Newport Pier

Created in 1960, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a combination landmark and walking tour. Honoring those who distinguished themselves in radio, television, movies, music, live performing and other special categories, the Walk of Fame runs 1.3 miles on Hollywood Boulevard East to West between North Gower and La Brea and for 3 blocks on Vine Street.Parking and public transportation at the Hollywood Walk of FameLos Angeles has an excellent Metro rail system, with stops at Hollywood and Vine as well as Hollywood and Highland. Parking also is available at the 7th Street Metro Center and Union Station. For those wanting to drive into Hollywood, online resources such as Park Me show available spots and prices.Best and worst times to go to the Hollywood Walk of FameThere are fewer people visiting Hollywood during the work week. Saturday and Sunday also can be good days to visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame if you start extra early. After 10:30 a.m., though, shoppers and the brunch crowd slow things down. The segment near Hollywood and Highland becomes crowded after dark, especially near the souvenir shops.Admission to the Hollywood Walk of FameTouring the Hollywood Walk of Fame itself costs only time and shoe leather.Must see/do at the Hollywood Walk of FameTaking a selfie with your favorite star is highly encouraged, but keep your smart phone/tablet handy to look up unfamiliar names. While the Three Stooges (East side of the 1500 block of Vine Street) are Hollywood icons, names like Ignacy Paderewski can be head-scratchers. (This acclaimed Polish pianist has his star on the South side of the 6200 block of Hollywood Blvd.)Other places to visit near the Hollywood Walk of FameThe Walk of Fame runs in front of the Pantages Theater, a classic movie palace that hosts Broadway-style shows. The ArcLight Cinemas near Sunset and Vine has preserved the Cinerama Dome and presents first-run and classic movie presentations. Amoeba Music, home to everything music, is a block away from the Dome.Insider tip for visitors to the Hollywood Walk of FameBefore you leave home or your hotel, use this excellent online resource that shows the locations of individual stars. The Vine Street segment contains many names from Hollywood's Golden Age, but keep in mind construction may limit access to the Walk of Fame.Author's bio: Steven has contributed to Yahoo TV and is an avid reader, comic book collector and science fiction buff. Follow him on Twitter.

HistoryDavid Bradley grew up in Lawrence, Kans. next door to a hot air balloon pilot. The pilot's wife didn't like going up in balloons, so he asked young David if he'd like to learn how to fly a balloon. David jumped at the opportunity and quickly developed a passion for ballooning.SpecialtiesHot Air Balloon Adventures