I recently updated my EXTREMELY comprehensive list of recommendations in my LA Guide for Hollywood, but I figured it might be a bit overwhelming for some people. If someone asked me what are the Top 5 BEST things to do in Hollywood, this is what I’d tell them. Plus people seem to really like my Toronto Top 5 Recommendations post so why not Hollywood?!
1. Drink a Coconut Sea Salt Cold Brew Coffee at Rubies + Diamonds
Yes it’s like $9 and 900 calories, but it’s freaking delicious and this place sets the vibe for a VERY glamorous day.
Ok so this is not an “Iconic Hollywood” place or activity, BUT I bet you it’s not on anyone else’s list AND you are going to be happy I recommended this place and this drink to you. Promise. And it will look cute on your Instagram.
2. Hike Runyon Canyon
There’s a reason everyone you’ve ever known who has visited LA did this – it’s GORGEOUS! Plus you’ll need to burn off that coffee from #1. Don’t walk from Rubies + Diamonds to Runyon take a Lyft or Uber because parking is….not great.
I prefer to take the loop where you go through the entrance then to the left and up the mountain and down the stairs vs. going straight which takes you up the stairs and down the mountain. In my brain that’s easier. Be sure to take long breaks at the outlook points and soak it all in and get some good photos for IG.
You can also see the Hollywood Sign from this hike so that’s like a big 2 for 1.
3. Lunch at In-n-Out
If you didn’t already hit up this fast food classic then walk down the mountain that is Runyon and go to the In-n-Out at Sunset Blvd and Orange. You can wander through Hollywood Blvd/The Hollywood Walk of Fame/The Handprints at Grauman’s Chinese Theater on your way there.
My In-n-Out order: Double Double with cheese with lettuce, pickles, and spread only and a chocolate shake. When I pick up my order I ask for an extra packet or 2 of spread which I dip my fries in. I also get the hot peppers by the napkins and take teeny bites in-between eating the burger and fries and then curse myself because they’re so damn hot.
In-n-Out Vocab Lesson:
Double Double means double cheeseburger (2 meats 2 cheeses) and lettuce and spread only means no tomato or (raw sliced) onion.
Animal Style: Adds grilled chopped onions, cheese, and spread on things. You can get a burger or fries animal style. You say “Single animal style with fries animal style” or “Double double animal style.”
“Animal style” sounds cute, but fries + spread is a much better use of calories IMO. If you don’t know, animal style is
4. Laugh until your face hurts at the Upright Citizen’s Brigade
With absolutely incredible improv and stand-up shows from $5-$10 this is the BEST bang for your buck as far as entertainment in LA goes. You will probably recognize at least one person you see on stage from TV or movies and may even see someone super famous. I’ve literally never seen a bad show here.
Buy your tickets online ahead of time! Ideally a few weeks ahead of time for the very popular shows!
5. See a show at The Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl is my absolute favorite venue ever! The views are breathtakingly gorgeous of the surrounding mountains at this big outdoor amphitheater. There are truly one of a kind shows because they are in the heart of LA which means a surprise guest can and will pop in!
At the Hollywood Bowl there are lots of different shows including concerts, Disney movies where an orchestra plays along to the music then really famous actors come out and sing the songs, movie sing-a-longs, symphony performances with fireworks, and more.
There are no bad shows to see here. There’s also no bad seats so if you’re on a budget don’t be afraid of getting the cheap ones in the back.
More LA Recommendations
You’re definitely going to need more recommendations than this seeing as I only included coffee and lunch so be sure to head over to my LA Guide – Hollywood blog post and my How to Visit Beverly Hills Like the Real Housewives blog post for more ideas and suggestions around LA. If you are beauty obsessed like I am and want to know more about the infamous Namie’s, Frend’s, and Nigel’s check out my Where to Buy Makeup in LA blog post.
Vegas Recommendations – You’re so close you might as well, right?
