Rodeo Drive - Beverly Hills
Rodeo Drive is a world-famous destination for luxury shopping in Beverly Hills, California. The three-block stretch from Wilshire Boulevard to Santa Monica Boulevard is home to some of the most prestigious fashion houses, including Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. These high-end retailers cater to an affluent clientele, offering the latest designer fashions, accessories, and exclusive products.Located at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard, the Beverly Wilshire Hotel is a historic landmark famous for its luxurious accommodations and appearance in the film Pretty Woman. Even if you're not staying at the hotel, it's worth a visit to admire the iconic building and its grand architecture.The Rodeo Drive Walk of Style is a sidewalk tribute similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring fashion icons and industry leaders who have made significant contributions to the fashion world. Each honoree receives a plaque embedded in the sidewalk, commemorating their achievements and recognizing their impact on the industry.One of the most notable stores on Rodeo Drive is the House of Bijan, known as "the most expensive store in the world." Look for the owner's bright yellow storefront is accompanied by a striking yellow Bugatti and Rolls-Royce, each with its own private parking spot on the street. The store offers luxury menswear, with men's suits starting at a staggering $10,000. A prominent sign on the towering door reads "By Appointment Only," ensuring exclusivity for customers. The store's opulent design and air of exclusivity make it a must-see, even for those who are just window shopping.Beverly Hills offers generous parking garages throughout the city, with many providing up to 2 hours of free parking for visitors exploring the area.If you're interested in exploring the renowned Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive, consider downloading the Grape Adventures Beverly Hills GPS Self-Guided Driving Tour. This captivating experience will provide you with a comprehensive way to discover the city's highlights and uncover its hidden gems. Designed as a GPS-powered self-guided tour, the audio commentary plays automatically as you approach each designated stop, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history and unique character of this iconic Los Angeles neighborhood at your own pace.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Hollywood Walk of Fame6801 Hollywood Boulevard, (Hollywood and Highland)Los Angeles, CANo trip to LA is complete without a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This iconic stretch along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street showcases over 2,700 terrazzo and brass stars, honoring luminaries from film, television, music, radio, and theater. As you stroll this star-studded sidewalk, keep an eye out for your favorite celebrities' names and enjoy the lively street atmosphere.Don't miss the world-famous TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman's), where you can compare your hands and feet to the imprints of Hollywood legends in the forecourt. The theater itself, with its ornate Chinese-inspired architecture, is a spectacle worth seeing.For convenient parking, use the large underground lot adjacent to the Loews Hollywood Hotel, located at Hollywood & Highland. This central location also offers easy access to other attractions like the Dolby Theatre (home of the Oscars) and the Hollywood Museum.Be aware that this area can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Street performers and costumed characters often line the boulevard. While most interactions are harmless, stay alert and be cautious of potential scams or aggressive solicitation.For a less crowded experience, consider visiting early in the day or on a weekday.To provide a truly comprehensive and immersive experience, consider joining the Grape Adventures Hollywood Boulevard GPS self-guided audio tour. Available for download from the App Store, this 3-hour walking tour features over 55 captivating stops along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and Hollywood Boulevard. With turn-by-turn navigation and a wealth of insightful commentary, this self-guided experience allows you to discover the rich history and cultural significance of this legendary Los Angeles neighborhood at your own pace.
Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
The Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park2800 East Observatory RoadLos Angeles, CaliforniaOpen Tuesday - SundayAdmission: FreeIf you're in Los Angeles, catching a panoramic view of the city is a must—and there's no better place to do that than the Griffith Observatory. Perched high above the city, it offers breathtaking views of LA, the iconic Hollywood Sign, and on clear days, the Pacific Ocean. The observatory itself is an Art Deco gem, where you can explore exhibits or stargaze through telescopes. Griffith Park, which surrounds the observatory, is perfect for hiking, picnicking, or just soaking up some California sun.This iconic Art Deco landmark opened in 1935, seamlessly blends science, history, and stunning vistas.Inside, visitors can explore fascinating exhibits, gaze through telescopes, and enjoy immersive shows at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium.The observatory's timeless allure has made it a favorite filming location for Hollywood. It played a starring role in the romantic musical "La La Land," hosted action-packed scenes in "The Terminator," and famously appeared in the classic "Rebel Without a Cause." Other notable appearances include "The Rocketeer," "Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle," and various TV shows.Surrounding the observatory, Griffith Park sprawls over 4,300 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in North America. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the network of trails that crisscross this urban wilderness. As you climb, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Los Angeles, from downtown to the Pacific Ocean.Griffith Observatory stands as a testament to one man's vision of making astronomy accessible to all.Colonel Griffith J. Griffith, a Welsh immigrant who made his fortune in mining and real estate, became a pivotal figure in Los Angeles history. Despite his controversial personal life, his legacy is defined by his visionary philanthropy.In 1896, Griffith donated over 3,000 acres to Los Angeles for a public park, envisioning a space where all people could connect with nature. Passionate about astronomy, he believed exposure to nature and the cosmos could elevate the human spirit.In 1912, Griffith offered $100,000 to build an observatory, which the city declined. Undeterred, he bequeathed $750,000 upon his death in 1919 for an observatory and Greek amphitheater. The Griffith Observatory finally opened in 1935, free to the public as he had stipulated.The historic Greek Theatre is located in the park and stands as one of the nation’s most recognized outdoor entertainment venues. The Greek has played host to some of the biggest legends in music – from Elton John to Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen to Carlos Santana and many more in between.As the day winds down, make your way back to the observatory. There's no better place in Los Angeles to watch the sunset. As the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and pinks, the city below begins to twinkle with millions of lights. It's a magical moment that captures the essence of Los Angeles - a city where nature and urban life, science and art, past and future all converge.The Observatory is open Tuesday through Sunday and Admission is Free. Parking can be difficult.There is limited public parking at the observatory with, parallel parking on West Observatory Road, and parallel parking on Westen Canyon.
The Getty Center
Art lovers, this one's for you! The Getty Center is a stunning art museum set atop a hill with sweeping views of Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean. Even if you’re not an art aficionado, the Getty’s architecture and gardens are worth the visit. The museum's collection ranges from European paintings to modern sculptures, making it a cultural oasis in the heart of LA.The Getty Center, which opened in 1997, is an architectural masterpiece designed by Richard Meier. Meier, an acclaimed American architect and abstract artist, is renowned for his geometric designs that prominently feature the color white. His distinctive style is beautifully showcased in the Center's striking modernist complex.Perched atop the Santa Monica Mountains, it offers breathtaking views of Los Angeles. The complex features a striking modernist design with curvilinear elements, clad in 1.2 million square feet of Italian travertine. This creates a stunning interplay of light and form that complements its hilltop setting. The Center's cutting-edge technology includes computer-controlled window shades and a sophisticated air filtration system to protect the artwork.The Center houses an extraordinary collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century, including works by masters like Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt. It also features impressive gardens, including the Central Garden designed by artist Robert Irwin, which blend nature and artistry.There is a second Getty Museum called The Getty Villa, located in Pacific Palisades, and is dedicated to ancient Mediterranean art and culture. It is modeled after the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum and houses an extensive collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities dating from 6,500 BC to 400 AD. The Villa's architecture, with its peristyle gardens and Roman-inspired fountains, transports visitors to the ancient world.Behind these institutions lies the complex legacy of J. Paul Getty, an oil tycoon born in Minneapolis in 1892. Getty built his fortune in the oil industry, becoming known as "the richest man in America" by the 1960s. Despite his reputation for frugality, he was an avid art collector, amassing a significant personal collection that formed the core of the museum's holdings.Getty's decision to bequeath the bulk of his estate to the Getty Trust upon his death in 1976 set the stage for an unprecedented commitment to the arts. The Getty Trust, with its substantial endowment (currently valued at over $7 billion), has become a driving force in art conservation, research, and education worldwide.The Getty Museum's impact extends beyond its walls. It supports artists and scholars through various initiatives, including grants and fellowships. The Getty Research Institute serves as a hub for art historical research, while the Getty Conservation Institute works to preserve cultural heritage globally.Admission to both the Getty Center and the Getty Villa is free, but visitors must reserve timed-entry tickets in advance. Parking costs $25 per vehicle. At the Getty Center, guests board a tram for a scenic ride up the hill to reach the main complex.
