7 Walkable Old Hollywood Destinations Near the TCM Film Festival
Photos of The Roosevelt Hotel, the Larry Edmunds Bookshop, martinis at Musso & Frank, a booth at Micelis, Boarder’s, and the Egyptian Theatre, and April Brooks Clemmer leading the Old Hollywood Walking Tour
Step beyond the screen and explore the real Hollywood!
If you're in town for the Turner Classic Movies Film Festival, you're already in the heart of cinematic history. But just outside the theater doors is a walkable wonderland of old Hollywood charm, glamour, and mystery. Whether you’re between screenings or soaking up the ambiance, these 7 iconic stops will transport you to the Golden Age.
🏨 1. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
📍7000 Hollywood Blvd
As you enjoy the hub of the festival, take a few minutes to contemplate the history around you -built in 1927 and home to the very first Academy Awards, the Roosevelt is dripping with Old Hollywood elegance. Explore the vintage lobby, the tiled staircase where it’s rumored that Shirley Temple and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson tap danced, and revel in the history of Blossom Room (the location of Club TCM) where the first Academy Awards Banquet was held in 1929.
📚 2. Larry Edmunds Bookshop
📍6644 Hollywood Blvd
This bookshop has been serving Hollywood since 1938. With vintage movie stills, posters, biographies, and rare finds on every shelf, it’s a treasure chest for classic cinema fans. You may even find a signed book or poster, or out-of-print star bio you've been hunting for.
🥩 3. Musso & Frank Grill
📍6667 Hollywood Blvd
The oldest restaurant in Hollywood, and still the most iconic. Dine where Charlie Chaplin, Marilyn Monroe, and Raymond Chandler once lingered over steaks and martinis. Timeless service, timeless style—don’t skip the flannel cakes (or the martinis - said to be the best in L.A.)!
🎥 4. The Egyptian Theatre
📍6712 Hollywood Blvd
You’ll probably catch a film here during the festival - here’s some context: Open since 1922, this iconic theater was home to Hollywood’s very first red carpet movie premiere - Robin Hood with Douglas Fairbanks. Recently restored and brimming with silent-era charm, it’s now operated by American Cinematheque and Netflix.
🍝 5. Miceli’s Restaurant
📍1646 N Las Palmas Ave
Founded in 1949, Miceli’s serves up hearty Italian fare in a setting dripping with nostalgic flair. Enjoy the classic red booths, singing servers, and wine bottles overhead. It also has furniture from the original Pig’n’Whistle restaurant - check the back of your booth for a wooden carving of a pig playing a whistle!
🍸 6. Boardner’s by La Belle
📍1652 N Cherokee Ave
This no-frills bar has been a Hollywood staple since 1942. Tucked away on Cherokee, just around the corner from the Larry Edmunds Bookshop, it’s moody and full of character—perfect for a post-screening drink. A favorite of writers, actors, and off-duty stars back in the day, it’s where the cast of I Love Lucy might unwind after a long day of filming.
⭐ 7. Old Hollywood Walking Tour (with Me!)
📍Tour begins near Hollywood & Cherokee Ave
Want to go beyond the stars on the sidewalk? Join me for a guided walking tour through Hollywood Boulevard’s most fascinating stretch—between Cherokee and Cahuenga. We’ll explore the hidden corners, classic landmarks, and personal stories that shaped Golden Age Hollywood.
🎧 Headsets included
📷 Perfect photo ops
🎟 Reserve your spot here: April 23 at 2:30 PM or April 24 at 11:30 AM