Curator’s statement
I have watched the Academy Awards since I was a little girl and have hosted watch parties with neighbors and friends over the years. One year while watching from the sofa in New Jersey we said, "we should go next year" — and we did! This trip will give you an all-access look at Oscar weekend, without even being nominated!
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Day 1: Arrive in Los Angeles
You should arrive in Los Angeles on Thursday mid-day to take advantage of visiting the red carpet before streets begin to close around the area of the Dolby Theater. Be sure to visit the TLC Chinese Theater and immerse yourself in the energy of Oscar weekend. It is fun to watch the setup as it's happening, and if you stop by on Thursday, you can walk and take photos on the red carpet.
If you are staying at the Hollywood Roosevelt, you will be a short walk away and can visit periodically throughout the weekend and see all the festivities from their rooftop bar and patio. Note, however, that in years past E! and Access Hollywood have used this hotel for broadcasting, and portions of the hotel are closed to guests including the hotel pool, but for those who are into a behind-the-scenes look at the weekend, this is your place!
Other suggestions: Take a tour of Hollywood homes and visit the Hollywood sign. Make reservations at Spago or Horses and enjoy potential star sightings.
Day 2: Visit the Academy Museum
Visit the Academy Museum and make sure you sign up for the Oscar Experience (requires a separate ticket). Even if you attend the viewing party on Sunday, I highly recommend going to visit the museum another day to really get to see all the fabulous exhibits. The museum is open from 10am to 6pm Sunday through Thursday and 10am to 8pm Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is open from 5pm to 10pm each day.
Day 3: Attend Education Symposiums
On your third day, attend the education symposiums sponsored by The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences at the Samuel Goldwyn Theatre. Tickets are free, but advanced ticket reservations are required.
Alternatively, you could visit the Fashion Insititute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM). During Oscar Week, you can view some of the Oscar-nominated costumes in their museum for free. Afterward, have lunch at The Ivy in Beverly Hills.
Day 4: Attend the Academy Museum Viewing Party
On Sunday, attend the Academy Museum Viewing Party. If it is sold out, book a seat at the restaurant in the museum Fanny’s (my choice). Get there early to really enjoy all of the festivity and fun and, of course, walk the red carpet. The Hollywood Roosevelt has an after party and a bar called the Spare Room where you can hang out after the ceremony is over (I got to hold an actual Oscar at that party!), but another classic end to the night is a visit to In & Out Burger dressed in your award ceremony finest!
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Travel Advisor
Terri O'Connell
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For more travel tips, check out The Culture Vulture's Guide to Los Angeles by Fora Advisor Zoe Schaeffer.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California and travel to Los Angeles.