywood
• Things to Do in Hollywood
  • Discover Thai Town
  • Griffith Park
  • The Griffith Observatory
  • Echo Park
  • Visit Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Explore Universal City Walk
  • The Hollywood Walk of Fame
  • See a Show at the Hollywood Bowl
  • The Paramount Studio Tour
  • Hollywood Forever Cemetery
  • Hike in Runyon Canyon
  • Hike Up to the Hollywood Sign
  • Walk Around the Grove
  • The Original Farmers Market
  • Partake in the Nightlife
  • Walk Alongside the Sunset Strip
  • Visit the Holocaust Museum L.A.
  • Visit the Greystone Mansion
  • Visit Beverly Hills
  • Walk Miracle Mile
    • The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
    • The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
    • The Peterson Automobile Museum
    • The Academy of Motion Pictures Museum
• What and Where to Eat in Hollywood
  • Jitalda Restaurant (Thai)
  • Superba Food + Bread (American)
  • Cecconi’s West Hollywood (Italian)
  • Pink’s Hot Dogs (American)
  • Roscoe’s (Chicken & Waffles)
  • Salt & Straw (Ice Cream)
  • Original Farmer’s Market (Varying)
• General Tips About Visiting Hollywood 
  • Tourist Scams/Rip-Offs
  • Traffic
  • Smells
  • The Homeless
  • Wildlife While Hiking in Runyon Canyon 
  • Drinking
• Conclusion
• Los Angeles Blogs

Introduction

Regardless of where you are in the world, you’ve probably heard of Hollywood. The sunny spot where all the major movies are filmed. Well, that’s not entirely accurate. A lot of the movie studios are actually in Burbank, which is north of Hollywood and Griffith Park. Another unknown fact about Hollywood is that there is more than one. There are four different Hollywood’s within Los Angeles and are all a bit different.

There is Hollywood, North Hollywood (NOHO), West Hollywood (WEHO), and East Hollywood. North Hollywood is the only one of the four not connected to the others. Hollywood and West Hollywood are home to most of the tourist activities, and East Hollywood is home to residential areas. This blog post will cover the history of Hollywood, accommodation, transportation, safety, things to do, what and where to eat, and other general tips while visiting Hollywood.

The History of Hollywood

Hollywood began as a subdivision in 1887 which was laid out by Harvey Wilcox who was a prohibitionist from Kansas. Wilcox was a religious person who envisioned a sober community. At the turn of the 20th century, wealthy real estate magnate H.J. Whitley transformed the area into a high-class residential area. Whitley is known as the “Father of Hollywood” and is responsible for adding electric, telephone, and gas lines into the city. In 1910, due to inadequate water supply, the residents of Hollywood voted to be incorporated into Los Angeles.

In 1908, the first-ever movie was filmed in Hollywood, The Count of Monte Cristo. Although the film began filming in Chicago, it ended in Hollywood and in turn, Hollywood received a lot of the fame. In 1911, the first movie studio was built on Sunset Boulevard, and by 1913, about 20 different studios were in the area. Los Angeles’ warm and sunny year-long temperatures made it an ideal area for filming. After WWII, many of the studios began moving out of Hollywood, and into the surrounding cities.

Where to Stay in Hollywood

Since Hollywood is one of the most popular places in Los Angeles, there are an abundant amount of accommodation options here. The prices for accommodation aren’t the most expensive, but also not the cheapest. Since Hollywood is so popular and located near popular landmarks like the Hollywood Sign or the Hollywood Walk of Fame, you will pay a little more to be closer to these areas. You will find room and apartment rentals, hotels, motels, and hostels all of which will be discussed in detail with specific recommendations below. In no particular order, here are your accommodation options in Los Angeles.

Room and House Rentals

Airbnb and Vrbo are popular rental companies and offer guests opportunities to rent private and/or shared spaces for a few days to a few weeks. If you are a solo traveler or a couple, I recommend using Airbnb as they have smaller accommodation options. Both Vrbo and Airbnb may have some options for large groups and families. All rooms and houses offered usually have many reviews, so you can look at them and see how their experience was. I’ve also noticed that since COVID-19, both companies have charged a very high cleaning fee on top of a high fee. Prices are usually a little cheaper than a hotel room at around $200.00 / €185.54.

Costs can vary depending on the time you go and for how long, but the prices range from $100.00 to $200.00+ / €92.77 to €185.54+. I see that most options on both sites have parking options but always double check. Generally speaking, most places have a check-in time around 3 p.m. / 15:00 and a check-out time around 11 a.m. / 11:00, but it can vary depending on the location. 

