13+ Superb Things To Do in Hollywood FL You’ll Adore

Not to be confused with its glitzy, West Coast counterpart, Hollywood, Florida offers a unique vacation destination for travelers. Along with stunning beaches and warm weather, this coastal city boasts a variety of experiences for visitors. 

Over 60 parks and beaches, a thriving arts scene, and exciting events make Hollywood, Florida a destination worth visiting. So, whether you’re just passing through or looking for a new regular vacation spot, this is an awesome choice.

Here are 13+ amazing things to do in Hollywood FL that you don’t want to miss!

COOLEST PLACES TO STAY IN HOLLYWOOD FL

• Best Beachfront Hotel: Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort is a Jimmy Buffet-themed hotel that offers a unique vacation experience. It’s complete with tropical decor and signature cocktails — like their famous margaritas, of course. You can read more about this resort below.

• Best Luxurious Stay: Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a bar, the luxurious Hyde Beach House Apartments provides accommodations in Hollywood with free WiFi and city views. This apartment has a shared lounge as well as a tennis court.

• Best Tried and True: The Hampton Inn and Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport places guests within walking distance of a number of shopping centers and restaurants. The stunning beaches of John Lloyd State Park along with the Port Everglades cruise ship terminal are also nearby. Free daily breakfast!

TOPEEKEEGEE YUGNEE PARK

Topeekeegee Yugnee (TY) Park is located just off North Park Road. The Seminole Indian-named attraction offers visitors a chance to enjoy the Florida sunshine, all while participating in various outdoor activities. Think swimming, tennis, picnics, walking paths, and even fishing.

One of the highlights is the water park, complete with slides, splash pads, and a lazy river. The surrounding walking trails make for great exercise or a peaceful nature walk. A 2-mile loop around TY Lake provides views of various wildlife, including different species of birds.

When night falls, the park offers campgrounds for those wanting to spend a little extra time in nature. It’s very popular with RVers, as well. 

The park’s name, Topeekeegee Yugnee, translates to “meeting place” in the Seminole language. TY Park definitely lives up to that namesake. As an integral part of the Broward County Parks and Recreation system, TY Park embodies the warm community spirit of Hollywood. 

Read More: RV PARKS FLORIDA: 19+ THAT YOU SHOULD TOTALLY VISIT

HOLLYWOOD BEACH

As you may know, Hollywood, Florida sits right on the Atlantic Ocean. As such, it offers visitors easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in South Florida. Hollywood Beach, along with the Broadwalk (it’s basically the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk), is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.

One can spend an entire day at Hollywood Beach. Take advantage of the water sports rentals, beachside bars and cafes, and even a children’s playground. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, Hollywood Beach also offers access to some of the best scuba diving sites in Florida.

Plenty of beachfront hotels make it easy for visitors to stay steps away from the sand and surf.

Read More: 17 BEST FLORIDA BEACHES FOR FAMILIES TO RELAX AND UNWIND

MARGARITAVILLE HOLLYWOOD BEACH RESORT

Speaking of beachfront hotels, we can’t discuss Hollywood without mentioning the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort. The Jimmy Buffet-themed hotel offers a unique vacation experience. It’s complete with tropical decor and signature cocktails (like their famous margaritas, of course). 

But it’s not just about Jimmy’s lifestyle and lyrics. The resort offers plenty for visitors to do, including the popular FlowRider wave simulator. Practice your surfing skills, or just have a little fun on the simulated waves. Alternatively, you can rent out jet skis or sign up for a stand-up paddleboard on the real waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

The resort also offers a full-service spa, on-site dining options, and the License to Chill Bar. In essence, it’s a cool place to relax, unwind, and soak up some “Vitamin Sea.” Note that this resort is in Fort Lauderdale, where shopping, dining, and entertainment options abound.

