Hollywood Sign
The World's Most Famous Landmark - Symbol of Dreams and Stardom
About the Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is the most recognizable symbol of Los Angeles and the entertainment industry. Originally erected in 1923 as "HOLLYWOODLAND" to advertise a real estate development, the sign has become an international icon representing the glamour, dreams, and aspirations of Hollywood.
Perched on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills at an elevation of 1,578 feet, the sign stands 45 feet tall and spans 352 feet across. Each letter is constructed of steel and covered with white enamel panels, making it visible from miles away across the Los Angeles basin.
Sign Specifications
Height: 45 feet
Width: 352 feet
Elevation: 1,578 feet
Location
Mount Lee, Hollywood Hills
Los Angeles, CA 90068
History & Evolution
Original Purpose
The sign was originally erected in 1923 as "HOLLYWOODLAND" to advertise a new real estate development in the Hollywood Hills. It was intended to be temporary but became a permanent fixture of the Los Angeles skyline.
Transformation
In 1949, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce took over maintenance and removed the "LAND" portion, officially making it the "HOLLYWOOD" sign we know today. The sign has undergone several renovations and restorations over the decades.
Cultural Significance
Today, the Hollywood Sign represents the entertainment industry, dreams of stardom, and the glamour of Hollywood. It has appeared in countless films, TV shows, and photographs, making it one of the most photographed landmarks in the world.
Key Dates:
- • 1923: Original "HOLLYWOODLAND" sign erected
- • 1949: "LAND" removed, becomes "HOLLYWOOD"
- • 1978: Complete restoration and rebuilding
- • 2012: 40th anniversary restoration
- • 2023: 100th anniversary celebration
Notable Features:
- • Steel framework construction
- • White enamel panels
- • LED lighting system
- • 24/7 security monitoring
- • Protected landmark status
Best Viewing Points
Griffith Observatory
The most popular and accessible viewing point for the Hollywood Sign. Griffith Observatory offers spectacular views of the sign along with panoramic vistas of Los Angeles and the surrounding mountains.
Views & Experience:
- • Perfect sign visibility
- • Panoramic city views
- • Sunset and night views
- • Telescope access
- • Educational exhibits
Amenities:
- • Free parking
- • Cafe and gift shop
- • Restrooms
- • Guided tours
- • Planetarium shows
Lake Hollywood Park
A peaceful park offering one of the closest and clearest views of the Hollywood Sign. This family-friendly location is perfect for picnics and photography.
Park Features:
- • Large grassy area
- • Picnic tables
- • Playground equipment
- • Walking paths
- • Dog-friendly
Photography:
- • Close-up sign views
- • Family photo opportunities
- • Sunrise and sunset shots
- • Wide-angle perspectives
- • Professional photo sessions
Runyon Canyon Park
A popular hiking destination that offers multiple viewpoints of the Hollywood Sign along its various trails. The park provides both easy and challenging hiking options.
Trail Options:
- • Easy loop (1.3 miles)
- • Moderate trail (2.7 miles)
- • Challenging climb (3.3 miles)
- • Multiple viewpoints
- • Dog-friendly trails
Sign Views:
- • Elevated perspectives
- • Different angles
- • Sunset views
- • City skyline backdrop
- • Fitness and views combined
Mulholland Drive Viewpoints
Various pullouts along Mulholland Drive offer unique perspectives of the Hollywood Sign from different angles and elevations, perfect for photography and sightseeing.
Viewing Spots:
- • Mulholland Scenic Overlook
- • Various pullouts
- • Different elevations
- • Sunset viewpoints
- • Night city lights
Photography:
- • Wide-angle shots
- • City skyline inclusion
- • Different lighting
- • Panoramic views
- • Professional setups
Hiking to the Hollywood Sign
While you cannot hike directly to the Hollywood Sign itself (it's fenced off for security), there are several excellent hiking trails that provide spectacular views and get you close to the landmark.
Popular Hiking Trails
- •Bronson Canyon Trail
Easy 1-mile trail with close sign views
- •Mount Hollywood Trail
Moderate 3-mile trail from Griffith Observatory
- •Wisdom Tree Trail
Challenging hike with panoramic views
- •Beachwood Canyon Trail
Scenic route through historic neighborhood
Hiking Tips
- •Start Early
Avoid heat and crowds
- •Bring Water
Stay hydrated on trails
- •Wear Sunscreen
Protection from sun exposure
- •Respect Boundaries
Don't trespass near the sign
Visitor Information
Best Times to Visit
- • Early morning for clear views
- • Sunset for golden hour photos
- • Weekdays to avoid crowds
- • Clear weather days
- • Spring and fall for mild weather
- • Night for city light views
Photography Tips
- • Use telephoto lenses for close-ups
- • Wide-angle for cityscape inclusion
- • Golden hour for best lighting
- • Include foreground elements
- • Consider different viewpoints
- • Check weather conditions
Luxury Transportation Services
Viewing Tours
Guided tours to all major viewing points
Photography Tours
Professional photo opportunities
Hiking Shuttles
Transportation to trailheads
Sunset Tours
Evening viewing experiences
Quick Facts
Visitor Tips
- •Visit early morning or sunset
- •Bring camera and binoculars
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Check weather conditions
- •Respect security boundaries
- •Book transportation in advance
Ready to See the Sign?
Let us handle your transportation so you can focus on experiencing the iconic Hollywood Sign. From viewing tours to photography sessions, we've got you covered.