A Fourth of July Hollywood Tour

Posted on July 4, 2023June 29, 2023 by StarTrackTours

Independence Day in Tinseltown

Celebrating Independence Day in Hollywood, California offers a plethora of exciting activities and sights. Here are some things to do and see on July 4th in Hollywood. This is, of course, after you spend the day touring Hollywood with Star Track Tours!

Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Spectacular: The Hollywood Bowl hosts an annual Independence Day celebration featuring a stunning fireworks display accompanied by live music. Grab your picnic blanket and enjoy a night under the stars while listening to patriotic tunes and being mesmerized by the colorful fireworks.
Hollywood Walk of Fame: Take a stroll along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and admire the stars honoring influential figures from the entertainment industry. It’s a great opportunity to explore the history of Hollywood and perhaps even spot a celebrity or two.
Griffith Observatory: Head up to Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of Los Angeles and the surrounding area. From there, you can also catch a glimpse of fireworks displays across the city. Additionally, the observatory often hosts special events and presentations related to astronomy and space exploration.
Universal Studios Hollywood: Spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood, a renowned theme park and working movie studio. Experience thrilling rides, shows, and attractions based on blockbuster films and beloved characters. On July 4th, the park may offer special events and entertainment to celebrate the holiday.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery: Visit the historic Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where many notable personalities from the entertainment industry are laid to rest. While it may seem unconventional, the cemetery hosts unique events, including movie screenings and concerts during the summer. Check their schedule to see if there are any special July 4th events planned.
Sunset Strip: Explore the vibrant Sunset Strip, famous for its live music venues, comedy clubs, and eclectic nightlife. Enjoy a meal at one of the trendy restaurants, catch a stand-up comedy show, or listen to live music at renowned venues like the Whisky a Go Go or the Viper Room.
Hollywood and Highland Center: Spend time at the Hollywood and Highland Center, a bustling complex that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment. Take a photo with the iconic Hollywood sign in the background, browse through souvenir shops, or catch a movie at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Hollywood Sign Hike: Embark on a hike in the surrounding hills to get a closer view of the iconic Hollywood sign. There are several trails in the area, such as the Mount Hollywood Trail in Griffith Park, that offer stunning vistas of the sign, the city, and the surrounding landscape.

Single firework over Hollywood California on the 4th of July

Remember to check local event listings, as there may be additional July 4th celebrations, parades, or street festivals happening in and around Hollywood. Enjoy the holiday, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and make the most of your Independence Day in Hollywood, California.

startracktours.com

Hollywood Traditions: The Christmas Parade

Posted on March 20, 2023March 9, 2023 by StarTrackTours

Tours of Hollywood on Our Beloved Thoroughfare

The Hollywood Christmas Parade is an annual event that takes place in Hollywood, California, typically on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. It is one of the oldest and largest Christmas parades in the United States, dating back to 1928, and it features celebrities, marching bands, floats, and other festive displays.

The parade route typically runs along Hollywood Boulevard, from the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Orange Drive to the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. The parade is broadcast on television, typically on local stations in the Los Angeles area, as well as nationally on the Hallmark Channel. This is a familiar route of many hollywood tours.

In addition to the parade itself, there are usually pre-parade festivities, such as musical performances and celebrity appearances, as well as a post-parade concert featuring popular musicians. The parade is also a popular tourist attraction, drawing crowds from around the world to see the festive displays and celebrities.

Over the years, the parade has featured a wide range of celebrities and performers, including actors, musicians, athletes, and even politicians. Some of the most notable participants in the parade’s history have included Bob Hope, Mickey Mouse, Santa Claus, Frank Sinatra, and the Rockettes.

The Hollywood Christmas Parade is also known for its charitable efforts, with proceeds from the event going to a variety of local charities and organizations. Overall, the parade is a beloved holiday tradition in Hollywood and a celebration of the festive spirit of Christmas.

Santa at Hollywood Christmas Parade

Here are some celebrities who have served as Grand Marshals of the Hollywood Christmas Parade in recent years:

1. Marie Osmond (2020)
2. Mario Lopez (2019)
3. Nancy O’Dell (2018)
4. Dr. Oz (2017)
5. Olivia Newton-John (2016)
6. Penn & Teller (2015)
7. Stevie Wonder (2014)
8. Buzz Aldrin (2013)
9. Erik Estrada (2012)
10. Laura McKenzie (2011)

The Hollywood Christmas Parade traditionally follows a route along Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, USA. The parade begins at the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Orange Drive, proceeds east along Hollywood Boulevard, turns south on Vine Street, and then turns west on Sunset Boulevard, before returning to Orange Drive. The parade typically lasts for about two hours and features floats, marching bands, celebrities, and other festive elements to celebrate the holiday season. However, please note that the exact route and schedule of the parade may vary from year to year, and it’s always a good idea to check for any updates or changes before planning to attend the parade.

