By Dale Conour, Matthew Jaffe, Sunset Magazine

1 - Hollywood and Highland: It's like a film classic restored, with landmark movie palaces like Grauman's Chinese Theatre and a new generation of clubs and restaurants.

2 - American Cinematheque at the Egyptian Theatre: Break the big-movie habit and come to this nonprofit theater for its innovative films. Monthly tours are offered of the restored 1922 Egyptian revival-style theater. INFO: 6712 Hollywood Blvd; 323-466-3456.

3 - 25 Degrees: Upscale burgers and decor by restaurant-design king Dodd Mitchell reflect the revival of Hollywood Boulevard. INFO: $$; in the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, 7000 Hollywood Blvd; 323-785-7244.

4 - Universal City: Its famous studio tour and its built-from-scratch CityWalk streetscape deliver a special effects-laden blockbuster.

5 - Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience: While certainly pricey, the all-day experience gives insider looks at studio spaces that regular tours miss and grants priority access on rides and attractions. INFO: Reservations required; 818-622-5120.

6 - Chocolate Loco: A celebration of chocolate's Mexican origins, it's the place to go if you love hot chocolate or your chocolate hot: chocolate-dipped jalapeños and habaneros, anyone? INFO: On Universal CityWalk, Ste. 147; 818-761-7213.

7 - North Hollywood Arts District: It's like an indie movie: authentic, uncompromising, and built on creativity.

8 - Lankershim Arts Center: Located in a 1939 art deco utilities building, it's home to the Road Theatre Company, an art gallery, and a performance space. INFO: 5108 Lankershim Blvd; 818-752-7568.

9 - Academy of Television Arts and Sciences: Statues of TV legends and a giant Emmy Award populate the Plaza. 5200 Lankershim Blvd.

10 - Metro stations art tour The two-hour docent-led tours are offered monthly on the first Saturday (10am at Hollywood/Highland Station's street-level entrance) and first Sunday (10am at the Union Station information booth); 800-266-6883.

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