How to See Movie Stars in Los Angeles

Since the golden age of Hollywood, there's been an allure to Tinsel Town. From an outsider's perspective, it's a place where movie stars roam the streets, spend idle time in cafes and bars, and shop in strings of luxe boutiques. This is, in some ways, true. But the reality is, movie stars tend to be an isolated bunch. The increasing surge of public appeal drives them behind the walls of their homes, and when they are out and about, they tend to stick to a few, popular "safe" areas. So, if you're coming to Los Angeles to see movie stars, make sure you do the right things and go to the right places. Just don't be too obvious about it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Cheesy as it sounds, book a tour at one of the studios. Most major studios have guided tours open to the general public, where onlookers can see studio grounds, sets and stages. Chances are, there won't be movie stars milling about. But you may be lucky enough to see one on the lot, heading to a meeting. Plus, the tour--particularly Paramount's studio tour--can offer an exciting glimpse of the industry, so it's worth it even if you don't see anyone.

2. Eat lunch at the Ivy. There are actually two locations in Los Angeles, but the stereotype is true. Movie stars do, indeed, eat at the Ivy. It's expensive, but if you go during lunch, you can get away with a somewhat reasonable meal for two. It's almost intentionally difficult to see others in the Ivy due to lighting and seating set up, so look carefully, but not obviously.

3. Stroll up and down Sunset Plaza. This is a portion of the Sunset Strip that isn't consumed by the cheap bars and clubs that exist on much of the famous boulevard. Here, you'll see casual and affordable eateries and posh boutiques at the base of the Hollywood Hills in West Hollywood. Grab a coffee and a gelato at Caffe Primo, and head east down the side walk. Primo has excellent coffee and cream, and the stroll is nice. So, again, if you don't spot a movie star, it's a nice experience anyhow.

4. Have drinks at the Roosevelt Hotel or the Chateau Marmont. This won't be easy. It's difficult to get in. But get there early--around 7:30--and hope they let you sit. If so, you can comfortably hang out in the glitz and glam of Hollywood and are all but guaranteed a movie-star sighting.

5. Find out about open extra opportunities. Oftentimes, when shooting a film, filmmakers need a crowd of unpaid extras for whole days of shooting. Scout them out and stand around. You'll get to see a film being shot and possibly a film star in action. After spending an hour or two there, these can be quite boring. So, make sure you're in a situation where you can leave and you're not easily stuck.

Tips & Warnings

• The idea to plan a trip that gives you a great L.A. experience even if you don't see a movie star. This is good for natives and visitors alike. Still, if you follow these tips, you'll likely see at least one.
• If you do see one, avoid approaching them. Just make a casual glance, take note and move on.

[workathomemomma]

on 3/8/2009 Be careful at the Roosevelt hotel, I think it's haunted. We once had our car stall in front of the place and used the bathroom in there, was a very scary feeling in that place. My mom once sat right next to L.L. Cool J at Johnny Rockets Burger place and didn't even know he was famous until people were coming up to him asking for his autograph.

[Pixie1976]

on 7/10/2008 This is a fun article, we're hoping to make it to California soon enough, want to see a movie star or two.

[vpbc2008]

on 3/17/2008 Join the hottest new location based mobile community for posting & viewing user generated news & events in text, image, audio & video format.

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