New Year's Eve in Hollywood

Looking for an amazing time this New Year's Eve? Avoid the party-going drivers by staying with us after your festivities and stay safe.

Here are some of the amazing Hollywood parties this New Year's Eve:

New Year's Eve Concert on the Beach
Hollywood Beach Theater (Johnson St at the Broadwalk) • 954-921-3404
10pm-1am. Enjoy Live Blues, R&B and Soul with Isaac & Val Woods!

The Big Easy Bar & Grille
1925 Hollywood Blvd • 954-924-3006 • www.TheBigEasyBarAndGrille.com
Rockin' New Year's Eve Bash featuring Jimi Ruccolo Band, starting at 9:30pm. Cost: $65 includes dinner & champagne toast. Call for reservations.

GG's Waterfront Bar & Grill
606 N. Ocean Drive • 954-929-7030 • www.GGsWaterfront.com
Welcome Cocktail: Prosecco
Open Bar: Premium Liquor, Domestic & Import Beer, Select Wines
Appetizers: Crab Cake, Shrimp Cocktail, Stuffed Mushroom, Caprese Skewer
Starter: Soup or Salad
Choice of Entrée: Filet Mignon, Chilean Sea Bass, Lamb Chops, Maine Lobster Thermador, Shrimp & Scallops, Airline Chicken, Grilled Atlantic Salmon
Choice of Dessert: Chef's Inspiration
Champagne Toast & Party Favors at Midnight
*$125 per person, tax and gratuity not included. Limited availability. Reservations require payment. Seating begins at 9pm.

Lola's on Harrison
2032 Harrison Street • 954-927-9851 • www.LolasOnHarrison.com
Live Entertainment & Dancing, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m
$65/Person First Seating, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
$95/Person Second Seating, 9 p.m. - Later

Mickey Byrne's Irish Pub & Restaurant
1921 Hollywood Blvd • 954-921-2317 • www.MickeyByrnes.com
9:00pm. Live music by A Fistful Of Rockets, balloon drop, FREE champagne toast. No cover charge, no reservations, no hassle!

Ocean Alley Restaurant & Bar
900 N. Broadwalk • 954-921-6171 • www.OceanAlley.net
3rd Annual New Year's Party. 9pm Reservations required $60 per person. Music, 5 course dinner, party favors, champagne toast. R.S.V.P. by Monday December 26, 2011.

Taco Beach Shack
334 Arizona Street • 954-920-6523 • www.TacoBeachShack.com
7pm-3am. Don't miss the best party in Hollywood. Mexican New Year... Taco Beach Style! Sexy DJ Elyse spinning old skool rock, pop and 80's hits all night long. $45 per person 9pm-12midnight: Unlimited sangria & beer, Mexican dinner buffet, champagne toast at midnight.

Whiskey Tango All-American Bar & Grill
1903 Hollywood Blvd • 954-925-2555 • www.WhiskeyTangoFL.com
Where are you gonna blow all your cash on New Years Eve? One place you're NOT gonna blow it is Whiskey Tango in Downtown Hollywood! With NO COVER CHARGE, Whiskey Tango is the place to gather with your friends, enjoy our three stocked bars, our yummy new menu and great live music from one of our favorite bands, Ghost of Gloria! Did we mention that there is NO COVER CHARGE for this party? Happy New Year from Whiskey Tango!

Source: Visit Hollywood

December at the Hard Rock

Hard Rock Live at the
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino 
1 Seminole Way, Hollywood

All seats are reserved and available at the Hard Rock Live Box Office and through Ticketmaster.

BRAD GARRETTFriday, December 30, 2011, 8:00 p.m.

PAUL ANKA

Saturday, December 31, 2011, 10:30 p.m.

Fun Run

It's almost time to trade in your dancing shoes for your running shoes. Start training now for the Flipany Fun Run on January 7th! No need to run home afterward; make a stay-cation weekend out of it and stay with us afterward.

Drum Circle

Hollywood has something for everyone! Tomorrow night is the full moon, and hosts another great Hollywood event, the Full Moon Drum Circle!