Normally if you want an early check-in and/or late check-out they can accommodate you without an extra fee. Air conditioning does come in most units (sometimes at an extra fee), so if you come during summer, make sure the accommodation has it. To check out Airbnb’s official website, click here. For Vrbo’s official website, click here.

Motels

Motels are very common in Canada and the United States. For my readers outside the U.S. and Canada, motels may seem like a weird concept, but let me explain. Motels are very similar to hotels but offer fewer amenities. They are very basic, they have a room with a bed, a desk, and a private bathroom, and sometimes the campus will have a pool that can be closed seasonally. 

Sometimes they will have air conditioning and will always have a parking spot but sometimes with limited spaces. Motels are offered all over Hollywood, so make sure they are in safe areas as Hollywood can be a little sketchy at night. Motels tend to be cheaper than hotels but do not offer flexible check-in and check-out and tend to have virtually no security. Just like hotels, most motels have a check-in time of around 3 p.m. / 15:00 and a check-out time of around 11 a.m. / 11:00, but this can vary depending on the location. 

Average prices for motels are $40.00 to $80.00+ / €36.94 to €73.88+ per night. Of course, the prices can depend on the time you are going and for how long, but they are very affordable. Many motels do not have a website, so in this scenario, it is best to utilize sites like Booking.com. Keep in mind that Motels can also be a little run-down and dirty, but not all of them.

Hotels

There are countless hotels in Hollywood. Almost all hotels have parking spots, so if you have a car or rent a vehicle, it should not be a problem. However, some hotels do charge an additional fee to park your car, so be sure to ask at the front desk, and they will give you a parking hanging tag or sticker for your vehicle (some recommendations are listed below).

Most hotels have a check-in time of around 3 p.m. / 15:00 and a check-out time of around 11 a.m. / 11:00, but this can vary depending on the location. If you want an early check-in or late check-out you can call ahead and see if they can do anything, but in some cases, it will cost extra. Average rates that I’ve seen range from $250.00 to $700.00+ / €231.97 to €649.53+ per night.

Hostels

Hostels are relatively new to the United States. They have been very popular around Europe, Asia, and Latin America for years, but are starting to become more popular in the U.S. Hostels have dorms and sometimes private options. Dorms are a shared space where they can have four to eight beds in one room. The price of this lack of privacy is the cheapest accommodation in Los Angeles. I’ve seen beds as low as $28.00 up to $39.00+ / €25.86 to €36.02+ per night. It’s possible that a hostel can have a parking spot, but do not count on it. 

Hostels normally have a check-in time of around 3 p.m. / 15:00 and a check-out time of around 11 a.m. / 11:00. Private rooms in hostels cost about double that of a bed and also have a flexible check-in time. I would compare private rooms at hostels and rooms at hotels to see which prices are better. 

Hostels also offer unique tours and activities aimed at increasing guest morale and collaboration. All hostels offered usually have many reviews, so you can look at them and see how their experience was. Hostels are made for cheap, shared living situations and are aimed towards solo travelers and pairs. Hostelworld is a very popular website that can look up hostels in your target area, and you can compare prices. To go to their website, click here. Many hostels do not have websites, so be sure to utilize sites like Hostelworld to find these accommodations

Recommendations:

1. The Château Marmot ($$$)
2. Motel 6 Los Angeles Hollywood ($)
3. Samesun Hostel ($)

If you want more information about accommodation in Los Angeles, click here to go to the “Where to Stay in Los Angeles Guide” blog post.

Arrival, Parking, and Transportation Within Hollywood

• Arrival

Arriving to Hollywood can be done by four means. You can drive/take a ride-share app, take the L.A. Metro, fly, or take city buses. In general, the best way to get to Hollywood is driving, but taking the metro could be better depending on where you want to go. If your goal is North or West Hollywood, then I recommend you drive (keep in mind North Hollywood does not offer much in terms of tourism). If you want to go to East Hollywood, Hollywood, or the Hollywood Walk of Fame I recommend you utilize the L.A. Metro (also keeping in mind that there is not much to do in East Hollywood).  

Driving is very straightforward, as you put your desired destination on your map or ride-share application and drive over. If you drive expect more traffic especially around the Walk of Fame since there are so many pedestrians. Parking will be discussed in the next section. If you plan on taking the L.A. Metro, the B Line (red line) is the one you will be utilizing the most. The B Line runs from North Hollywood, which is the northernmost station for the L.A. Metro (not including the busway) to Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles. 