Book It: MARGARITAVILLE HOLLYWOOD BEACH RESORT

ART AND CULTURE CENTER / HOLLYWOOD

Next up on our list of Hollywood must-dos is the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood. This nonprofit arts institution offers the community a diverse array of exhibitions, events, and educational programs. The center also serves as an incubator for local artists. It provides resources and opportunities for them to showcase their work.

You can spend a few hours perusing the contemporary art galleries and attending special events. There are artist talks and live music performances. The center also offers classes for those wanting to learn or improve upon their own artistic skills. These range from ceramics to digital media.

The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood represents Hollywood, Florida’s vibrant, creative spirit. It’s a must-visit for any art lover or those simply wanting to expand their horizons. It’s also known for its open-dialogue films, which feature stories from marginalized communities.

WEST LAKE PARK

If you’re an athlete at heart and want to keep active on vacation (or just need some fresh air), West Lake Park is where you should go. The small park has plenty of recreational sports going on. You’ll find everything from basketball to racquetball and volleyball courts. 

But the main attraction is the park’s hiking and biking trails. Florida is well-known for its mangrove forests, and West Lake Park offers visitors a chance to explore one of these unique ecosystems. For those who don’t know, mangroves are trees and shrubs that can tolerate saltwater. They are a crucial part of coastal environments. 

West Lake Park offers multiple trails for hiking or biking, each showcasing the park’s diverse flora and fauna. You can even go kayaking through the mangrove tunnels or take a guided eco-tour. You will surely see plenty of birds and aquatic life during your adventure.

ARTSPARK AT YOUNG CIRCLE

Joseph Wesley Young, a developer and founder of Hollywood, Florida, lends his name to the city’s central hub, Young Circle. The 10-acre circular park is where people gather for events, festivals, and performances. For example, movie nights are projected onto a large screen during the summer, providing a unique experience.

The park’s crowning jewel is ArtsPark at Young Circle, an outdoor space dedicated to performing and visual arts. The Visual Arts Pavilion offers rotating exhibitions of local, national, and international artists. You’ll also find Hollywood Hot Glass, a glassblowing studio where visitors can watch live demonstrations and purchase hand-blown glass pieces.

You might recognize the founder, Brena Baker, who participated in Season 3 of Netflix’s hit show, “Blown Away.” The ArtsPark is also a hit with little ones. The Playground of the Arts features interactive sculptures and even a splash pad during the summer.

And if music is what you’re looking for, The Amphitheater hosts concerts and performances throughout the year, ranging from classical to rock music. As you can see, this park offers a little something for everyone, so make sure to add ArtsPark at Young Circle to your itinerary when you visit Hollywood.

ANNE KOLB NATURE CENTER

After visiting West Park, you’ll soon realize that you simply can’t get enough of the fascinating coastal mangrove wetland ecosystem. 

If you want to explore more of it, head over to the Anne Kolb Nature Center. Located on a 1,500-acre mangrove wetland along the Intracoastal Waterway, this center is the biggest park in the Broward County Parks and Recreation system. 

The center offers multiple hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. But the best way to explore the wetlands is by taking a canoe or kayak out on West Lake. You’ll have the chance to see plenty of birds, reptiles, and fish in their natural habitat (tip: bring binoculars!). An observation tower also provides a gorgeous overhead view of the wetlands.

The center’s main building provides interactive exhibits and information about the ecosystem. We recommend visiting it before you set out on your wetland adventure to learn about the various plants and animals you might see. The center also has an amphitheater where they host various programs and events.

DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD MURAL PROJECT

Sometimes, the best way to explore a city is to simply wander its streets and soak in the atmosphere. And there’s no better place to do so than Downtown Hollywood, where colorful murals line the buildings. Many cities across the country have mural projects, and Hollywood does not disappoint.

The Downtown Hollywood Mural Project began in 2012 and has since added over 20 pieces of vibrant street art. Each mural tells a different story through the artist’s unique perspective. It’s a visually stunning and culturally rich experience. Local artists and international talent alike have contributed to the project.

