Top 10 Things to Do in LA for Movie Lovers

Los Angeles is known as city of emotions, and movie lovers often visit. From the glitz of Hollywood to the places where legendary scenes were filmed, this city breathes cinema. If you are someone who watches movies not just for entertainment but as an experience, LA will leave you thrilled. The city is not just about spotting celebrities; it’s about feeling the very essence of the movies that shaped our culture. But don’t just take my word for it, check out these stats that show how much Hollywood impacts LA’s tourism:

Hollywood & LA Tourism Stats

1. Walk Along the Hollywood Walk of Fame

This is where every movie lover starts their LA journey. Over 2,700 stars engraved into the sidewalk, each with a name of an icon who shaped the industry. From Charlie Chaplin to Tom Cruise, each star tells a story. It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about feeling the legacy under your feet.

There are also handprints and footprints outside the TCL Chinese Theatre, where you can see how the hands and feet of Hollywood legends compare to yours. Street performers and impersonators bring the area to life, making it a fun and engaging place to explore. Don’t forget to visit the souvenir shops that sell unique Hollywood memorabilia!

2. Tour the Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios is not just a theme park; it’s a gateway into the world of movies. The Studio Tour gives you a chance to see real movie sets, including Jaws’ lake and Fast & Furious car stunts. And yes, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is just as magical as you’d imagine.

Besides the tour, you can also enjoy thrilling rides based on famous movies like Jurassic World, Transformers, and The Simpsons. The park offers live shows, interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes peeks into how movies are made. For horror fans, the annual Halloween Horror Nights event transforms the park into a terrifying yet exciting experience.

3. Explore the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

This one is for true cinema geeks. The Academy Museum showcases the actual Oscars, legendary costumes, and even Dorothy’s slippers from The Wizard of Oz. What makes this place unique is how it takes you through the entire process of filmmaking – from scriptwriting to special effects.

Each exhibit dives deep into the artistry and history of cinema, featuring everything from classic silent films to modern blockbusters. Special exhibitions change regularly, so every visit offers something new. The museum also hosts screenings of classic and contemporary films, often followed by insightful discussions with filmmakers and industry experts.

4. Catch a Movie at TCL Chinese Theatre

Ever watched a movie in a place where Hollywood legends once gathered? The TCL Chinese Theatre has been home to countless premieres since 1927. The theater itself is a masterpiece, and the IMAX screen makes every movie experience grander than life.

The theater’s architecture is breathtaking, with intricate Chinese-inspired designs and massive statues. Inside, you’ll find one of the largest IMAX screens in the world, offering an unmatched viewing experience. Attending a movie premiere here can be an unforgettable experience, with the chance to see your favorite stars walk the red carpet.

5. Visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Here’s where you step inside real, working Hollywood studios. Unlike Universal, this is more of an intimate, behind-the-scenes experience. The Friends couch? It’s here. The Batmobile? Also here. Walking through these sets feels like stepping inside your favorite shows and movies.

During the tour, you’ll explore soundstages, prop warehouses, and interactive exhibits showcasing the evolution of Hollywood filmmaking. The DC Universe and Harry Potter sections are especially popular, offering immersive experiences for fans. Guides share insider stories, making you appreciate the effort and creativity behind your favorite films.

Warner Bros vs Universal: Which Tour is Better?

6. Snap a Photo with the Hollywood Sign

It’s more than just a sign—it’s a symbol of dreams. While you can’t get too close, the Griffith Observatory and Lake Hollywood Park offer some of the best views. And if you’re up for a hike, the Hollywood Sign Trail is worth it.

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is perfect for photos. If you prefer a less crowded experience, the Canyon Lake Drive viewpoint provides a stunning backdrop without the tourist rush.

7. Explore Griffith Observatory – Filming Spot of La La Land

Speaking of Griffith, this place is a movie location itself. If you loved La La Land, you’d recognize this spot instantly. The observatory offers a breathtaking view of LA, and inside, the planetarium is something every space and sci-fi lover must see.

The exhibitions inside explore the wonders of the universe, from black holes to the solar system. The observatory hosts free public telescope viewings, allowing visitors to gaze at the stars just like characters in classic films.

8. Experience the Nostalgia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery

It might sound unusual, but Hollywood Forever Cemetery is where many Hollywood legends rest, including Rudolph Valentino and Judy Garland. What makes this place special is their Cinespia movie nights, where classic films are screened under the stars, right where Hollywood icons lay.

The cemetery’s beautiful landscaping and historical significance make it a peaceful yet fascinating place to visit. Walking through, you’ll find tributes to legendary figures who shaped Hollywood’s golden era.

9. Stroll Through Sunset Boulevard

Sunset Boulevard has been at the heart of Hollywood history. From old theaters to rock clubs where movie stars hung out, this street is a nostalgic trip. The Chateau Marmont hotel is known for its celebrity guests, and the Sunset Strip has some of the most legendary music venues in LA.

You’ll also find famous comedy clubs, unique dining spots, and bars that have hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment history. The neon-lit atmosphere at night adds to its timeless appeal.

10. Visit Paramount Pictures Studios

One of the oldest studios in Hollywood, Paramount is where some of the greatest classics were filmed. The tour is less crowded than Universal and Warner Bros, making it a more personal experience. You might even catch a live production happening!

Their historic backlot features iconic locations used in films over the decades. The tour offers a deep dive into Hollywood’s evolution, from silent films to modern blockbusters.

The Real Movie Experience Awaits!

Los Angeles is not just about watching movies—it’s about living them. Whether you’re touching the footprints of legends outside the TCL Chinese Theatre, standing inside real film sets at Warner Bros., or gazing at the city from Griffith Observatory, every moment in LA feels like a scene from a movie. So, are you ready to write your own Hollywood story?