We lived in LA for many years and have seen it all, haha. But it's easy to hike to the Hollywood sign, you can see it from the back. I'd just add that people should not expect to see celebrities in Hollywood unless there's a movie premiere. Some people even think that Hollywood itself is a tourist trap... I think it's cool to go for a walk and see what it's about, but good to manage expectations 😉
Couldn't agree more. Right after I moved to LA I went to Rodeo and Hollywood figuring I'd see SOMEone if I walked around for a few hours. I think I saw Liev Schrieber at the Brentwood farmer's market and that was it. It's a massive city and those celebs are busy people who largely don't WANT to be seen. And the one place they're certainly not going is Hollywood.
The only trick with hiking to the sign is parking. However, if you're a cyclist who likes hills, it's an EXCELLENT ride up. I go at least once a month.
I worked in a small business pharmacy in Studio City for years. You want to see celebrities, go work at any medical building in the valley in cities near the studios. After one day, you'll be like whatever, they're just as rude, plain, and ugly as any other person. Believe it or not, they're also cheap.
Having worked on the 3rd floor of a building on Sunset and Vine for over 15 years, I can say it was not glamorous. What I noticed in those years was the clean up of the Hollywood area, much cleaner today than ever but still not glamorous. Want to see stars, real celebrities'? Go to the Brentwood Country Mart on 26th and San Vicente, they did not allow tour busses in that area back in my day. Week days are best to see real celebrities' at the country mart.
Very nicely put together. You have a very calm, soothing voice and a very likable personality Wolter. The information is awesome. Would request you to make a video on 1) San Francisco (day wise) A) things to do B) price of tickets C) hotel accommodation D) local transport for the sight seeing ( point a to b) E) approx price of Lyft/Uber from point a to b 2) Las Vegas (day wise) A) things to do B) price of tickets C) hotel accommodation D) local transport for the sight seeing E) approx price of Lyft/Uber from point a to b Thanks a ton and keep up the good work
Except the drive and traffic to Malibu is awful, and Malibu itself is a tourist trap. Plenty of good beaches in the South Bay area (Hermosa, Redondo, Torrance) that get good grades from Heal the Bay. I would avoid any beach though after it rains with all the runoff.
When I went to LA, a woman followed me for about two blocks then asked me if I dropped a note. She handed it to me and it was asking me to help her get a phone number back or something along those lines. The instructions said to call the listed number, etc. She walked off after handing me the note and it was obviously a scam, but it was so strange.
The whole place is a tourist trap. Try these places instead... 1. Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades, better than Getty Museum. 2. Norton Simon Museum followed by Old Town in Pasadena 3. San Gabriel Valley for great Chinese/Asian food 4. Westfield Century City, best shopping center in LA - good food court, Eataly and Din Tai Fung 5. Wayfarer's Chapel in Ranchos Palos Verdes 6. Boyle Heights for best Mexican Food 7. 626 Night Market during Summer 8. Warner Bros Studio Tour.. the best studio tour in LA 9. Union Station and Olvera St.. lunch at Phillipe French Dip. 10. Thai Town on Hollywood Blvd, best Thai food outside of Thailand
Huntington Library & Gardens, A hike in Runyon Canyon to see some beautiful human specimens, catch a game/concert at SoFi (truly WORLD CLASS), Staples or Dodger Stadium, Farmer's Market/The Grove, various "Little" Neighborhoods (Ethiopia, Tokyo, K-Town, Thai Town, etc.)...Slauson Swap Meet (okay, just kidding!) Do not forget to hit up a taco truck...if there's a crowd it's worth a stop!
I'll add the free NASA JPL (Jet Propulsion Lab) tour. It's amazing but you have to sign up months in advance so it takes some planning. Might be the best kept secret in LA tourism.
I was born and raised in LA and can say that when I have friends visit me, I make it all about eating. I usually recommend street tacos or any Mexican food, all of the different types of Asian foods we have here (especially in the san gabriel valley), and Persian/Middle Eastern food! My friends and I love the beach in Malibu, and usually skip places like Venice and Santa Monica. Ngl there’s also a great view of the hollywood sign from the top of the Home Depot parking lot in Hollywood
Ever since I saw a homeless dude taking a dump in the middle of the day in Venice. I said no thank you, and I will not be coming again on my own dime. I'll go for a friends party, but not for vacationing.
Valet parking/expensive parking lots. Relatively speaking, if you’re paying more than $10-15 for general parking, you’re paying too much (I’m excluding theme parks/museums etc here). Parking meters are even cheaper and if you can find something free (and legal) w/a bit of a walk, even better. Paradise Cove in Malibu. This is one of those places where you go there to say that you’ve been there, but just know that it’s EXPENSIVE. If you wanna go and save money: go with a group of 4-5 people over 21 and have everyone order one drink. Bring your own lunch (or buy something from a nearby grocery store), grab a chair (the ones past the cabanas against the cliff are free), and enjoy the beach. The other option is to again go with a group of 3-4, eat lunch at the cafe and share a sampler (I like the iced one) and/or appetizer, and split the bill 4 ways. Either way, the drinks/meal will be enough to validate parking so your parking and food costs will be lower overall. Just make sure you’re out within 4 hrs or the validation expires. Artists/musicians/cosplayers: JUST SAY NO AND KEEP WALKING OR IGNORE THEM. Double decker buses. If you park on the street, you can visit the same places on those tours w/o the exorbitant tour cost. Not a tourist trap but a pro tip: if you’re flying out of LAX and are having someone drop you off, have them drop you off @ your terminal in arrivals vs, departures if the wait is too long. You can take a nearby escalator up to departures and go check in.
@@josephhudson7378 those are def good options but most people traveling to and from LA (esp first time travelers) will use LAX. I used to fly in and out of Burbank since that’s the closest alternative airport for me but all the layovers are starting to get tedious.
You actually can get up close and personal with the Hollywood sign... if you're willing to hike. There's a trail that goes right up to the sign. It's fenced off with security cameras and stiff penalties for trespassing, but you can still get close enough for some great photo ops.
*”...actually some of the tourist traps...you really want to go to.”* 👍 Mark is correct. You’re in LA, why not? *Santa Monica Pier to Marina Del Rey is an easy and I think fun walk.* Explore the Wed/Sat Farmers Market at 10:00 AM; 3rd Street Promenade to Santa Monica Blvd. to the beach; the Santa Monica Pier 11:00 AM; walk south on the boardwalk; check out some shops, have a beer, step into the ocean; explore the Venice Canals - a must; check out the yachts docked at Marina Del Rey; walk to the end of Venice Pier to see what’s biting; end with a cocktail in Washington Square.
