15 Fun & Best Things to Do in Hollywood, Florida

Welcome to Hollywood, the small beach town on Florida’s east coast: where the weather is warm and the attractions are endless! Hollywood is one of the top tourist destinations in Florida, known for its pristine beaches, family-friendly parks, world-class restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on Hollywood Beach or an action-packed adventure, Hollywood has something for everyone.

And with its close proximity to other popular South Florida cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood is the perfect place to spend a weekend or a week exploring all that Florida has to offer. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll go over the top 15 best things to see in Hollywood, Florida and must-do activities while you’re here.

From the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk and the Art and Culture Center Hollywood, to exploring the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project, here are some of our favorite attractions and places to visit in Hollywood!

TLDR

• Most significant landmark – Hollywood Beach
• Best park – West Lake Park
• Best free activity – Downtown Hollywood Mural Project
• Best activity for kids – Castaway Island Waterpark
• Best activity for adults – Hard Rock Casino & Hotel
• Best food – Fresh oysters and lobsters at GG’s Waterfront Restaurant
• Best nightlife – Downtown Hollywood
• Best all-around accommodation – Sonder The Circ

15 Fun & Best Things to Do in Hollywood, Florida

1. Hollywood North Beach Park

Address: 3601 N Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL 33019

What is Hollywood known for, you ask? Well, Hollywood Beach, of course!

Hollywood North Beach Park is a popular 56-acre beachfront park located along the beautiful Hollywood coast. This beach is perfect for visitors of all ages, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and other activities like picnicking and biking. This park provides direct access to the City of Hollywood’s public beach: Hollywood Beach North.

Some of the top things to do at Hollywood North Beach Park include swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, relaxing on the sandy beach, exploring the many walking trails throughout the park, and enjoying one of the many family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas. There are also great opportunities for nature enthusiasts, with a large dune system that is home to many native plants and animals.

Visitors to the beach can rent jet skis and spend the day exploring the Hollywood coastline or visit nearby attractions like Dania Beach Pier and Hollywood Beach Broadwalk. The Hollywood Beach Boardwalk is a 2.5-mile-long promenade known for its quirky shops and cafés, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. I recommend having a drink (or two!) at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville!

And if you’re looking to stay close to the beach while in Hollywood (which I definitely recommend!), you’ve got tons of options when it comes to accommodation. Hotels like Hollywood Beachside Boutique Suite and Costa Hollywood Beach Resort offer great waterfront views and easy access to all the top Hollywood attractions. Or, opt for a vacation rental like this 1-bedroom apartment with direct access to the beach.

Whether you’re looking for a fun day at the beach with your kids or a relaxing walk along the oceanfront, Hollywood North Beach Park is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Hollywood!

See Related: Best Black Sand Beaches in the World

2. West Lake Park

Address: 1200 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33019

Situated in southeastern Broward county, Hollywood North is home to one of the best parks in the area: West Lake Park. This scenic 37-acre park is situated in a natural wetland habitat, and visitors can enjoy a wide variety of recreational opportunities from biking, walking paths, and jogging along the lake trail to bird watching, a fishing pier, kayaking, and canoeing on the lake.

This lakeside park features a marina where you can rent canoes and kayaks, and enjoy a scenic paddle around the lake. There are also several playgrounds and picnic areas with grills, perfect for families looking for a fun day outdoors. They also have basketball courts and a large field that is perfect for hosting a game of soccer or football. You can easily spend a few hours, or even the whole day enjoying this place!

West Lake Park spans over a three-mile stretch of mangrove preserve, making it one of Hollywood’s best places for nature lovers. If you’re looking to do some wildlife spotting, this is definitely the place to be! A paddle through the mangroves is a great way to see colorful birds, turtles, and maybe even the occasional alligator.

Whether you’re looking to spend the day outdoors with your kids or simply enjoy a morning bike ride along Hollywood’s scenic lakefront, West Lake Park is definitely one of the top Hollywood things to do!

3. Anne Kolb Nature Center

Address: 751 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33019

Anne Kolb Nature Center is one of the largest urban parks in Florida and is the perfect place to go for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in Hollywood North, this 1500-acre park features a wide range of activities including hiking, biking, bird watching, nature photography, and more. Since opening in 1996, this park has quickly become Hollywood’s favorite outdoor destination.

One of the centerpieces of the park is its extensive wetland ecosystem, which provides a safe haven for many native species and serves as an important habitat for both birds and wildlife. The nature center also includes an observation tower that gives visitors an excellent view of the surrounding wetlands, and there are several nature trails throughout the park that allow you to get up close and personal with Hollywood’s diverse flora and fauna.

Visitors can also explore the many exhibits at the Anne Kolb Nature Center, including an interpretive center with educational displays on local ecology, nature trails with scenic views of Hollywood North’s wetland ecosystem, and an onsite wildlife rehabilitation center.

