LA Locals Love: 5 Stops to Make in Hollywood

Let’s head out to Hollywood to play tourists! Whether us locals like to admit it or not, our city runs on the tourism industry and we are thankful for it. There are endless possibilities of things to do and see. We are always discovering new things in our very own city right here in Los Angeles. Even the locals have to play tourists sometime in the City of Angels. If you have a day free and want to explore the world famous Hollywood Blvd strip, here are 5 stops that will be worth visiting within a short amount of time.

1. El Capitan Theatre –Watching a movie at this restored elegant 1920’s theatre is a must-do for locals and tourists alike! The El Capitan Theatre, declared a Historic Cultural Monument by the City of Los Angeles, is a hot spot for movie premiers and special events. So much love was put into this movie theatre to bring back the Hollywood glamour to all the guests. Be transported back to the time where Marilyn Monroe was the talk of the town. You can’t leave Hollywood without catching a movie in the heart of the city where the film industry started!

Address:  6838 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Hours:Hours varies depending on events and showtimes.

2. TCL Chinese Theatre / Formerly known as Grauman’s Chinese Theatre – The TCL Chinese Theatre is in the heart of it all. This iconic theatre is the site for many imprint festivals, movie premiers, and film festivals. The TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX screen experience is unparalleled, boasting to be the world’s largest IMAX auditorium. Step into the foot steps of a Hollywood legend, literally!

Address: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028

Hours: Monday- Sunday: 8am – 12:00am

3. Hollywood Walk of Fame –The Hollywood Walk of Fame is steps away from the TCL Chinese Theatre and equally as popular. On this busy sidewalk, many street performers, artists, and impersonators are all there for your entertainment! Where else are you going to find Superman, Batman, and Spiderman hanging out together?  At any time of the day, you will see many tourists walking along Hollywood Blvd, seeking out their favorite celebrity’s star and snapping a selfie for keepsake. For us locals, it’s still exciting to come across a star that brings back a memory of our very first time exploring this bustling tourist destination.

Address:  6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
Hours: Open 24 hours

4. Shake Shack –I am so happy that there’s a Shake Shack in Los Angeles now! This should be your stop for a lunch break. This popular east coast burger joint has been all the rage and there’s one finally on Hollywood Blvd. The burger patties are made with 100% all natural, no hormones or antibiotics, Angus beef. Don’t worry, they serve chicken burger and hot dogs as well if you don’t feel like having a burger. I’m definitely all about quality over quantity and this place delivers just that! Since it was my first time at Shake Shack, I stuck to the most basic burger, the Shack Burger (so flavorful!), and went nuts with the crinkle fries. I’m all for bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce on my fries! What really stuck out to me when I arrived there was how you can build your own shake and they serve beer and wine. The options at Shake Shack are deliciously fantastic! Bonus: They have treats for dogs!

Address:  6201 Hollywood Blvd #104, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11:00am-11:00p

5. Amoeba Music – Amoeba Music is named the ‘World’s Largest Independent Record Store.’  Just a short walk away from the main Hollywood strip, this eclectic two-story record shop is a music lover’s dream come true! The store sell used records, Cds, Dvds, books, and fun music themed gifts. It’s the perfect place to hunt for rare or used records and find quirky souvenirs to take back home. Stop by and  get lost for a while before getting back out to the craziness of Hollywood.

Address:6400 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Hours:Monday-Saturday: 10:30am-11:00pm Sunday: 11:00am-10:30pm

Parking Tip:Theparkingsituation in Hollywood can be tricky since there are so many and they are all competitively priced. I would suggest picking a parking lot or parking structure that’s closest to your point of interest. Don’t forget to bring cash just in case some parking lots are cash only. Parking can range from $10-$25. From there, explore the area by foot!  The places that are on this list are all walkable and there are sure to be many interesting discoveries along the way. 

I hope this mini guide will help you navigate your day trip to Hollywood. Be sure to enjoy getting into character as a tourist! Hollywood is a magical place full of interesting characters, history, and endless entertainment. I’d love your recommended stops in Hollywood as well, so please share with us! 

Your LA Friend,

Wendy

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