The Best of Hollywood and Santa Monica

République knows how to mix great food with a touch of Mid-City Los Angeles history. The restaurant occupies a building that dates back to 1929 and was originally Charlie Chaplin's office.
République is a great place for dinner, but shifts into breakfast mode seven days a week as a French-style bakery and bistro in a timeless brick and wood space with tall ceilings. You'll enjoy fresh greens, softly folded scrambled eggs, and house-baked bread, as part of an exceptional meal. Coffee is brewed with locally roasted Verve beans.
République only accepts reservations at night, so a full 90 minutes is built into your schedule in case there's a wait. The restaurant opens at 8:00 a.m. However, the crowds tend not to get too large until after 9:00 a.m., especially during weekdays.
Opening Hours: Sunday – Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Wednesday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

If you're going to play tourist on Hollywood Boulevard, you need to find a place to park. The Dolby Theatre garage has surprisingly competitive rates, plenty of spaces, and an incredibly convenient location. It's also fun to feel the magic of being so close to the stage that's hosted numerous Academy Awards ceremonies and other grand events over the years.

Begin your self-guided tour of Hollywood Boulevard at the TCL Chinese Theatre. The iconic landmark still screens new releases, but half the fun is snapping photos in front of the retro Asian-inspired architecture and taking a look at the footprints and handprints left in the sidewalk by famous Hollywood figures. Daily tours are as early as 10:00 a.m.
The theatre offers regular VIP tours at an affordable price throughout the day. In just 30 minutes, you can see exhibits of iconic Hollywood costumes, props, and set pieces, while learning about the history of the theatre itself, as well as the motion picture industry in general.
Tours are offered seven days a week. You need to call for up-to-date availability +13234639576 or email [email protected].

Whether or not you opt for the Chinese Theatre tour, you'll have plenty of time to explore Hollywood Boulevard at your own pace. It's full of famous sights, including two other vintage theatres (El Capitan and American Cinematheque, formerly the Egyptian Theatre), the Capitol Records Building, the Roosevelt Hotel, and more.
The biggest draw, however, is seeing the famous names who have stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You may encounter buskers or street performers dressed up as superheroes and other characters. You are under no obligation to interact with them. But, if you agree to pose together for a photo, expect to tip.

Head back to the Dolby Theatre to pick up your car. You're probably getting hungry by now, so it's off to Santa Monica to enjoy some seafood by the Pacific Ocean.

There are lots of seafood restaurants in Southern California, but few have the hands-on sourcing programme seen at the Water Grill. The restaurant is affiliated with King's Seafood, a company that stresses quality and sustainability when pulling fresh fish from the Pacific and other waters.
Book a reservation in advance and take advantage of the lunch "buffet”, which is really a prix fixe menu with a choice of starters, main courses, sides, and desserts. Go with the wild swordfish or king salmon whenever available. Think of the Pacific Ocean views as a bonus.
The restaurant doesn't have its own parking or valet service, but you'll be able to park on the street or at a nearby garage with little issue.
Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Friday – Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Walk off lunch with a visit to the Santa Monica Pier, an iconic landmark that once marked the West Coast end of Route 66. Stroll the boardwalk and soak in the scenery with carnival rides, gift shops, and more. If you're doing good on time, walk down to the sand and dip your feet in the water at Santa Monica Beach.

Return to your car, drive south to Orange County, and check in at the Cambria Hotel outside Disneyland. The resort is relatively new to the area, opening in early 2020 with a variety of options, including at least 350 rooms. Some have kitchenettes and bunk beds for those traveling with kids. All accommodations have a clean, modern feel, and the pool deck is like a mini theme park with water slides, splash pads, and pop-up jets.
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THE RANCH is an excellent choice for dinner in Anaheim. The restaurant was built on the ground floor of the Extron Electronics company, so the owner could have a high-end dining, spot-on property for steaks, seafood, and other forms of exceptional New American cuisine. The produce, including dozens of heirloom tomato varietals, are grown on an exclusive private farm. The whiskey and wine lists are among the best in the area. Kids will love the variety of inventive desserts.
Make sure to make a reservation well in advance.
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
The restaurant is next door to The Saloon, an affiliated bar and country music dance hall. It operates Thursday – Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to close.

Head back to the hotel and get plenty of rest. You'll spend the next day enjoying a full experience at Disneyland.
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If you are a TCS member and would like to book a hotel with 3% cashback, please follow the instructions via this link.