Whether you’re looking for a great place to go hiking or simply want to enjoy some time outdoors, Anne Kolb Nature Center is definitely one of the best things to do in Hollywood.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in the US

4. Castaway Island Water Park

Address: 3300 N Park Rd, Hollywood, FL 33021

Families looking for things to do in Hollywood with kids – look no further than Castaway Island Water Park! This popular water park is one of the best in Hollywood, featuring a wide range of thrilling slides and attractions for visitors of all ages.

This waterpark is located inside Topeekeegee Yugnee Park (also called TY Park), whose name comes from the Seminole word for “gathering place”. And from what we can see, it’s a pretty fitting name!

Castaway Island features waterslides, a lazy river, and a giant splash pad for kids. There are also plenty of places to lounge on the sand or relax in the shade under a palm tree. And best of all, the admission fee to enjoy this Hollywood North gem is less than $10!

Some of the top features at Castaway Island include a tidal river, a massive tower with three water slides, and a Swim Lagoon. There are also plenty of fun kid-friendly attractions, including a water playground with multi-level platforms and spray features, as well as a water playground for toddlers.

So whether you’re looking to beat the Florida heat or enjoy some fun and excitement with your family, be sure to check out Topeekeegee Yugnee Park (TY Park) and Castaway Island – one of Hollywood’s top destinations!

5. Hollywood Hot Glass

Address: One Young Circle, Hollywood, FL 33020

If you’re ready to explore your creative side while in Hollywood North, be sure to check out Hollywood Hot Glass! This unique studio is one of the best places in Hollywood for learning glassblowing and other glassworking techniques.

At the Hollywood Hot Glass Studio, visitors can choose from a wide range of classes and workshops taught by experienced artists. Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore a new craft or an experienced glassworker looking to hone your skills, Hollywood Hot Glass has something for everyone.

Some of the top classes offered here include beginning glassblowing, neon tubing, flameworking and lampworking, coldworking and fusing, and more. You can also take part in a fun team-building workshop or host a private party at Hollywood Hot Glass.

The founder of Hollywood’s Hot Glass studio was also recently featured on season 3 of Netflix’s hit show Blown Away, giving visitors a truly unique Hollywood experience! So if you’re looking to explore your artistic side while in Hollywood North, be sure to check out this glassblowing studio. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this one-of-a-kind studio is the perfect place for exploring and experimenting with glassblowing and other glassworking techniques.

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6. John Williams Park

Address: 6101 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33021

John Williams Park is one of Hollywood North’s most popular parks and a top destination for visitors looking to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather.

Located in Hollywood, this park spans over 60 acres and features numerous hiking paths, dog parks, public restrooms, and playgrounds. The park is located on a preserve of the Sheridan Oak Forest, and its trees are some of Hollywood’s most iconic natural features.

John Williams Park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including several species of gopher tortoises that are native to Hollywood and the surrounding area. And if you’re visiting with your dog, there are several fenced-in dog parks where you can let your furry friend run off-leash and play with other pups. The paved walkways around the park make it easy to walk or bike through Hollywood North’s gorgeous natural landscape.

So whether you’re looking to spend the day outdoors with your family or just need a quiet spot to relax and enjoy nature, be sure to head to John Williams Park in Hollywood North! With its scenic hiking paths, dog parks, and beautiful oak tree preserve, this popular park is great for spending a relaxing day outside.

7. Yellow Green Farmers Market

Address: 3080 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33021

Named Florida’s #1 Farmer’s Market, the Yellow Green Farmers Market is one of Hollywood’s top destinations for fresh local produce and other goodies.

Located in Hollywood North, the market spans over 6 acres and features a wide variety of vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to baked goods, meats, cheeses, and more. You can also visit on the weekends to enjoy live music or stop by during the week to participate in one of the many cooking classes offered at the market.

Not only can you buy farm fresh foods at this market, but there are also vendors selling unique local crafts and gifts that make for great souvenirs. You can find anything from hair care, to dog toys, home decor, jewelry, and more. So if you’re looking for the best place in Hollywood North to buy fresh produce or just want to explore Hollywood’s local culture, be sure to head to the Yellow Green Farmers Market!

The market runs every Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 8:30 pm and is a popular spot for Hollywood locals and tourists alike. With its wide variety of vendors and products, this market is a one-stop destination for all your food shopping needs! It’s also a great budget activity, as the market is totally free to attend and you can find great bargains on everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

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8. Art and Culture Center of Hollywood

Address: 1650 Harrison St, Hollywood, FL 33020

The Art and Culture Center of Hollywood prides itself on cultivating creativity and celebrating Hollywood North’s local arts scene. The center was founded in 1975 as the only non-profit visual arts organization in the area at the time.

