Fun activities in Hollywood, FL
Moving to a new city means more than finding a grocery store and setting up Wi-Fi. It means figuring out how to enjoy where you live. That’s why this Pro Movers Miami guide to fun activities in Hollywood FL for new residents skips the tourist stuff and focuses on how you can settle in and stay entertained without driving to Miami. From community events to oceanfront escapes, here’s where to spend your weekends, and how to feel like a local faster.
Walk or bike the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk
Start your local experience with the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk. This wide, 2.5-mile paved path runs parallel to the ocean and gives you space to walk, jog, bike, or rollerblade. It’s lined with cafes, casual restaurants, and beach shops. You’ll also spot outdoor yoga classes and street performers, especially on weekends.
If you enjoy early mornings, a walk at sunrise is quiet and scenic. Later in the day, the beach fills with families, retirees, and snowbirds enjoying the sun. Bike rentals are available near Johnson Street, and beach chairs are easy to rent if you want to sit back and relax after exploring.
Spend a weekend at ArtsPark at Young Circle
Located in downtown Hollywood, ArtsPark is a ten-acre space that brings the community together. As a newcomer, this is one of the best spots to meet people. The park hosts outdoor movie nights, live concerts, and cultural festivals. Food trucks line the perimeter most Friday nights, offering an easy way to grab dinner while enjoying music or a show.
You can walk here from nearby neighborhoods, or use the local trolley that connects downtown with the beach. There’s a kids’ play area if you’re moving with a family here, an interactive fountain, and a glass-blowing studio offering demonstrations and classes.
Try water sports or beach activities
Hollywood Beach is not just for sunbathing. Locals enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. Rental stations are available right on the beach, especially near Hollywood North Beach Park. If you’re new to water sports, guided tours are available that take you through mangrove trails or along the Intracoastal Waterway.
This stretch of the coast holds a Blue Wave certification, meaning the water stays clean and safe. New and old residents swim year-round thanks to Florida’s mild weather. If you have kids, Charnow Park includes shaded picnic spots and a splash pad that’s ideal for toddlers and young children.
Explore nature at Anne Kolb and T.Y. Park
If your idea of fun activities in Hollywood FL involves quiet escapes and weekend hikes, Anne Kolb Nature Center offers more than 1,500 acres of coastal mangroves. You can rent a kayak, walk on boardwalk trails, or climb the observation tower for a wide view of the area. The center also runs short programs on local wildlife and ecology.
If you prefer picnics, paddle boats, or shaded walks, head to Topeekeegee Yugnee Park—locals call it T.Y. Park. It’s friendly to all age groups, with tennis courts, exercise stations, and a water park during the summer months. Bring your own food or use one of the many grills set up across the park.
Join seasonal events and local festivals
New residents often feel more connected after attending local events. Hollywood hosts a steady calendar of community-friendly gatherings. In the summer, expect fireworks and patriotic parades. Fall brings outdoor art shows, Oktoberfest, and international food tastings. December includes a boat parade along the Intracoastal.
Many of these events are free and held at ArtsPark, the Broadwalk, or downtown squares. You can check the city’s events calendar for weekly updates. Facebook groups like “Hollywood FL New Residents” or “Hollywood Events Today” also help you stay in the loop and find activities that fit your schedule.
Take the water taxi for a day of sightseeing
The Hollywood water taxi connects the beach area with stops in Fort Lauderdale and Dania Beach. It’s more than transportation, it’s a fun activity in itself. You’ll cruise past million-dollar homes, waterfront cafes, and busy marina districts. Along the way, you’ll hear commentary on local history and real estate highlights.
The taxi operates all day, and you can hop on or off at any stop. Bring water and sunscreen if you plan to stay on for more than one route. Locals often use this as a low-cost weekend outing or a way to introduce visitors to the area.
Visit the Hard Rock Casino and local nightlife
If you’re looking for evening plans, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is about 15 minutes west of Hollywood Beach. It’s shaped like a giant guitar and draws national performers, comedians, and major musical acts. There’s also a spa, upscale dining, and a shopping area.
For something closer to home, walk along Hollywood Boulevard. In fact, this historic downtown district offers a mix of local bars, microbreweries, casual restaurants, and Latin clubs. Many venues have outdoor patios and live music in the evening, giving you space to socialize in a relaxed setting.
Shop and dine at Dania Pointe or Aventura
Hollywood is well-placed between major shopping centers. Dania Pointe features a movie theater, bowling alley, boutique shops, and a mix of national and local restaurants. It’s only a short drive north. For larger stores and luxury brands, head south to Aventura Mall, which is one of the largest malls in the region.
Both spots are perfect for fun activities in Hollywood FL on a rainy day or when you want a break from the beach. They also host their own events, like live performances and seasonal pop-ups. If you’re setting up your home after arriving with movers in Hollywood FL, stores like HomeGoods, Target, and Best Buy are located in both centers.
Settle in with community programs and groups
As you get familiar with the area, join a local club or community program. After all, Hollywood libraries host book clubs, computer workshops, and children’s activities. Parks often offer tai chi, yoga, or fitness bootcamps, and some groups organize weekend hikes or biking meetups.
If you’re working remotely, try one of the co-working spots downtown or near the beach. Often, newcomers report meeting friends through group fitness classes, dog parks, or local Facebook groups focused on housing or parenting.
Time to make Hollywood, FL yours
Living in Hollywood gives you access to natural beauty, cultural activities, and laid-back routines all year round. Besides, the city’s walkable layout, active calendar, and public spaces make it easy to enjoy life soon after you arrive with one of the moving companies in Broward County. So, whether you’re building new habits, seeking friends, or planning your first free weekend, these local fun activities in Hollywood FL, offer a strong start!