Curious about the best places to visit in Hollywood, Florida? You’ll discover everything from sun-soaked beaches and historic streets to lively arts venues and delicious dining spots in this guide.
Key Takeaways
- Hollywood Beach is the main attraction, featuring a lively Broadwalk with dining and shopping, plus free live music at the Hollywood Beach Theatre.
- Historic Downtown Hollywood showcases art, cafes, and cultural events, highlighted by the Third Saturday ArtWalk and vibrant mural projects.
- The area offers a rich culinary scene with diverse restaurants, food trucks, and unique spots like Carmela’s Italian Ristorante and The Tipsy Boar. Cuisines available include French, Greek, Mediterranean, Peruvian, and Vietnamese in Hollywood.
- For cigar aficionados, Cuenca Cigars offers a true hub of vast selection, warm hospitality, and fine spirits.
Explore Hollywood Beach
Hollywood Beach is the heart and soul of this vibrant city, renowned for its inviting atmosphere and beautiful sandy beaches. The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a 2.2-mile paved walkway, is a bustling promenade lined with numerous eateries and shops, offering a variety of dining and shopping options for visitors. This lively area is perfect for people-watching, enjoying a leisurely stroll, or simply soaking up the sun.
Dining at numerous restaurants or shopping at particular boutiques, Hollywood Beach caters to all tastes.
Hollywood Beach Theatre
The Hollywood Beach Theatre is a cultural hotspot that offers free live music every Wednesday to Sunday from 7-9 PM, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day at the beach. This open-air venue hosts a variety of concerts and cultural events throughout the year, attracting both locals and tourists with its vibrant atmosphere. The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk has even been voted one of America’s best boardwalks, adding to its appeal.
Fans of jazz, rock, or Latin music will find the Hollywood Beach Theatre’s offerings appealing.
Historic Downtown Hollywood
Historic Downtown Hollywood is a vibrant entertainment district characterized by unique shops, art galleries, clubs, and numerous restaurants in the town. This area is a hub for cultural events, featuring live jazz, blues, rock, Latin, and R&B performances throughout the year, making it one of the most appealing historic places to visit. Downtown Hollywood hosts hundreds of concerts, music festivals, dance exhibitions, shows, and art exhibits.
Concerts, music festivals, dance exhibitions, and art exhibits make this a must-visit for experiencing the rich history and culture of Hollywood, Florida.
Art Galleries and Boutiques
Downtown Hollywood showcases both local and international artists through various gallery exhibitions. The Third Saturday ArtWalk features an Artisan Market where local artists showcase handmade goods and vintage items. Additionally, the Hollywood Historical Society offers a self-guided walking tour of 50 historic locations in Downtown Hollywood, providing a deeper connection to the area’s rich history.
This monthly event offers a fantastic chance to explore Hollywood’s artistic side and support local talent.
Old Fashioned Sidewalk Cafés
The old fashioned sidewalk cafés in Historic Downtown Hollywood offer a unique charm that attracts both locals and visitors. These cafés provide a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere ideal for dining and relaxation. A leisurely meal at these cafés, coupled with people-watching, makes it an ideal spot to unwind and savor delicious food. The brick-coated walks further enhance the area’s nostalgic and inviting ambiance.
Downtown Hollywood Mural Project
The Downtown Hollywood Mural Project aims to beautify and add culture to the area, making it a vibrant and visually appealing destination. The Third Saturday ArtWalk allows visitors to watch the creation of new murals, adding an interactive element to the experience. The Downtown Hollywood Mural Project adds culture to the area with more than a dozen murals, which can often be viewed during the ArtWalk.
This project enhances Downtown Hollywood’s aesthetic appeal and contributes to its cultural identity.
Arts and Culture Center of Hollywood
The Art and Culture Center of Hollywood, located at the historic 1924 Mediterranean Revival mansion, focuses on contemporary visual arts and offers rotating exhibitions featuring local, national, and international artists. This cultural hub is an essential destination for art lovers and those looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural landscape of Hollywood, Florida.
Showcasing diverse artistic expressions, the center stands as a cornerstone of Hollywood’s cultural identity.
Young Circle ArtsPark
ArtsPark at Young Circle is a lively commercial, entertainment, and cultural arts district dedicated in March 2007. Named after Joseph Wesley Young, the founder of Hollywood, the park features: a playground, a fountain, an arts pavilion, an amphitheater, and public artworks. The ArtsPark at Young Circle is highlighted as a key attraction in Downtown Hollywood. It also hosts outdoor screenings every Friday, making it a popular spot for family-friendly entertainment.
