Summary
- Get Behind the Scenes at Warner Bros. Studio
- Create A Unique Meal at Rodini Park
- See the Animals at The Los Angeles Zoo
- Get Outdoors at Wildwood Canyon Park
- Savour Local Craft Beer at Blue Palms Brewhouse
- Learn About Local Aviation History at the Burbank Aviation Museum
- See North Hollywood and Surrounding Areas From the Air with Helitours LA
- Savour Local Wine at Urban Press Winery
- Enjoy a Weird Night on the Town at the California Institute of Abnormal Arts
- Spend the Day in Griffith Park
- Catch a Show at the Colony Theater
- Visit the Martial Arts History Museum
- Explore Warner Bros Ranch
- Laugh Until you Cry at the Flappers Comedy Club
North Hollywood – also referred to as the NoHo district – represents a dynamic community within the San Fernando Valley and serves as a thriving suburb of Los Angeles. It is primarily recognized for its relaxed lifestyle and vibrant arts district, which hosts approximately 20 theaters alongside a myriad of galleries and entertainment venues.
Another significant aspect of North Hollywood is its accessibility. The area is easily navigable, with most attractions located within convenient walking distance.
In the morning, one can enjoy coffee in a quaint café, while by afternoon, patrons may find themselves immersed in the bustling Arts District, where they can experience live performances, admire local artistry, or enjoy craft cocktails or beer at one of the distinctive lounges.
A variety of restaurants grace North Hollywood, and shopping opportunities abound in the arts district’s boutique stores and various shopping centers, including Laurel Canyon Oxnard Plaza, Valley Plaza, and NoHo Commons.
Throughout the year, numerous festivals take place, such as the NoHo Cinefest, NoHo Music Festival, and the Vegan Street Fair.
Below are the 15 premier activities to engage in and around North Hollywood, California.
1. Get Behind the Scenes at Warner Bros. Studio
Have you ever been curious about the inner workings of your favorite television shows? At Warner Bros. Studio, you will gain insight into the production set experience and view an array of intriguing memorabilia.
During a tour of this esteemed facility, recognized as one of the leading production companies globally, you will explore the sets of beloved television series such as Friends and The Big Bang Theory.
As you navigate the studio via trolley, you will encounter backlots, exhibits dedicated to popular movies, displays of iconic items from various film sets, a costume exhibit, and an elaborate soundstage.
You will also learn about the evolution of television and film production at the studio, gaining knowledge of its technical advancements throughout the years.
After your tour, you have the opportunity to take a photo on the sets of The Big Bang Theory or Friends, savor a drink at the Central Perk-themed café, and browse a Hollywood-themed gift shop.
2. Create A Unique Meal at Rodini Park
At Rodini Park in North Hollywood, patrons have the freedom to customize their meals. Select from a diverse menu, choose your fillings, proteins, and toppings, and finish with a preferred sauce.
The combinations are limitless, making it a delightful experience as you create your unique dish. The most challenging aspect of dining here is deciding which delectable items to incorporate.
The menu also features a variety of pitas, salads, platters, soups, and desserts. Signature dishes include slow-roasted chicken, Greek Mexican gyro, and pork shawarma.
Everything offered is fresh, homemade, and crafted with quality, nutritious ingredients. Additionally, you can purchase freshly baked items from the on-site bakery.
3. See the Animals at The Los Angeles Zoo
A trip to the Los Angeles Zoo constitutes an ideal outing for the entire family. Spanning 133 acres, the zoo features a wide array of avian, reptilian, and mammalian species, including gorillas, koalas, and lions. A lovely botanical garden and a children’s carousel also enhance the experience.
Throughout the day, educational talks are conducted, and events such as LA Zoo Lights occur throughout the year.
4. Get Outdoors at Wildwood Canyon Park
For a delightful day immersed in nature, visit Wildwood Canyon Park. This natural area features several hiking trails, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to observe indigenous wildflowers. The trails cater to all skill levels, ranging from easy to challenging.
The park also includes a spacious field suitable for picnicking, with restroom facilities available. The Burbank Nature Program organizes a range of activities within the park throughout the year.
5. Savour Local Craft Beer at Blue Palms Brewhouse
Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere of Blue Palms Brewhouse, akin to a neighborhood alehouse. While enjoying bar snacks such as pretzels and nachos, diners can browse the extensive drink menu to discover the perfect pairing for their meal.
