TCL Chinese Theatre

Formerly Grauman's Chinese Theatre, this landmark was renamed the TCL Chinese Theatre in 2011 after an acquisition by Chinese Theatre, LLC. In 2013 the main auditorium underwent extensive renovations to create the first IMAX theatre in Hollywood, and one of the largest worldwide with more than 900 seats, making it a top choice for Hollywood movie premieres. Also onsite are six other auditoriums showing first-run movies, along with the world-famous hand and footprints. It was honored as a Los Angeles Historical Landmark in 1968 and is THE place to see a movie in L.A.

Parking and public transportation at the TCL Chinese Theatre
Underground parking is available at the adjacent Hollywood & Highland complex. Validation is provided for participating shops, restaurants and the theatre, so take your ticket with you. A flat rate is charged after 10pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Check the Hollywood & Highland website for current rates. Meters are available along Hollywood Blvd. and side streets, but check signs for restrictions. Parking enforcement is strong and tickets will be given. The Metro Red Line has a stop at Hollywood & Highland.

Best and worst time go to the TCL Chinese Theatre
Nights and weekends are the most crowded, although as a top tourist attraction, there are always people out front looking at the hand and footprints. Premieres and special events will make the theatre inaccessible, although you might get a peek at the red carpet.

Admission to the TCL Chinese Theatre
Movie prices vary, with an upcharge for IMAX. 20-minute tours of the theatre are also offered. Call 323-463-9576 for availability and pricing. Walking around the hand and footprints is free.

Must see/do at the TCL Chinese Theatre
Watch an IMAX movie in the main theatre, then put your hands in the cement where Marilyn Monroe's, Steven Spielberg's and George Clooney's were!

Other places to visit near the TCL Chinese Theatre
Hollywood & Highland offers a bunch of shopping and dining options, or walk across the street to another famous theatre: the Disney-owned El Capitan. Right nearby is the 1920s Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel where you can have a cocktail at the poolside Tropicana bar or grab a burger at 25 Degrees, the hotel's diner. And of course the Walk of Fame runs all along Hollywood Blvd.

Insider tip for visitors to the TCL Chinese Theatre
Costumed characters hang out on the sidewalk outside the theatre and Hollywood & Highland complex. They're fun to take pictures with, but be prepared to pay a fee. They don't pose out of the goodness of their heart.

Author's bio: Shelley Graner is a Los Angeles native, food lover and travel writer who has visited 36 countries. She writes for various travel blogs, including her own.