If you’re looking to explore Hollywood beyond just the tourist traps and star-sightings, you’re in luck. There are plenty of things to do in Hollywood that most visitors never get to see, and in this blog post, we’re spilling the beans on what they are. So read on and find out about five of Hollywood’s best kept secrets! From hidden gems and quirky attractions, to outdoor activities and family fun – we’ve got you covered.
What is there to do in Hollywood?
Hollywood is, understandably, one of the United States’ number one tourist attractions, and it’s not hard to see why. The home of the American film industry offers visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of their favorite movie stars, visit iconic filming locations, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a celebrity or two. After all, Hollywood is where the magic happens.
But what about those visitors who want to experience something a little different? If you’re looking for things to do in Hollywood that are a little off the beaten path, never fear – we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring five of Hollywood’s best kept secrets, from hidden gems
Common tourist attractions
First, let’s check some of the things to do in Hollywood that are already pretty popular among tourists. If you’ve visited Hollywood before, or if you’re already on the second or third day of your visit, then there’s a good chance you’ve already ticked some of these things off your list.
Nevertheless, they’re definitely worth mentioning before we get into the hidden gems:
- Spot Celebrities On A Bus Tour: This one is the first on our list (we may be a little bit biased here!). Booking a spot on a Hollywood bus tour is one of the best ways to see the sights and sounds of Hollywood, while also getting a chance to spot some celebrities along the way.
- The Hollywood Walk of Fame: This one is pretty hard to miss – after all, it’s right there in the name. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a mile-long stretch of pavement with over 2500 stars, each one honoring a different celebrity. It’s a great place to take a walk, people watch, and maybe even spot a celebrity or two.
- The Hollywood Sign: Another iconic Hollywood landmark, the Hollywood Sign is one of the most popular things to see in Los Angeles. Originally erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a housing development, the sign has become one of the world’s most recognizable symbols.
- The LA Farmer’s Market: Are you a foodie? If you are, then you’ll love the LA Farmer’s Market. This open-air market is packed with stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food from all over the world. There, you can find donuts, pizza, Brazillian BBQ, and much, much more.
- Visit Universal Studios: Universal Studios is one of the most popular things to do in Los Angeles for families and movie buffs alike. This theme park offers rides, shows, and attractions based on some of your favorite movies and TV shows.
- Walk down Hollywood Boulevard: There are so many things to see and do along Hollywood Boulevard, it’s hard to know where to start. This historic street is home to the TCL Chinese Theatre, the Dolby Theatre (where the Oscars are held), and numerous other iconic Hollywood landmarks.
As you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in Hollywood – even if you only stick to the tourist attractions. But where’s the fun in that? If you’re looking for something a little different, read on for our five best kept secrets.
Hidden gems in Hollywood, CA
Now that we’ve covered some of the things to do in Hollywood that are already pretty popular among tourists, it’s time to get into the good stuff! Here are our top picks for things to do in Hollywood that are a little bit off the beaten path:
Visit The Hollywood Forever Cemetery!
The Hollywood Forever Cemetery is one of the most unique things to see in Los Angeles. This cemetery is the final resting place of some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Rudolph Valentino, Jayne Mansfield, and Mickey Rooney. It’s also a great place to see the Hollywood Sign up close.
Have a drink at a 1920’s speakeasy!
Adults Only Nightclub is a 1920’s themed speakeasy that will transport you back in time. This hidden gem is hidden behind an inconspicuous strip mall located on Sunset Boulevard and La Brea Avenue. If you can make your way in, you’re in for a treat – there’s live music and dancing, as well as a full bar serving up classic cocktails.
Have dinner with Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe!
Old-time celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Audrey Hepburn never really left Hollywood – their legacy still lingers in famous landmarks where they used to frequent in life, including the Musso & Frank Grill. This Hollywood institution has been serving up classic American cuisine since 1919, and it’s still one of the best places to get a steak in Los Angeles.
Go horseback riding in the hills!
Ever wanted to go horseback riding in the Hollywood Hills? Well, now you can! Sunset Ranch offers trail rides through some of the most beautiful scenery in Los Angeles. This is a great activity for nature lovers and city slickers alike.
Scare yourself at the Hollywood Museum of Death!
Are you prepared to come face to face with your own mortality? Try your hand at the Hollywood Museum of Death, where you can see artifacts and exhibits related to famous deaths, murders, and accidents. This is definitely not for the faint of heart, so maybe leave the kids at home for this one. The Hollywood Museum of Death is definitely a “locals-only” attraction, but it’s well-worth a visit if you’re looking for something a little bit different.
More fun things to do in Hollywood, California…
That’s our list! We hope you enjoy exploring some of these lesser-known things to do in Hollywood. As always, if you have any questions or need help planning your trip, our team at Hollywood Bus Tours is here to help.
If you’re looking for more tourist-y things to do in Hollywood, head on over to our 40 Fun Things To Do In Hollywood, CA article, where we’ve compiled a list of things to do in Hollywood that are popular among tourists.
Happy exploring!