I have to disagree about the the last ting, we actually took a hike around the dam, then to the old tree and then hiked behind the hollywood sign and hiked back... It was one of the best days when I was in LA
He said nothing about hiking up to it. He said just avoid the expense in hiring someone to take you there. Anyone that’s been to Hollywood knows the sign is easily visible from almost anywhere.
The 5 dollar store on the Hollywood Walk of Fame taught me that 35 dollar L.A. sweatshirts are the scam. I got a sweatshirt for 5, a tshirt for 5, a hat for 5. Quality fir cheap. Do not buy those sweatshirts in Los Angeles for over 10 dollars.
I live in L.A. and buy a few tee shirts there. The trick to VERY carefully examine them because they are factory rejects. They often have holes. One that looked fine in the shop ended up being diagonal when I actually wore it.
@@diegomh7529 Ive been stuck in traffic on PCH and the freeways and I'd rather get stuck on PCH - at least it has better views lol. PCH is a fantastic drive especially going north past Santa Monica and onward, even better if you catch it during sunset.
I'm from the UK and have visited LA several times. The most annoying 'trap' is when people thrust their (mixtape) music CD on you and expect payment. I advise putting hands in pockets and walking on.
Sushi can be a tourist trap in LA.. mediocre seafood for crazy prices near the beach. a whole in the wall inland restaurant can give you way better fish/experience for a lower price just without the views of homeless and water.
In Las Vegas at the Italian/Venice looking hotel, some people powder themselves to look like statues and stay still. A whole crowd of first time tourisgs came out of nowhere and swarmed the busker without paying. I helped form a linr and told them the jar was to pay before taking a picture. I also reminded them to not crowd the picture area so paying customers could get a nice picture. The busker shed a tear while maintaining character.
If the restaurant doesn't look fancy, the food could be fine or the best version of whatever food you're looking for. The best tacos I've had were in a gas station parking lot. Take the trains if you can, no traffic and just walk. You're tourists anyway, just look at stuff.
As someone from the heartland, I consider In and out burger a bit of a tourist trap. They're expanding east already and honestly, their burgers are not worth waiting in line an hour for. I only eat at In and out every 2 months. Five Guys tastes better.
You forgot about the people pushing you into buying their “mix tapes”. Also you can get up to the Hollywood sign. You need to go up the Griffith park hiking trail and it’ll drop you off behind the sign.
wouldn't say Rodeo Dr is a tourist trap, you know full well what you're in for when you go there. Been there a few times, it's a very pleasant place to walk around.
You caught the Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum when it was not a holiday. They dress up the T-Rex on the roof in various costumes for special occasions. He wears a fetching pair of bunny ears for Easter!
For talking aout buying tourist trap souvenirs, you're actually better off checking a CVS, Rite Aid or Walgreens - they're everywhere and they'll probably be much cheaper. They'll also usually be next to a grocery store so you can get cheaper water/food than buying it at a tourist shop, as Walter mentioned in the video.
Come down the 110 freeway to San Pedro, the port of LA....see the friendship bell, point fermin, cabrillo beach and aquarium...take the bridges to Long Beach....beautiful views of the harbor and Catalina island 🌟
Finally an LA video haha. Us locals do not go to Hollywood or Venice at all, worst places on Earth in my opinion. As for tourist traps/scams: we’re not really known for that compared to cities in Europe. Although if your traveling to Union Station watch out for people asking for money who have recently gotten out of the jail down the street. Grand Central Market is also a scam, yes it’s cool and theres a lot of variety of food but most of it is pricy for food you can find elsewhere. I would advise anyone coming to Los Angeles to spend more time visiting places such as Olvera Street, Chinatown, Little Tokyo. Best places to eat and drink in Downtown will be along the streets of Spring, Hill, and Main.
I got scammed out of around $90 while I was in LA back in 2019. Some woman at the santa monica pier handed me a friendship bracelet and I ended up forking up $40 for it just to get her out of my way, and then someone hustled me for $50 after he gave me his mixtape at the hall of fame. I'm usually not to easy to get but I was on a date and didn't wanna cause any problems.
You'll see more celebrities when they are filming in the suburbs like Sierra Madre, La Verne, etc. I did come out of my L.A. office for lunch one day and they were filming a snow scene on my corner with Robert DeNiro. This was back in the 1990's. I used to see an occasional celebrity dining out for lunch, but not very often.
I grew up in LA. All of Hollywood is a tourist trap. It's dirty and sketchy. And don't think you're gonna see Tom Hanks taking a stroll down Hollywood Blvd. I wouldn't call Venice Beach a tourist trap because many locals hang there as well as tourists.
I grew up in south-central… You are so right. I could see the Hollywood sign from my bedroom window & didn’t even know it was anything special lol. My brother still lives in Hawthorne, and I visit often
I used to enjoy driving around slowly through Watts, maybe have a Fatburger. Then head up the hill a short way to Rodeo Drive/Beverly Hills. Quite a contrast. I thought Watts was a lot more interesting.
similar to the picture thing, n santa Monica i noticed there are people who carry around their "mixtapes" and try to hand it to you so you can listen to it for free. Then they try to get you with the "you have to pay for this since im giving it to you!" scam. I knew immediately what the guy was trying to do when me and my friend approached me one time in LA. not fun! this was in 2018. so idk if they still exist but I just remember my friend being approached by them.
At that point it’s cheaper to take the Metro Green (C) line to Norwalk and Uber from there, or take a Flyaway bus downtown to Union Ststion and catch a Metrolink/Amtrak train. Takes longer, sure, but you’ll be more comfy than the back of a car, and during the worst of rush hour it probably is faster!
Starting in 2023 you'll be able to take public rail via a new people mover from LAX. You can ride to Union Station and from there take Metrolink to OC.
I happen to find you because you did video on Lithuania, and I'm of Lithuanian descent, anyway... I live in Orange County and I watched this video and said aha. yep he's right. yep! Great video!
Be careful when you’re on Hollywood Boulevard and people try handing you a compact disc then they will want money even though they are asking you to review the music usually the cds are fake and who uses CD anyway?
There are many great places to visit in the L.A. area, but parking has always been an issue. Street parking is almost non-existent around tourist areas & parking lot fees can be pricey. Some residential areas around attractions require a permit to park on city streets posted on signs or the car can be ticketed. Ride sharing is better than renting a car but fares can inflate during peak hours. The bus system isn't the greatest but offers the cheapest option besides walking. "Nobody Walks In L.A."
