Hollywood’s Charm: A Day of Art, Relaxation, and Fun
South Florida covers a lot of territory, but my current home in Hollywood, Fla., features a lot of options for visitors to enjoy. Known for art and entertainment options, plus solidly nestled between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood has a lot to offer the visitor. Here’s a look at my perfect day in this Broward County city.
Morning
Start the day with a cup of coffee at Chocolada Bakery & Cafe, a Hollywood bakery and coffee spot featuring sweets and a perfectly prepped cappuccino. It’s in the quaint, downtown Hollywood area, and the tables outside call for lounging and enjoying the cool breeze. After your cup of coffee, take a walk along Hollywood Arts Park at Young Circle and make sure to bring a blanket or lawn chair for spending the afternoon. The park features 10 acres of green space, a variety of promenades for walking or jogging, a children’s play area with an interactive fountain and a feature fountain designed by internationally acclaimed public artist Ritsuko Taho of Japan. Make sure to bring a camera and take lots of pictures, for the area calls for photo opportunities. You can also enjoy a day of sandy relaxation at Hollywood Beach.
Afternoon
After coffee, take a stroll around Hollywood Boulevard and Harrison Street in downtown Hollywood. The laid-back area is known to house some impressive murals perfect to take pictures in front of and also houses some unique art galleries. If shopping is your thing, make sure to take a walk down main Hollywood Boulevard, where lots of stores offer $10 to $20 footwear and clothing as well as other unique sales. Movie lovers will like the recently opened Cinema Paradiso, which offers afternoon showings of independent films in a cozy, nostalgic and vintage-inspired setting. If you spent the morning by the beach, rent some beach cruisers and take a ride up and down the boardwalk for shopping and dining options and beach views.
Evening
Finish the day with a refreshing cocktail from the signature list at Tipsy Boar in Hollywood. The cozy bar offers a delicious, lemongrass-infused drink and also cold beers from an extensive craft-beer selection. If you’re hungry, make sure to enjoy one of the spot’s delicious pizzas. Afterwards, stroll through the area at night and check out all the aforementioned, lit-up colorful murals created by local and international artists and take some pictures. End the night with a late bite or a cocktail at Tiki Tiki.
