How to Get Excited for The Oscars in Hollywood

The Academy Awards are fast approaching, and there’s no better place to soak in the glitz, glam, and movie magic than Hollywood itself! Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Best Picture nominees or a casual Oscars enthusiast, Hollywood offers countless ways to celebrate in true VIP style. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting into the Oscars spirit while exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and indulging at some of the best restaurants Hollywood has to offer.

97th Academy Awards

The 97th Academy Awards are set to begin Sunday, March 2, 2025 at the Dolby Digital Theater in Hollywood. Oscar nominations for this year's award contenders will be released Thursday, January, 23, 2025. Nominations are expected to mirror those of the Golden Globes, with obvious contenders including Emilia Pérez, which won best motion picture at the Globes— musical or comedy, best non-English language film, and best original song for “El Mal,” while Zoe Saldaña took home best supporting actress. The Brutalist is also expected to be nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Director. 

Regardless of the noms, we wanted to share some authentic Hollywood ways to get in the spirit of the world's most famous award show.

Visit the Academy Museum

Start your cinematic adventure at the Academy Museum, a treasure trove for movie lovers. This museum is a shrine to everything we adore about films, from the Oscars—those iconic gold statuettes—to behind-the-scenes artifacts from legendary movies like The Godfather. Explore exhibits showcasing the artistry of your favorite directors and actors, and don’t miss the immersive galleries that celebrate the craft of filmmaking. It’s a must-visit for any fan dreaming of that Academy Awards magic.

Stop by the Dolby Theatre

Next up, make your way to the Dolby Theatre, the prestigious location of the Academy Awards. Walk in the footsteps of movie stars as you scope out the scene of the most famous award show in the world. The grandeur of this venue is palpable, especially when imagining it dressed up for Oscars night. Guided tours are available, offering a glimpse into the iconic space where history is made every year when the Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Picture winners are announced.

Get Starstruck at Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Right next door to the Dolby Theatre is Madame Tussauds Hollywood, where you can snap selfies with wax figures of your favorite celebs. This attraction brings you face-to-face with lifelike replicas of movie stars like Brad Pitt, Meryl Streep, and Zoe Saldana. Surround yourself with Hollywood legends and current icons alike, making it a perfect photo op before hitting your next stop.

While its proximity to the Dolby Theater is fantastic for building excitement for the world’s most famous award show, it does limit access to Madame Tussauds Hollywood on the day of the Oscars. If you would like to check out Madame Tussauds, please plan to do it before the awards as Madame Tussauds Hollywood is closed on Sunday, March 2, 2025 in order to secure the neighborhood for the Academy Awards. 

Dine Like a Star at The Hollywood Rooftop

When hunger strikes, head over to The Hollywood Rooftop, one of the best restaurants Hollywood has to offer. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and lifelike wax figures, this spot lets you dine like a true movie star. Treat yourself to their delicious craft cocktails, like the “Big Mistake”—a playful nod to Julia Roberts’s character in Pretty Woman. 

Their happy hour from 12-6 PM is perfect for getting a buzz while soaking in all the Oscar buzz. Enjoy $8 well drinks, $9 beer and wine, $12 mystery cocktails where you tell the bartender your favorite spirit and they’ll take care of the rest. Happy hour also includes 50% off appetizers - such as the Garlic Cheese Puffs, a leading contender for Best App this year. 

Whether you’re celebrating with a small group or a big crowd, this rooftop gem offers something for everyone, making it one of the best restaurants in Hollywood for getting into the Oscar spirit. The Hollywood Rooftop will be closed the day of the Academy Awards, as well as the wax museum, to maintain security throughout the event. 

Stroll Along the Hollywood Walk of Fame

No Academy Awards adventure would be complete without a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Here, you’ll find stars honoring legendary actors, directors, musicians, and other celebrities who have made their mark in entertainment. On Oscars night, this iconic boulevard is transformed with a glamorous red carpet for the ceremony on March 2, 2025. 

A Star-Studded Finale

Whether you’re soaking in movie history at the Academy Museum, snapping photos at Madame Tussauds, or enjoying cocktails at one of the best Hollywood restaurants, there’s no shortage of ways to get excited for the Oscars. With so much to see and do, you’ll feel like a true insider as you celebrate the art of film and the stars who make it all possible. Mark your calendar for March 2, 2025, and immerse yourself in Hollywood’s award-winning atmosphere!