When people think of Hollywood, they usually picture it as mainly a tourist attraction. While much of that is true, there are many cool ways to explore Hollywood. For example, did you know that the Hollywood Bowl is a park that is open during non-concert days? Well, it is! Then there is Lake Hollywood (aka the Hollywood Reservoir), In-N-Out Burger, and even the fun 70s-themed bar Good Times at Davey Wayne’s. Sarah Dandashy of Ask A Concierge shares a few of her favorite spots you can visit while spending a day in Hollywood.

The Hollywood Bowl

Address: 2301 Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Phone: (323) 850-2000

The Hollywood Bowl is the quintessential Hollywood experience. Usually a visit to this famed location revolves around an evening concert. But you can also visit during the day! It’s technically a park, so you can walk around the grounds, run the stairs, have a picnic, and if you’re lucky, catch a concert sound check. Hours are limited on evenings when there is a concert and different rules apply to Lease Events, so give a call or speak with one of the friendly staff members. But most importantly, don’t forget to snag a great photo from the top of the Bowl.

Lake Hollywood Park

Address: 3160 Canyon Lake Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Very few people realize that there’s actually a Lake in Hollywood. Okay, so it’s really a reservoir, but it has a beautiful park that you can explore. This is one of my favorite places for a great view of the Hollywood Sign. You will feel like a local as you stroll (or run) the paths with other Angelenos. You’ll even get a glimpse of the hillside neighborhoods and maybe pick out your future dream home.

In-N-Out

Address: 7009 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
Hours: 10:30 am – 1 am Daily (Until 1:30 am Friday/Saturday)

Round off a day in Hollywood by making a pit stop at In-N-Out Burger. With a location just steps away from the Walk of Fame, a drive-thru, and long hours, it’s very convenient. What makes In-N-Out so special? Its fresh ingredients make it stand out in a sea of burger joints—and its simple menu makes it easy to order. For a truly local experience, order off the Not-So-Secret menu, which includes options such as Animal style, Protein Style, and Double Meat.

Good Times at Davey Wayne’s

Address: 1611 N El Centro Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 962-3804
Hours: 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Nightly

Forgo the traditional nightclub experience and cap off your night in Hollywood at Good Times at Davey Wayne’s. This ’70s inspired bar, just like its name implies, is always a good time. With decor that reminds you of your grandparent’s basement, step back in time through the vintage fridge that serves as the front door. A retro-inspired drink menu combined with a Disco and ’70s classics playlist will have you grooving into the wee hours.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Hollywood? Share your off-the-beaten-path picks with us!

Looking for more things to do in Southern California? Check out:

• Beyond Disneyland: Unexpected Sights & Activities in Anaheim
• Long Beach, California: Recommendations From A Local
• Family-Friendly Activities on California’s Islands
• Visiting Irvine, California Like A Local

Video by Nino D. Gordeli. Text by Sarah Dandashy for PeterGreenberg.com. You can watch her other videos for travel tips & tricks at AskAConcierge.tv.