Honestly, I enjoyed the Hollywood/Beverly Hills celebrity houses tour b/c it was two hours of me going around an area that I most likely wouldn't be able to go on my own.
I work a couple blocks away and I would say no, but also, I love the local history behind it and it's so cheap that it's not a big deal. If you're going to DTLA just for Angels Flight, maybe? But there's enough neat stuff in the area to do that you can just add it in to an itinerary.
I heard Angel's Flight is the shortest railroad in the world or U.S. I rode it once in the 60's for 5 cents one way before it was dismantled, laid in a warehouse for years & moved to the Business District to the West. Not many tourists visit, but many locals use it to get up & down the hill. The fare should be less than a dollar.
Check the parking restrictions when street parking. They can vary on the same street. 1 hour max on one stretch and 3 hours on another part just a few feet away.
I only go to Venice if a friend from out of town really wants to go. But it's not really a fun beach especially when there are so many other beaches to choose. Each beach has a unique vibe and style and some are kid friendly and some are party beaches. Also check out Orange county beaches especially if you were going to Disneyland because you have a lot of options down south from LA
Don’t drive through Normandie ave in south central! But do walk through ! Make sure you wear lots of red, make sure you wear a red bandanna hanging out of your right back pocket, for it is a sign of respect and is customary!
There is a public Metro bus from 5th Street in downtown that goes to Disneyland once per hour. $1.75 for subway fare from Hollywood/Highland to Pershing Square includes two free transfers over the next two hours to take connecting busses. Total price will be $1.75 each way.
Of note, the Disneyland bus is painfully slow as it’s a Local with stops every few blocks. It can easily take 3 hours. A much faster option: Take Metro’s Red (A) Line to LA Union Station. From there, ride either a Metrolink OC Line train or Amtrak Pacific Surfliner (check schedules to see which one works best) to Anaheim. From the station in Anaheim, take Anaheim Resort Transit’s bus to Disneyland - it drops you right at the front door. An ART Daypass costs $6. Metrolink tickets will cost $17.50 for the Round Trip. Amtrak costs more, but includes free transfers to ART’s Disneyland bus, and you can buy discounted LA Metro day passes onboard, too. Best of all: no traffic! We live in Hollywood, near the Bowl, and have season passes for Disneyland. During the day, it can easily be a 2 hour drive. At night, maybe 35 minutes. The train is going to be a LOT less stressful (and fun).
Honestly, your best bet is to get a hotel near Disneyland and get there the day before. Especially if you want to enter the park at the opening or want to stay late and crash in your hotel room.
Dude, I was an Angelino, a L.A. native. 99% of the stuff is true about the tourists traps. I do have a few addition. A big scram/trap they used to run, and possibly still do, is the “Map of the Stars” or “Map to the Star.” They used to hangout near Westwood/UCLA area. Just be aware. Also, a definite trap is the free tickets for movies and show taping. Everyone, I ever went to, was legit but they can and will eat up your time. The free movies are test screenings and you will be asked to fill out a Survey afterwards. Sitcom and game shows will take several hours, if not a full day, to film. They have spotters around local areas with extremely heavy foot traffic, like college/university campuses, boardwalks, promenades, outside of popular movie theaters, outside of studio/film lots, etc. They will not be rude or harass you. But, if your time is limited, try to avoid the “free ticket” spotters or politely say “No.” If you would like to be a part of a studio audience, get the info and call well in advance of your trip for any open spots and plan around it. Game shows you may have to be in line an hour or more early. Also, see if they permit and/or provide food, snacks, drinks. If permit, bring your own. On site food can have a pretty hefty price tag.
You can't drive up to the Hollywood Sign. It's surrounded by way too many houses. I can tell you it's quite a hike to get there. We started out as a group of 37 people and it shrunk to literally seven people. It's hard getting up to the sign. It's easy to get down from it. The sign itself is fenced in so you're unable to touch the letters. It was quite a view from the top!
About the home tours I would add to never accept the first price they ask for. Each tour company has their own prices, so I always walk up and down the street and hear all the prices and then go to the best looking busses and tell them the lowest price. Always worked out for me. I got a tour for $5 instead of the initial $25.
@@shilk3681 I was referring to the Tour of the Stars mentioned on 1:53, where you get on a bus and you drive around Hollywood and Beverly Hills to see where the stars live. And Walter is right. You don't actually see much of the houses, but more like the general property or just the walls. But yeah, they really give all kinds of prices.
@@JulieCallies Thanks Julie. Could you share the name, location and address of the Airbnb? Website link? How did you manage your local sight -seeing? Is there a transport which has a proper itinerary, with the activities? Drops you in that location and picks you up again and them you move to the next activity? I mean rather than book different activities, it will be easier if your 2 day itinerary is taken care of by that touring company. Would you happen to know for Las Vegas and San Francisco?
Yes! We were riding bikes, guy signed the DVD and threw it in my husband’s basket and would not leave until he gave him some money. I think he only gave him $10. Then right away another guy trying to do it to me and I started yelling at him and told him to get it out of my basket and leave me alone! I embarrassed my husband but I was not going to fall for it!
0:36 I'm a pro photographer and I pass by this large array of street lamps weekly and wonder why folks want to take Portraits with these lamp posts in the background?
You were spot on we rented a van and did our outings in sections. We did the Lakers game and everything in the area for example. Day 2 we did all the beach from Venice to Malibu. The Hollywood sign snapped it on the tour and was good. Yes you mainly saw their security wall but it was a must to do. Lol
@@stephaniecoleman6954 we did Hollywood tours. I think it was 35 per person vs TMZ 59 per person pre summer hike. TMZ were in front of us going the same route.
@@stephaniecoleman6954 I won’t give you the exact amount, but I basically had to hand them all the cash in my wallet. I did get some cool pics with them, though!
as a local heres where you need to go Santa Monica Griffith Park LACMA Getty Center In n Out Disneyland Lakers , Dodger game any rooftop bar Rodeo Drive
I thought Uber was pre paid as in you pay before you get into the car, this is how it is in UK, it doesn't matter how long it takes etc, is it different in LA
Good advice. Instead of Santa Monica Pier, I recommend Huntington Beach Pier with surfing and less people. I grew up in Venice Beach (60's & 70's), I'd say skip it. Driving through Beverly Hills is fascinating, good enough. Hollywood Blvd. is such a disappointment as it is so run down so skip it too.
