Not to be confused with the Hollywood district in Los Angeles, Hollywood is a charming city in Florida’s Broward County. It is located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale and is great for a getaway. This Floridian city may not be as famed as it’s Californian namesake, but it is a popular travel destination for tourists looking for a relaxing vacation. Hollywood is home to pristine beaches and it has a spectacular 4 km (2.5-mile) long boardwalk. Enjoy some South Floridian sunshine as you loll around on the beach. You can enjoy some beachfront dining as you enjoy the sunset from your balcony. If you’re fond of art, then you must pay a visit to the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood. There are several wonderful parks in the city where you can relax with family and enjoy a picnic. If you enjoy watersports, go jet skiing in the blue waters. You can also tee off at the scenic golf course or enjoy canoeing or kayaking. Relish some local food at the quaint and charming eateries as you soak in the scenic views. Explore this eclectic city on a cycle as you rent a bike and tour around the popular landmarks. Make sure you snap-up some Instagram-worthy pictures as you explore the nooks and crannies of Hollywood. Here’s a look at some exciting things to do in Hollywood, Florida.
1. Settle for a meal at Hard Rock Cafe (from USD 38.0)
Eat some hearty all-American grub at the Hard Rock Cafe, located inside Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, and witness Rock n Roll history through an extensive memorabilia collection. Place a bet or two at the casino and see if lady luck is by your side at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. You can grab a drink or two from the bar as you test your fortunes on the blackjack table. If you get hungry, grab some snacks as you gamble the night away.
Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood Florida
Duration: 2 hours
2. Go on a Hollywood Beach Segway tour (from USD 64.0)
Explore the beaches of Hollywood with the popular Hollywood Beach Segway tour. The trip lasts an hour or two and it is limited to a cozy group of eight people. The Segway ride will take you to some of the most glamorous places in Hollywood, such as the historic back street, Beach Broadback, Diana beach pier, Hollywood Beach boardwalk and more. The travel includes safety equipment and training sessions also that you are equipped to ride independently on the Segway. You also get complimentary ice cream to munch on as you explore the beaches.
Fort Lauderdale Hollywood Beach Segway Tour with Ice Cream
Duration: 2 hours
3. Catch a performance at the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood
If you love art and history then the Art and Culture Center in Hollywood is a must-do. The center showcases extraordinary artworks by renowned artists in Florida. It hosts several cultural programs on a regular basis, for visitors to make the most of. There are galleries that showcase the artistic works of students from different schools from this region. The center also hosts live performances and educational programs for both children and adults.
Art and Culture Center of Hollywood
Address:1650 Harrison St, Hollywood, FL 33020
Website: Art and Culture Center of Hollywood
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)
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4. Go on a picnic in the beautiful Anniversary Park
Located in downtown Hollywood, Anniversary Park is one of the most popular picnic spots for travelers and locals especially if they have children. This is a perfect playground with numerous rides such as swings and slides to keep them entertained. The park is home to flora like magnolia, oak, bamboo and other flowery shrubs. The park also has benches, play tables, and other amenities. You can easily plan and enjoy a picnic here.
Anniversary Park
Address:320 Johnson Street Hollywood, FL 33019
5. Watch a film at Cinema Paradiso Hollywood
When in Florida, spend some time watching a film or drama at the famed Cinema Paradiso Hollywood. The theater showcases some of the finest works from within the country and outside. It is renowned for its annual festivals which mostly focus on films, art and culture. The setting is nice and intimate with comfortable seating arrangements. They serve quality snacks at pocket-friendly rates, and offer amazing services.
Cinema Paradiso Hollywood
Address:2008 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL 33020
Website: Cinema Paradiso Hollywood
6. Enjoy a musical performance at ArtsPark
Wondering what’s the most creative place in Hollywood? If you are, let us tell you it’s the ArtsPark. It is a small 10-acre (4-hectare) park that is the hub of all educational, entertaining and recreational activities. Founded in 2007, the park is named after the city’s founder, Joseph Wesley Young. ArtsPark is known for its visual and performing activities. It’s the perfect spot to visit if you’re up for watching a concert.
ArtsPark
Address:1 N Young Cir, Hollywood, FL 33020
Website: ArtsPark
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 7am - 10pm (closed on Sun)
7. Relax at Sal Oliveri Veterans Park
Want a day off? Get a picnic bag and head to Sal Oliveri Veterans Park. This park has a nice metal shelter with proper seating facilities so you can while your time away as you laze on the grass. This park is great for children as it has playgrounds for kids and a lovely walking path. The park also has an asphalt section, especially to play hopscotch. The main attraction of this park is its unique water feature, which creates a summer shower effect.