- a playground
- a fountain
- an arts pavilion
- an amphitheater
- public artworks.
This vibrant space hosts various cultural and recreational events, making it a hub for community engagement and entertainment. The ArtsPark at Young Circle is a green and creative outdoor space that hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals year-round.
Third Saturday ArtWalk
The Third Saturday ArtWalk is held every month, offering an enchanting evening filled with jazz and string music. This monthly event features local artists and musicians, allowing for community engagement and cultural exchange. Monthly events in Downtown Hollywood include the first Sunday Dream Car Classic, Food Trucks at the ArtsPark on the first Monday, and the third Saturday ArtWalk.
This event offers the perfect chance to explore Hollywood’s artistic side and connect with the local community.
Cuenca Cigars: A Sanctuary for Cigar Aficionados
Cuenca Cigars is celebrated as a premier destination for discerning cigar enthusiasts. Step into a world renowned for its vast selection of rare and hard-to-find cigars, including an unparalleled collection from Arturo Fuente, proudly housed in their dedicated “The Best o Nada” humidor.
The store’s unique ambiance, enhanced by an immersive Arturo Fuente-themed decor, creates a welcoming environment for cigar lovers. Seasoned aficionados and curious newcomers alike will find camaraderie, warm hospitality, and a deep passion for fine tobacco at Cuenca Cigars.
Cuenca Cigars also offers live music during the Third Saturday ArtWalk “Destination Cuenca”, making it an absolutely enjoyable experience to sit in their comfortable outside patio, savor an Arturo Fuente cigar, and sip cognac from their extensive collection of liquors, beers, and wine.
Culinary Delights in Hollywood
Hollywood, Florida, is home to a vibrant culinary scene featuring a wide array of international dining options. Downtown Hollywood offers a rich array of dining experiences, including:
- French cuisine
- Greek cuisine
- Mediterranean cuisine
- Peruvian cuisine
- Vietnamese cuisine
From the relaxed atmosphere with direct beach access at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort to diverse culinary styles in the area, Hollywood’s extraordinary restaurants will satisfy your taste buds.
Carmela’s Italian Ristorante
Carmela’s Italian Ristorante is celebrated for its handmade pasta and classic Italian dishes. Emphasizing traditional Italian recipes made with high-quality ingredients, Carmela’s offers a warm atmosphere and authentic Italian flavors.
This is a must-visit for anyone craving Italian flavors in Hollywood.
The Tipsy Boar
The Tipsy Boar is well-known for its extensive selection of craft beers alongside gourmet pub meals. This popular spot offers a rotating selection of craft beers, paired with elevated comfort food, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Beer enthusiasts and those seeking a great meal will find The Tipsy Boar appealing.
The Greek Joint
Located on Hollywood Boulevard in Downtown Hollywood, The Greek Joint is a beloved restaurant offering authentic Greek cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Known for its fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, this eatery serves up classic dishes such as gyros, souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava that capture the true flavors of Greece. The Greek Joint provides a perfect dining experience for those looking to enjoy Mediterranean flavors while exploring the vibrant streets of Downtown Hollywood. Its friendly service and cozy ambiance make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of south florida’s diverse culinary scene.
Food Trucks and Street Markets
Hollywood’s street markets feature diverse food trucks that present a variety of culinary styles and flavors. From gourmet tacos to artisanal desserts, the food truck scene offers diverse culinary experiences, showcasing innovative and diverse culinary creations by local chefs. Additionally, Hollywood hosts the Yellow Green Farmer’s Market every Saturday and Sunday, providing a vibrant space to explore fresh produce and local goods.
Exploring the local food culture in an incredible place, casual restaurant, pedestrian friendly surroundings is fantastic.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Hollywood, FL offers a diverse range of bars, clubs, and lounges that cater to different tastes in nightlife. Venues like the ArtsPark Amphitheater, Hollywood Beach Theatre, and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino offer live music performances, making Hollywood a hotspot for entertainment. The Council Oak at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is also a standout dining option, serving seafood and steak in an upscale setting.