I'm going next month and I'm trying to find things to do with my mom and mother in law. What is there to do? We have things planned for the kids only so far lol
I would never assume a star homes tour would include the INSIDE of their homes just the outside LOL... I have seen the movies and that is how they did it... sometimes the star would be getting the mail or some mundane activity and wave at the tour bus sort of thing... that would be cool
Raised in LA, worked hospitality in LA and OC. My biggest recommendation is when you are visiting LA or OC treatment then as two different destinations meaning if you are doing LA first, find things to do in LA area and only LA area . I seen so many people coming to cali for the first time and think I “Disney is only 20 miles from my hotel in DTLA it can’t be that bad” trust it is bad and I don’t recommend it (if your budget allows it). Also stay in DTLA or Hollywood I mean those are probably the place you are going to visit anyway so you won’t have to worry about Ubers or driving. Use public transportation as much as you can when in LA (OC public transportation is ok) yea it’s not the best and just like any big city you are going to encounter weird stuff and see everyday people so do not be surprised! You can even take the metro to Santa Monica, Venice and Long Beach and specially during rush hour is faster and cheaper than an Uber or driving. Lastly just do research on what to do, ask locals where to go. Ask the front desk or concierge people at your hotel what they do?
I did the silly ass Hollywood van tour on my birthday. It was better than sitting in the hotel. I wasn't expecting Brad pitt to come out and invite us in for a backyard barbecue.
Turist trap any thing you pay for, do not park just drive by, the best and free places are along the coast the mountains and anything without a price tag or permit
MAPS to the stars homes 🤣 They are WAY out of date. I drove limos in Hollywood for 3 years and drove dozens of major and minor stars. For fun I picked up one of those maps and had a good laugh. Don't waste your money.
Lol I went to Hollywood with a friend of mine when I was visiting him back in December. I had some guy hand me a flyer and his dvd of his comedy routine. He tried to get me to give him 5 bucks for it. I told him I didn’t have any cash, he tried to get me to use my credit card on his square reader, I told him I didn’t have it like that so I gave him back his dvd. Guy followed me and said I needed to give him back his flyer. Obviously the guy wasn’t interested in advertising his comedy and growing a following, but rather pressuring people to make a quick buck.
We lived in LA for many years and have seen it all, haha. But it's easy to hike to the Hollywood sign, you can see it from the back. I'd just add that people should not expect to see celebrities in Hollywood unless there's a movie premiere. Some people even think that Hollywood itself is a tourist trap... I think it's cool to go for a walk and see what it's about, but good to manage expectations 😉
Couldn't agree more. Right after I moved to LA I went to Rodeo and Hollywood figuring I'd see SOMEone if I walked around for a few hours. I think I saw Liev Schrieber at the Brentwood farmer's market and that was it. It's a massive city and those celebs are busy people who largely don't WANT to be seen. And the one place they're certainly not going is Hollywood.
The only trick with hiking to the sign is parking. However, if you're a cyclist who likes hills, it's an EXCELLENT ride up. I go at least once a month.
@@bryantsteury8910 You’ll see celebrities in Beverly Hills, Burbank or Malibu. That’s all I can think of. I live in the Midwest and few here.
The best tour is with locals...so can you be my host.. 😁
I worked in a small business pharmacy in Studio City for years. You want to see celebrities, go work at any medical building in the valley in cities near the studios. After one day, you'll be like whatever, they're just as rude, plain, and ugly as any other person. Believe it or not, they're also cheap.
Just got back from LA, and as a tourist I can say the Metro Rail and buses were very good transportation and more affordable than Lyfts!!
I think it is quicker than driving....
As long as you ignore some people on them.
@@josephhudson7378 🤭 Those are zoombies. 🧟♂️🧟♀️
...hmmm... i think the buses are free
When I visited I was to scared to take the metro rail, but the bus were fine.
@@superjfbm That's just been since COVID. Eventually they'll start collecting fares again.
Having worked on the 3rd floor of a building on Sunset and Vine for over 15 years, I can say it was not glamorous. What I noticed in those years was the clean up of the Hollywood area, much cleaner today than ever but still not glamorous. Want to see stars, real celebrities'? Go to the Brentwood Country Mart on 26th and San Vicente, they did not allow tour busses in that area back in my day. Week days are best to see real celebrities' at the country mart.
If you see a bunch of people with expensive cameras running somewhere in Beverly Hills or Hollywood, just follow them.
Very nicely put together. You have a very calm, soothing voice and a very likable personality Wolter. The information is awesome. Would request you to make a video on
1) San Francisco (day wise)
A) things to do
B) price of tickets
C) hotel accommodation
D) local transport for the sight seeing ( point a to b)
E) approx price of Lyft/Uber from point a to b
2) Las Vegas (day wise)
A) things to do
B) price of tickets
C) hotel accommodation
D) local transport for the sight seeing
E) approx price of Lyft/Uber from point a to b
Thanks a ton and keep up the good work
As a LA native I have no idea what tourists do here So that was interesting.
i like to hang out in skid row
@Eddie W during the day it's somewhat fine. As long as you are respectful to people and either help or mind your own business while there
Tourist trap: Don't swim south of Santa Monica. The prettiest/cleanest beaches are up north in the Malibu area.
huntington beach, ca......it's not exactly los angeles
Well with that oil spill I wouldn’t go to the beaches north either
The prettiest beaches are in South Orange County, but don't go to Huntington Beach, that beach is Santa Monica South and full of racists.
The most beautiful beaches start at Corona del Mar in Orange County and south.
Except the drive and traffic to Malibu is awful, and Malibu itself is a tourist trap. Plenty of good beaches in the South Bay area (Hermosa, Redondo, Torrance) that get good grades from Heal the Bay. I would avoid any beach though after it rains with all the runoff.
When I went to LA, a woman followed me for about two blocks then asked me if I dropped a note. She handed it to me and it was asking me to help her get a phone number back or something along those lines. The instructions said to call the listed number, etc. She walked off after handing me the note and it was obviously a scam, but it was so strange.
It was a side quest bro you didn't know LA basically gta you shoulda went on the mission
When I went to LA we hiked up to the Hollywood sign at sunset and saw it from the backside and looked down on the city. It was beautiful!
The whole place is a tourist trap. Try these places instead...
1. Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades, better than Getty Museum.