Sal Oliveri Veterans Park
Address: 4701 Tyler St, Hollywood, FL 33021
8. Wander around downtown Hollywood and admire the colorful murals
Want to explore the most artistic corner of the city? Take a leisurely stroll along the streets of downtown Hollywood, which are replete with colorful mural works, attracting tourists by the droves. The murals are the creation of talented local, national and international artists. These murals offer visitors a glimpse of modern contemporary art. Some remarkable artists who have contributed to these amazing murals are Tatiana Suarez, Jessy Nite, The London Police, Logan Hicks and more. This is the perfect spot to take some Instagram-worthy pictures and learn about the local culture.
9. Purchase hand blown glass pieces from Hollywood Hot Glass Studio
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Art lovers have an interesting place to explore in the city of Hollywood. Go watch the awe-inspiring hand-blown glass pieces in Hollywood Hot Glass Studio. This place is a must-visit if you are a fan of art and creativity. The studio has an eclectic vibe and it is an art lover’s paradise. The Hollywood Hot Glass Studio has an amazing group of artists who make unique pieces out of glass. Do not forget to buy a couple of exquisite hand-blown glass pieces to take home with you before you leave.
Hollywood Hot Glass Studio
Address: One Young Circle, Hollywood, FL 33020
Website: Hollywood Hot Glass Studio
Opening hours: Mon & Wed - Sat: 2pm - 10pm, (closed on Tue & Sun)
10. Unwind by the turquoise waters at Hollywood Beach
Your vacation is not complete if you don’t spend some time by the turquoise waters of the stunning Hollywood Beach. The beaches here are well known for facing the Atlantic Ocean and giving the old Florida vibe. This spot is favored by both tourists and locals for its old-world charm. There are plenty of things travelers can do at Hollywood Beach, such as cycling or skating on the boardwalk. You can go bar hopping and enjoy some lip-smacking food as you down it with some chilled beer. You can even catch a live band performance on the beach and dance underneath the moonlight as you sway to the music.
Website: Hollywood Beach
11. Rent a bike at The Bike Shack
If you want to explore the city on a bicycle, head to the Bike Shack and rent one. This bike rental service has a wide variety of bicycles, three-wheelers, and surreys for both kids and adults. The bikes make exploring the pristine sandy beaches fun and you can enjoy the outdoors as you cycle around the city. Renting a bike will not burn a hole in your pocket as The Bike Shack has affordable rates. The icing on the cake is their brilliant customer service. You can rent a bike by the hour, week, or even for a day.
The Bike Shack
Address:101 N Ocean Dr #135, Hollywood, FL 33019
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 8pm; Fri - Sun: 8am - 9pm
12. Admire the vistas aboard a Water Taxi
Soak in the views of the captivating city of Hollywood aboard a vessel thanks to Water Taxi. They have a wholesome package that includes everything you need to see in Hollywood. Their captains and staff are some of the most experienced people in the city and are capable of taking you through the city like a local. The ride starts from the mesmerizing location of Fort Lauderdale, also known as the “Venice of America” and then goes on to the magnificent Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort and other locations. The cruise is an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Water Taxi
Address: 1881 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Website: Water Taxi
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
13. Enjoy fresh seafood at Billy's Stone Crabs Hollywood
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Gastronomes can indulge in the best seafood in town at the internationally acclaimed Billy’s Stone Crabs Hollywood. This fine-dining restaurant can satiate all your seafood cravings with its varied range of fresh seafood dishes and scrumptious pasta and chicken entrees. The eatery has a wonderful ambiance and it is perfect for a romantic night out as you soak in the atmosphere. This two-story restaurant has both an elevator and lifts services, which makes it easily accessible.
Billy’s Stone Crabs Hollywood
Address: 400 N Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL 33019
Website: Billy’s Stone Crabs Hollywood
Opening hours: 12pm - 10pm (daily)
14. Zip around town on the Hollywood Trolley
Traveling across the city can be very expensive in rental vehicles. The best way to bypass this expense and explore the city leisurely and at half the cost is by hopping on to a Hollywood Trolley. This is an initiative taken by the Florida Department of Transportation and funded by the Public Transport Service to reduce traffic congestion, increase tourism and improve mobility. The rides are pretty inexpensive and cover the most-visited tourist haunts in Hollywood. Children below the age of five are eligible for free rides. So, make sure you take advantage of the Hollywood Trolley when in the city!
Hollywood Trolley
Address: Departs from Hollywood beach & historic downtown
Website: Hollywood Trolley
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 7am - 9pm; Fri: 7am - 11pm; Sat: 10am - 11pm; Sun: 10am - 9pm
15. Buy fresh fruits and veggies at Yellow Green Farmers Market
If you’re looking for a place where you can get to buy fresh fruits and veggies, eat some mouthwatering local delicacies, listen to live music, enjoy special events and more under one roof, then Yellow Green Farmers Market is the stop for you. This farmer’s market is held throughout the year but only on weekends. Every booth here has something different to offer. Be it Amish cheese or dark chocolate, you get it all at this market.
