Lights, Camera, Budget: 5 Days in Hollywood

Experience the glitz and glamour of Hollywood without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Hollywood on a limited budget can still be an enjoyable experience. There are affordable accommodations available such as budget hotels or hostels, or even renting a room on Airbnb. Many popular attractions such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Sign are free to visit, making it easy to explore and enjoy the city on a budget.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Tinseltown

  • Check into The Dixie Hollywood Hotel, an affordable yet stylish option with a retro Hollywood vibe.
  • Grab a bite at In-N-Out Burger for a true California fast food experience.
  • Take a walk down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and look for your favorite celebrity's star.
  • Visit the TCL Chinese Theatre and see the handprints and footprints of famous actors and actresses.
  • Head to the Hollywood & Highland Center for shopping and dinner at Hard Rock Cafe.
Day 2

Lights, Camera, Action!

  • Take a studio tour at Warner Bros. Studio and admire famous sets like Central Perk from Friends.
  • Walk around the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park and go on adrenaline-pumping rides.
  • Head to Runyon Canyon for a scenic hike and views of the Hollywood sign.
  • Have dinner at Musso & Frank Grill, a historic restaurant from the 1920s with classic Hollywood charm.
  • Catch a movie at the Arclight Hollywood, a beloved cinema with a bar and gourmet snacks.
Day 3

Beach Day

  • Rent bikes and explore the Venice Beach Boardwalk.
  • Visit the Santa Monica Pier and go on the ferris wheel and roller coaster.
  • Have lunch at Sugarfish, a famous sushi spot with fresh and delicious options.
  • Relax at Manhattan Beach and soak up the California sun.
  • Watch the sunset at Malibu Beach and grab dinner at Duke's or Malibu Farm.
Day 4

Culture and Art

  • Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and see the iconic "Urban Light" installation by Chris Burden.
  • Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and its thought-provoking exhibits.
  • Have lunch at Grand Central Market, a bustling food hall with a diverse range of cuisines.
  • Stroll through the Griffith Observatory and learn about astronomy and space.
  • Have dinner at Yamashiro, a Japanese restaurant with stunning views of the city.
Day 5

Farewell to Hollywood

  • Take a tour of the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, where stars like Marilyn Monroe stayed.
  • Visit the famous Hollywood Bowl amphitheater and see where legends like The Beatles and Frank Sinatra performed.
  • Have lunch at Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles, a beloved soul food spot.
  • Shop at the Hollywood & Vine district and grab souvenirs of your trip.
  • Say goodbye to Tinseltown and plan your next adventure.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Hollywood by plane is to fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and then take a taxi or rideshare to Hollywood.

Car

The best way to get to Hollywood by car is to take the US-101 highway and exit at Hollywood Boulevard. However, be aware that traffic in the area can be heavy during peak hours.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no train stations in Hollywood, so taking a train is not an option.

Boat

Given that Hollywood is located inland, taking a boat is not a viable option to reach the area.

Bus

One convenient option to get to Hollywood by bus is to take the Greyhound bus to Los Angeles and then transfer to a local bus or rideshare service to reach Hollywood.

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