The iconic Hollywood Sign is an internationally recognized symbol of Los Angeles and stands atop the Hollywood Hills overlooking the city. It is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks and a popular tourist attraction. But getting to the Hollywood Sign by car can be a bit tricky, as the area is surrounded by private property and is not accessible by public transportation. Fortunately, there are a few ways to get to the Hollywood Sign by car, and we’ll show you how.
Preparation
Before you embark on your journey, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the Hollywood Sign is located on a hill, so it can be difficult to see from the ground. You will need to find a parking spot, or a suitable spot to pull over and get a good view of the sign. Second, the roads around the Hollywood Sign can be very busy, so you should plan your journey accordingly. Finally, there are no public restrooms or facilities near the Hollywood Sign, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and bring water, snacks, and other supplies.
Route 1: Beachwood Drive
The easiest way to get to the Hollywood Sign is to take Beachwood Drive. This route is the most direct and takes you directly up to the sign. From the Hollywood Freeway (101), take the Franklin Avenue exit and head south. Turn left onto North Beachwood Drive and continue until you reach the end of the road, where you will find a parking lot and a trailhead. The trailhead leads to the Hollywood Sign, which is only a short hike away.
Route 2: Canyon Drive
Another way to get to the Hollywood Sign is to take Canyon Drive. This route is a bit longer than Beachwood Drive, but it offers some stunning views along the way. From the Hollywood Freeway (101), take the Canyon Drive exit and head north. Follow Canyon Drive until you reach the end of the road, where you will find a parking lot and a trailhead. The trailhead leads to the Hollywood Sign, which is only a short hike away.
Route 3: Mulholland Drive
The final way to get to the Hollywood Sign is to take Mulholland Drive. This route takes you along the ridge of the Hollywood Hills and offers some of the best views of the sign. From the Hollywood Freeway (101), take the Mulholland Drive exit and head north. Follow Mulholland Drive until you reach the end of the road, where you will find a parking lot and a trailhead. The trailhead leads to the Hollywood Sign, which is only a short hike away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get to the Hollywood Sign?
It takes about 30 minutes to get to the Hollywood Sign from downtown Los Angeles, depending on traffic. The actual hike to the sign is about 20 minutes.
Can I drive to the Hollywood Sign?
No, it is not possible to drive directly to the Hollywood Sign. You can get close to the sign by taking one of the routes mentioned above, but you will need to park and hike the rest of the way.
Are there any restrooms near the Hollywood Sign?
No, there are no public restrooms or facilities near the Hollywood Sign. You should plan ahead and bring water, snacks, and other supplies.
Is there an admission fee to get to the Hollywood Sign?
No, there is no admission fee to get to the Hollywood Sign. However, parking may cost a fee depending on the location.
Is it safe to hike to the Hollywood Sign?
Yes, it is generally safe to hike to the Hollywood Sign, as long as you take proper precautions. Be sure to wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water, as the area is very hilly and can be hot in the summer months.
What time of day is the best time to visit the Hollywood Sign?
The best time to visit the Hollywood Sign is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun is not at its peak and the area is less crowded.
Are there any restaurants near the Hollywood Sign?
Yes, there are several restaurants near the Hollywood Sign. Some popular spots include Musso & Frank Grill, The Little Door, and Alfred Coffee & Kitchen.
Can I take photos of the Hollywood Sign?
Yes, you can take photos of the Hollywood Sign from the trails or from a distance. However, it is illegal to trespass on private property or climb the sign.
Are there any tours of the Hollywood Sign?
Yes, there are several companies that offer tours of the Hollywood Sign. These companies typically provide transportation from downtown Los Angeles to the sign, as well as a guided tour of the area.
Is it possible to camp near the Hollywood Sign?
No, it is not possible to camp near the Hollywood Sign. The area is surrounded by private property and camping is not allowed.
How long has the Hollywood Sign been around?
The Hollywood Sign has been around since 1923. It was originally built as an advertisement for a local real estate development.
How long did it take to build the Hollywood Sign?
It took approximately two months to build the Hollywood Sign. The sign was constructed by a crew of 23 workers and was completed in May 1923.
What is the height of the Hollywood Sign?
The Hollywood Sign is 45 feet tall and 350 feet wide.
How far is the Hollywood Sign from downtown Los Angeles?
The Hollywood Sign is approximately 13 miles from downtown Los Angeles.
Are there any nearby attractions to the Hollywood Sign?
Yes, there are several nearby attractions to the Hollywood Sign. These include the Hollywood Bowl, Universal Studios, and the Griffith Observatory.
What is the best way to get to the Hollywood Sign?
The best way to get to the Hollywood Sign is to take Beachwood Drive, Canyon Drive, or Mulholland Drive. All of these routes take you directly to the sign, where you can take a short hike to reach it.