5 Things to Do in Hollywood This Summer

Beyond the usual attractions in Hollywood — the Hollywood sign in the hills, the stars on the sidewalk, the possibility of bumping into a celebrity — new restaurants, hotels, events, and places are awaiting your visit.

Even with just a long weekend, you can experience Tinseltown’s latest additions.

Hollywood Restaurants

On the famous corner of Hollywood and Vine, a newly opened steakhouse from Chef Adam Perry Lang, appropriately named APL, is serving dry aged beef and house specialties in an atmosphere that seamlessly blends classic and contemporary styles. Cocktails, wines, and brews accompany your menu choices or you can just grab a beverage at the custom 20-foot long tigerwood bar. A delicious daytime alternative to a full dinner is their beef sandwich, served on Texas toast and garnished with fresh herbs, available from APL’s corner kiosk.

Going to the Theater

The Pantages, an art-deco landmark theater dating to 1930, is just across the street from APL, creating the perfect opportunity for dinner and a show. The July presentation will be the Emilio and Gloria Estefan Broadway musical, “On Your Feet,” and in August the show will be “Waitress,” with music by Sara Bareilles.

The first televised Academy Awards ceremony was held at the Pantages in 1953, and the historic venue is a destination in itself.

Rooftop Movies in Hollywood

At the Melrose Rooftop Theatre, watch a cult classic or a new release film while sipping a handcrafted cocktail or nibbling on Asian bites from E.P. & L.P. Every Sunday through Thursday, films start at sunset on the West Hollywood roof turned theater. Go for the VIP experience and enjoy a three-course pre-movie meal and your own reserved bean bag seat. Afterwards, stay around for a late night snack or cocktail on the expansive L.P. roof with views of Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Hills.

Live Music

You can't go wrong with a visit to the Hollywood Bowl, a natural amphitheater set in the Hollywood Hills. July begins with the Fireworks Spectacular and the Go-Go’s, and summer performances include classical, popular, jazz, blues, dance, film scores, and classic rock.

Visitors can bring picnic dinners or stop at one of the Bowl’s restaurants before the show. Seating ranges from benches to stage-front garden boxes.

Where to Stay in Hollywood

The Kimpton La Peer Hotel in West Hollywood opened earlier this year in the Design District, disproving the Los Angeles axiom of needing a car to get around.

In this walkable neighborhood, you’ll find casual restaurants, fine dining, desserts, designer shops for browsing or buying, and plenty of spots for a great cocktail, including the lounge at the hotel. Rooms are contemporary and comfortable, and the lobby’s décor, art, and lighting makes the space unique and inviting.