9 TV and Movie Moments in Los Angeles

The handprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre, formerly and famously known as Grauman's Chinese Theatre, are a must-see for anyone exploring TV and movie moments in Los Angeles. Tourists gather here to see the handprints and footprints of their favorite celebrities immortalized in cement in its iconic courtyard.

However, what many visitors may not realize is that this ornate pagoda is also Hollywood's premier location for star-studded movie premieres. Beyond the hand and footprints, movie fans gather here to marvel at the grand architecture and to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars walking the red carpet.

If you love cinema, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a must-visit. Located a few miles west of downtown Los Angeles, its extensive galleries and collections are a celebration of film history. With over 52 million items, the Academy Collection is the world’s largest film-related collection.

Highlights include exhibits with original costumes and props, the David Geffen Theater for exclusive screenings, and the Oscars Experience, where you can feel the thrill of winning an Academy Award and get a video of your unforgettable moment on stage. The museum’s rooftop terrace also offers stunning views of the Hollywood Hills. Before leaving, check out the movie memorabilia and Oscars merch at the gift store.

Reserve advance tickets online for a tour at Warner Bros. Studios to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at a working film and TV studio. Guided through echoing sound stages and dusty Western sets, you may even get the chance to handle a prop or 2 from the latest Hollywood blockbuster.

The most popular option is the standard studio tour, which includes 1 hour of guided exploration and 2 hours of unguided time. For the ultimate experience, movie aficionados might want to opt for the Deluxe Tour edition. This comprehensive package includes everything from the standard tour, plus a range of additional exclusive experiences, ensuring a memorable visit with all the bells and whistles.

Grab a map at the front entrance and embark on a fascinating hunt for the celebrity graves at Hollywood Forever Memorial Park. This landmark cemetery is not only a functioning funeral home and gravesite, but also a unique public attraction where you find the final resting places of your favorite stars from the silver screen. Visitors are welcome to tour this iconic spot in historic Hollywood, exploring the graves of legendary stars who rose to fame during the early days of cinema.

For an unforgettable evening, come early on select summer nights to enjoy classic films projected against the mausoleum walls.

Book a table in advance to dine at The Ivy, a celebrated Hollywood hotspot, where you might just rub elbows with celebrities meeting their agents. Known for standout dishes like lobster pasta and crab cakes, The Ivy is an ideal spot for celebrating special occasions.

While some may argue the food is overpriced, the real allure is soaking in the vibrant atmosphere that has made this venue a favorite among the stars. Don't let the ever-present paparazzi deter you from enjoying this iconic Hollywood experience.

In Los Angeles, several locations offer the unique opportunity to witness the magic of live television by attending live tapings of TV shows. Among these iconic venues, Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City stands out as a premier destination. Here, you can attend live tapings of popular shows such as Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune.

Other notable venues for live tapings include Warner Bros. Studio and NBC Studios at Universal Studios Hollywood, each hosting a variety of popular shows. Secure your tickets online for an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the entertainment industry.

Shopping at Rodeo Drive captures the essence of Beverly Hills glamour. Home to many Hollywood stars, Beverly Hills features iconic landmarks and the famous, high-end shopping street, Rodeo Drive. Located 10 miles (16 km) west of downtown Los Angeles, Rodeo Drive boasts over a hundred leading international boutiques and designer stores.

Movie buffs may recognize the street from the 1990 film Pretty Woman, where Julia Roberts’ character has a memorable encounter with the sales clerks of a Rodeo Drive boutique. That scene may have been purely for cinematic effect though, as the boutiques on Rodeo Drive pride themselves on their unrivaled customer service. Stroll along the palm-lined avenue and soak in some of that Hollywood luxury and elegance.

Drinks at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel offer a quintessential taste of iconic moments in Los Angeles. For a touch of artistic flair, relax with a cocktail by David Hockney’s iconic underwater mural in this Los Angeles hotel’s swimming pool.

If you prefer a more intimate setting, head over to the Library bar inside the hotel. With its cozy atmosphere, it’s the ideal spot for a nightcap. Legend has it, if you have one too many drinks, you might just encounter the ghost of the legendary actor Errol Flynn.