With signature events throughout the year, Historic Downtown Hollywood is a lively destination for both locals and visitors looking to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Live Jazz and Music Venues
Hollywood, Florida, is known for its vibrant live music scene that showcases various genres and talented artists, contributing to South Florida’s global tune. Hosting live music and performances, the Hollywood Beach Theatre is a beachside entertainment hotspot in South Florida.
The Art and Culture Center of Hollywood also features contemporary art, dance, and music, making it an essential venue for rich culture experiences.
Cinema Paradiso
Cinema Paradiso is a beloved cinema located in Downtown Hollywood. Known for showcasing independent films and classic movies, this cinema provides a unique cinematic experience.
Cinema Paradiso also hosts special events like film festivals and themed movie nights, attracting film enthusiasts from all over.
Family-Friendly Activities
Hollywood, FL offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including:
- Parks
- Interactive museums
- Outdoor adventures From engaging parks and recreational centers to cultural events and attractions suitable for children, Hollywood is an ideal destination for a fun day out with the family.
Day trip or longer trips offer plenty of entertainment for everyone.
Freddo Gelato
Freddo Gelato is known for its rich variety of gelato flavors, making it a perfect dessert stop for families. Specializing in authentic Italian gelato, Freddo offers a wide range of flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
Located at 2850 Red Road, Hollywood, Florida 33025, it’s a delightful stop for a sweet treat.
Convenient Access and Accommodations
Hollywood, FL is easily accessible, with Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) providing convenient access to the area. The Sun Shuttle by Circuit ensures easy transportation from the beach to Downtown, making it simple to explore all that Hollywood has to offer. As a suburb in the Miami metropolitan area, Hollywood offers the perfect blend of city convenience and beachside relaxation.
Luxury accommodations like The Diplomat Beach Resort and Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort provide excellent service and amenities for a comfortable stay.
Harrison Hotel Hollywood
The recently renovated Harrison Hotel Hollywood offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and classic charm in the heart of Hollywood, Florida. This boutique hotel boasts stylish rooms equipped with contemporary amenities, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay for guests. Located conveniently near Hollywood Beach and Historic Downtown Hollywood, the Harrison Hotel provides easy access to beautiful beaches, vibrant cultural events, and exceptional dining options. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, the Harrison Hotel Hollywood delivers a welcoming atmosphere with personalized service, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a memorable experience in South Florida.
Summary
Hollywood, Florida is a destination that truly has it all. From the vibrant atmosphere of Hollywood Beach and the cultural richness of Historic Downtown Hollywood to the diverse culinary delights and family-friendly activities, this city offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re here to soak up the sun on the sandy beaches, explore the arts and culture, or indulge in extraordinary dining, Hollywood promises a memorable adventure. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the many charms of Hollywood, Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions in Hollywood, Florida?
Hollywood, Florida offers an enticing blend of attractions for every visitor. Spend your days relaxing on the beautiful Hollywood Beach, exploring the vibrant Historic Downtown, or immersing yourself in local creativity at cultural gems like the Art and Culture Center. For a sweet treat, don’t miss a visit to Freddo Gelato, and if you appreciate fine cigars, the renowned Cuenca Cigars is a must-stop destination.
What kind of dining options are available in Hollywood?
You’ll find a fantastic variety of dining options in Hollywood, from international favorites like Carmela’s Italian Ristorante and The Greek Joint to casual bites from food trucks and street markets. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!
What family-friendly activities can we enjoy in Hollywood, Florida?
The Downtown Hollywood Art Walk, held on the third Saturday of every month, is a premier opportunity to immerse yourself in the local arts scene. Discover the stories behind vibrant street art with a complimentary guided mural tour, where you can connect with artists and fellow enthusiasts. Throughout downtown, live music performances will fill the air, notably featuring the Oriente Band at Cuenca Cigars. Extend your evening by exploring the stunning murals, indulging in delicious food at the Greek Joint, and capping off the night with entertainment at Cuenca Cigars.
How can we get around Hollywood, Florida?
You can easily get around Hollywood, Florida, by using the Sun Shuttle by Circuit, which connects the beach to Downtown Hollywood for a hassle-free experience. It’s a great way to explore all the attractions without the hassle of parking!
Where can we stay in Hollywood, Florida?
For an exceptional Hollywood, Florida getaway, consider luxurious options like The Diplomat Beach Resort or the recently renovated Harrison Hotel Hollywood. Both offer unparalleled service and amenities, ensuring you feel completely at ease amidst stunning surroundings.