Bring a drum or percussion instrument to the ArtsPark at Young Circle and participate in a guided drum circle. All skill levels welcome. Meet at the Palm Court (West Side). Saturday, December 10, 2011, 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m.

This event is sponsored by Resurrection Drums.

This Weekend in Hollywood

This weekend in Hollywood:

Stay with us after you sstuff yourself with the Rock'n'Brews Food Truck Fest at ArtsPark at Young Circle. A whole caravan of renowned gourmet food trucks will roll into Downtown Hollywood for a weekend of fabulous food, national entertainment acts, beers from around the country and an amazing craft village.

Saturday, December 3, 2011, Noon - 10:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 4, 2011, Noon - 6:00 p.m.

Also this weekend, The Annual Candy Cane Parade! Click Here for more information.

Music and Dancing on Hollywood Beach

Every night is a party in Hollywood! On the Broadwalk, just a short walk to the Ramada, nightly events take place such as this one:

MUSIC & DANCING UNDER THE STARS
Hollywood Beach Theater
Every week
7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Dance on the Broadwalk or just enjoy the music. Year-round series features music ranging from easy listening to line dancing to blues, R&B and rock & roll to special theme nights.

Mondays: "Theatre Under the Stars"

Tuesdays: "Dancing Under the Moonlight"

Wednesdays: "On the Broadwalk"

Fridays: "Broadwalk Friday Fest"

Saturdays: "Beach Theatre Bandstand"

Click here for featured performers. Performances are subject to weather conditions.

Information: 954-921-3404

Source: Hollywood Events

Coming Soon: Hollywood Candy Cane Parade

Attend this wonderful parade, then stay with us for the night!

HOLLYWOOD BEACH CANDY CANE PARADE
Hollywood Beach Broadwalk
Saturday, December 3, 2011
7:00 p.m.

Get ready to catch your share of peppermints and candy canes at South Florida's premier holiday celebration, the 56th Annual Hollywood Beach Candy Cane Parade. An estimated 40,000 people will line the Broadwalk at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 3rd to watch the parade make its way from Scott Street south to Harrison Street. What a wonderful way to usher in the holiday season with a 100-entry festive parade along Hollywood's gorgeous oceanfront Broadwalk bordered on one side with holiday decorated restaurants, cafes and small lodgings on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. The theme of this year's parade is "Candyland". Expect a multitude of lighted floats, colorful entries, marching bands, baton twirlers and costumed characters. Besides the floats and the seemingly endless supply of candy canes and peppermints, local talent fills the parade ranks.

Information: 954-921-3404

Source: Hollywood Beach Events

Guest Reviews

All of us at Ramada Downtown Hollywood LOVE to hear that our guests enjoyed their stay. Check out these wonderful reviews from previous guests!

Great Hotel, Great Price, Great Location!  

"I recently stayed at this hotel and had a great experience. From the moment I checked in, the staff was super friendly. They recommended great restaurants and great activities to do. The pool was very clean, the rooms were spacious, and the location was great. I rented a car, however, I never used it. There are restaurants, bars, and activities surrounding the hotel. There is even a trolley to the beach for $1. HIGHLY Recommended! "
- Brooke5668, Chicago, Illinois

 

 

A Wonderful Getaway

"I visited this hotel during the Mother's Day weekend. The location is excellent with restaurants, bars and shopping all within walking distance. The hotel staff was friendly, the room was clean, comfortable and roomy. I will be returning to this hotel in August for another trip, and this time my family and friends will be coming."
- PrettyRed80, Dalzell, South Carolina

 

Amenities Update!

Here at the Ramada Downtown Hollywood, we're always working to improve your experience with us. That's why we're rolling out with even more fantastic amenities to make your stay memorable! Check them out:

• Convenient Downtown Hollywood Location
• Concierge
• ATM on Premesis
• Dry Cleaning Service
• Hot Tub
• Meeting and Banquet Facilities
• Sofa Beds
• Blackout Drapes
• Free Local Calls
• Voicemail
• Wake-up Service
• Rollaway Beds and Cribs
• Smoking Rooms Available
• Express Check-in/Check-out
• Safe Deposit Box at Front Desk
• Limo/Town Car Service
• Airport Shuttle
• Free Parking

Book your stay with us on your next trip to Hollywood. You won't regret it! 