Make sure to snap some photos in front of your favorite murals, and check out the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project website for a map and information about each piece. And while you’re downtown, take the opportunity to explore eclectic shops and delicious restaurants. There are also walking tours available for those who want a guided experience.

HOLLYWOOD BEACH BROADWALK

Although our city of Hollywood isn’t in Los Angeles, it still offers some classic beach town experiences. The Broadwalk is one of them. The Broadwalk is also home to an array of events throughout the year, like live music performances and fitness classes. In other words, plenty of fun in the sun.

It’s a favorite spot for joggers, bicyclists, and rollerbladers. (Tip: rent some gear at one of the shops along the Broadwalk to join in on the fun.) People-watching is also a popular pastime, as the 2.5-mile stretch is lined with cafes and shops. And, of course, there’s plenty of beach access for those who want to get a tan or take a dip in the ocean.

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOLLYWOOD CASINO

The Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood Casino is, first and foremost, an architectural masterpiece. This massive guitar-shaped hotel towers over the city, making it hard to miss. At night, it shines bright with lights that change colors, adding to its rock star vibe. And once inside, you’ll find yourself surrounded by glitz and glamor.

But it’s not just about the aesthetics here. The casino offers all of the classic gaming options, from slot machines to poker tables. Of course, music is a big theme here, with numerous concerts and events taking place at their indoor and outdoor venues. Let’s not forget the restaurants, which offer everything from fine dining to casual eats.

You can then spend the night at the hotel, where luxurious rooms and suites await. Order an in-room massage, hit up the spa, or take a dip in their famous Bora Bora experience pool (complete with private cabanas). The Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood Casino is truly an all-inclusive entertainment destination.

HOLLYWOOD NORTH BEACH PARK

Hollywood Beach is fabulous; there’s no denying that. But if large crowds and high-rise buildings aren’t your things, then Hollywood North Beach Park is the place for you. This small and secluded beach offers a more laid-back experience, with plenty of room for relaxation. 

The park, located on a barrier island, has both ocean and Intracoastal waterway access. That means it’s perfect for a variety of water activities. A well-defined picnic area and playground make it an excellent spot for families. 

You’ll find the same sandy beaches and clear water as Hollywood Beach, but without the hustle and bustle. 

YELLOW GREEN FARMERS MARKET

Most cities worth their salt have a farmer’s market, and Hollywood’s is no exception. The Yellow Green Farmers Market takes place every weekend, rain or shine. Countless vendors come to sell their goods, ranging from fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and tasty food options.

However, there’s so much more than just shopping here. The market also offers live music, yoga, and dance classes, to name a few. With a focus on sustainability and local businesses, it’s a great spot to support the community and have some fun while doing it.

SUN SHUTTLE

With all of these wonderful things to do in Hollywood FL, you may be wondering about getting around and parking. Enter: The Sun Shuttle! This amazing on-demand shuttle service will take you to a lot of the great places on our list.

The Sun Shuttle is an electric shuttle service that takes riders through service areas from City Hall Circle to downtown Hollywood, on Hollywood Beach and along Federal Highway. You can either request a shuttle pick-up using their app, you can wave down a driver, or you can wait at one of their designated shuttle stops. Rides are $2 per person.

A ride on the Sun Shuttle is a great way to get around Hollywood, without having to worry about driving yourself!

MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER

Finally, the Marine Environmental Education Center is for those who want to learn about the local ecosystem and marine life. You’ll find it on the same barrier island as Hollywood North Beach Park. This center is a community initiative aimed at conservation and education.

Take a guided tour of the various aquariums, touch tanks, and live exhibits. They are famous for their sea turtle rehabilitation program, allowing visitors to see these creatures up close and learn about their struggles in the wild. 

Captain and Coral, the celebrity residents, are cute as they are important ambassadors for their species.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO FLORIDA

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