There are four stations in Hollywood and another four in East Hollywood. The stations in Hollywood are Universal City/Studio City Station, Hollywood/Highland Station, Hollywood/Vine Station, and Hollywood/Western Station. These stations will take you to Universal Studios Hollywood and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Universal Studios has its own station with the appropriately named Universal City/Studio City Station. The metro has two stations right on the Walk of Fame. The stations are the Hollywood / Vine Station and the Hollywood / Highland. 

The stations in East Hollywood are Hollywood/Western, Vermont/Sunset, Vermont/Santa Monica, and Vermont/Beverly. If you want to use the L.A. Metro, the first thing you will need to get is a TAP Card. The TAP Card is required to ride the L.A. Metro. You can either download the TAP L.A. application here or purchase one at any of the metro stations. Once you have a physical or digital card, just put your card or phone on top of the device and “tap” to pay for the fare. The price is $1.75 / €1.61 for a two-hour ride. Reloading the TAP Card or the Tap LA app is very easy and can be done online.

Once you are on the metro, find your way to the B Line, as that one gets you to Hollywood. Once you arrive, you will tap once more. The main hours of operation of the L.A. Metro are from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m. / 05:00–00:00 but can differ. 

The next method is by flying. The Hollywood / Burbank Airport (usually just called Burbank) is the second-largest airport in Los Angeles. It is a much calmer airport when compared to LAX, and it’s very common for people flying out of Los Angeles to hope they get a flight leaving from Burbank as opposed to LAX. It’s easier to access and has a fraction of the traffic LAX has, but flights are typically a little more expensive. The airport is located right next to North Hollywood, so plan accordingly if you are staying far from NoHo.

The last option is the city buses, and they should just be voided unless you are with a local. Although affordable, the buses are raw and unpredictable. Drive or use the L.A. Metro. To learn how to use the Los Angeles metro, click here to go to the “Arrival and Transportation Within Los Angeles” blog post.

• Parking

It comes as no surprise that parking in Hollywood can be pricey. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the day in Universal Studios Hollywood or dance the night away in West Hollywood, parking will come with a price tag. It is not possible to find free parking at the Hollywood Walk of Fame or Universal Studios Hollywood, but it is possible for other points of interest. Thai Town in East Hollywood and many of the restaurants in West and North Hollywood will have free parking but make sure you park where you should be. Those “we will tow you” plaques are not for decoration. 

It is possible that you can reduce the parking rates or even get them waved if they offer parking validation. What is parking validation? Parking validation is the process of getting your parking receipt stamped or marked, indicating you did something within that facility that made your parking valid. This can be visiting a museum, watching a movie, eating at an establishment, or purchasing something from a shop. If you need to double-check, just ask a worker if they validate parking. They will either say yes they will validate it once the requirement has been met. If they say no, they can direct you to the nearest location that validates.

• Transportation Within Hollywood

The distance between some of the attractions in Hollywood will definitely warrant a car. Driving is the easiest, but sometimes not the most cost-effective. Avoid driving during rush hour (6:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. / 06:00–10:30 and from 3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. / 15:00–18:30) which is the buses time for driving usually resulting in traffic. But keep in mind that since Hollywood is so popular, sometimes the traffic doesn’t really go away, especially near the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 

You could always take a ride-share app if needed which can be a bit cheaper but keep in mind that a driver can always choose to not take you if they don’t want to wait in traffic. Again, there are public city buses but i dont recommend you take them. Drive or take a ride-share app like Uber or Lyft.

Safety in Hollywood

Unfortunately, Hollywood does not have a reputation for being safe. You would think that an area as popular as Hollywood would be a safe area to visit. But throughout the years that record has gone down. The encroachment of drug addicts and homeless people has given Hollywood a record for being unpredictable and not as safe as it should be. Truthfully, the whole of Los Angeles should be a lot safer, but more so for such a high-traffic area. In order from least to most safe are:

4. Hollywood

3. North Hollywood

2. East Hollywood

1. West Hollywood

This little list is not saying that Hollywood is dangerous, just not as safe as the others on the list. If you see an individual who is using drugs or seems mentally unstable, it’s best to steer clear of them and keep a distance. You will probably see homeless tents and people while walking on the strip, however, the city has relocated a lot of them so the last time I went to Hollywood, it was relatively clean and seemed to have improved.

Just be aware of pickpockets and some of the scams (discussed later) that can occur. Although your trip to Hollywood should go on without any issues, there are some things to keep in mind.  If you want more information about safety in Los Angeles, click here to go to the “Safety in Los Angeles: Complete Guide” blog post.

