Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
The Hollywood Hills is a legendary neighborhood in central Los Angeles, USA, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty, pop culture, and stunning views. Among the top things to do in the Hollywood Hills are hiking scenic trails, catching a glimpse of the iconic Hollywood Sign, or exploring the area’s rich cinematic history. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the city from various lookout points and marvel at the luxurious homes tucked into the hillsides. This vibrant destination blends glamour and nature, making it a must-visit spot for film lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Top 10 Unmissable Things To Do In Hollywood Hills
Discover the top things to do in the Hollywood Hills for stunning views and iconic experiences.
1. Hike To The Hollywood Sign
A trip to the Hollywood Hills can be kicked off by viewing the renowned Hollywood sign. It is the perfect outdoor activity to do on your trip to the Hollywood Hills. It is not only a place to take some amazing pictures but also a place to see the panoramic view of the entire city. You can reach this cultural icon through several trails, of which the Brush Canyon Trail is the most popular one. The trail is almost 10 km in length and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.
Location: Mount Lee, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Top Highlights: Hollywood Sign viewpoints, Brush Canyon Trail, panoramic city views, photo spots
2. Explore Griffith Observatory
Photo: Matthew Fields / Wikimedia Commons
Located more than 1000 feet above on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory is a window to the cosmos. You can also view the Pacific Ocean from this point, along with the view of the Hollywood Sign and the Los Angeles Basin. It is one of the first observatories that is open to public education and informative sessions. The main attraction of the Griffith Observatory is the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, which hosts live shows. Watching the live demonstration of the Tesla Coil deserves to be on top of your list of things to do in the Hollywood Hills.
Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles
Entry Fee: $10/ ₹870 for planetarium show
Timings: 12 PM – 10 PM (Closed on Mondays)
3. Check Out Mulholland Drive
Photo: Brian Escoto / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Famous through the David Lynch movies of the same name, Mulholland Drive is a must-visit for all cinephiles. The cinematic allure of this roadway that winds along the ridgeline of the Hollywood Hills will etch in your memory forever. The drive has a lot of scenic lookouts on the way, where you can stop by and enjoy the breathtaking views. Standing at these lookouts, you can view the Hollywood Bowl, Nancy Hoover Pohl and Universal City. The panoramic views are best enjoyed with telescopes that are available at the lookouts for free use.
Location: Eastern Santa Monica Mountains
Nearest Attractions: Universal Studios Hollywood, the Getty Center, and Griffith Observatory
4. Visit Hollywood Bowl
Photo: lindsaybridge / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood Bowl is a must among the top things to see in Hollywood Hills. This iconic open-air amphitheatre can seat over 15,000 people and regularly hosts world-class musical performances. With the Hollywood Sign in the backdrop, it’s a perfect spot for entertainment and culture. Visitors can also explore the Hollywood Bowl Museum, featuring vintage photos and audio exhibits. Don’t miss the “Bowl Walk,” which showcases the venue’s rich history through a timeline of photographs from the 1920s to the present day. Guided tours are also available.
Location: 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles
Nearest Attractions: Runyon Canyon Park and Madame Tussauds Hollywood
5. Spend An Evening At The Lake Hollywood Park
Photo: Zyla Rohly / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
One of the most serene things to do in the Hollywood Hills is to visit Lake Hollywood Park. Situated directly beneath the Hollywood sign, the park is a publicly accessible green space. It is a perfect escape from the usual hustle and bustle of the city. In contrast to the arid and urban landscape around, a few minutes in the park will refresh and relax your mind. The park is pet-friendly; however, since the place is not fenced, your pets are encouraged to be on leash. There are designated children’s areas, picnic tables and water fountains inside the park for your enjoyment.
