Families, couples, and groups of friends will find an array of fun things to do in Hollywood, California. This iconic and diverse location offers much more than just glitz and glamor, making it a must for any group visiting Los Angeles.
Beyond the iconic landmarks and tourist hotspots lies a vibrant range of experiences waiting to be discovered. Scratching the surface of LA's most famous neighborhood will reveal a world of fun activities to make your time there unforgettable.
1. Visit the Iconic Hollywood Bowl
2301 Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
The Hollywood Bowl is an iconic outdoor amphitheater that offers a truly magical experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone spending a day in Hollywood. Surrounded by the Hollywood Hills, the Bowl provides a stunning natural setting for concerts and performances.
Catching a show at the Bowl is one of the best group birthday activities in Los Angeles and is bound to check off one of your LA bucket list items. However, you can still enjoy its surroundings even on days with no show. Exploring the public park that surrounds it with a picnic offers the ultimate chilled afternoon in Hollywood as you kick back with food, drink, and great company.
2. Quest Room
5517 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038, United States
Quest Room is LA's leading escape room specialist, with our Hollywood location just one of four pulsating sites across the city. Quest Room Hollywood offers the ultimate mix of escape rooms for groups of all ages and tastes, from the terrifying PROJECT: MINOTAUR to the thrilling Cannibal's Den 2.0.
Groups looking for a fun and light-hearted experience will love our family-friendly game Red Giant, a heart-pounding race against time where only the most cunning and courageous will get out to tell the tale. The game transports you to Egypt, where you've come seeking the Red Giant, a ruby of unparalleled value. However, you'll soon discover the pyramid is a deadly trap. With your oxygen supply rapidly depleting, you have just 60 minutes to navigate its treacherous chambers, solve its ancient puzzles, and escape with the prize.
Alternatively, adult groups will love the intriguing mystery Perfumer. In this game, set in the heart of 18th-century France, a dark secret lingers. The world's most renowned perfumer, a killer in disguise, sought to create the "Perfect Perfume," a scent to control all. Now, you must brave his condemned workshop, unravel his cryptic formulas, and forge this legendary fragrance for yourselves. But be warned, the air is thick with danger, and the authorities are on your trail. Can you master the art of scent and escape with the ultimate power?
Escape rooms are one of the best things to do on a rainy day in Los Angeles or even a perfect chance to escape the intense LA summer heat! Head to one of Hollywood's eclectic range of bars and restaurants after your game for a perfect, fun-filled Hollywood plan.
3. Universal Studios Hollywood
100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Universal Studios Hollywood is a theme park and a place where movie magic comes to life. Visitors will step into the worlds of their favorite films and television shows, from the wizarding wonders of Harry Potter to adrenaline-pumping rides inspired by blockbuster franchises like Jurassic Park and Transformers.
The park offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. The studio tour, a highlight of the experience, provides a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art of filmmaking. Admire iconic film sets and wonder at special effects demonstrations and even encounters with legendary creatures. This blend of thrilling rides, immersive experiences, and educational insights makes Universal Studios Hollywood a truly unforgettable adventure.
Beyond the rides, Universal Studios Hollywood is a vibrant and fun-filled park that captures the essence of Hollywood's entertainment industry. Its themed lands are meticulously designed to transport visitors to different cinematic worlds, creating a sense of wonder and excitement for visitors of all ages.
4. Hit the Sunset Strip
The Sunset Strip pulsates with an electric energy, offering a winning blend of rock 'n' roll history, vibrant nightlife, and iconic landmarks, making it a quintessential West Hollywood experience. Take in legendary music venues like the Whisky a Go Go and the Viper Room, where rock legends have graced the stage, to trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques.
The Strip is charged with a rebellious spirit and sense of timeless cool that draws locals and tourists alike. Whether you're catching a live show, enjoying a cocktail at a rooftop bar, or simply soaking in the iconic neon signs and street art, the Sunset Strip promises an unforgettable night of entertainment and a taste of Hollywood's legendary rock 'n' roll legacy.
While you're here, pay tribute to your favorite rock acts at the Rainbow Bar & Grill. Out front, you'll find bricks with the names and logos of historic rock bands from Queen to Bob Dylan. Inside, Motörhead fans will love the bronze bust of Lemmy, a Rainbow regular for years.
5. Take the Warner Brothers Studio Tour
3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505
The Warner Bros Studio Tour is one of the coolest and most fun plans in Hollywood. The tour takes in many famous film locations to see where some of your favorite movies or series were filmed. You'll even learn some fascinating tidbits about the movie-making process and how the studios operate. This is the ultimate thrill for mega fans of Friends, The Big Bang Theory, or Batman, who will be taken behind the scenes to the locations of their favorite sets.