11 Favorite Los Angeles County Beaches
11 favorite beaches in Los Angeles County:Los Angeles County offers a stunning 75-mile coastline dotted with diverse and beautiful beaches. Here is a list of some of our favorite 11 beaches in no particular order:Among the favorites is El Matador State Beach in Malibu, a picturesque hidden gem known for its dramatic rock formations and sea caves. This secluded spot, accessible via a steep path, is particularly popular with photographers and couples seeking a romantic setting. This beach was the backdrop for iconic films like The Notebook, and Mamma Mia.Santa Monica Beach is a quintessential Southern California destination. Anchored by the iconic Santa Monica Pier, and offers an array of activities and attractions. The pier features a classic amusement park, as well as the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. The wide beach provides the ideal spot for sun-soaking, beach sports, and exploring the lively Ocean Front Walk promenade, ideal for cycling, rollerblading, and people-watching. There are ample parking options near the Pier and on 2nd street.Nearby, Venice Beach offers a more eclectic experience, embodying a wonderfully unique and bohemian spirit. Venice Beach is known for its unique and eccentric character, which makes it one of the quirkiest and most unusual destinations in Southern California. Stroll along the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk and watch the street performers. Discover the iconic Muscle Beach and explore the Venice Canals with its bridges and tranquil waterways. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant street scene or the hidden speakeasies, the wonderfully weird and bohemian spirit of Venice Beach is sure to leave an impression.For surf enthusiasts, Malibu Surfrider Beach is a must-visit destination. Renowned for its long right-hand break, it's considered one of the best surfing spots in LA. The adjacent Malibu Pier provides excellent fishing opportunities and panoramic ocean views. Surfrider Beach is considered one of the most famous surf spots in the world. It gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s and has been immortalized in countless surf films and documentaries. The beach is known for its three distinct surf breaks, each offering different wave conditions, making it ideal for surfers of varying skill levels. In 2010, Malibu was designated as the first World Surfing Reserve, with Surfrider Beach at its heart.Further up the coast, Zuma Beach in Malibu attracts families and surfers alike with its wide, clean stretch of sand and consistently good waves.Manhattan Beach combines laid-back charm with an upscale atmosphere. Its picturesque pier houses a small aquarium, and the Strand pathway is ideal for biking, skating and jogging. The beach town also boasts a lively downtown area.For those seeking a unique evening experience, Dockweiler State Beach near LAX offers designated fire pits for bonfires, a rarity among LA beaches.Hermosa Beach is another vibrant spot, featuring excellent surf, a lively pier, and Pier Plaza, which comes alive with dining, bars, and live music.Malibu’s Point Dune is surrounded by headlands, cliffs, rocky coves, and over one mile of ocean frontage. A stairway from the east side of the bluff top gives access to a more isolated beach with fine tide-pooling opportunities. Point Dume, just like Zuma, is also a great place to watch gray whales during their December-March migration. It is also where Tony Stark's Ironman house was digitally built on the cliffs.Leo Carrillo State Beach in Malibu nicknamed the "movie beach," is a filmmaker's paradise known for its captivating natural features—caves, tide pools, and reefs. This coastal gem has served as a backdrop for numerous iconic films and TV shows, starring legends like Elvis Presley, Jerry Lewis, and Nancy Sinatra. From the nostalgic Gidget to the adventurous Journey to the Center of the Earth. It's featured in classics like Beach Blanket Bingo, The Rockford Files, cultural touchstones such as Grease and The Karate Kid, and modern hits including 50 First Dates and Cast Away.Rounding out the list is Redondo Beach, a family-friendly destination with a wide sandy beach and a charming pier known for its seafood restaurants, arcade, and fishing opportunities.Discover the best of Santa Monica and Venice Beach with the Grape Adventures GPS self-guided audio tour. This captivating experience features over 50 stops in Santa Monica, allowing you to explore the city's iconic landmarks and hidden gems at your own pace. Venture over to the eclectic Venice Beach, where the Grape Adventures tour guides you through over 35 stops, Listed to quirky stories and the history of this unique bohemian town. The Santa Monica and Venice Beach audio tours provide a fun narrated and enjoyable way to explore these beloved California coastal neighborhoods with turn-by-turn navigation at your own pace.