Location: 3160 Canyon Lake Dr, Los Angeles
Nearest Attractions: Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Bowl Overlook
6. Enjoy The Madame Tussauds Hollywood
Photo: Darya Sannikova / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Get mesmerised in Madame Tussauds Hollywood by viewing the life-like wax figures of famous people. This three-story museum has more than 120 carefully crafted wax figures of celebrities, including Beyoncé and Kobe Bryant. The wax figures each have their own placards and matching props. The biggest wax figure is that of King Kong, placed on the second floor, making it the visitors’ favourite. The facilities inside the museum are fully accessible and equipped with trained staff for assistance. Service animals are also allowed inside the museum. The rooftop restaurant and bar give you a unique opportunity to grab a drink with your favourite celebrity look-alike figures.
Location: 6933 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles
Entry Fee: $40 – 70 / ₹3500 – 6100
Timings: 11 AM – 6 PM
7. Franklin Village Walk
Photo: Maria Orlova / Pexels/ Image For Representation Only
Located at the base of the Hollywood Hills, Franklin Village is an iconic village known for its architecture and small-town vibe. The village has some famous landmarks, including the Shakespeare Bridge and Prospect Studios. You can see a wide array of historic buildings and craftsman homes along the way. The Château Élysée, which used to be a lavish hotel in the 1920s, is now restored as the Scientology Celebrity Centre. The “Franklin Strip” portion of the village is a hot spot for local shops, restaurants, food trucks and even theatres. Franklin Village is a cultural melting pot, attracting artists, celebrities and tourists alike.
Location: 6075 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles
Nearest Attractions: Runyon Canyon Park and Griffith Park
8. Discover The Magic Castle
Photo: Suki Lee / Pexels/ Image For Representation Only
Standing tall in the Châteauesque architectural style, The Magic Castle is the home for magicians and magic enthusiasts of the Academy of Magical Arts. Although a private clubhouse, you can access entry through a guest pass or an invitation. The visitors are permitted entry by secret codes and are led through a themed labyrinth of rooms and close-up galleries. The place offers magic shows, stage illusions, and other mind-bending shows. The club has a strict dress code of business attire and evening wear. You can also grab dinner from the full-service dining room and several ambient bars.
Location: 7001 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles
Entry Fee: $25 – 45 / ₹2150 – 3900
Timings: 5 PM – 1 AM
9. Wander The Bronson Canyon
Photo: Simon Migaj / Pexels/ Image For Representation Only
Also known as the Bronson Caves, Bronson Canyon is one of the most cinematic things to see in Hollywood Hills. Once a rock quarry, it’s now a famous filming location featured in classics like Batman and sci-fi movies. With trails of varying difficulty, it’s ideal for hiking, exploring, or enjoying a peaceful picnic. The unique landscape offers photo-worthy spots, especially for film buffs. Despite narrow roads, nearby parking is available. The site is pet-friendly (on leash) and free to enter, making it a fun, accessible escape from LA’s urban buzz.
Location: 3200 Canyon Dr, Los Angeles
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Best Time To Visit: Early morning and evening
10. Stroll The Wattles Mansion
Photo: McGhiever / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most elegant answers to what to do in Hollywood Hills is to visit Wattles Mansion. Built in Mission Revival style, this historic estate features stunning gardens, including Spanish and Japanese styles, and lush citrus orchards. While the interior isn’t open for public tours, the outdoor gardens can be viewed by appointment. The surrounding park area is ideal for hiking, picnics, and quiet reflection. With its serene setting and rich agricultural legacy, Wattles Mansion offers a glimpse into pre-Hollywood glamour—making it a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.
Location: 1824 N Curson Ave, Los Angeles
Timings: 9 AM – 01:30 PM
There are countless things to do in Hollywood Hills beyond just seeing the iconic Hollywood Sign. Perfect for cine buffs, nature lovers, and garden enthusiasts, the area offers scenic hikes, historic landmarks, and lush gardens. Its blend of Hollywood glamour and natural beauty leaves a lasting impression. Discover hidden gems and rich history, and plan your trip with TripXL to explore this unforgettable and picturesque part of Los Angeles.
Cover Photo: Sgerbic / Wikimedia Commons