Blue Palms specializes in both draft and bottled beers, featuring a diverse selection that includes stouts, pale ales, pilsners, and ciders. The beer selection is frequently updated, always providing 24 in-house options. Mini-tastings can be requested, and all beverages are served in appropriately designed glassware at the ideal temperature.
6. Learn About Local Aviation History at the Burbank Aviation Museum
The vicinity surrounding North Hollywood boasts a rich and fascinating aviation history. The Burbank Aviation Museum showcases significant aspects of this history through exhibits featuring memorabilia and artifacts tied to aviation, including notable pilots and aircraft.
The grounds include an array of models representing significant aircraft, such as the Challenger space shuttle. Additionally, visitors can admire the museum’s beautiful archway and dome.
7. See North Hollywood and Surrounding Areas From the Air with Helitours LA
One of the most exceptional methods to view all of Los Angeles and its suburbs is via helicopter. Helitours LA provides an exclusive experience that transports you high above the region.
As you soar through the skies, your pilot will highlight notable landmarks, including the downtown district, the Hollywood sign, and Griffith Observatory.
8. Savour Local Wine at Urban Press Winery
Historically, wineries and vineyards have been popular destinations in Northern California; however, for the past two decades, Urban Press Winery in Burbank has cultivated a vibrant wine culture within the Los Angeles area.
This winery began with modest wine-making practices in a backyard garage and has blossomed into a favored locale for local wines.
A diverse selection of wines is available for tasting, and they can be purchased by the bottle. Urban Press Winery also hosts various events throughout the year.
9. Enjoy a Weird Night on the Town at the California Institute of Abnormal Arts
Quirky? Unusual? Distinctive? Amusing? An evening at the California Institute of Abnormal Arts can embody any or all of these characteristics, promising an unforgettable experience.
This venue functions as both a nightclub and a museum, showcasing an extensive collection of bizarre art and memorabilia, complemented by the atmosphere created by blacklights and funhouse mirrors.
If fortunate enough to attend a performance at this intriguing venue, expect entertainment that matches the eccentric decor, featuring circus performers and musicians clad in eccentric costumes.
10. Spend the Day in Griffith Park
Griffith Park is the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s vision for a grand amusement park. It ranks among the largest municipal parks in the United States, covering 4,310 acres, providing abundant opportunities for exploration.
In addition to vast green spaces offering a tranquil escape from urban life, Griffith Park features the iconic Hollywood sign, 53 acres of hiking and equestrian trails, the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, multiple playgrounds, a carousel boasting 68 handcrafted horses, and The Griffith Observatory, from which visitors can enjoy magnificent views of downtown LA.
11. Catch a Show at the Colony Theater
A visit to North Hollywood is incomplete without attending at least one live performance. The Colony Theater has been producing high-quality shows for over 40 years and is recognized as one of the most esteemed small venues in the region.
Notably, the theater offers an inviting atmosphere with intimate seating arrangements. The plays showcase talented local actors and performances are scheduled regularly.
12. Visit the Martial Arts History Museum
With a significant history, martial arts is celebrated at the Martial Arts History Museum in Burbank through diverse exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Discover the historical origins of martial arts across various Asian nations, including Thailand, China, and Japan. Hear personal anecdotes regarding individuals’ experiences with martial arts and its impact in the United States.
Among the artifacts showcased are anime prints and a headband featured in the Karate Kid film.
13. Explore Warner Bros Ranch
Warner Bros Ranch in Burbank holds a prestigious place in American cinematic history. This 40-acre property houses numerous iconic film and television sets from bygone eras.
The residential structure where the Waltons resided, sets from Bewitched and The Partridge Family, as well as the iconic water fountain from the Friends opening credits, can all be found here.
14. Laugh Until you Cry at the Flappers Comedy Club
For an entertaining and lively evening, visit Flappers Comedy Club and experience a comedy show.
This vibrant establishment has been hosting live comedy performances since 2000 and has transformed into a venue that surpasses mere entertainment, also offering an array of workshops throughout the year accompanied by a full-service restaurant.
Performances are staged in three distinct areas of the venue, including the bar, main rooms, and the Yoo Hoo room.