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier and Beach200 Santa Monica Pier (Ocean Ave. and Colorado Ave.)Santa Monica, CA 90401The Santa Monica Pier stands as a symbol of Southern California's beach culture, offering visitors a perfect blend of nostalgia, entertainment, and stunning coastal views.In the early 20th century, it was a popular spot for dancing, music, and other forms of entertainment. In the 1920s and 30s, it was a hotspot for Hollywood celebrities looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Tinseltown.In 1934 a granite breakwater was constructed and a fishing and yacht Harbor was created. Charlie Chaplin purchased the first yacht mooring. The neon sign was built in 1940 and still stands at the entrance to the Pier even though the harbor no longer exists..As you walk down the Santa Monica Pier, you'll be greeted with stunning ocean views and a bustling atmosphere. The first thing you'll notice is the iconic Ferris wheel in the far end of the pier called the Pacific Wheel, standing at 130 feet tall, and adorned with 174,000 energy-efficient LED lights. The Ferris wheel is not only a sight to behold but also the world's first and only solar-powered Ferris wheel.Numerous waterfront restaurants offer s variety of dining options.There's even a trapeze school where you can join in or just watch the acrobatic displays. Thrill-seekers can enjoy Pacific Park's rides, including the famous West Coaster and a vintage roller coaster. The park also features carnival games, food stands, and tasty treats to satisfy all appetites.Along the pier, you'll find street performers entertaining the crowd with their talents.If you're a fan of movies, you might recognize the Santa Monica Pier from films like Forrest Gump’,Titanic, Beverly Hills 90210 and Iron Man. It has been a popular location for many movies and TV shows over the years, showcasing its unique charm on the big screen.The pier also holds historical significance. It was initially built as a means for the city to dispose of treated sewage into the ocean, but it quickly became a recreational spot.In 1916, a casino was added to the pier, featuring a ballroom, roller coaster, and a carousel. The casino became a hotspot for jazz performers in the 1930s and 1940s, hosting legendary names like Benny Goodman and Glenn Miller.Did you know that the cartoon character Popeye was actually modeled after a local fisherman named Ofaf C. Olsen? Olsen owned a fishing fleet moored at the Santa Monica Pier, and his likeness became the inspiration for the iconic Popeye.Discover Santa Monica like never before with Grape Adventures' Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour! Download our app and embark on an immersive 3-hour journey featuring over 50 captivating stops. Let our expert narration guide you through Santa Monica's iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local hotspots at your own pace. With turn-by-turn directions and fascinating stories, you'll uncover the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, our app transforms your smartphone into a personal tour guide, ensuring you don't miss a thing. Available now on the App Store – start your Santa Monica adventure today!
Venice Beach
Venice Beach embodies the bohemian soul of Los Angeles. The heart of Venice is its famous Ocean Front Walk, commonly known as the Venice Boardwalk. This bustling mile-long stretch along the beach is a people-watcher's paradise, teeming with street performers, artists, and vendors. Here, you'll encounter musicians strumming guitars, jugglers tossing flaming torches, and magicians performing mind-bending tricks. Artists display their paintings, sculptures, and crafts, while vendors sell everything from quirky souvenirs to handmade jewelry.As you stroll along the boardwalk, you'll come across the iconic Muscle Beach made famous by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Nearby, the Venice Skate Park attracts skilled skateboarders who perform impressive tricks with the Pacific Ocean as a stunning backdrop.A short walk from the beach leads you to the tranquil Venice Canals. These picturesque man-made waterways, dating back to 1905, offer a peaceful contrast to the lively boardwalk. Pedestrian walkways and arched bridges allow you to explore this charming area, admiring the unique houses that line the canals.For those seeking a more upscale experience, Abbot Kinney Boulevard is just a stone's throw away. This trendy street is a haven for shoppers and foodies alike. The boulevard is also home to some of the city's most exciting restaurants, ranging from gourmet food trucks to high-end dining establishments.The beach itself is a draw for sunbathers, surfers, and volleyball players. You can rent bikes or roller skates to cruise along the beachfront path, or simply relax on the wide, sandy shore. The Venice Pier extends into the Pacific, providing panoramic views of the coastline and serving as a popular spot for fishing or watching the sunset.Venice Beach offers a unique blend of beach culture, artistic expression, and laid-back California lifestyle. It's a place where the eccentric and the ordinary coexist, creating an atmosphere that's both entertaining and relaxing.Explore the wonderfully weird Venice Beach with Grape Adventures' Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour! Download our app and immerse yourself in a vibrant 3-hour journey featuring over 35 fascinating stops. Let our expert narration guide you through Venice's iconic boardwalk, Muscle Beach, colorful murals, and hidden canals at your own pace. Our turn-by-turn directions and engaging stories reveal the neighborhood's bohemian spirit, artistic heritage, and quirky attractions. Perfect for both visitors and locals, our app transforms your smartphone into a knowledgeable local guide, ensuring you experience the true essence of Venice Beach. From street performers to skate parks, discover it all with just a tap. Available now on the App Store – start your Venice Beach adventure today and see why it's a must-visit Los Angeles destination!
