Pedaling Through The Past - A Ride Into Hollywood Beach History

Set to begin at 9:00 a.m. at Eppleman Park, located at 701 Tyler Street, Hollywood, Florida 33019, the tour is designed for both seasoned history buffs and curious newcomers. Riders will trace the sun-dappled streets and breezy boardwalks of Hollywood Beach, pausing at iconic buildings that speak to the area’s glamorous past and enduring legacy.

A Journey Back in Time

Hollywood, Florida, was the dream of visionary developer Joseph W. Young, who founded the city in the 1920’s with a grand plan: to create a sophisticated resort town that merged the glamour of Hollywood, California, with the charm and accessibility of the Florida coast. While Hurricanes and financial hardship tested that dream, many of the city’s original structures still stand today as a testament to Young’s ambition.

On this special ride, tour participants will receive exclusive access to historic locations—most notably, the majestic Hollywood Beach Hotel, a Mediterranean Revival masterpiece that once welcomed celebrities, dignitaries, and world travelers during its heyday. The hotel’s striking architecture, ornate ballrooms, and storied past make it a cornerstone of Hollywood’s identity. With expert commentary from guides Taylor and Toth, cyclists will gain rare insight into how the hotel shaped the social and economic life of the area.

Additional tour stops include preserved residences from the 1920’s and 1930’s, charming beachside motels with retro flair, and landmarks tucked away behind modern facades. Each stop tells its own unique story—of Hurricanes weathered, communities preserved, and battles fought to keep the spirit of Old Hollywood alive.

Legislative Insight and Local Leadership

As history is never divorced from the present, this year’s tour will also include an important civic component. Commissioner Caryl Shuham will provide an update on recent legislation and its potential impact on Hollywood’s historic inventory. With many cities across Florida seeing increased development pressure, the need to protect architectural heritage has never been more urgent.

Shuham’s talk promises to offer a thoughtful perspective on how current policy might shape the future of preservation efforts in the area. Riders will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with local leadership—making this ride not only a nostalgic journey, but an empowering one as well.

The Grand Finale: Celebration at Le Tub

No Hollywood Beach adventure would be complete without a stop at the legendary Le Tub Saloon, the quirky and beloved waterfront burger joint that has served as a community anchor for five decades. After the tour, participants are invited to celebrate Le Tub’s 50th Anniversary with casual bites, waterfront views, and great company.

Known for its eclectic décor and famously hefty burgers, Le Tub has been featured in countless travel and food publications and remains one of the few establishments that has retained its authentic character despite the city’s evolving skyline.

How to Join

Tickets for the Historic Hollywood Beach Bike Tour are priced at $35 for Hollywood Historical Society Members and $40 for Non-Members. With space capped at just 30 participants, early registration is strongly encouraged!

Tickets can be purchased through PayPal or by mailing a check payable to:

Hollywood Historical Society

Post Office Box#: 222755

Hollywood, Florida 33022

Participants are reminded to bring water (preferably in a reusable bottle), wear sun protection, and download and sign the required Waiver of Liability ahead of time. All waivers must be submitted on the day of the tour.

Whether you're a longtime resident or just discovering the charm of Hollywood Beach, the Historic Bike Tour is more than a recreational outing—it’s a celebration of identity, architecture, and community spirit. Led by passionate local historians and buoyed by civic engagement, this event shines a light on why the preservation of our past matters—especially in a fast-changing state like Florida.

So dust off your bike, grab your helmet, and prepare to rediscover the hidden stories and timeless beauty of Hollywood Beach—one pedal at a time.

For any questions or additional information, the Hollywood Historical Society can be reached at: (954) 923-5590. Or via email at: HollywoodFLhistory@att.net.