2. Norton Simon Museum followed by Old Town in Pasadena
3. San Gabriel Valley for great Chinese/Asian food
4. Westfield Century City, best shopping center in LA - good food court, Eataly and Din Tai Fung
5. Wayfarer's Chapel in Ranchos Palos Verdes
6. Boyle Heights for best Mexican Food
7. 626 Night Market during Summer
8. Warner Bros Studio Tour.. the best studio tour in LA
9. Union Station and Olvera St.. lunch at Phillipe French Dip.
10. Thai Town on Hollywood Blvd, best Thai food outside of Thailand
Its more than just food
Man, I like Getty Museum WAY more than the Villa. More variety, a big garden, easy parking. Just remember to bring your own food.
Huntington Library & Gardens, A hike in Runyon Canyon to see some beautiful human specimens, catch a game/concert at SoFi (truly WORLD CLASS), Staples or Dodger Stadium, Farmer's Market/The Grove, various "Little" Neighborhoods (Ethiopia, Tokyo, K-Town, Thai Town, etc.)...Slauson Swap Meet (okay, just kidding!)
Do not forget to hit up a taco truck...if there's a crowd it's worth a stop!
I'll add the free NASA JPL (Jet Propulsion Lab) tour. It's amazing but you have to sign up months in advance so it takes some planning. Might be the best kept secret in LA tourism.
Facts!!! Been here all my life
I was born and raised in LA and can say that when I have friends visit me, I make it all about eating. I usually recommend street tacos or any Mexican food, all of the different types of Asian foods we have here (especially in the san gabriel valley), and Persian/Middle Eastern food! My friends and I love the beach in Malibu, and usually skip places like Venice and Santa Monica. Ngl there’s also a great view of the hollywood sign from the top of the Home Depot parking lot in Hollywood
Ever since I saw a homeless dude taking a dump in the middle of the day in Venice. I said no thank you, and I will not be coming again on my own dime. I'll go for a friends party, but not for vacationing.
Which Home Depot is that and how close is it to the sign?
Where in Malibu do you recommend?
Valet parking/expensive parking lots. Relatively speaking, if you’re paying more than $10-15 for general parking, you’re paying too much (I’m excluding theme parks/museums etc here). Parking meters are even cheaper and if you can find something free (and legal) w/a bit of a walk, even better.
Paradise Cove in Malibu. This is one of those places where you go there to say that you’ve been there, but just know that it’s EXPENSIVE. If you wanna go and save money: go with a group of 4-5 people over 21 and have everyone order one drink. Bring your own lunch (or buy something from a nearby grocery store), grab a chair (the ones past the cabanas against the cliff are free), and enjoy the beach. The other option is to again go with a group of 3-4, eat lunch at the cafe and share a sampler (I like the iced one) and/or appetizer, and split the bill 4 ways. Either way, the drinks/meal will be enough to validate parking so your parking and food costs will be lower overall. Just make sure you’re out within 4 hrs or the validation expires.
Artists/musicians/cosplayers: JUST SAY NO AND KEEP WALKING OR IGNORE THEM.
Double decker buses. If you park on the street, you can visit the same places on those tours w/o the exorbitant tour cost.
Not a tourist trap but a pro tip: if you’re flying out of LAX and are having someone drop you off, have them drop you off @ your terminal in arrivals vs, departures if the wait is too long. You can take a nearby escalator up to departures and go check in.
I have been flying in and our of Ontario or Long Beach Airport. So much more easy getting in and out of those places.
@@josephhudson7378 those are def good options but most people traveling to and from LA (esp first time travelers) will use LAX. I used to fly in and out of Burbank since that’s the closest alternative airport for me but all the layovers are starting to get tedious.
@@BubblyViolin11
Well, this is asking what others have found out is easier, right?
Also most places don't even own their own lots (restaurants, theaters, etc) and thus you're unable to get away from that trap
How is the metro and bus in LA ?
You actually can get up close and personal with the Hollywood sign... if you're willing to hike. There's a trail that goes right up to the sign. It's fenced off with security cameras and stiff penalties for trespassing, but you can still get close enough for some great photo ops.
Yeah, you can just walk it from the Griffith Observatory.
I came here to say this.
@@josephmarble2371 heck noo.. WAY too far
Visit CA ? NO way in hell !
yea its the home to a 👻
*”...actually some of the tourist traps...you really want to go to.”* 👍 Mark is correct. You’re in LA, why not?
*Santa Monica Pier to Marina Del Rey is an easy and I think fun walk.*
Explore the Wed/Sat Farmers Market at 10:00 AM; 3rd Street Promenade to Santa Monica Blvd. to the beach; the Santa Monica Pier 11:00 AM; walk south on the boardwalk; check out some shops, have a beer, step into the ocean; explore the Venice Canals - a must; check out the yachts docked at Marina Del Rey; walk to the end of Venice Pier to see what’s biting; end with a cocktail in Washington Square.
I have to disagree about the the last ting, we actually took a hike around the dam, then to the old tree and then hiked behind the hollywood sign and hiked back... It was one of the best days when I was in LA
The wisdom tree it is bro such an breathe taking site
Roman your talking about BEHIND the Hollywood sign. He is talking about INFRONT of the Hollywood sign. (Pay attention Roman).
He said nothing about hiking up to it. He said just avoid the expense in hiring someone to take you there. Anyone that’s been to Hollywood knows the sign is easily visible from almost anywhere.
What a coincidence. I was exactly searching 'Wolters World Los Angeles' and i saw you uploaded this a few minutes ago 🤣
Perfect timing!! We have more coming.
That’s the algorithm man. It know what you are thinking.
The 5 dollar store on the Hollywood Walk of Fame taught me that 35 dollar L.A. sweatshirts are the scam. I got a sweatshirt for 5, a tshirt for 5, a hat for 5. Quality fir cheap. Do not buy those sweatshirts in Los Angeles for over 10 dollars.
I live in L.A. and buy a few tee shirts there. The trick to VERY carefully examine them because they are factory rejects. They often have holes. One that looked fine in the shop ended up being diagonal when I actually wore it.
Walgreens has local t-shirts for a good price at all locations. For example Las Vegas, LA, San Fran, etc. Nationwide.
Great list of LA tourist traps Mark! And I learned a new word in this video -- "Tourist Trappy" 😀
Creating new words is a hobby :)
Mark did you drive along the PCH when you were here? The views are immaculate 🙌🏼 no touristy at all
PCH is a part of my daily commute I love it.