Things to Do in Hollywood

There is so much to do in Hollywood and even though there are four Hollywoods, this list will only consist of three since North Hollywood does not contain many tourist attractions. From visiting museums to one of the best theme parks in California, there are things to keep you occupied for a couple of days. Note that this blog will go into detail about the Hollywood Walk of Fame as I have a complete blog post dedicated to the Walk of Fame which you can find here. This is by no means a complete list but rather highlights I recommend. In no particular order, these are the top things I recommend you do in and around Hollywood.

• East Hollywood

Discover Thai Town

Thai Town is just one of the many culturally distinct regions of Los Angeles. As you could’ve probably guessed, Thai Town has a lot of Thai architecture, food, and culture. Thai cuisine is among some of my favorite in the world, so I love eating here. It is pretty small, but makes a great place to eat and then walk around.

Griffith Park

Griffith Park is the largest park in Los Angeles. There is so much to do here from hiking to museums to the Los Angeles Zoo. Since Griffith Park is so massive, there will be a separate blog dedicated to it. Griffith Park is only an eight-minute drive from East Hollywood, so it is close by. Click here to go to the “Complete Guide to Griffith Park” blog post.

The Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory is one of the most visited places in Los Angeles and for good reason. It offers some of the best views of Downtown Los Angeles on a clear day. Alongside the phenomenal views, it’s also a great place to learn about all things interstellar with its out-of-this-world exhibits. Did I mention that entry is completely free? but not the parking.

Echo Park

Echo Park is one of the many city parks in Los Angeles but offers some amazing views of the main park and Downtown Los Angeles. Echo Park is a small park located in the heart of Los Angeles. There is a small man-made lake called Echo Lake that the park is built around. You cannot swim in the lake, but there are animals around the area such as geese, ducks (depending on the time of year), and turtles for you to observe while enjoying the somewhat natural area. Unfortunately, Echo Park was not immune to the dramatic influx of homeless individuals, but the area has cleaned up considerably. The park is small but a great area for a small walk and an escape from Los Angeles’ hustle and bustle.

• Hollywood

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

This is the most recognizable theme park in Los Angeles and second in the area coming only behind Disneyland in Anaheim. The park is rather small but does not lack in the experience. There are some notable rides like The Mummy, and the best studio tour in Los Angeles with the Universal Studio Tours. The prices vary but usually begin at around $100.00 / €91.36 for a day admission with parking costing an additional $35.00 / €31.97 for the day. Click here to go to Universal Studios Hollywood’s official website.

Explore Universal City Walk

Universal City Walk is a walkway and shopping area leading up to Universal Studios Hollywood. Unlike, the universal theme park, City Walk does not have an entry admission, but you do need to pay the $35.00 / €31.97 for parking. The parking is a little pricey, but you can take the Los Angeles Metro for a much more affordable price. You take the B Line to the Universal City / Studio City Station to walk about 20 minutes to City Walk. City Walk has restaurants, a movie theater, experiences, and great shopping. Worth a visit even if you are not visiting the theme park.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is synonymous with Hollywood and is often thought of when one thinks of Hollywood. I wouldn’t necessarily put the Walk of Fame on my top 10 or 20 things to do in Los Angeles list, but it can be fun to see. It offers museums, restaurants, and shopping. If you want to learn everything there is to know about the Hollywood Walk of Fame, click here to go to the “Complete Guide to the Hollywood Walk of Fame” blog post.

See a Show at the Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is a medium-sized amphitheater located near Universal Studios Hollywood. It is a very popular venue for concerts and is my favorite location to see shows in Los Angeles. Aside from all the shows and festivals that the Hollywood Bowl offers, there are free self-tours of the amphitheater and a two-level museum providing a historical context for the venue. The self-guided tour and museum are free with free parking, but please remember that you can only do the tour and museum when the Hollywood Bowl is not in use. 

The Paramount Studio Tour

Many people don’t know that there is more than one studio tour in Los Angeles, but there is. In fact, there are five: the Universal Studio Tour, Sony Pictures Studio Tour, Disney Studio Tours, Warner Brothers Studio Tour, and Paramount Studio Tour. The Paramount Studio Tours are on the cheaper side (when compared to the others) starting at  $65.00 / €59.37 per person. They are offered every day and offer comprehensive knowledge of Paramount Studios. I did this tour when I was younger and thought it was so cool to see movie studios. This iconic show Friends, filmed the intro at this studio at the fountain.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery

The Hollywood Forever Cemetery could be seen as a very morbid destination to visit, but there is a reason why so many tourists walk its quiet campus. Very popular names are buried here, and many fans come to pay their respects. Icons like Mel Blanc, Mickey Rooney, and Judy Garland are all laid to rest here. Please remember that this place is still a cemetery, so be respectful of all that are buried here.

