Are you planning a trip to LA and wondering where to experience pop culture firsthand? LA is filled with iconic spots celebrating the entertainment industry, making it a must-visit for any pop culture enthusiast. On our 2022 family trip, we hit some of the most famous locations and discovered a few hidden gems that every fan of movies, TV, and collectibles will love. Here are five places that should be on your LA travel itinerary!
Funko Hollywood
For anyone who loves Funko Pop figurines, Funko Hollywood is an absolute must-see. Located in the heart of Hollywood, this flagship store is much more than just a place to shop—it’s an immersive experience. The store spans over 40,000 square feet and features life-size Funko statues, cool vignettes, and a section where you can create your own custom Pop!
When we visited, the store had some incredible displays, like Black Panther and Frozen setups, along with a ship full of Little Mermaid characters. It’s a paradise for pop culture lovers, with exclusive figures you can’t find anywhere else. If you’re a collector, don’t miss this stop.
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
For movie buffs, the Academy Museum is an absolute treasure. Opened in 2021, this museum is dedicated to the history and artistry of filmmaking. It’s the first major museum in the U.S. entirely focused on cinema, and it offers a behind-the-scenes look at iconic films, costumes, and movie props.
While we were there, we saw costumes from Black Panther, an E.T. suit, and C-3PO armor. I was incredibly excited to see Bruce the Shark from Jaws, which stands as a testament to the lasting legacy of that iconic film. The exhibits change frequently, so be sure to check out the website for the latest shows before you go. It’s the perfect spot to gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry that goes into making the films we love.
LA Farmers Market
The LA Farmers Market is a historic open-air market that has been around since 1934. What started as a small group of farmers selling produce has now grown into a bustling market filled with a variety of food vendors.
We enjoyed a beer at Bar 326 and indulged in an orange soda float from Local Ice, which was honestly the best float we ever had. The market is right next to CBS Television City, so it’s a spot frequented by celebrities and locals alike, adding to its pop culture charm. While there, we took some pastries from Du-Par’s Pie Shop home for breakfast, but the real standout was the English Toffee from Littlejohn’s—definitely worth picking up if you’re there!
Hollywood Walk of Fame
You can’t visit LA without seeing the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This 15-block stretch is lined with over 2,700 stars, each honoring entertainment legends from movies, music, television, and radio. While it’s crowded with tourists, it’s still fun to read through the names and point out the stars you recognize.
My personal favorite was seeing Donald Duck’s star outside the El Capitan Theater—it was a quirky, unexpected find! While you may not spend hours here, the Walk of Fame is a must-see for anyone visiting Hollywood and offers a fun way to discover the entertainers who’ve shaped pop culture.
TCL Chinese Theatre
Another iconic spot in Hollywood is the TCL Chinese Theatre. Opened in 1927, this theater has become synonymous with Hollywood glamour, hosting some of the biggest movie premieres in history.
The theater’s forecourt, where stars have left their handprints, footprints, and signatures in cement, is a place you can’t miss. Some of Hollywood’s most legendary actors and actresses have left their mark here, and walking among them is an experience in itself. Even though we didn’t catch a movie, the theater’s history and the famous handprints make it a memorable stop on any LA tour.
These pop culture stops offer a fun and immersive way to explore the heart of Hollywood. From collectible figures to iconic movie history, these locations give you a taste of LA’s vibrant entertainment culture. Whether you’re a film fanatic, a pop culture lover, or just visiting for the first time, these spots are sure to make your trip unforgettable.