@@diegomh7529 Ive been stuck in traffic on PCH and the freeways and I'd rather get stuck on PCH - at least it has better views lol. PCH is a fantastic drive especially going north past Santa Monica and onward, even better if you catch it during sunset.
Disagree! It can easily take 3 or more hours to drive from San Pedro to Malibu because of the tourists! U must be drunk or a liar, or both.
I'm from the UK and have visited LA several times. The most annoying 'trap' is when people thrust their (mixtape) music CD on you and expect payment. I advise putting hands in pockets and walking on.
Sushi can be a tourist trap in LA.. mediocre seafood for crazy prices near the beach. a whole in the wall inland restaurant can give you way better fish/experience for a lower price just without the views of homeless and water.
there is GREEK food in my town.....near Laguna Beach, CA
@@angelachanelhuang1651 can you recommend any specific restaurants?
In Las Vegas at the Italian/Venice looking hotel, some people powder themselves to look like statues and stay still. A whole crowd of first time tourisgs came out of nowhere and swarmed the busker without paying. I helped form a linr and told them the jar was to pay before taking a picture. I also reminded them to not crowd the picture area so paying customers could get a nice picture. The busker shed a tear while maintaining character.
If the restaurant doesn't look fancy, the food could be fine or the best version of whatever food you're looking for. The best tacos I've had were in a gas station parking lot. Take the trains if you can, no traffic and just walk. You're tourists anyway, just look at stuff.
Universal Citywalk is definitely a tourist trap!
Take the train to DTLA, the beach, Hollywood and the valley. Take Uber the last few blocks. You can get to the hw sign but you have to hike
As someone from the heartland, I consider In and out burger a bit of a tourist trap. They're expanding east already and honestly, their burgers are not worth waiting in line an hour for. I only eat at In and out every 2 months. Five Guys tastes better.
Thank you for all the tips! Planning my trip for next summer :)
Mark, It's nice to see you in our city. Enjoy.
You forgot about the people pushing you into buying their “mix tapes”. Also you can get up to the Hollywood sign. You need to go up the Griffith park hiking trail and it’ll drop you off behind the sign.
Great to see you make a video about my city! I enjoy your videos. As a traveler you pack the most important accessory for travel: a good attitude.
wouldn't say Rodeo Dr is a tourist trap, you know full well what you're in for when you go there. Been there a few times, it's a very pleasant place to walk around.
You caught the Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum when it was not a holiday. They dress up the T-Rex on the roof in various costumes for special occasions. He wears a fetching pair of bunny ears for Easter!
For talking aout buying tourist trap souvenirs, you're actually better off checking a CVS, Rite Aid or Walgreens - they're everywhere and they'll probably be much cheaper. They'll also usually be next to a grocery store so you can get cheaper water/food than buying it at a tourist shop, as Walter mentioned in the video.
Come down the 110 freeway to San Pedro, the port of LA....see the friendship bell, point fermin, cabrillo beach and aquarium...take the bridges to Long Beach....beautiful views of the harbor and Catalina island 🌟
Finally an LA video haha. Us locals do not go to Hollywood or Venice at all, worst places on Earth in my opinion. As for tourist traps/scams: we’re not really known for that compared to cities in Europe. Although if your traveling to Union Station watch out for people asking for money who have recently gotten out of the jail down the street. Grand Central Market is also a scam, yes it’s cool and theres a lot of variety of food but most of it is pricy for food you can find elsewhere. I would advise anyone coming to Los Angeles to spend more time visiting places such as Olvera Street, Chinatown, Little Tokyo. Best places to eat and drink in Downtown will be along the streets of Spring, Hill, and Main.
You've finally made some LA videos! Love it!
Lots more coming
I got scammed out of around $90 while I was in LA back in 2019. Some woman at the santa monica pier handed me a friendship bracelet and I ended up forking up $40 for it just to get her out of my way, and then someone hustled me for $50 after he gave me his mixtape at the hall of fame. I'm usually not to easy to get but I was on a date and didn't wanna cause any problems.
hehe
See, now going to the $30 dollar steak restaurant doesn't sound so bad now does it.
You'll see more celebrities when they are filming in the suburbs like Sierra Madre, La Verne, etc. I did come out of my L.A. office for lunch one day and they were filming a snow scene on my corner with Robert DeNiro. This was back in the 1990's. I used to see an occasional celebrity dining out for lunch, but not very often.
After playing gta V for so many years I think I’d know my way around 😂 but thanks for the heads up really helpful man👍🏾
Watch out for those mixtape guys lol
I grew up in LA. All of Hollywood is a tourist trap. It's dirty and sketchy. And don't think you're gonna see Tom Hanks taking a stroll down Hollywood Blvd. I wouldn't call Venice Beach a tourist trap because many locals hang there as well as tourists.
I grew up in south-central… You are so right. I could see the Hollywood sign from my bedroom window & didn’t even know it was anything special lol. My brother still lives in Hawthorne, and I visit often
I’m from NYC. Recently visited and went to Hollywood to check out Amoeba records. It was gnarly, reminded me of midtown Manhattan, very smelly. LOL
@@nuggets0717 Amoeba is cool though!
@@rexx9496 it was awesome! Overall loved LA. 🤝
Came for the " Why would you ever go to LA for a vacation?" comments.
We went to Olvera Street many years ago. Sort of a "Little Mexico" in LA. Very cool. I assume it's still there.
The whole city is little Mexico 😩
Forgot to mention all the SoundCloud rappers hustling you to buy cds
Thanks for the tips going in October 🙂
If you're at the Santa Monica pier, do the ferris wheel, the view is amazing. I live here, and I do it too.
Nice video as always. Need some dos and don'ts of Park City Utah
I used to enjoy driving around slowly through Watts, maybe have a Fatburger. Then head up the hill a short way to Rodeo Drive/Beverly Hills. Quite a contrast. I thought Watts was a lot more interesting.
Shoutout from team Sweden 🇸🇪🤘🍸
🍹🥃🍸🤙🤙
similar to the picture thing, n santa Monica i noticed there are people who carry around their "mixtapes" and try to hand it to you so you can listen to it for free. Then they try to get you with the "you have to pay for this since im giving it to you!" scam. I knew immediately what the guy was trying to do when me and my friend approached me one time in LA. not fun!
this was in 2018. so idk if they still exist but I just remember my friend being approached by them.
I had that at Venice Beach last week
Same stuff in Times Square
I just refuse anything that someone hands me on the street, whether it's a CD, advertisement, or whatever. Better safe than sorry.
Uber prices are insane now. From lax to OC i saw prices over $200!!