Things to do in Fort Lauderdale!

When you're visiting South Florida, all of us at Ramada Downtown Hollywood want you to have a great time! Here are a few things to do in the Fort Lauderdale area!

Gulfstream Park Racetrack & Casino -

Racing fans and gamers alike flock to this popular entertainment destination to wager on live and televised horse racing events, play casino games, enjoy live entertainment and shop at the complex's luxury retail center. 2 Miles www.gulfstreampark.com

Seminole Hard Rock Casino -

With a casino, top name live entertainment, high-end shopping and luxurious accommodations, the Seminole Hard Rock Casino is a popular destination for gaming enthusiasts of all types. The casino is also home to a day spa, more than 15 restaurants and 17 retail shops, including Perry Ellis and White House-Black Market. 6 Miles www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com

Art and Culture Center of Hollywood -

Situated in a historic, 1920's mission-style mansion, this unique art museum features contemporary art exhibitions, live stage performances, and community educational program. Open Tues.-Fri, 10am-5pm; Sat.-Sun., noon-4pm. .4 Miles www.artandculturecenter.org

Dania Jai-Alai & Casino -

Experience amateur and professional Jai-Alai, the "world's fastest ballgame," a thrilling and dangerous game that is a distinctively Florida attraction. After your Jai-Alai thrills end, enjoy gaming at the casino, where you'll find Texas Hold'em and traditional poker games waiting. 3 Miles www.betdania.com

The Benefits of Traveling Light

It's no secret that any time we travel, we end up coming home with more than left with! Over-packing when we travel is one of the most common traveling sins, but you can change that by starting with just the bear necessities!

1. Packing light means you have less chance of losing your belongings, items getting damaged or things getting stolen!

2. The lighter you travel, the fewer baggage fees you'll incur during traveling. You'll also be more prone to taking advantage of public transportation, like the subway or buses, instead of costly taxis or limousines!

3. Fewer bags means greater mobility! You can switch flights without having to worry about whether or not a checked bag will make the switch too! And when you arrive at your destination, you won't have to wait with the crowd at the baggage carousels!

4. When you travel light and have all of your belonging on you at all times, you'll spend less time worrying about your bags back at the hotel and more time enjoying your trip! When vacations come few and far between, enjoying the moment is what is important! Don't weigh yourself down with unnecessary items!

And of course, the Ramada Downtown Hollywood reminds you to travel safely!

Source: OneBag.com

The History of Hollywood Young Circle and ArtsPark

The Birth of Young Circle

In 1920, a man by the name of John Wesley Young visited Hollywood with a dream for creating a special place that people would find appealing. Within a year, construction was under way to turn the south Florida marshlands into Hollywood-by the-Sea - his dream city. His vision called for three traffic circles placed along Hollywood Blvd, the first circle west of the ocean being Young Circle, named in honor of the City's great founder.

The Birth of ArtsPark


Hollywood's ArtsPark was designed as a place for Hollywood residents to engage in cultural activities. The design of ArtsPark was meant to honor the historic landmark that is Hollywood's Young Circle and to really speak to the people about the kind of community Hollywood is. ArtsPark hosts a number of events on a weekly basis, many of which are free, and is host to concerts and special events throughout the year.



The next time you visit Hollywood and stay at your favorite Ramada Downtown Hollywood, take a stroll through ArtsPark and Young Circle! You won't regret it!





Source: ArtsPark

Funtastic Fridays at ArtsPark!

When you're traveling with children, finding fun, inexpensive things to do is usually at the top of your list. The next time you're visiting Hollywood, Fl, check out Funtastic Fridays at Hollywood ArtsPark, located just steps from your favorite Ramada Downtown Hollywood!

Funtastic Fridays offers face painting, a bounce house, outdoor movies and more, and best of all, its FREE!