Conveniently located in Hollywood North, the culture center of Hollywood features several galleries and an interactive art studio where visitors can explore a wide range of artistic mediums. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this is the perfect place to learn new techniques and explore your creative side.

In addition to its art gallery, the center also hosts various events throughout the year. Their workshops, wide range of contemporary visual art exhibitions, and classes throughout the year are designed to inspire creativity and connect visitors with Hollywood North’s aspiring local artists.

The center’s exhibitions are rotating constantly, meaning that there is always something new and exciting to explore! The Art and Culture Center Hollywood also has an on-site 500-seat performing arts center where you can catch live stage performances, or rent it out for your own private event.

With its commitment to showcasing Hollywood North’s talented local artists and providing arts education, the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Hollywood North’s vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just want to try something new, be sure to visit this historic attraction – it’s hands down one of the top things to do in Hollywood!

9. Downtown Hollywood

Address: N Young Cir, Hollywood, FL 33020

As we know, the downtown area of any city is always bustling with activity – Hollywood North is no exception. With its wide array of shops, restaurants, bars, and performance venues, Downtown Hollywood is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore Hollywood North’s vibrant streetscape.

Whether you’re looking for some retail therapy or want to sample some of Hollywood North’s best restaurants, this downtown area does not disappoint. With everything from quirky boutiques to high-end retailers and trendy cafes, there’s something for everyone in Hollywood North’s Downtown Hollywood neighborhood. You can also stroll along the paved boardwalk or admire Hollywood North’s stunning waterfront at Bicentennial Park, located just a short walk away.

One of the most popular attractions in Downtown Hollywood is ArtsPark at Young Circle – a public park that showcases Hollywood North’s local arts scene. The park hosts various musical and theatrical performances throughout the year, as well as an array of sculptures and art installations that visitors can explore.

While in this area of Hollywood, you’re sure to stumble upon some artworks designed by the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project. This project was designed to create contemporary outdoor murals to enhance the look and feel of the city.

And for those looking for nightlife in Hollywood, check out The Social Room Hollywood for creative cocktails and Mexican-inspired bites in a colorful industrial space. There’s also the It’s 5 o’clock Somewhere Bar & Grill, which, as the name suggests, is the perfect spot to kick back and relax with a cold beer and some good company.

Downtown Hollywood is the all-around best option for exploring Hollywood North’s best landmarks and attractions, making it one of the top things to do in Hollywood! It’s also a great place to stay when visiting Hollywood North, as there’s always something new to discover in this lively downtown area. Some of my favorite hotels in the area include Sonder The Circ, a chic hotel with a rooftop pool, and The Rodeway Inn Hollywood, which offers comfortable rooms and free breakfast.

See Related: Best Places to Travel in Your 20s in the US

10. Seminole Hard Rock Casino & Hotel Hollywood

Address: 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314

Feeling lucky while in the sunny state of Florida? Test your luck at Hollywood North’s Seminole Hard Rock Casino & Hotel Hollywood! As one of the top destinations in Hollywood Hollywood, this casino offers a wide array of gaming options, from table games and slots to poker rooms and world-class shows with some of the hottest stars in music today.

But it’s not all about gambling at Hollywood’s Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – this casino is also home to a luxury spa, which offers an array of pampering services and treatments to help you relax and de-stress. There are also multiple dining options onsite, including the upscale cigar bar Davidoff, where you can pair unique cocktails with delicious steakhouse fare.

The Hard Rock Hollywood Casino has a wide range of restaurants to choose from, whether you’re looking for a luxury dining experience or just a quick bite to eat. In addition to its many restaurants, the Hard Rock Hollywood Casino also hosts a number of top-notch musical performances at the Hard Rock Live, so be sure to keep an eye on their performance schedule when planning your trip!

Whether you’re a serious gambler or just looking for some fun, Hollywood North’s Seminole Hard Rock Casino & Hotel Hollywood is sure to provide everything you need for an exciting day of entertainment. And with its prime location along Hollywood Beach and easy access to other Hollywood North attractions, it’s one of the top places to visit in Hollywood!

11. Oleta River State Park

Address: 3400 NE 163rd St, North Miami Beach, FL 33160

Spanning over one thousand acres along Hollywood North’s coast, Oleta River State Park is one of the best places to visit in Hollywood when looking for a dose of nature and outdoor recreation. The park features miles of trails perfect for hiking and biking, as well as an extensive kayaking trail that winds its way through mangrove forests and along the shoreline.

Oleta River State Park is Florida’s largest urban park, so there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy here. Aside from the miles of trails and kayaking opportunities, the park also features a family-friendly park with a variety of swings and slides, as well as an ecological research center that’s home to a number of educational exhibits highlighting Hollywood North’s diverse plant and animal life.