You might as well fly from LAX to John Wayne.
@@rexx9496 seriously
Tip your driver.
At that point it’s cheaper to take the Metro Green (C) line to Norwalk and Uber from there, or take a Flyaway bus downtown to Union Ststion and catch a Metrolink/Amtrak train. Takes longer, sure, but you’ll be more comfy than the back of a car, and during the worst of rush hour it probably is faster!
Starting in 2023 you'll be able to take public rail via a new people mover from LAX. You can ride to Union Station and from there take Metrolink to OC.
I happen to find you because you did video on Lithuania, and I'm of Lithuanian descent, anyway... I live in Orange County and I watched this video and said aha. yep he's right. yep! Great video!
I am a Los Angeles native -
THANKS 4 THE CREDIT CARDS MARK !!! 😃 🤙🤙
Be careful when you’re on Hollywood Boulevard and people try handing you a compact disc then they will want money even though they are asking you to review the music usually the cds are fake and who uses CD anyway?
There are many great places to visit in the L.A. area, but parking has always been an issue. Street parking is almost non-existent around tourist areas & parking lot fees can be pricey. Some residential areas around attractions require a permit to park on city streets posted on signs or the car can be ticketed. Ride sharing is better than renting a car but fares can inflate during peak hours. The bus system isn't the greatest but offers the cheapest option besides walking. "Nobody Walks In L.A."
Thanks for all these cool tips thar provide better choices for tourists 🦋🍁🌻☘️🤗
Honestly, I enjoyed the Hollywood/Beverly Hills celebrity houses tour b/c it was two hours of me going around an area that I most likely wouldn't be able to go on my own.
That. I feel the same for any bus tour in any city I'm visiting really.
is there a certain tour bus company you would recommend?
@@stephaniecoleman6954 Hollywood City Tours is the one chose last year.
..is the Angel's Flight a tourist trap?
I work a couple blocks away and I would say no, but also, I love the local history behind it and it's so cheap that it's not a big deal. If you're going to DTLA just for Angels Flight, maybe? But there's enough neat stuff in the area to do that you can just add it in to an itinerary.
I heard Angel's Flight is the shortest railroad in the world or U.S. I rode it once in the 60's for 5 cents one way before it was dismantled, laid in a warehouse for years & moved to the Business District to the West. Not many tourists visit, but many locals use it to get up & down the hill. The fare should be less than a dollar.
Check the parking restrictions when street parking. They can vary on the same street. 1 hour max on one stretch and 3 hours on another part just a few feet away.
So true!!
I only go to Venice if a friend from out of town really wants to go. But it's not really a fun beach especially when there are so many other beaches to choose. Each beach has a unique vibe and style and some are kid friendly and some are party beaches. Also check out Orange county beaches especially if you were going to Disneyland because you have a lot of options down south from LA
This video deserves applause. Blessing your youtube channel feed once again.
The Hollywood walk of fame scams sound a lot like the times Square traps
It really is a small version of Times Square. Very similar vibe, though with less LED signs.
The beverly center we saw celebrities. However not many stores but plenty of parking.
dude, there is a hike and there is even a park in the hills where you can picnic under the sign (is actually far but pictures can be taken)
Don’t drive through Normandie ave in south central! But do walk through ! Make sure you wear lots of red, make sure you wear a red bandanna hanging out of your right back pocket, for it is a sign of respect and is customary!
🤣🤣
Some people actually gonna take that seriously, you know that right?
Lol
@YT Flava yeah whateva, “south LA” or the shitty part
Any suggestions for the best way to get from Hollywood to Disneyland? Should I just Uber or Lyft? And how much does that trip typically cost?
There is a public Metro bus from 5th Street in downtown that goes to Disneyland once per hour. $1.75 for subway fare from Hollywood/Highland to Pershing Square includes two free transfers over the next two hours to take connecting busses. Total price will be $1.75 each way.
Of note, the Disneyland bus is painfully slow as it’s a Local with stops every few blocks. It can easily take 3 hours.
A much faster option: Take Metro’s Red (A) Line to LA Union Station. From there, ride either a Metrolink OC Line train or Amtrak Pacific Surfliner (check schedules to see which one works best) to Anaheim. From the station in Anaheim, take Anaheim Resort Transit’s bus to Disneyland - it drops you right at the front door.
An ART Daypass costs $6. Metrolink tickets will cost $17.50 for the Round Trip. Amtrak costs more, but includes free transfers to ART’s Disneyland bus, and you can buy discounted LA Metro day passes onboard, too.
Best of all: no traffic! We live in Hollywood, near the Bowl, and have season passes for Disneyland. During the day, it can easily be a 2 hour drive. At night, maybe 35 minutes. The train is going to be a LOT less stressful (and fun).
Honestly, your best bet is to get a hotel near Disneyland and get there the day before. Especially if you want to enter the park at the opening or want to stay late and crash in your hotel room.
These are more like Do’s and Don’ts when visiting LA. Great tips 👍
Dude, I was an Angelino, a L.A. native. 99% of the stuff is true about the tourists traps. I do have a few addition. A big scram/trap they used to run, and possibly still do, is the “Map of the Stars” or “Map to the Star.” They used to hangout near Westwood/UCLA area. Just be aware.
Also, a definite trap is the free tickets for movies and show taping. Everyone, I ever went to, was legit but they can and will eat up your time. The free movies are test screenings and you will be asked to fill out a Survey afterwards. Sitcom and game shows will take several hours, if not a full day, to film. They have spotters around local areas with extremely heavy foot traffic, like college/university campuses, boardwalks, promenades, outside of popular movie theaters, outside of studio/film lots, etc. They will not be rude or harass you. But, if your time is limited, try to avoid the “free ticket” spotters or politely say “No.” If you would like to be a part of a studio audience, get the info and call well in advance of your trip for any open spots and plan around it. Game shows you may have to be in line an hour or more early. Also, see if they permit and/or provide food, snacks, drinks. If permit, bring your own. On site food can have a pretty hefty price tag.
You can't drive up to the Hollywood Sign. It's surrounded by way too many houses. I can tell you it's quite a hike to get there. We started out as a group of 37 people and it shrunk to literally seven people. It's hard getting up to the sign. It's easy to get down from it. The sign itself is fenced in so you're unable to touch the letters. It was quite a view from the top!
About the home tours I would add to never accept the first price they ask for. Each tour company has their own prices, so I always walk up and down the street and hear all the prices and then go to the best looking busses and tell them the lowest price. Always worked out for me. I got a tour for $5 instead of the initial $25.
