Hollywood Self-Guided Driving Tour: Iconic Landmarks & Selfie Spots
Places: 30 POIsDistance: 21.83 miDuration: 1h:07m
Tour #2635
About this English self-guided 1h:07m driving tour in Los Angeles
Embark on an unforgettable UCPlaces self-guided driving tour through the heart of Hollywood, USA, designed for both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts. This meticulously planned itinerary offers a seamless journey through the entertainment capital of the world, ensuring you hit all the must-see attractions without the hassle of backtracking. From the glitz and glamour of the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the historic TCL Chinese Theatre, where legends have left their mark, to the architectural marvel of the Capitol Records Building, every stop is a photo opportunity waiting to happen.
Your adventure begins amidst the stars on Hollywood Boulevard, guiding you past iconic venues like the Dolby Theatre and El Capitan, before heading to the historic Pantages Theatre. Discover the resting place of stars at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, then ascend to breathtaking viewpoints at the Hollywood Bowl Overlook and Runyon Canyon Park, offering unparalleled vistas of the city and the famous Hollywood Sign. The tour culminates with a visit to the majestic Griffith Observatory, providing panoramic views of Los Angeles, followed by a drive along the legendary Sunset Strip, home to rock 'n' roll history, and a final stop at the gates of Paramount Pictures Studio. This tour is a captivating blend of history, pop culture, and stunning scenery, perfect for creating lasting memories and incredible Instagram moments.
Are you ready to get started? Great! Just follow your navigation and meet me at our first place - The Griffith Observatory.
Alright folks, get ready to gaze upon a true Hollywood icon! Perched majestically on Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory isn't just a building; it's a cosmic portal and a breathtaking viewpoint. This architectural marvel, designed in the Art Deco style, first opened its doors on May 14, 1935, right in the heart of the Great Depression. It was all thanks to Colonel Griffith J. Griffith, who, back in 1896, generously donated 3,015 acres of land to the City of Los Angeles with the stipulation that it include an observatory, an exhibit hall, and a planetarium – all free to the public. Talk about a visionary!
Beyond its scientific pursuits, Griffith Observatory holds a special place in cinematic history. Remember James Dean's dramatic knife fight in 'Rebel Without a Cause' from 1955? Yep, that was filmed right here, cementing its status as a symbol of youthful angst and discovery. More recently, it provided the romantic backdrop for the swoon-worthy dance in 'La La Land' (2016), reminding us that even amongst the stars, love stories unfold.
Inside, you'll find fascinating exhibits on space and science, not to mention the legendary Zeiss telescope, which has given millions their first glimpse of distant galaxies and planetary neighbors. Whether you’re a budding astronomer, a film buff, or just looking for the best panorama of the Hollywood sign and the sprawling city below, this place delivers. It’s a testament to public science education and a genuinely stellar experience, no pun intended.
Tucked into the canyons of Griffith Park on our right, the Greek Theatre is one of Los Angeles’s most beloved outdoor venues — a place where music, mountains, and starlight come together. Opened in 1930, it was modeled after the ancient amphitheaters of Greece, complete with sweeping rows of seats that curve gracefully around the stage.
The idea came from Griffith J. Griffith, the same philanthropist who donated this park and built the nearby observatory. He believed that art and science should be shared under the open sky, and the Greek Theatre brought that dream to life.
Over the decades, legends from Frank Sinatra and Aretha Franklin to Elton John and Adele have performed here, their voices echoing through the canyon on warm summer nights.
When you look toward the stage, imagine the lights glowing against the hills and the city twinkling beyond — a uniquely Los Angeles mix of natural beauty and showbiz sparkle.
Even when the seats are empty, the Greek feels alive — a timeless reminder that in Hollywood, every night can be a little bit magical.
Tour itinerary stops | Additional places you'll see on this self-guided tour
Place 1Griffith Observatory
Place 2The Greek Theatre
Place 3Glendower Mosaic Stairs
Place 4Hlaffer-Courcier House
Place 5Ennis House
Place 6Raymond Chandler Home
Place 7John Sowden House
Place 8Griffith Park
Place 9Samuel Novarro House
Place 10Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Place 11Judy Garland Pavilion
Place 12Cinespia
Place 13Toto Memorial
Place 14History of Paramount Pictures
Place 15Paramount Pictures
Place 16Lucille Ball House
Place 17Freddy Krueger's House
Place 18Capitol Records Building
Place 19Pantages Theatre
Place 20Hollywood Walk of Fame
Place 21Musso & Frank Grill
Place 22El Capitan and Dolby Theatres
Place 23TCL Chinese Theatre
Place 24Home of the Oscars
Place 25The Woman's Club of Hollywood
Place 26Runyon Canyon Park
Place 27Hollywood Bowl
Place 28Mullholland Drive Viaduct
Place 29Hollywood Reservoir
Place 30Hollywood Sign
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How to take a UCPlaces tour
Taking a UCPlaces tour is fun and easy.
Download the app (Android or iOS), purchase the tour (either here on the website, or from within the app).
That's it, you're ready to go!
When you want to start the tour, find the tour in the app (via a quick in-app search or by clicking the tour link received in your confirmation email) and click "Start Tour" (headphones recommended for best experience.)
* After purchasing a tour you will receive a purchase confirmation email including the tour link and instructions on how to take the tour, so you don't have to remember anything now.
How does the tour work?
UCPlaces acts as your personal tour guide, providing self-guided audio tours fully navigated within our app using GPS-based navigation. You won't need to switch between external navigation apps.
Whenever you approach a point of interest (POI) on the tour, our app will automatically play the relevant audio story at the right time and place.
If you start the tour before reaching the first POI, the app will navigate you to the starting point and then begin the tour.
How is this more convenient than a traditional tour?
UCPlaces offers an innovative and flexible way to explore exciting destinations on your terms.
Here are some key advantages over traditional tours:
No need to commit upfront or purchase in advance; buy a tour only when you're ready to go.
Walk at your own pace.
No waiting for groups; go on your schedule.
Take the tour in your preferred language.
Start, stop and continue the tour whenever you want.
Returning to the same destination? Take the tour again, and again, and again... And bring a friend!
Enjoy preferred prices.
What's included?
A self-guided audio tour taken via the UCPlaces app [Android / iOS (iPhone) / Apple CarPlay].
Tour route map and in-app GPS navigation (via the UCPlaces app).
Audio stories for places visited during the tour.
Apple CarPlay connection (for iOS users); for a seamless driving tour experience.
What's NOT included?
Earphones (highly recommended).
Smartphone.
Any kind of transportation (including tickets and passes).