Visitors here can enjoy everything under the sun: including tubing, snorkeling, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and more. Oleta River State Park is also a popular spot for camping, with a variety of campsites available for both tents and RVs.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle or an outdoor adventure in Hollywood North’s beautiful natural landscape, Oleta River State Park is one of the top places to visit in Hollywood.

Note: The park frequently reaches max capacity due to its popularity, especially on the weekends. When this happens, the park will close and not reopen until the following day – keep this in mind when planning your visit here!

See Related: Best National Parks to Visit in November

12. Flamingo Gardens

Address: 3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330

Flamingo Gardens is one of Hollywood North’s most popular attractions, and for good reason! This botanical garden is a true nature lover’s paradise, offering over 60 acres of lush tropical gardens and fascinating wildlife exhibits. Here, you can get up close to Florida’s native bird species at the Everglades Exhibit, stroll through vibrant floral displays in the Palm Jungle Gallery, and get a glimpse of Hollywood North’s famous wildlife at the Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary.

Flamingo Gardens also holds several events throughout the year, including November Sunday Concerts in the Gardens – a weekly concert series that features famous local musicians performing live on the grounds. During these events, Hollywood North visitors can enjoy food and drink from local vendors, as well as take part in fun activities like face painting, lawn games, and more! The Gardens also holds events like Children’s Storytime, and 5K walks.

If you’re looking for Hollywood North activities that are out of this world, Flamingo Gardens has got you covered. It’s an ideal option for those with young kids looking for Hollywood tourist attractions that are great for any age. Note: tickets here sell out fast, so I’d recommend booking a skip-the-line ticket in advance to avoid any hassles.

13. The Ancient Spanish Monastery

Address: 16711 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160

This 12th-century monastery was originally built in Spain, and is one of Hollywood North’s most iconic landmarks. Located in the town of North Miami Beach, the Ancient Spanish Monastery has survived the ages to become a Hollywood tourist attraction that attracts visitors from all over the world. Here, you can explore this historic landmark up-close and discover its fascinating history, as well as its cultural significance.

The monastery also features a museum that showcases Hollywood North’s unique culture, along with 18th-century furnishings and antiques. A tour of the place will teach you all about Hollywood North’s roots and history, along with its fascinating architecture. You’ll learn how this massive building was brought over from Spain brick by brick, and restored to its former glory.

If you’re looking for an immersive Hollywood tourist attraction that transports you back in time to Hollywood North’s medieval roots, the Ancient Spanish Monastery is a must-visit. With its enchanting grounds and long-standing heritage, it’s an attraction perfect for history buffs visiting Hollywood!

For those looking to stay near the monastery and explore the North Miami Beach area, check out the Hollywood Beach Suites and Hotel. It’s in Hollywood and close to local tourist attractions, while also being a short drive away from the best outdoor activities and natural attractions in the nearby Miami Beach area.

See Related: Best Museums in the US You Need to Visit

14. Sawgrass Recreation Park

Address: 1006 US-27, Weston, FL 33327

Sawgrass Recreation Park is Hollywood North’s premier outdoor activities center, featuring a variety of fun and exciting attractions for nature lovers. This park is known for its guided Everglade tours and airboat rides, which offer visitors a unique and thrilling experience. Hop on an airboat and explore the vast swamps and marshes of South Florida, or head out on a guided Everglade tour to journey through Hollywood North’s natural waterways!

Visitors can also check out the park’s reptile exhibit, an educational wildlife area where visitors get up close and personal with some of Hollywood North’s most famous animals, including snakes, alligators, peacocks, and more! All of the animals here have been adopted from locals who were no longer able to care for them, so by visiting the park and learning about Hollywood North’s wildlife, you can help support these animals while enjoying a fun day outside.

If you’re looking for Hollywood tourist attractions that let you explore Hollywood North’s natural landscapes and stunning wildlife, then Sawgrass Recreation Park is the place to be.

15. GG’s Waterfront Restaurant

Address: 606 N Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL 33019

This wouldn’t be a post of mine if I didn’t mention where to eat in Hollywood, now would it?

GG’s Waterfront Restaurant is the perfect option for Hollywood North visitors looking to enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying some fresh air and overlooking Hollywood’s Atlantic coast. This waterfront restaurant has some of the most mouthwatering seafood in Hollywood – from fresh oysters to succulent lobster, you’ll find a huge range of all your favorite seafood dishes here.

And best of all, GG’s offers an extensive happy hour menu, featuring favorites like calamari, margaritas, oyster shooters, and more. Yum!

In addition to its amazing food, GG’s Waterfront Restaurant is also known for its vibrant atmosphere and great service. Whether you’re stopping by with a group of friends or going on a romantic date night in Hollywood, this popular Hollywood North restaurant is sure to please. It’s definitely more of an upscale experience, but if you’re looking for a memorable meal in while in the Sunshine State, GG’s Waterfront Restaurant is the place to go.

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