What better way to travel than doing something the whole family will love! The fun begins every Friday at 5:00pm! See you there!

Source: HollywoodFl

Nearby Happy Hours!

Check out some of these great restaurants, just steps from the Ramada Downtown Hollywood! They all offer great Happy Hour Deals for you to enjoy during your next visit!


Cafe Italia
2025A Hollywood Blvd
Happy Hour Specials Everyday from 3pm to 7pm. 2 for 1 drinks, Domestic Beer Buckets for $10.00.
Info: 954-925-8815 • www.CafeItaliaHollywood.com

Lola's on Harrison
2032 Harrison Street
Happy Hour, 5-8pm, Tuesday-Friday! Specials at the bar. Join us for great $3 Craft Beers, $4 Cocktails, $5 Bar Bites.
Info: 954-927-9851 • www.LolasonHarrison.com

Mama Mia Italian Ristorante
1818 S. Young Circle
Friday Night: 3 for 1 Cocktails and Draft Beers and 2 for 1 Selected Appetizers. Lounge seating only.
Info: 954-923-0555 • www.MiaGrill.com

Mystic Water Kava Bar
2037 Hollywood Blvd
Monday-Friday, 4-7pm. Kava is a 3,000 year old drink from the South Pacific Islands. Proven to reduce stress and anxiety, relax the muscles, and cause euphoria, Kava is made from the roots of the Kava bush.
Info: 954-391-7056 • www.TheKavaBar.com

'Malley's Ocean Pub
101 N. Ocean Drive behind the Ramada Hollywood Beach Resort
Monday-Friday, 4-7pm.
Info: 954-920-4062 • www.OMalleysOceanPub.com

Sushi Blues
2009 Harrison Street
Monday-Friday, 4-7pm. Free Tempura Appetizer. Two for One Drinks.
Info: 954-929-9560 • www.SushiBlues.com

Takitos
1926 Hollywood Blvd
Join us every Thursday at takitos from 9pm-12am for happy hour. All beers are 2 for 1. Enjoy an ice cold beer and the best Mexican food in town.
Info: 954-921-1946 • www.TaKitos.com

Whiskey Tango All-American Bar & Grill
1903 Hollywood Blvd
Monday - Friday: 11:30a-8pm - 2-4-1 happy hour. The longest Happy Hour in Hollywood!
Monday - Friday: 5p-7pm - $5.00 appetizers while sitting at the bar!
Info: 954-925-2555 • www.WhiskeyTangoFL.com

Visit the Hollywood Beach Theatre!

Located at Johnson Street at the Hollywood Broadwalk, you'll find great entertainment five nights a week at the Hollywood Beach Theatre! Stop by on any of the days below for free music and a toe-tappin' good time, just minutes from the Ramada Downtown Hollywood!

-Theatre Under the Stars Concert Series • Mondays @ 7:30-9pm

-Dancing Under the Moonlight Concert Series • Tuesdays @ 7:30-9pm

-On the Broadwalk Concert Series • Wednesdays @ 7:30-9pm

-Broadwalk Friday Fest Concert Series • Fridays @ 7:30-9pm

-Beach Theatre Bandstand Concert Series • Saturdays @ 7:30-9pm

And don't let your night end once the music is over. Take a stroll down the Broadwalk and take in the cool evening breeze or stop in at one of the Broadwalk's numerous cafes/restaurants for a delicious dinner by the ocean! 

Traveling on a Budget - Alternatives

When planning your vacation, consider some of these alternatives for a new experience!

1. Walk Around - Instead of flagging a cab to get to your destination, try walking! There's a lot in a city that you can miss by hopping in a car. It's also a great way to stop and get pictures!

2. Enjoy the Local Scene - We can stop at a national chain restaurant any time. Eat and shop at local mom and pop shops to get a taste of what the locals love.

3. Be Flexible with Travel Days - Prices for airlines and hotel rooms are often based on supply and demand. Check prices for the day before and after your ideal days, as you may end up getting a better deal.

4. Book a Bundle - Many websites offer deals if you book your airline, hotel and rental car at the same time. Check out all of your options before committing.