Hi Julie, could you elaborate what you mean by home tours? Which area does that cover? Thanks
@@shilk3681 I was referring to the Tour of the Stars mentioned on 1:53, where you get on a bus and you drive around Hollywood and Beverly Hills to see where the stars live. And Walter is right. You don't actually see much of the houses, but more like the general property or just the walls. But yeah, they really give all kinds of prices.
@@JulieCallies Thanks for the clarification Julie. Which hotel did you stay in? What activities did you do? Cost please? Thanks again
@@shilk3681 No problem. I stayed in an AirBnB place which made it a ton cheaper. The costs always depends
@@JulieCallies Thanks Julie. Could you share the name, location and address of the Airbnb? Website link?
How did you manage your local sight -seeing? Is there a transport which has a proper itinerary, with the activities? Drops you in that location and picks you up again and them you move to the next activity? I mean rather than book different activities, it will be easier if your 2 day itinerary is taken care of by that touring company. Would you happen to know for Las Vegas and San Francisco?
I will be in LA in December. Can’t wait to visit Nakatomi Plaza. 😂
ro-day-o ??😄. The southern in me definitely would've thought it was "row-dee-o.
Awesome job dude.
The scammers in Venice beach the reggae DVD sellers don't grab the signature
Yes! We were riding bikes, guy signed the DVD and threw it in my husband’s basket and would not leave until he gave him some money. I think he only gave him $10. Then right away another guy trying to do it to me and I started yelling at him and told him to get it out of my basket and leave me alone! I embarrassed my husband but I was not going to fall for it!
There is CD scammers in Venice Beach too so watch out
0:36 I'm a pro photographer and I pass by this large array of street lamps weekly and wonder why folks want to take Portraits with these lamp posts in the background?
You were spot on we rented a van and did our outings in sections. We did the Lakers game and everything in the area for example. Day 2 we did all the beach from Venice to Malibu. The Hollywood sign snapped it on the tour and was good. Yes you mainly saw their security wall but it was a must to do. Lol
is there a bus tour company you would recommend? thank you!
@@stephaniecoleman6954 we did Hollywood tours. I think it was 35 per person vs TMZ 59 per person pre summer hike. TMZ were in front of us going the same route.
Olvera Street
The oldest standing house in Los Angeles is there.
It is sort of a tourist trap but I still have warm feelings for it, having visited as a kid. Plus, just up the street is Phillipe the Original.
One of my favorite places to visit! I still want to visit LA Live.
I heard car rental was cheaper in LA compared to others. Is that true?
Having just visited LA, it seems I managed to avoid most of these. I did fall for the photo with Mickey and Spiderman on Hollywood Blvd., though.
How much did they expect you to pay them?
@@stephaniecoleman6954 I won’t give you the exact amount, but I basically had to hand them all the cash in my wallet. I did get some cool pics with them, though!
Thankyou so much.... i love your videos.. its not only interesting, but its also very informative especially for who live outside usa
Thank you
good stuff, professor, as always !
as a local heres where you need to go
Santa Monica
Griffith Park
LACMA
Getty Center
In n Out
Disneyland
Lakers , Dodger game
any rooftop bar
Rodeo Drive
I thought Uber was pre paid as in you pay before you get into the car, this is how it is in UK, it doesn't matter how long it takes etc, is it different in LA
Good advice. Instead of Santa Monica Pier, I recommend Huntington Beach Pier with surfing and less people. I grew up in Venice Beach (60's & 70's), I'd say skip it. Driving through Beverly Hills is fascinating, good enough. Hollywood Blvd. is such a disappointment as it is so run down so skip it too.
I'm going next month and I'm trying to find things to do with my mom and mother in law. What is there to do? We have things planned for the kids only so far lol
I would never assume a star homes tour would include the INSIDE of their homes just the outside LOL... I have seen the movies and that is how they did it... sometimes the star would be getting the mail or some mundane activity and wave at the tour bus sort of thing... that would be cool
My best advice, download a parking app before you head downtown.
💖🌷💖🌷💖 Nice video, love your channel !
Raised in LA, worked hospitality in LA and OC. My biggest recommendation is when you are visiting LA or OC treatment then as two different destinations meaning if you are doing LA first, find things to do in LA area and only LA area . I seen so many people coming to cali for the first time and think I “Disney is only 20 miles from my hotel in DTLA it can’t be that bad” trust it is bad and I don’t recommend it (if your budget allows it). Also stay in DTLA or Hollywood I mean those are probably the place you are going to visit anyway so you won’t have to worry about Ubers or driving. Use public transportation as much as you can when in LA (OC public transportation is ok) yea it’s not the best and just like any big city you are going to encounter weird stuff and see everyday people so do not be surprised! You can even take the metro to Santa Monica, Venice and Long Beach and specially during rush hour is faster and cheaper than an Uber or driving. Lastly just do research on what to do, ask locals where to go. Ask the front desk or concierge people at your hotel what they do?
Oh yeah, Disneyland is a 5 hour ride on an average day
So the best time to take uber is around 10am and after 8pm
I did the silly ass Hollywood van tour on my birthday. It was better than sitting in the hotel. I wasn't expecting Brad pitt to come out and invite us in for a backyard barbecue.
When is the aftenoon rush hour ?
I remember paying 5$ for a sprite in hollywood smh i felt so dumb for buying it lol
Right off the Hollywood wall of fame there’s a great hiking trail
Turist trap any thing you pay for, do not park just drive by, the best and free places are along the coast the mountains and anything without a price tag or permit
City Walk and Santa Monica . Wanna See Celebrities? Go To An AA Meeting in The Hollywood Area .
MAPS to the stars homes 🤣 They are WAY out of date. I drove limos in Hollywood for 3 years and drove dozens of major and minor stars. For fun I picked up one of those maps and had a good laugh. Don't waste your money.
Three words that save me when I pass through these tourist-trap areas: I'm a local.
wallgreens and rite aid have best souvenirs
Lol I went to Hollywood with a friend of mine when I was visiting him back in December. I had some guy hand me a flyer and his dvd of his comedy routine. He tried to get me to give him 5 bucks for it. I told him I didn’t have any cash, he tried to get me to use my credit card on his square reader, I told him I didn’t have it like that so I gave him back his dvd. Guy followed me and said I needed to give him back his flyer. Obviously the guy wasn’t interested in advertising his comedy and growing a following, but rather pressuring people to make a quick buck.