5 Free Things to Do in Hollywood California
No Cost Attractions and Activities for Those on a Budget in LA
For many travelers to Los Angeles, visiting Hollywood is a must. It can also put quite a dent in the wallet.
Luckily there are still free things to do that are not only fun, but great for visitors of all ages.
Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Of course, one cannot visit Hollywood and not check out the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame. Almost every block of the famed boulevard is covered in bronze stars that honor Hollywood’s biggest legends.
It was originally conceived in 1958, but wasn’t officially opened until February 9, 1960, with the placement of the first star that honored actress Joanne Woodward. There were originally 2,500 blank stars and a new star is issued at the rate of one or two a month.
The Walk of Fame runs both sides of Hollywood Blvd. from Gower to La Brea, as well as both sides of Vine Street from Yucca to Sunset.
Photograph the Hollywood Sign
Nothing says you were in Hollywood more than a photo of the huge Hollywood Sign.
Originally created in 1923, the sign first read “Hollywoodland” but it was neglected during the Great Depression. When Chamber of Commerce stepped in to repair it, they removed the last four letters and it has read “Hollywood” ever since.
Many are unaware that it’s actually illegal to walk up to the sign itself. Due to past vandalism it’s heavily guarded and surrounded by a razor-wire fenced barrier. The good news is almost every intersection of Hollywood offers views of the sign, and there are several locations that offer postcard-perfect views of the sign without worry about being arrested, including the easy-to-get-to Hollywood & Highland Center.
Visit the Hollywood & Highland Center
This multi-level entertainment complex is anchored on one end by the world famous Grauman’s Chinese Theater and on the other by the Kodak Theater (best known as the venue that hosts the Academy Awards every year). Its five levels offer a variety of shopping and dining choices, but it has also served as a shooting location for many a film and TV show.
Just off the main level is an outdoor alcove that features a great view of the Hollywood sign. There’s even a stone bench that allows for the perfect photo with the sign in the background.
The Hollywood & Highland Center is also a stop for the Metro rail, which offers easy access to other sightseeing areas of Los Angeles, including Universal Studios.
Spend the Day at the Hollywood Farmer’s Market
Though Hollywood is known for its entertainment history, nothing beats a lazy Sunday stroll through the Hollywood Farmer’s Market.
This outdoor street market features farmers, local artisans, and pre-made food vendors offering a wide-range of California-produced wares for sale and sample. There are street musicians, and free events such as cooking demos, kid’s workshops and other family-friendly entertainment.
The Hollywood Farmer’s Market is located along Ivar and Selma Avenues, between Hollywood Blvd and Sunset Blvd. The closest Metro station is Hollywood & Vine. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Sunday.
Compare Handprints at Grauman’s Chinese Theater
Opened on May 18, 1927, this legendary still-working theater has been an icon of Hollywood ever since. And while it costs to view a movie here, looking at all of the hand and footprints saved in cement out front is completely free.
The very first to leave their mark in the forecourt were Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks, and since then many more have joined the ranks, including Tom Hanks, Marilyn Monroe, The Marx Brothers, George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise. Even iconic Star Wars characters C-3PO, R2-D2 and Darth Vader are represented in cement.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre is located at 6925 Hollywood Blvd., next to the Hollywood & Highland Center.
Stretching the Hollywood Sightseeing Budget
Incorporating any of the above into an itinerary will not only create long-lasting memories of visiting Hollywood, but do so while saving money.
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Hollywood Sign
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Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
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Grauman's Chinese Theater
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