The Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles’s most recognizable symbol, turns 100 years old this year. Throughout the city, there are plenty of spots and activities where you can see the sign from different vantage points. Here are the best places to see the Hollywood Sign during your next trip to L.A.
How to see the Hollywood Sign from hiking trails
Among the best places to see the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Park offers multiple hiking trails on Mt. Hollywood, many departing straight from the iconic Griffith Observatory. The Cahuenga Peak Trail is among the most popular, a strenuous trek that rewards you with a unique view from behind the Sign and overlooking Downtown Los Angeles.
For those more interested in strolls or picnics than hikes, the reservoir at Lake Hollywood Park has a direct view of the Sign and is accessible by car and a short walk. Among the city’s most popular locations to see and be seen, Runyon Canyon offers distant, dramatic views of the sign, especially from the top of the park.
How to see the Hollywood Sign on a guided tour
Bikes and Hikes is the top outdoor tour company in LA, offering two different tours to The Hollywood Sign that expound on the area’s unique history. The Original Hollywood Sign Tour is an easy walk, through Griffith Park and below the Sign in 90 minutes, while the Original Hollywood Sign Hik takes a slightly steeper trail up behind the Hollywood Sign to get up close with the icon over two and a half hours.
Flying out of Van Nuys Airport, Group 3 Aviation offers a 35-minute Hooray for Hollywood Tour, soaring above the Sign and the Hollywood hills.
How to see the Hollywood Sign from a restaurant
Occupying the top floor of the Aster Club and Hotel, Lemon Grove serves up gorgeous views of the Sign and delectable cuisine from Top Chef alum Marcel Vigneron. The French Riviera-inspired Bar Lis offers a lovely spot for sign viewing, with a retractable roof, delicious food and drink menu, and live music many nights of the week. With a breathtaking view of the city skyline, The Hollywood Sign and Capitol Records, the creative cocktails and bites are plentiful at Grandmaster Recorders, as are the good vibes. Few spots offer unobstructed view of the iconic Hollywood sign like Mama Shelter, serving up drinks and snacks in addition to its striking vista
Where to stay to see the Hollywood Sign
The boutique Kimpton Everly Hotel is right in the heart of Hollywood glitz and glamour, offering views of the Sign and the Hollywood hills from the rooftop and select guest rooms. The chic rooftop pool, dining experiences and event spaces at the laid back, yet refined Thompson Hollywood offer impressive views of the Hollywood Sign. On the always-lively Hollywood Boulevard, W Hollywood offers expansive vistas of the Hollywood Sign from their rooftop pool and lounge, guest rooms and suites, and event venues.