6. Get Starstruck at the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028
A day in Hollywood wouldn’t be complete without a walk along Hollywood Boulevard to check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This iconic tribute to the Hollywood greats through the years is your chance to spot your favorite stars while reveling in the unique atmosphere along the Walk. Fun is guaranteed as you enjoy street entertainers, music, and the unique characters along the Walk.
Where to See Real Stars in Hollywood
Runyon Canyon Park is an excellent spot to catch celebs hiking, walking their dogs, or escaping the stress of the city. Otherwise, extend your radius a little further and head toward Beverly Hills or Rodeo Drive for a chance to bump into a familiar face.
7. Hike Griffith Park
Griffith Park offers a unique escape from the urban intensity of Hollywood, providing a sprawling oasis of natural beauty and recreational activities. It's a place where you can trade the crowded sidewalks for hiking trails that wind through rugged hills while taking in breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and the famous Hollywood Sign. This park is an oasis for visitors seeking respite from the hustle and the perfect setting for a picnic or lazy afternoon after your hike.
The park is also home to a collection of cultural and educational attractions that make it a compelling destination for adults. The Griffith Observatory provides an awe-inspiring experience with its planetarium shows, astronomical exhibits, and stunning views of the cosmos. The park is also home to the Los Angeles Zoo, the Autry Museum of the American West, and the Greek Theatre.
Take Advantage of the DASH Observatory/Los Feliz Shuttle
Groups with limited mobility (or limited will!) to hike their way to the top can take the DASH Observatory/Los Feliz shuttle. It’s also a perfect way to avoid the heavy congestion and parking problems in the summer months. The bus service runs from 10 am - 10 pm every day, with the last bus leaving from Griffith Observatory at 10 pm.
8. Horseback Ride to the Hollywood Sign
Most groups will admire the iconic Hollywood sign during a hike or simply look at it from afar. Those who wish to see it at closer quarters can head to the base of LA's most famous landmark on horseback. The stunning route up to the sign allows you to take in unmissable vistas of the sprawling LA Basin and other unforgettable scenic LA views.
9. Get Theatrical at Pantages Theatre
6233 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Hollywood isn't only for movie buffs; it's also the place to be for dedicated thespians! One of the best plans for theater lovers is watching a play at the Pantages Theatre, famous for hosting some of the biggest Broadway shows.
The theater puts on a number of different shows throughout the year. Be sure to get your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
10. Runyon Canyon Park
Runyon Canyon Park provides a quintessential Hollywood experience. The park's well-maintained trails offer varying levels of difficulty, making it accessible to both casual strollers and avid hikers. As you ascend the canyon, you're rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Los Angeles skyline, the Hollywood Sign, and the surrounding hills. Take plenty of water and a camera to complete this iconic Hollywood plan.
Other Top Hollywood Plans at a Glance
Hollywood has no end of fun plans that are perfect for your group. The following ideas can also make up part of an ultimate Hollywood or LA trip:
Walk East Hollywood
East Hollywood is an eclectic and affordable area in which to spend an afternoon. Though it's far removed from the luxury of Beverly Hills or the glamor of the Santa Monica pier, East Hollywood is still a wonderful way to get a taste of rich and authentic LA. Check out the neighborhood's trendy cafes and indy shops, and take in its urban energy, cultural diversity, and buzzing nightlife.
TCL Chinese Theatre
The TCL Chinese Theatre combines cinematic history with architectural grandeur. Stepping back in time on a guided tour or attending a movie screening at the theater is a fun and memorable outing for film enthusiasts and anyone seeking a taste of Hollywood's rich heritage.
Lake Hollywood Park
Lake Hollywood Park offers a uniquely tranquil escape within the bustling heart of Hollywood, providing stunning, unobstructed views of the iconic Hollywood Sign. This dog-friendly park has a relaxed and picturesque atmosphere, perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply soaking in the California sunshine.
Take in the City Lights from a Rooftop Bar
Some of LA's buzziest nightspots are found on rooftops overlooking the city for groups looking to extend the fun to the small hours. Rub shoulders with LA's famous residents, admire the sparkling city views, and bask in the immaculate vibes of Hollywood's trendy rooftop bars.
Hollyhock House
The Hollyhock House, just over the Hollywood border in Little Armenia, provides a captivating blend of architectural wonder and historical intrigue, making it a truly unique and enjoyable outing. Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's distinct Mayan-inspired design and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles.
Hollywood: Fun for Everyone
Hollywood offers a captivating blend of cinematic history, vibrant entertainment, and outdoor adventures that offer the ultimate recipe for a fun day out in LA. Whether you're a film fanatic, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a taste of Hollywood's legendary glamor, LA’s most famous neighborhood is a great bet for groups of all ages and budgets.
This neighborhood is a great example of the diversity LA offers beyond the beach. Step into the spotlight, embrace the magic of Hollywood, and create your own unforgettable memories in the heart of the entertainment capital of the world.