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)5905 Wilshire BlvdLos Angeles, CA 90036LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States, with a collection of more than 150,000 works of art that span 6,000 years of artistic expression across the globe.LACMA’s new building designed by Renzo Piano will complete a revitalized corridor of cultural institutions along Wilshire Boulevard that make up L.A.’s museum mile, including the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, the Craft and Folk Art Museum, the Petersen Automotive Museum, and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.As you approach the museum you may recognize the Urban Light exhibit created by artist Chris Burden. This mesmerizing outdoor sculpture consists of 202 restored cast iron street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s, arranged in a grid-like pattern. At night, the illuminated Urban Light creates a magical, almost dreamlike atmosphere that has become a symbol of the city and a popular spot for photography and gatherings. The Urban Lights were featured in the film La La Land.The museum's campus is a blend of eclectic architectural styles, reflecting its growth and evolution over the years. The original William Pereira-designed buildings from the 1960s stand alongside more modern structures, creating an intriguing juxtaposition of forms and materials.Inside, LACMA houses an extensive and diverse collection of art from around the world. Visitors can explore everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. The museum's galleries showcase paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations from various periods and movements, including European, American, Latin American, Asian, and Islamic art. Notable works by artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Diego Rivera share space with ancient Egyptian antiquities and modern multimedia installations.The museum's outdoor spaces are equally captivating, with sculptures and installations scattered throughout the grounds. The expansive Hancock Park, which surrounds part of the museum, even features the famous La Brea Tar Pits, adding a unique prehistoric element to the cultural experience.LACMA's blend of art, architecture, and urban design makes it not just a museum, but a vibrant cultural hub that reflects the diverse and dynamic spirit of Los Angeles itself.
Movie Studios
Warner Bros. Studio Tour: A Deep Dive into Hollywood History3400 W. Riverside Dr., BurbankHours: 8:30 - 3:30If you're planning a trip to Los Angeles, taking a movie studio tour should be high on your list of must-do activities. These tours offer a unique opportunity to peek behind the curtain of Hollywood magic and experience firsthand the places where your favorite films and TV shows come to life. For film enthusiasts, history buffs, and pop culture fans alike, studio tours provide an unparalleled glimpse into the world of entertainment that has captivated audiences for generations.Los Angeles is home to several major studios, each offering its own distinct tour experience. Here are the highlights of each.Located in Burbank, the Warner Brothers Studio Tour offers a comprehensive look at both classic and contemporary filmmaking. Visitors explore backlots, soundstages, and exhibits featuring props and costumes. Highlights include the DC Universe exhibit, the Central Perk set from Friends, and interactive experiences like green screen technology demonstrations.While primarily an amusement park, Universal Studios Hollywood offers the Studio Tour, a tram ride through working backlots and iconic movie sets. Visitors experience special effects demonstrations and see famous locations like the Bates Motel from "Psycho" and Wisteria Lane from "Desperate Housewives."The longest operating studio in Hollywood, Paramount Pictures Studio Tour takes visitors through its historic lot. Guests can explore soundstages, the prop warehouse, and the New York Street backlot. The tour offers insights into both Paramount's storied past and its current productions.Located in Culver City on the former MGM lot, the Sony Pictures Studio Tour showcases where classics like "The Wizard of Oz" were filmed. Visitors can see working soundstages, explore the studios where popular game shows are taped, and learn about the lot's transition from MGM to Sony.While it's challenging to choose just one, we've decided to focus on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. This tour stands out for its blend of rich Hollywood history, contemporary filmmaking insights, and interactive experiences that cater to a wide range of visitors.The Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers visitors a unique glimpse into the heart of Hollywood, blending rich history with contemporary filmmaking. Founded in 1923 by brothers Harry, Albert, Sam, and Jack Warner, the studio has been a cornerstone of the entertainment industry for