Hike in Runyon Canyon

Runyon Canyon is a grade-A hiking spot located less than a 20-minute walk from the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Runyon Canyon is very popular among tourists and locals so you will always see people getting some exercise. The canyon is easily accessible via North Fuller Avenue. On clear days, you can get great views of Griffith Park, Downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica, the Hollywood Sign, the Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 

This is one of the few areas that allow dogs on the trails. It’s great that dogs can enjoy the trial. But watch your step because there is a lot of dog poop due to careless owners not cleaning up after their dogs. Many of the trails are well-made and wide, however, some others are very narrow and steep. Watch your step while you descend as it is easy to slip and fall on the smooth rock and sand. This short hike is perfect for those not wanting to go far for some excellent hiking.

Parking is free, if you can find a spot. You can park anywhere around North Fuller Avenue, but spots are scarce. Please make sure you are paying attention to street signs. You can get ticketed and towed. I found two-hour parking on Franklin Avenue, so make sure you drive around or get there early.

Hike Up to the Hollywood Sign

Also, a popular activity near Hollywood is hiking to the Hollywood Sign. Interestingly enough, the Hollywood Sign is not located in Hollywood but rather a bit north in the nearby Griffith Park. Hiking to the Hollywood Sign is on most people’s L.A. itinerary, and for good reason. Not only is hiking to the sign a good form of exercise but you are rewarded with great views of Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles. To learn more about hiking to the Hollywood Sign, click here to go to the “How to Hike to the Hollywood Sign” blog post.

• West Hollywood

Walk Around the Grove

The Grove is a high-end shopping area in Los Angeles, and it’s located about seven minutes south of West Hollywood. The Grove is home to high-end dining and shopping and is a great place to walk around and enjoy the fountain display and ride around in the free trolley. The Original Farmers Market (discussed below) is located next door and is easily connected.

The Original Farmers Market

The Original Farmers Market has been around since 1934. It has an array of eateries and gourmet grocers to choose from. There are stores where you can purchase Texas-style BBQ, gourmet pickles, and a booth with nothing but candy! The Original Farmers Market makes an excellent place for lunch or an early dinner and is worth a visit.

Partake in the Nightlife

West Hollywood is known as the “gay capital” of Los Angeles. The area is adorned with pride flags and is very intertwined with the LGBT community. The area is fun to walk around during the day, but at night is when the area really comes alive. There are bars and clubs that bring a lively atmosphere full of fun and dancing. Remember, you need to be 21 years old to drink in the United States.

Walk Alongside the Sunset Strip

Sunset Strip is a very popular walkway in West Hollywood. The Sunset Strip is a small part of the much longer Sunset Boulevard and offers shopping, restaurants, and good vibes. This is a good spot to walk around and enjoy the views and energy while burning off some great food.

Visit the Holocaust Museum L.A.

Located right next to the Grove and the Original Farmer’s Market, this museum is aimed at discussing the Nazi’s atrocities during World War II. The Holocaust Museum L.A. is the first survivor-founded and oldest Holocaust museum in the United States, being opened in 1961. This museum is very important and well laid out. Please keep in mind that much of the subject discussed is very heavy and should be anticipated before visiting. 

Visit the Greystone Mansion

In 1976, the Greystone Mansion and Gardens was listed as of historical importance in Los Angeles. The mansion has been used in many Hollywood movies and is a gorgeous place to relax and take in the beautiful mansion and surrounding gardens. The mansion is not in West Hollywood, but a short 5-minute drive from it. There is parking on-site, and it is free. The grounds are open daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. / 10:00–17:00 but may be closed during holidays and other important dates. Please note, that you cannot enter the mansion unless you are attending a special event.

Visit Beverly Hills

Located about 10 minutes away from West Hollywood is Beverly Hills. The area is synonymous with fine dining, shopping, and celebrities. Beverly Hills is home to luxury shopping. You can find all major luxury designer stores like Cartier, Louis Vuitton, and Prada alongside the main walkway. There are also nice Instagram spots and a surprisingly good museum at the Mr. Brainwash Art Museum. If you want more information about safety in Los Angeles, click here to go to the “Complete Guide to Beverly Hills” blog post.

Walk Miracle Mile

Miracle Mile is a small part of Los Angeles located about 9 minutes south of West Hollywood. Miracle Mile is famous for their four well-known museums (discussed in detail below). In no particular order, the museums found in Miracle Mile are:

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Opened in 1961, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the biggest museum in California and the largest art museum on the entire west coast. The size of this museum is not to be underestimated. There are three floors of sculptures, galleries, and art pieces. My favorite part of the museum was the Arab section, which had a replica of a Moroccan-decorated room.

