The Hollywood Sign

Best Viewpoints, Hikes & How to See LA's Famous Landmark

⏱ 1-3 hours👤 All agesFree

Erected in 1923 as a real-estate advertisement reading "HOLLYWOODLAND," the Hollywood Sign lost its last four letters in the 1940s and became the simple, globally recognized symbol of the movie industry and the city itself. The 45-foot-tall white letters stand on the steep south slope of Mount Lee, high above the neighborhoods of the Hollywood Hills, within Griffith Park.

There's no public access to the sign itself — it's fenced off and protected — and you can't drive directly to it, which surprises many visitors. Instead, the experience is seeing and photographing it from a range of free viewpoints. Among the best: the terraces of Griffith Observatory (a clear, classic view), Lake Hollywood Park (a popular up-close vantage), the Hollywood & Highland area, and various spots along Mulholland Drive and the park's roads. Each offers a different angle and distance.

For those who want to get close on foot, Griffith Park's hiking trails lead toward the sign — routes climb to viewpoints near and even behind the letters (you can stand above them on Mount Lee, though not touch them). These hikes range from moderate to strenuous, are best done early to beat heat and crowds, and require sun protection and water, as the hills are exposed and dry. Note that the residential neighborhoods nearest the sign have heavy parking and traffic restrictions, so research access points before you go. However you do it, the sign is free, and catching that first clear view is a memorable LA moment.