nearly a century. It played a pivotal role in the development of talking pictures, most notably with the 1927 release of The Jazz Singer, and has since produced countless classic films and television shows.Visitors embark on a journey through 110 acres of backlots, including the famous New York Street and Midwest Street sets that have served as the backdrop for numerous productions. Depending on current filming schedules, guests may even have the opportunity to visit active sound stages where popular TV shows are being filmed.There is an extensive exhibit showcasing props, costumes, and vehicles from Warner Bros. productions throughout history. The DC Universe exhibit is a must-see for superhero fans, featuring costumes and props from franchises like Batman, Wonder Woman, and Superman.Television buffs aren't left out either. The tour includes visiting the Central Perk set from the hit show "Friends," allowing visitors to step into the world of their favorite characters. Similarly, fans of The Big Bang Theory can sit in Sheldon's famous spot and immerse themselves in the show's atmosphere.The Warner Bros. Studio Tour goes beyond mere observation, offering interactive experiences that bring the magic of moviemaking to life. Visitors can ride in a Batmobile, experience green screen technology firsthand, and even try their hand at aspects of film production. The Storytelling Showcase delves into the art of narrative in film and television, exploring how stories are crafted from script to screen.One of the most comprehensive parts of the tour is Stage 48: Script to Screen. This interactive soundstage walks visitors through the entire production process, from the initial stages of screenwriting to post-production, providing a holistic understanding of how movies and TV shows are made.It's a living museum that preserves and shares the legacy of one of Hollywood's most influential studios, offering film enthusiasts and casual visitors a chance to step behind the curtain of movie magic.
Hollywood Sign - Where to View
The Hollywood Sign stands as an iconic symbol of the entertainment industry, inextricably linked with the history of Hollywood itself. It reflects both the glamor and heartache associated with the pursuit of stardom. While most visitors are familiar with this landmark, many are unaware of the best vantage points to view it. Below, we have compiled a list of the most exceptional locations to observe the Hollywood Sign.The Hollywood Sign dates back to 1923, when Hollywood was becoming the epicenter of the burgeoning film industry.Hollywood was becoming the epicenter of the burgeoning film industry. Real Estate developers purchased land in the hills, divided it into lots, and erected a massive wooden sign with flashing lights that read "Hollywoodland." The lights flashed in sequence at night—first Holly, then Wood, and finally Land—creating a dazzling spectacle.Initially intended to last only a year and a half, the Hollywoodland sign quickly became a cultural landmark as American cinema flourished during Hollywood's Golden Age. Over the decades, the sign fell into disrepair, with the "H" collapsing by the 1940s and several letters missing by the late 1970s, rendering it nearly illegible.Efforts to restore the sign began in the 1940s when the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce removed the "land" portion to represent the district rather than the housing development. Despite this, the sign continued to deteriorate. By the late 1970s, a complete overhaul was necessary.In 1978, a fundraising campaign led by celebrities like Hugh Hefner and Alice Cooper successfully raised the money for restoration. Each of the sign's nine letters was auctioned for $28,000, and the city established a trust to ensure the sign's protection for future generations.The Hollywood Sign has been targeted for pranks, most famously when it was altered to read "HOLLYWEED" to mark relaxed marijuana laws in California.The sign has witnessed its share of tragedy as well. In 1932, aspiring actress Peg Entwistle, despondent over her failing acting career and her failure to land the big role she hoped for, climbed to the top of the "H" and jumped to her death. Ironically and unknown to her, a letter had been mailed to her just before her death offering her the lead role in a play about a young woman who commits suicide.Did you know the Hollywood Sign has been destroyed by earthquakes, space aliens, killer robots, and sharknados? But,...Luckily only in the movies!There are several great hikes to the Hollywood Sign, though you can't get close to it due to fencing and security cameras. Despite this, the hike offers an up-close view of the iconic landmark and stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles and Burbank. I've listed five trailheads and the best places to view the sign at the end of the text on the app where you can start your hike up to the Hollywood Sign.