 I will say, that if you are not into art, I wouldn’t recommend you purchase a ticket to go inside since it truly is an art museum in that respect. You can walk around outside and free sculptures and art displays. The outside section, which is free, is where you will find the Instagram famous ‘Urban Lights’ public artwork.

The LACMA does offer parking at the Pritzker Parking Garage for $21.00 / €19.56. However, I would recommend you park at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum (discussed below) parking lot, located right next door. It costs $18.00 / €16.76 for all-day parking. It is a short 5-10 minute walk but is a nice walk as you get to see the infamous tar pits.

The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is one of the best museums in the city. The actual museum is located on active tar pits. These tar pits are the very same ones that mastodons and smilodons were stuck in. And as you’re walking around, you can see archeologists excavating the tar pits and cleaning bones! There are five fenced-in pits around the area, and they are all free to explore. Everything outside is free to enjoy as well and provides a nice walk and lovely scenery.

The museum itself is well done, informative, interactive, and very interesting. It discusses the animals that inhabited the area 50,000 years ago, with complete fossils and accurate replicas. There is on-site parking (some of the best in the area). It costs $18.00 / €16.76 for all-day parking and is right next to the museum. 

The Peterson Automotive Museum

Opened in 1994, the Peterson displays almost any car you can think of. They have old and new, but most impressively, they have dozens of famous cars used in Hollywood movies. They have the Mystery Machine from Scooby-Doo, the Batmobile, and even the Terminator bike. If you are a car fanatic or a fan of classic movies, this is a cool museum to wander around in. The Peterson has the best parking in the area if you are visiting the museum. It costs $17.00 / €15.86 with museum validation. You can use this as a base for the area and visit other museums or points of interest in the area. 

The Academy of Motion Pictures Museum

Now, this is a museum you know belongs in L.A. The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a museum that highlights the Academy Awards that take place in the Dolby Theater on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This is a new museum opening in 2021 and features three levels of amazing exhibits all centered around cinema. One of my favorite sections was an exhibit focusing on the Academy Awards’ most memorable acceptance speeches. I stood there for almost 40 minutes, listening to everyone’s speeches. There is also an Oscars Experience where you can hold an actual Academy Award at an additional cost.

There is also a fun exhibit where you can see costumes used in dozens of movies, including Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Aliens, and Edward Scissorhands. Upon your ascent up the museum, you cross the Barbra Streisand Bridge to reach a wonderful open area with great views of Los Angeles. This museum does not offer on-site parking so, I’d recommend you use the La Brea Tar Pits Parking located nearby. It costs $18.00 / €16.76 for all-day parking and is a 15-20 minute walk.

The Holocaust Museum L.A., LACMA, La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, and the Academy of Motion Pictures Museum all utilize an app called Bloomberg Connects. This free app has online museum guides that can give you a somewhat virtual tour and help guide you throughout the museum. Bloomberg Connects has online guides for 20 institutions in Los Angeles. The app also has almost every major language. Click here to go to the Bloomberg Connects website to learn more and download the app for both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

What and Where to Eat in Hollywood

Hollywood does not run out of places to eat. In terms of eating out, I would recommend you stay away from North Hollywood and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. North Hollywood only offers a little in terms of cuisine and is only used for its metro station. And the Hollywood Walk of Fame can be a tourist trap when it comes to cuisine. There are plenty of other eating establishments that will provide some great eats. In no particular order, here are a few recommendations that I have eaten at or some of my friends have given great reviews.

Jitalda Restaurant (Thai)

Jitalda Restaurant is one of the best Thai restaurants I’ve ever had. It is located in East Hollywood in Thai Town. The dishes are beautifully plated and full of flavor. Keep in mind that Thai food can be a bit spicy, but so good.

Superba Food + Bread (American)

Superba Food + Bread is an amazing place for breakfast or brunch. Their food is so good and personally recommend Paul’s “Big Boy” Breakfast. There are a few locations around Los Angeles so make sure you are heading to the right location. I have not tried the other locations, but the one in Hollywood is good.

Cecconi’s West Hollywood (Italian)

I have not been to this restaurant, but a friend of mine has gone, and said they had excellent pasta. This place is a little pricey, but its menu looks fantastic and full of flavorful options.

Pink’s Hot Dogs (American)

Pink’s is very popular among Angelenos. They are very simplistic with what they offer, with hot dogs and chili cheese dogs being their most popular. It’s simple but delicious.