5. Travel Off Season - Every tourist destination has a peak season, when it will be most crowded and most expensive. Try visiting these destination in the off season to save money and avoid crowds.

No matter what you do for your vacation, Ramada Downtown Hollywood reminds you to travel safely and have a great time!

Source: MoneyNing

Traveling on a Budget - Accomodations

One of the most expensive parts of traveling is finding somewhere to stay. Here are a few tips to help you find a good location without breaking the bank!

1. Stay in the town next door - Sometimes staying in a smaller town, twenty or so minutes from the main city can be less expensive. Hotels may not be as busy or pricey. You may have a longer drive to your destination, but you'll save money on your hotel.

2. Try a home exchange - If your vacation will be an extended one, look into a home exchange, where you stay in a home in your destination city/state/country while the person who lives in that home travels to your city and stays in your home!

3. Just ask - Never underestimate the power of asking. Many small hotels will be willing to give you free upgrades or even free nights if they have the space. You may even be able to bargain by saying you'll upgrade your room if you get an extra night free!

4. Rent a vacation home - If you'll be staying in the same place for at least a few days, try renting out a vacation home. This is typically a more comfortable environment with the added bonus of a full kitchen and may even save you some money.

5. Consider a suite - Instead of renting two separate rooms for you and the kids (or you and other members of your party) try booking a two-bedrooom suite. This may save you money and will give privacy to the entire party.

As always, all of us at Ramada Downtown Hollywood remind you to travel safely!

Source: Moneyning

Traveling on a Budget - Currency

When traveling to a new country, you will most likely have to do a currently exchange. Check out these tips to get you prepared!

1. If you're traveling out of country for the first time, check the exchange rates in advance so you're fully aware of how much money you'll actually have in hand when you make the exchange.

2. Search online for places to get your currently exchanged once you arrived in your destination country. You may find the best exchange rates at the airport once you get off the plane.

3. Currency exchange rates can change drastically day to day. Try booking your travel reservations on the local website for the country you'll be visiting. This site will already be in the correct currency and could save you money.

Ramada Downtown Hollywood wishes you happy and safe travels!

Source: Moneyning

Traveling on a Budget - Transportation!

Traveling in a new city doesn't have to break the bank! Check out some of these tips for some great ways to explore your surroundings!


Rail, Metros and Subway – If you are traveling to a city that has a subway system, such as New York, San Francisco or Washington, DC, the subway is a great and inexpensive way to get around. Daily and weekly passes and usually be purchased and great rates.

Night Train and Flights – If the transportation is going to be long, consider traveling at night to save money on accommodation and many hours of time. When you arrive at your destination you'll be well rested and ready to explore in a new place.

Take the Slower Transportation – If flying is too short for you to take advantage of sleeping while traveling, take a bus ride. When you are sleeping, you won’t mind that the bus ride is 7 hours.

Avoid Taxis and Welcome Public Transportation – Tourist usually take taxis since it’s the laziest way to get from point A to B. Consider the subway or buses because it’s sometimes easier and it is much cheaper. They can also immerse you in the culture of the city you are visiting.

Driving is Not Bad – Want to take that 1 hour flight? With airport security and all the hassle of airport inefficiencies, you might as well drive there (it takes just as long and it’s less expensive). Once you get there, having a car is also much easier than needing to take your bags everywhere.

Ramada Downtown Hollywood reminds you to travel safely!

Source: MoneyNing

Traveling on a Budget - Car Rentals!

Renting a car can be a tricky process. Here are some things for you to consider when traveling:

1. Car Rental Coverage – Some insurance and many credit cards have car rental coverage so take advantage of the ones that you have when you rent a car. All you have to do is pay with the credit card that will cover you. Just be sure to decline the insurance that the rental company offers.

2. Size of the Car – If you don't need a big car, choose one from the economy selection. This will save you money and gas!

3. Children's Car Seats – If you are traveling with children, you might think that bringing your car seat is cheaper. But most rental companies will provide car seats for a small fee, probably smaller than the extra luggage charge to bring yours on a plane. Call the rental company ahead of time to verify.