Famous Landmarks Seen During the Parade

Hollywood Boulevard is known for its entertainment history and tourist attractions. Some famous locations on Hollywood Blvd that you might see when watching the Christmas parade include:
1. Hollywood Walk of Fame: This is a sidewalk featuring more than 2,600 five-pointed stars, each containing the name of a celebrity or public figure who has contributed to the entertainment industry.
2. TCL Chinese Theatre: Also known as Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, this historic cinema is famous for its iconic handprints and footprints of movie stars in the concrete forecourt.
3. Dolby Theatre: This is a state-of-the-art entertainment venue that hosts the annual Academy Awards ceremony.
4. Hollywood & Highland Center: This shopping and entertainment complex features various stores, restaurants, and a viewing deck overlooking the Hollywood Sign.
5. Madame Tussauds Hollywood: This wax museum features lifelike statues of famous celebrities and historical figures.
6. El Capitan Theatre: This is a beautifully restored cinema that features live shows and screenings of Disney movies.
7. Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel: This is a historic hotel where many famous celebrities have stayed over the years, including Marilyn Monroe and Charlie Chaplin.
8. Pantages Theatre: This is a classic theater that hosts Broadway shows and other live performances.
9. The Egyptian Theatre: This historic movie palace, built in 1922, is one of the oldest theaters in Hollywood and still screens classic films.
10. The Hollywood Museum: This museum is located in the historic Max Factor Building and showcases artifacts and memorabilia from Hollywood’s Golden Age.

If you’re touring Hollywood after Thanksgiving, you may want to make a point of attending the Hollywood Christmas Parade. It’s a Hollywood tradition that’s almost 100 years old!

https://www.staging.startracktours.com

What’s Around The Hollywood Sign?

Posted on March 17, 2023March 9, 2023 by StarTrackTours

Hike Your Own Hollywood Tours

Tours of Hollywood always take in that iconic view of the Hollywood Sign, but if you’re visiting from elsewhere you may not know all that’s up and around the famous tourist attraction. Well, you’re in for a lesson!

Mount Hollywood

Mount Hollywood is a peak located within Griffith Park in Los Angeles, California. It is one of the highest points in the park, with an elevation of 1,625 feet (495 meters). The peak offers panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin, including Downtown Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign, and the San Gabriel Mountains.

Mount Hollywood is a popular destination for hikers, runners, and nature enthusiasts. There are several trails that lead to the summit, including the Mount Hollywood Trail, which is a 3.8-mile (6.1-kilometer) round-trip hike that starts at the Griffith Observatory. The trail is rated as moderate and offers scenic views of the park and the city.

The peak is also home to the famous Hollywood Sign, which is located on the southern slope of Mount Lee, a nearby peak.

Mount Lee and the Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood sign was originally built in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development called “Hollywoodland.” The sign was made of wood and was intended to be temporary, but it became an iconic symbol of the entertainment industry and the city of Los Angeles. In 1949, the last four letters were removed, and the sign was restored and made permanent. Over the years, the sign has been the target of numerous pranks and vandalism, but it has also been featured in countless films, television shows, and photographs. Today, the Hollywood sign is a protected landmark and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
Overall, Mount Hollywood is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and visitors to Los Angeles, offering beautiful views of the city and the surrounding natural landscape.

Hiking Trails in Hollywood

Griffith Park in Los Angeles, California has a number of hiking trails. Some popular hiking trails in Griffith Park include:
1. Griffith Observatory Trail: This trail is a 2.5-mile round trip and offers great views of the Hollywood Sign, downtown LA, and the Griffith Observatory.
2. Charlie Turner Trail: This trail is a 4-mile round trip and offers great views of the San Fernando Valley.
3. Amir’s Garden Trail: This trail is a 2.5-mile round trip and offers a peaceful, shaded walk through Amir’s Garden.
4. Bronson Canyon Trail: This trail is a 2.5-mile round trip and offers great views of the Hollywood Sign and the Bronson Caves, which have been featured in many movies and TV shows.
5. Mount Hollywood Trail: This trail is a 5-mile round trip and offers great views of the city and the surrounding hills.

It’s important to note that some trails may be more difficult than others, so be sure to check the trail difficulty before you begin your hike. Additionally, be sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

Griffith Park

Griffith Park is a large municipal park located in Los Angeles, California, that offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Here are some popular things to do at Griffith Park:

1. Hiking: Griffith Park has over 53 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. The most popular hiking trail is the Griffith Observatory Trail, which leads to the Griffith Observatory and offers stunning views of the city.
2. Visit the Griffith Observatory: The Griffith Observatory is an iconic landmark that offers free admission and features exhibits on astronomy and space science, as well as a planetarium and telescope.
3. Horseback riding: Griffith Park offers horseback riding trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s scenic trails on horseback. The park also has stables that offer horse rentals and guided tours.
4. Visit the Los Angeles Zoo: The Los Angeles Zoo is located within Griffith Park and features over 1,400 animals from around the world.
5. Picnic: Griffith Park has several designated picnic areas that offer tables, grills, and scenic views.
6. Golf: Griffith Park has two golf courses, the Wilson Golf Course and the Harding Golf Course, which are open to the public.
7. Visit the Autry Museum of the American West: The Autry Museum of the American West features exhibits and collections on the history and culture of the American West.
8. Take a pony ride: Griffith Park offers pony rides for children at the pony rides area.
9. Visit the Travel Town Museum: The Travel Town Museum features a collection of vintage trains, trolleys, and other forms of transportation.
10. Attend outdoor events: Griffith Park hosts a variety of outdoor events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and movie screenings.

After you take your Hollywood bus tour with Star Track Tours, why not hike up and around the Hollywood Sign and see Tinseltown from a thousand-foot view!

https://www.staging.startracktours.com