Roscoe’s (Chicken & Waffles)

Roscoe’s is an institution in Los Angeles and one of the most popular restaurants in the city. Roscoe’s is known for one thing, chicken and waffles. This place has the most succulent waffles paired with whipped butter and crispy fried chicken. Roscoe’s is a must-try on your visit to L.A.

Salt & Straw (Ice Cream)

Salt and Straw is an amazing local ice cream place that sells gourmet ice cream and weirdly unique flavors. There are a few around the Los Angeles area, but there is one located in West Hollywood. When I went during summer, they had an Earl Grey and Blueberry ice cream that was divine.

Original Farmer’s Market (Varying)

I know this place was discussed previously, but it is worth another mention. There are so many places to try from pies to pickles. I also had an excellent Texas-style BBQ while there. Not to mention you can walk off all that food at the nearby Grove. 

General Tips About Visiting Hollywood 

Hollywood is such a large and famous part of L.A. that it does come with its own set of tips. The area is home to notable sights and institutions, vibrant energy and so much to do. However, some more serious things about Hollywood need to be addressed. In no particular order, here are some tips about Hollywood.

Tourist Scams/Rip-Offs

Unfortunately, Hollywood is ground zero for scams and rip-offs. The high volume of tourists makes it a prime destination for scammers. Most of these scams are normally found on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but they can be encountered throughout Hollywood and at times even West Hollywood. Organized from most to least common, here are the most popular scams and rip-offs in Hollywood.

– Characters

Characters sound so ambiguous right? Well, let me explain. Primarily around the Hollywood Walk of Fame, you will see individuals dressed up as popular characters or celebrities. They will approach you and tell you very kindly and enthusiastically to take a picture with them as a memento. What they won’t tell you, is you have to pay them. And if you do not pay them, they will yell at you and make a big scene so you cough up cash. I’ve seen some people demand more than $40.00 / €37.08 for a couple of pictures! 

If you want to take a picture with a discount Mickey Mouse or Captain Jack Sparrow, discuss a price before the picture so they do not demand an insane amount of cash for the picture. These characters are also found in New York City and Las Vegas, but I feel as if they run a little more freely in Los Angeles.

– CD Guys

The CD Guys are not people looking for their big break, usually. They are individuals looking to again, scam you. The idea is that as you are walking, groups usually comprised of men, will approach you with a CD so you can listen to their good music. They will ask “Do you like rap or rock music?” or “Do you support local artists?” and give you a CD making you assume it’s free. Well, it’s not. They then start shouting and demanding you pay for their CD. They will try to raise the price of the CD, but if you find yourself in this scenario you can leave the CD either with the person harassing you or on the floor and walk away. DO NOT take the CD. You will be wasting your money as in some scenarios the CDs are blank or contain badly recorded songs on them.

– Discount Tickets

Groups of men will approach you saying they have “discounted tickets” for everything. Disneyland, The L.A. Zoo, Aquarium of the Pacific, sporting games, you name it, they claim to have it. Please do not buy these tickets as they will be fake, and you will not be granted entry to your desired destination. Only get tickets on the official website or at the box office.

– Monks

There will be individuals dressed up as monks handing out what appears to be hand-woven bracelets. They will kindly wrap a bracelet around your wrist, saying it resembles love, fertility, luck, etc. As you walk away, they will ask for some money as a donation for a fake temple. They can be a bit pushy, but I think they rely on their monk robes for sympathy. If a “monk” (not a monk) starts putting anything on you, kindly say no and walk away.

As intimidating as these scams may be, they are all avoidable if you pay attention and use your judgment. Do not assume anything is free. Hopefully, these tips decrease your chances of getting ripped off or scammed while in Hollywood. Be aware and if anything seems a little off, just say no and walk away. 

Traffic

It has been said many times, but Los Angeles is known for having bad traffic, and Hollywood has some of the worst traffic in L.A. North Hollywood is the only one not inundated by traffic during most of the day. However, Hollywood, East Hollywood, and West Hollywood all see their fair share of traffic jams. Since there are so many pedestrians, the area is always busy with cars. If you drive be sure to factor in some traffic time.

Smells

Los Angeles is not the cleanest city in the United States, so as you are walking around Hollywood (especially the Hollywood Walk of Fame) you will undoubtedly smell something not so pleasant. Some of the most common odors you will smell are garbage, vomit, urine, and feces. There are a lot of dogs in Los Angeles, but there are also a lot of homeless individuals, so you never know where the pee and poop are coming from. Watch your step and the smells shouldn’t last too long.