4. Fill up that Rental Car – When renting, be sure to decline the fuel charge that the company offers you and just fill it up yourself before returning the car. Even if the refuel charge from the company may seem cheaper, they will charge you for an entire tank of gas even if the tank is only half empty.

5. Coupon Codes – Sometimes car rental companies have coupon codes that can be used. Search online to see what you can take advantage of. Be sure you look for special rates for military members, seniors or AAA members.

As always, Ramada Downtown Hollywood reminds you to travel safely!

Traveling on a Budget - Eating!

1. Plan Your Meals - Familiarize yourself with the area you'll be visiting and plan meal outings ahead of time. If possible, eat before you go out to save money!
2. Cook for Yourself - Shopping for groceries in a new place can be fun and educational! You can also have a lot of fun cooking in a new kitchen. Make it a family event and give everybody a part of the meal to be responsible for!
3. Meals Carryover - Save half of your dinner and have it for breakfast the next day. That gives you two meals for the price of one!
4. Eat More at Lunch than Dinner - Fancy lunches are usually less expensive than fancy dinners. If you have a bigger breakfast and lunch and a light dinner, you can save money! This can also help you have a lighter, healthier dinner!

If you're visiting the Hollywood, Florida area, feel free to contact us at Ramada Downtown Hollywood for more information on the restaurants and eateries in the area!


Source: MoneyNing

Traveling on a Budget - Flying!

Finding great deals on flights can be difficult. Consider the following tips for saving money on your next trip!

1. Airline Tickets – Plan in advance and visit discount websites to see if there are better deals. While these sites might charge you a service fee ($5 or so), they can easily combine flight segments from different airlines easily to give you a great deal.
   
2. Connecting Flights – These can be huge money savers for you, so don’t write it off right away.
3. Travel Light – Airlines are starting to charge for everything now and if you have 2 bags or more, expect to be charged for it. Remember to not use over sized bags whenever possible and try to keep it all within one bag per person.
4. Substitute – Think about packing really old clothes (if you plan to buy new ones on the trip). This way, you can keep one luggage and still have room for purchases.
5. Always Look into Round Trip Tickets – Sometimes one way tickets can be very expensive. Even if you don't need a round trip ticket, it may be cheaper for you to buy one.
   
6. Try to Get Back to the Same Airport – Flying in and out of the same airport is almost always cheaper. It’s not only the flight tickets but the car rentals as well.

Of course, all of us at Ramada Downtown Hollywood with you safe travels!


Source: MoneyNing

Traveling With Children

During the summer, families typically take family vacations! Here are just a few tips for planning ahead when traveling with young children!

• Speak with a travel agent who is child-friendly. He/she will most likely have knowledge of child-friendly accommodations and airlines.
  
• If two parents are traveling with children on a bus or an airplane, consider sitting apart. This way, one parent can nap while the other spends time with the children and vice versa.
• If traveling by plane, prepare your departure cards or print your boarding passes at home to save time at the airport.
• If you are parents, be sure to clearly distinguish which responsibilities each of you will be responsible for to ensure your travels run smoothly.
  

Ramada Downtown Hollywood wishes you safe travels this summer!

Traveling Game - Roadtrip Scavenger Hunt

When you're on the road this summer, kids and adults alike can get bored easily with long drives. Spice up your roadtrip adventures with a scavenger hunt!

Here are a few fun examples for objects to hunt for, based on your location!

City Scavenger Hunt: flashing red light bus signs in foreign languages dog food store railroad tracks billboard with a child on it cop license plate with "Q" person with tall boots person talking on a cell phone

Suburbs Scavenger Hunt: school flashing traffic light food store someone on a bike statue church playground flower garden or snowman pickup truck WalMart Person walking a dog

Rural Scavenger Hunt: silo cows railroad tracks pond or lake dirt road tractor gas station horses oil pump barn deer armadillo (even if it's beside the road!)

As always Ramada Downtown Hollywood reminds you to travel safely and enjoy your summer adventures!

Source: Mom's Minivan