Hermosa Beach
Last Updated on Dec 28, 2024
Originally created in 1923 as a temporary advertisement for a local real estate development, the Hollywoodland Sign was left up due to increasing recognition, and it quickly became a symbol of the entertainment industry and the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. The Hollywood Sign is a true American landmark and cultural icon, offering breathtaking views of Los Angeles and serving as a symbol of the entertainment industry and the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. As it celebrates its 100th Anniversary, the Hollywood Sign Trust's plans to build a one-of-a-kind Visitor Center will ensure that the sign continues to inspire and captivate visitors for generations to come.
Situated on Mount Lee in the Beachwood Canyon area of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Hollywood Sign offers breathtaking views of Los Angeles and has become one of the most photographed sites in the world. It has made frequent appearances in popular culture, particularly in establishing shots for films and television programs set in or around Hollywood. The sign is among the best-known landmarks in both California and the United States, and it has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations of dreamers seeking fame and fortune in the entertainment industry.
As the Hollywood Sign celebrates its 100th Anniversary, the Hollywood Sign Trust has announced plans to build a one-of-a-kind Visitor Center to provide a richer experience for fans. The new Visitor Center will kick off the year-long festivities and will provide visitors with a more immersive and interactive experience, allowing them to learn more about the history of the sign, its cultural significance, and the entertainment industry as a whole.
Visitors can already hike to the sign from the Bronson Canyon entrance to Griffith Park or from Griffith Observatory. The trailhead near the Lake Hollywood Reservoir outside of Griffith Park is another popular access point, and there is a scenic vista point around Lake Hollywood Park near the trailhead. However, the new Visitor Center will offer even more opportunities for visitors to engage with the Hollywood Sign and learn about its history and cultural significance.
In recent years, the Hollywood Sign has undergone a transformative makeover, with the all-steel structure replacing the original sign in 1978, and ongoing restoration efforts ensuring that it remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. The new Visitor Center will further enhance the experience for fans, and provide them with an opportunity to become part of the Hollywood Sign's rich history and cultural legacy.
The Hollywood Sign, perched on Mount Lee in the Santa Monica Mountains, can be seen from various vantage points throughout Los Angeles. One of the most popular spots is Griffith Observatory, where you can enjoy an unobstructed view of the sign framed by the cityscape. For a quieter perspective, Lake Hollywood Park offers a serene setting with a clear sightline to the sign. The Hollywood & Highland Center provides an easily accessible viewing deck, perfect for snapping a picture while exploring the area. Additionally, hiking trails like the Mount Hollywood Trail and the Brush Canyon Trail in Griffith Park lead to stunning viewpoints, allowing you to experience the sign up close while immersed in nature.
The Hollywood Sign is located on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills area of the Santa Monica Mountains, overlooking Los Angeles, California. Specifically, it resides within Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The sign’s position offers sweeping views of the Los Angeles Basin, making it a prominent landmark visible from many parts of the city. Access to the sign itself is restricted, but there are several nearby trails and viewpoints, such as Griffith Observatory, Lake Hollywood Park, and the Hollywood Reservoir, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of this world-famous symbol of the entertainment industry.
Visiting the Hollywood Sign is an exciting adventure, and there are several ways to experience it up close. While direct access to the sign is restricted, hiking trails in Griffith Park offer some of the best opportunities for a close encounter. The Brush Canyon Trail and the Mount Hollywood Trail lead to stunning viewpoints, while the Hollyridge Trail provides a route to the vantage point behind the sign. For a more leisurely experience, Lake Hollywood Park offers clear views and is perfect for a relaxed outing. Alternatively, you can drive to Griffith Observatory or the Hollywood & Highland Center for iconic photo opportunities without the hike. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and respect the area’s rules to preserve this historic landmark.
The Hollywood Sign was originally created in 1923 by the Los Angeles real estate developers Harry Chandler, Mack Sennett, and others as a promotional advertisement for a housing development called "Hollywoodland." Designed by artist and architect Charles E. Toberman, the sign featured 13 letters, each standing 30 feet tall, and was meant to attract potential homebuyers to the area. Over the years, the sign fell into disrepair and was eventually refurbished in 1978, with the word "Land" removed to simply read "Hollywood." Today, it stands as a cultural landmark, representing not just the neighborhood, but the broader film industry.
Near the Hollywood Sign, a few standout restaurants offer delightful dining experiences for visitors. Beachwood Cafe is a local favorite, known for its charming atmosphere and delicious brunch options, including hearty omelets and fresh pastries. Just a short distance away, the Smoke House Restaurant is a classic establishment famous for its mouthwatering steaks and iconic garlic bread, making it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists. For those craving Italian cuisine, Miceli's provides a cozy ambiance with a menu featuring traditional dishes like pasta and pizza, along with live music to enhance the dining experience. These restaurants not only serve great food but also capture the vibrant spirit of the Hollywood area.
Take a glance at some of the Hollywood Sign's notable appearances in movies, television shows, music videos, song lyrics, and video games, along with a brief description of its pivotal moment.
Mrs. America (2020)
This series follows conservative activist Phyllis Schlafly as she leads a fight against the Equal Rights Amendment movement during the 1970s. In episode 5, the characters head to Los Angeles for a debate, and the show features an accurate depiction of the Hollywood Sign, distressed to fit the 1970s setting.
Hollywood (2020)
Starring David Corenswet, Darren Criss & Laura Harrier, the series follows a group of aspiring actors and filmmakers in post-World War II Hollywood as they strive to make it big, no matter the cost.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt & Margot Robbie, the movie follows a faded television actor and his stunt double as they try to achieve fame and success in the film industry during the final years of Hollywood's Golden Age in 1969 Los Angeles.
Ovation at Hollywood and Highland
Located on the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue in Hollywood, Ovation at Hollywood and Highland offers stunning views of the Hollywood Sign, as well as the glitz and glam of Hollywood itself. Visitors can gaze at the Sign while also scanning the Walk of Fame for their favorite celebrity, or compare their handprints to those at the TCL Grauman's Chinese Theater.
The Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is another great spot to take in views of the Hollywood Sign, from both the city and the Sign itself. The Observatory offers free parking, making it accessible to people of all physical abilities. In addition to Hollywood history, with iconic scenes from films like Rebel Without a Cause, visitors can also enjoy planetarium shows and public telescope hours for a different kind of star viewing experience.
For those seeking adventure, there are several trail options to choose from, including the Mt. Hollywood Trail, Brush Canyon Trail, and Cahuenga Peak Trail. These trails cater to a variety of fitness levels and interests, from intrepid hikers to those who prefer a leisurely stroll. Beginners, children, and even the moderately well-conditioned can all find a suitable trail to explore.
Mt. Hollywood Trail
Difficulty: Easy
EST. Time: 2 h 28 min
Distance: 5.3 miles
Brush Canyon Trail
Difficulty: Easy
EST. Time: 2 h 45 min
Distance: 6 miles
Cahuenga Peak Trail
Difficulty: Hard
EST. Time: 1 h 45 min
Distance: 3 miles