Yellow Green Farmers Market
Address: 3080 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33021
Website: Yellow Green Farmers Market
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 8am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
16. Savor delicious hamburgers at the waterfront Le Tub Saloon
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
When in the city, make sure you head to the laid-back, rustic, and old-school eating joint called Le Tub Saloon. This food joint has been serving locals and tourists for 32 years and it is a popular haunt, courtesy of its delicious burgers. It quickly rose to fame after being rated number one by GQ for its amazing hamburgers. This waterfront eatery also serves a delicious variety of steaks, salads, and fries and it is a must-visit restaurant for food lovers.
Le Tub Saloon
Address:1100 N Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL 33019
Website: Le Tub Saloon
Opening hours: 11:30am - 2am (daily)
17. Enjoy live music at the retro Hollywood Beach Theater
Your trip is incomplete without visiting the Hollywood Beach Theater. It is an amazing spot to enjoy live music with your family or friends. Soak up some sun, grab a drink, and sway to the live music as you channel your inner Hollywood diva! The concerts are mostly hosted by local bands and they create a lively atmosphere for visitors. Some of the best joints are near this popular tourist spot so you can indulge in some good food too.
Hollywood Beach Theater
Address: 200 Johnson St, Hollywood, FL 33020
18. Go shopping at Oakwood Plaza
Go shopping at Oakwood Plaza to get the best shopping experience in the city of Hollywood. It has over 50 stores and even a multiplex theater. Some famous stores in the plaza are Avenue Plus Size Clothing, Dollar Star, Sally Beauty Supply and Wendy’s. From stunning accessories to delicious food, Oakwood Plaza has it all. Also, its proximity to Fort Lauderdale-Florida Airport makes it easily accessible.
Oakwood Plaza
Address: 3800 Oakwood Blvd & Stirling Rd, Hollywood, FL 33020
19. Enjoy a trip to Castaway Island Water Park
Enjoy splashing in the water or taking rides at the Castaway Island Water Park. This water park is the ideal spot for taking your kids and spending a fun-filled day with the family. The park has an interactive playground. You can ride in a funnel rental and splash around in the water lagoons.
Castaway Island Water Park
Address: 3300 N Park Rd, Hollywood, FL 33021
Website: Castaway Island Water Park
Opening hours: Wed: 12pm - 12:30am (closed from Thu - Tue)
20. Splash around at FlowRider amusement center
Surfs up!
Posted by FlowRider at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort on Sunday, 8 October 2017
When in Hollywood, plan a day trip to the FlowRider amusement center. It is located inside Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort and it is open to both guests and the general public. Indulge in thrilling water activities such as surfing and flow boarding. The center has trainers who will clue you in on the skillsets as you test your abilities. You can opt for either a 10-minute, 30-minute or 45-minute session as you experience the surfing simulator.
Flow Rider amusement center
Address: 1111 N Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL 33019
Website: FlowRider amusement center
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 6pm; Fri - Sun: 9am - 6pm
21. Discover clues and solve puzzles at Boxroom Escape Games
If you fancy channeling your inner Sherlock Holmes and you want to get knee-deep into becoming a detective, then make sure you head to Boxroom Escape Games. It has numerous games that are played in a group of two to eight people. There are several sections and participants need to solve puzzles, find keys, discover secret doors and unravel the mystery. The game lasts for 60 minutes and it is quite an immersive experience.
Boxroom Escape Games
Address: 2042 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL 33020
Website: Boxroom Escape Games
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10:30am - 10:30pm; Fri - Sun: 10:30am - 12am
22. Have some pizza at Mauro's Pizza
If you are looking for the biggest and most delicious pizza joint in Hollywood, head to Mauro’s Pizza. The pizza slices are enormous and are popular among tourists and locals, for the size. Their pizzas may be massive but they have an extremely thin crust. The sauce is delicious and you can choose from different pizzas. The cheese pizza and white pizza are popular picks. You can also order pizza by the slice for as little as USD 3.50.
Mauro's Pizza
Address: 1904 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL 33020
Website: Mauro's Pizza
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 5am; Fri - Sat: 11am - 6am
23. Enjoy the thrill of gokarting at K1 Speed - Indoor Go Karts
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you are looking for something exciting to do in Hollywood, try your hand at go-karting at K1 Speed - Indoor Go Karts, with your friends. The place has two race tracks, one for newbies and the other for experienced riders. The go-karts are quite fast and offer high-performance with zero emissions. You can also grab a bite at the food counter
K1 Speed - Indoor Go Karts
Address: 2950 Stirling Rd, Hollywood, FL 33020
Website: K1 Speed - Indoor Go Karts
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 12pm - 10pm; Fri: 11am - 12am; Sat: 10am - 12am; Sun: 10am - 10pm
24. Experience kayaking at Anne Kolb Nature Center
Spend a day away from the main city of Hollywood and relax at the Anne Kolb Nature Center. This center is spread over an area of 1588 acres (643 hectares) and it is one of the biggest parks in the country. The center is perfect for nature and outdoor lovers and there are mangroves and wetlands. You can also go fishing, biking, kayaking, and hiking here. This is the ideal spot for nature enthusiasts who would like some adventure.