The Homeless

Unfortunately, Los Angeles is going through a homeless crisis at the current moment. I’m not going to discuss why, but I mention it because you will see it on your trip to Hollywood. You may see many makeshift shelters and tents where the homeless sleep. These shelters are found throughout the strip and city and seem to be everywhere. They also panhandle a lot, and it is not uncommon for many homeless people to have dogs. I always advise if you want to give them something, give them something that is not straight money. Food, water, or even dog food are good options since you don’t know what that money will be used for.

Some people who live on the streets are addicts and/or mentally unstable individuals, and although they keep to themselves on most occasions, they can cause some trouble and discomfort. It is not uncommon to hear them yell into the sky, or move erratically, so just ignore their shouts and if they make you uncomfortable, walk to the other side of the street or turn around. Not all homeless are bad people. I have noticed an improvement in homelessness in the area. However, I think it is just preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympic Games that will take place in Los Angeles. So hopefully, the improvement stays.

Wildlife While Hiking in Runyon Canyon 

While hiking some of the mountains north of Hollywood, you may encounter some of its wildlife. The wildlife is not going to be as abundant as in Denali or Great Smokey Mountains National Parks, but it is far from barren. This section will go into the flora and fauna that you may encounter hiking in Runyon Canyon.

• Insects

Insects exist everywhere on Earth, except Antarctica. There are three that are best known for their ability to transmit some nasty diseases: fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks. All three are in and/or Runyon Canyon but the diseases they transmit are not common in the area.

• Rattlesnakes

The most common animal that can cause harm while hiking in Los Angeles in general is rattlesnakes. They are most commonly found in shaded areas. There are seven different species of rattlesnakes in southern California. Although they can be fatal if bitten, the good news is that they have a rattle to let you know you are getting too close. They also hide during the day to avoid the sun. If you are bitten, do not constrict the area or try and suck out the venom. 

Remain calm and call 911. Rattlesnakes are not the only snakes in the area but are the only deadly ones in the area. One piece of advice I can give you is to stick to the trails. Rattlesnakes only go on the trail to cross from one side to the other since there is no shade. For more information, click here to go to the official University of California, Davis Health website.

• Coyotes

Coyotes are small canines related to dogs and wolves. They rarely approach, let alone, attack humans. They are often found in groups and can be seen all around the mountains and around the city. Coyotes do not pose a threat but in some instances, transit rabies, so keep a safe distance and you will be fine. 

• Bobcats

Bobcats are a species of feline that resembles a large house cat. They are much bigger than your average house cat and can be territorial, and aggressive. However, they stick to themselves and rarely confront humans. If you see one, clap loudly and create noise to scare them off. 

• Mountain Lions

Mountain Lions are the most intimidating animals in the area, but also the most elusive. Sometimes referred to as pumas, cougars, and panthers, mountain lions are the apex predators in the areas and are found in the Angeles National Forest and the Santa Monica Mountains near Runyon Canyon. Sightings are rare, and there has never been a recorded attack on a human in Los Angeles.  If you see a mountain lion, wave your hands above your head and make noise so they get frightened and leave your area.

Drinking

With the number of bars and clubs that West Hollywood has, drinking is something you may encounter and may partake in. So why is this on the list? Well, the drinking age in the United States is 21 years old. NO exceptions will be made. I do understand that much of the world has a drinking age of 19 years old or younger (if drinking is legal), but the United States has stood strong at keeping it at 21. If you’re under this age and look under the age of ~45 years old, you will be asked to show your ID. It is U.S. law and heavily enforced in California. You also cannot walk around in public with alcohol, which can result in a ticket or worse. Keep your drinks at the bar and in the establishment.

DO NOT drive under the influence of anything (alcohol, marijuana, etc.). This is called a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and it is a big deal in the United States. You can get a fine of up to $1,000.00 / €927.07, suspension of your license, and possibly jail time. If you are drinking, use a ride-share app or have a designated driver (dd) ready to take you home. Lastly, you cannot walk around the city or drive with open bottles of alcohol. If you are drinking, keep it in the building or at the bar.

For more general tips about visiting Los Angeles, click here to go to the “Traveling to Los Angeles General Tips” blog post.

Conclusion

This has been a comprehensive and detailed list of everything regarding Hollywood including where to stay, how to get around, what and where to eat, safety, general tips, and what to do. Have you visited all four Hollywoods? If so, Which was your favorite and why? Would you return? If you have any questions, suggestions, or comments, feel free to post them below. Also, please check out blog posts related to Los Angeles below, or go back to the Los Angeles page to learn more about traveling to L.A.