You do not need a long vacation to enjoy South Florida. A weekend getaway in Hollywood, Florida can give you time to explore Downtown Hollywood, spend a few hours at the beach, enjoy local restaurants, and slow down without spending the entire trip in the car.
The key is choosing a convenient home base. Staying in Downtown Hollywood puts you close to local dining and entertainment while keeping Hollywood Beach, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, and other South Florida attractions within easy reach.
Why Choose Hollywood, Florida for a Weekend Getaway?
Hollywood offers a combination that works well for a short trip: a walkable downtown, a long stretch of beach, restaurants and entertainment, and easy access to the rest of South Florida.
Downtown Hollywood is home to the city's Arts, Dining, and Entertainment District, while Hollywood Beach offers a completely different atmosphere just a short drive away.
That means you can spend one part of your weekend exploring local restaurants and shops and another walking along the ocean.
For more ideas on what to see and do during your visit, the City of Hollywood's official visitor information is a helpful place to start.
Where to Stay for a Weekend in Hollywood
Choosing the right hotel can make a short getaway feel much easier.
The Harrison Hotel is located at 1925 Harrison Street in Downtown Hollywood, placing guests close to Hollywood Boulevard, ArtsPark at Young Circle, local restaurants, and entertainment.
Hollywood Beach is approximately two miles from the hotel, while Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is approximately five miles away.
For a weekend trip, that central location means you can explore several different parts of Hollywood without making a long drive every time you leave the hotel.
You can also explore The Harrison Hotel's rooms to find the accommodation that best fits your stay.
Friday: Check In and Explore Downtown Hollywood
Start With an Easy Check-In
After arriving in Hollywood, settle into your room and take some time to enjoy the hotel.
The Harrison Hotel offers complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a heated outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, rental bicycles, and pet-friendly rooms.
The hotel also has a Grab & Go Market for guests looking for something quick during their stay.
Walk Around Downtown Hollywood
Once you are settled in, head out and explore Downtown Hollywood.
Hollywood Boulevard and the surrounding Arts, Dining, and Entertainment District offer restaurants, bars, shops, local art, and entertainment within walking distance of the hotel.
If your visit coincides with one of the city's scheduled events or ArtWalk activities, you can also add one of those to your evening plans. The City of Hollywood ArtWalk page is a useful resource for checking current activities.
End the Night With Dinner Nearby
One of the advantages of staying downtown is that you do not have to drive far for dinner.
With more than 40 restaurants, clubs, and boutiques in the surrounding area, you can choose between casual dining, drinks, international cuisine, and other local options close to your hotel.
Saturday: Beach, Broadwalk and Downtown
Saturday is the perfect day to experience the two sides of Hollywood.
Start With Breakfast
Begin the morning with the hotel's complimentary breakfast before heading out for the day.
A relaxed breakfast gives you a chance to plan your route before deciding whether you want to spend the morning at the beach or explore more of Downtown Hollywood first.
Spend the Morning at Hollywood Beach
Hollywood Beach is approximately two miles from The Harrison Hotel.
The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk stretches nearly 2.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean and features restaurants, shops, water sports, live music, and other attractions.
You can spend the morning walking along the Broadwalk, relaxing on the beach, renting a bicycle, or simply enjoying the ocean views.
For more information about the beach and Broadwalk, visit the City of Hollywood's official Hollywood Beach page.
Have Lunch by the Beach
The Broadwalk offers plenty of restaurants and cafés, so you can stay near the water for lunch before heading back toward downtown.
If you prefer to leave the beach later in the afternoon, the Hollywood Sun Shuttle also provides service between Hollywood Beach and Downtown Hollywood.
Spend the Afternoon Downtown
After the beach, head back toward Downtown Hollywood and explore ArtsPark at Young Circle or browse the local shops and murals.
ArtsPark is a 10-acre public park in the heart of Downtown Hollywood, with green spaces, walking paths, cultural facilities, and areas for events and performances. You can check the official ArtsPark at Young Circle information before your visit.
You can also return to the hotel for some time by the pool before getting ready for dinner.
Enjoy Downtown Hollywood After Dark
Downtown Hollywood has plenty of options for an evening out.
Choose a restaurant for dinner, find a nearby bar, explore local entertainment, or simply take a walk around the district.
Because The Harrison Hotel is located in the heart of Downtown Hollywood, you can enjoy the area without making your hotel the end of a long drive.
Sunday: Take It Easy Before You Go
A weekend getaway does not need to end with a packed schedule.
Start With Breakfast
Enjoy one more complimentary breakfast before checking out.
If your schedule allows, take some time to relax by the pool or explore one more nearby attraction before leaving Hollywood.
Add One Last Stop
Depending on your departure time, you could return to Hollywood Beach, explore more of Downtown Hollywood, or stop at a nearby attraction on your way out.
For travelers flying from FLL, the airport is approximately five miles from the hotel, making it possible to enjoy part of the morning before heading to the airport. The hotel's complimentary FLL shuttle operates daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
A Few Extras That Can Make Your Stay Easier
Sometimes the small conveniences make a weekend trip simpler.
Choice Hotels currently lists a Grab & Go Market Credit for The Harrison Hotel that includes a one-time $10 credit to use at the hotel's Grab & Go Market.
The hotel also has a Park & Stay offer that includes parking for one vehicle, while other current packages may be available depending on your travel dates.
Because offers can change, check the hotel's current offers and packages when planning your stay.
Weekend Getaway Ideas for Different Travelers
For Couples
Build your weekend around good food, a beach walk, and an evening exploring Downtown Hollywood.
For Families
Spend time at Hollywood Beach, explore the Broadwalk, and take advantage of the pool and nearby family-friendly attractions.
For Friends
Choose a hotel near restaurants and nightlife so you can spend more time together and less time driving between destinations.
For a Quick Staycation
You do not have to travel far to change your routine. A weekend in Hollywood can be an easy South Florida escape, especially for travelers who live within driving distance.