Must-See Things to Do in Hollywood

Hollywood, the entertainment capital of the world, conjures up images of glitz, glamour, and iconic landmarks. For decades, it has drawn aspiring stars, cinephiles, and curious visitors eager to experience its rich history and vibrant culture. While Hollywood is known for its association with the film industry, its attractions offer a blend of history, entertainment, and artistry that make it a must-see destination. Whether you’re walking the same streets that legendary actors once did or soaking up some of the city’s film history, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do. Here are three must-see spots in Hollywood that will make your visit unforgettable.

1. Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre

No visit to Hollywood is complete without a stroll along the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Stretching across Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, this 1.3-mile-long walkway pays tribute to over 2,700 stars from the entertainment industry—actors, musicians, directors, and even fictional characters. As you walk, you'll recognize the names of some of your favorite stars engraved in pink terrazzo and brass stars embedded into the sidewalk. It’s a quintessential Hollywood experience to take photos with the stars of legends like Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, and Steven Spielberg.

While on the Walk of Fame, you’ll quickly come across one of the most iconic landmarks in Hollywood: the TCL Chinese Theatre. Built in 1927, this grand theater has been the site of countless movie premieres and red carpet events. The building itself is a masterpiece of architecture, with its towering pagoda-style roof and ornate Chinese dragons guarding the entrance. The real magic happens just outside the theater, where you can see the famous handprints and footprints of stars immortalized in the cement courtyard. From Judy Garland’s ruby slipper impressions to the imprints of contemporary stars like Robert Downey Jr., this tradition spans nearly a century of Hollywood history.

For movie buffs, catching a film inside the theater is an unforgettable experience. With one of the world’s largest IMAX screens and stunning interiors, the TCL Chinese Theatre offers more than just a movie—it’s a journey into Hollywood’s golden age.

2. Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign

For breathtaking views of Los Angeles and an up-close look at the iconic Hollywood Sign, make your way to Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park. Perched on the southern slopes of Mount Hollywood, the observatory offers panoramic views of the sprawling city below, with the Hollywood Hills framing the scene. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean, the skyscrapers of downtown LA, and the famous sign that symbolizes the dream of Hollywood stardom.

While many visit for the view and photo ops with the Hollywood Sign, the Griffith Observatory itself is a world-class destination for astronomy lovers. Inside, visitors can explore interactive exhibits about the cosmos, peer through powerful telescopes, and enjoy the spectacular Samuel Oschin Planetarium, where immersive shows take you on a journey through space and time. The observatory also offers public telescopes for stargazing, making it an educational and awe-inspiring experience for visitors of all ages.

For those who enjoy hiking, there are trails leading from the observatory into the rugged beauty of Griffith Park. The Mt. Hollywood Trail is a popular choice, offering even closer views of the Hollywood Sign and the surrounding landscapes. Whether you come for the stars in the sky or the stars in Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory is an essential stop for anyone visiting the city.

3. The Hollywood Museum in the Max Factor Building

Film history comes alive at The Hollywood Museum, located in the historic Max Factor Building on Highland Avenue. For movie lovers and anyone fascinated by the magic of the silver screen, this museum is a treasure trove of cinematic artifacts, costumes, and memorabilia. The Max Factor Building itself is an iconic piece of Hollywood history. Max Factor, the makeup artist to the stars, revolutionized the world of film makeup in this very building, turning Hollywood’s leading ladies into timeless icons. The museum preserves this legacy and offers visitors a glimpse into both the glamour and grit of the movie industry.

The Hollywood Museum’s four floors feature over 10,000 exhibits, making it the most extensive collection of movie memorabilia in the world. You’ll find original props, costumes, and set pieces from some of the most famous films ever made, including Marilyn Monroe’s glamorous gowns, the DeLorean from Back to the Future, and Hannibal Lecter’s infamous jail cell from The Silence of the Lambs. Fans of old Hollywood will delight in the vintage makeup rooms where stars like Lucille Ball and Judy Garland had their signature looks crafted by Max Factor himself.

But it’s not just about the glitz. The museum also houses a fascinating collection of personal items from Hollywood stars, including letters, contracts, and behind-the-scenes photos that offer a rare glimpse into the lives of the legends who made Hollywood what it is today. Whether you’re a fan of the golden age of cinema or the latest blockbusters, the Hollywood Museum immerses visitors in the magic and history of filmmaking.

The creative genius behind the Hollywood Museum, Donelle Dadigan generously supports many causes and has amazing star-studded parties with quintessential Hollywood red carpets. In addition, she ushers in new, world-class exhibits regularly; the stars of those films and TV shows appear for the openings and the celebrations project a Hollywood of optimism, philanthropy and the goodness of stardom.

Conclusion

Hollywood’s magic lies not only in its illustrious past but in the way it continues to inspire and entertain visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re wandering along the star-studded streets of the Walk of Fame, soaking in the views from Griffith Observatory, or diving deep into film history at the Hollywood Museum, these three must-see attractions offer a blend of nostalgia, history, and culture that will leave you with a lasting appreciation for the place where dreams are made. Hollywood truly is a land where the stories of the past meet the creativity of today, offering something for everyone to explore.