Anne Kolb Nature Center
Address: 751 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33019
Website: Anne Kolb Nature Center
Opening hours: 8am - 7:30pm (daily)
25. Be pampered at Renewal Massage & Spa
If you’re tired after a hectic day, visit the Renewal Massage & Spa to unwind. Take one of the popular massages or spa treatments that will leave you rejuvenated and raring to go! The massages are offered by trained professionals who have years of experience. You can also get a couple’s hot stone massage or a couple’s Swedish massage done here. The spa is clean and hygienic and you can even indulge in beauty treatments such as a facial or waxing.
Renewal Massage & Spa
Address: 3800 S Ocean Dr G5, Hollywood, FL 33019
Website: Renewal Massage & Spa
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 8pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
26. Play a round of golf at the swanky Hollywood Beach Golf Resort
Spend a day teeing off at the swanky Hollywood Beach Golf Resort. This tree-lined golf course is extremely unique with its challenging 18-hole course, and it is favored by newbies and professionals for its scenic views. The resort also has a Bar Grill so guests can grab a bite after a tiring round of golf and unwind with some delicious food. You can also take a dip in the pool and enjoy a drink at Rudy’s Restaurant & Pub.
Hollywood Beach Golf Resort
Address:1600 Johnson St, Hollywood, FL 33020
Website: Hollywood Beach Golf Resort
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
27. Learn about firearms at the Concealed Weapon Permit Classes & Firearms Training
If handling and using firearms is what you dream of then go to the Concealed Weapon Permit Classes & Firearms Training and get trained and certified by the best in Hollywood. The training center prepares you for weapon handling, firearm training, safety and more. You can get professional and personalized lessons that will equip you well and impart the skills to hit the target effectively! Take the shotgun, handgun and rifle courses as you get introduced to shooting.
Concealed Weapon Permit Classes & Firearms Training
Website: Concealed Weapon Permit Classes & Firearms Training
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 8pm; Sat: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
28. Dance the night away at Spice Resto-Lounge
If you want to have a fun night out in the city of Hollywood, go to the Spice Resto-Lounge. The nightclub is quite popular among locals and tourists for its electric atmosphere and great food. The place has everything you need, be it live music or great drinks. The lounge specializes in Latin-fusion cuisine and it is perfect for letting your hair down and dancing the night away. Make sure you try their mojito’s when visiting!
Spice Resto-Lounge
Address: 1934 Hollywood Blvd #9, Hollywood, FL 33020
Website: Spice Resto-Lounge
Opening hours: 4pm - 4am (daily)
29. Play arcade games at East Coast Gaming
Want to witness the best gaming center in Hollywood? Then head to the East Coast Gaming Center. This place offers the best gaming experience which can’t be found anywhere else in Hollywood. They make sure that their guests are in a safe space while enjoying some of the best arcade games that the place has to offer. The environment of this place is free and fun-filled and it is for everyone to enjoy.
East Coast Gaming
Address: 6842-44 Stirling Rd, Hollywood, FL 33024
Website: East Coast Gaming
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 2pm - 12am (closed on Tue)
30. Bring your dog to Hollywood Dog Beach
If you are traveling with your pet, make sure you take them to Hollywood Dog Beach. This pet-friendly beach is dedicated to our furry pals and it is perfect for taking your dog for a walk as he splashes in the water. The beach dedicated to canines is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Hollywood Dog Beach also has different areas for small- and big-sized dogs so that the smaller ones do not get intimidated. It is a great spot for interacting with other dog lovers as you soak in the scenic views. However, keep in mind that a daily or six-month pass is required so make sure you arrange the same. The daily pass costs USD 10 per dog for non-Hollywood residents. Your dog also needs to have a rabies tag
Hollywood Dog Beach
Address: 4999 N Surf Rd, Hollywood, FL 33019
Website: Hollywood Dog Beach
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 3pm - 7pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
Soak up some sunshine in Hollywood
Travel to Hollywood in Florida to soak up some sunshine and detox from the hectic rigors of day-to-day life. Walk down the pristine beaches and relax with a beer as you watch the sunset. You can go pubbing at night or play a round of golf as you make the most of your vacation.
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