What’s the deal with Hollywood?
Let’s start with the bad news: Hollywood can be pretty disappointing. Yes, there are still some movie studios here, and yes, there’s some worthwhile history. But it’s probably not the Tinseltown paradise you’re expecting. Hollywood is basically just a district in L.A. with a lot less glitz and moviemaking magic than you’d hope for—and a lot more grime and traffic.
But here’s the good news: Hollywood (the neighborhood, that is—certainly not the industry) is having a bit of a moment in recent years. High-end celebrity hangouts, famous restaurants and hotel bars feel right at home next to tucked-away cocktail bars and bespoke coffee shops—and there seem to be more and more popping up by the day.
Where exactly is Hollywood?
Hollywood is centrally located within Los Angeles, served by the 101 freeway and multiple Metro B Line stops. The sizable area greets the scenic Hollywood Hills to the north, as well as Universal Studios Hollywood just on the other side of the hill; stylish West Hollywood and the eclectic Fairfax District to the west; lively Koreatown and adorable Larchmont Village to the south; and a slew of neighborhoods to the east, including East Hollywood, Thai Town and Los Feliz.
Is Hollywood part of Los Angeles?
Yes, Hollywood is simply a neighborhood within the City of Los Angeles, and has been since 1910.
What will you find in Hollywood?
Well, you know, other than disappointment: the sort of big-name attractions you’ve seen in movies and on TV, including the Walk of Fame, the Chinese Theatre, the Dolby Theatre (home of the Oscars), Paramount Pictures and the iconic Hollywood Sign. If you insist on seeing some of the most touristy landmarks, just keep it quick; your time is much better spent elsewhere in L.A.
But there are also a few less-touristy pockets, most notably an actually-worth-visiting row of restaurants and bars on Cahuenga Boulevard and its parallel streets, between Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards.
If you only do one thing
See a show at the Hollywood Bowl—assuming it’s between roughly May and October. The rest of the year, a screening at one of the local movie palaces would top our list.