Best Place to See the Hollywood Sign: 14 Viewpoints, Trails & Photo Spots You Can’t Miss

The Hollywood Sign isn’t just a landmark; it’s practically a rite of passage for anyone stepping foot in Los Angeles. You’ve probably already pictured yourself striking a pose with it in the background, but figuring out the best place to see Hollywood sign is trickier than it sounds.

Sure, you know it was erected in 1923 as a flashy real estate ad, but over the years it’s become the ultimate symbol of LA dreams. The truth is, not all viewpoints are created equal, and nothing kills the vibe faster than trekking somewhere only to realize the angle is… meh.

This guide maps out the best place to see the Hollywood sign whether you’re team lazy-photo-op or team hike-until-your-calves-scream. From family-friendly parks to rugged trails, follow along to discover spots that actually live up to the hype.

So grab your sneakers, charge your phone, and let’s get you to those angles that make the sign shine!

Where You Can Get the Shot Without Even Breaking a Sweat

Lake Hollywood Park

Bring a picnic blanket, let the kids (or your dog) run wild, and then turn around — boom, the Hollywood sign photo spot you’ve been waiting for is right at Lake Hollywood Park. This grassy stretch gives you one of the clearest, most front-facing views of the sign without hiking up a hill.

Street parking along Canyon Lake Drive is free, but it fills up faster than a Target cart during a holiday sale, so arrive early. It’s an easy, low-effort way to score that classic shot while still having room for snacks and sunshine.

Griffith Observatory

Plan a stop at the Griffith Observatory, and suddenly you’re not just sightseeing — you’re stepping into LA’s most iconic Hollywood sign picture spot. From the west side of the grounds, you’ll see the sign framed perfectly against the hills of Griffith Park, plus sweeping skyline views that make your camera work overtime.

Parking can be a headache, so either spring for metered spots or hop on the DASH shuttle from Vermont/Sunset station to skip the stress. And after the photo, you can wander through exhibits or just pretend you’re in a rom-com montage with the city twinkling below.

Ovation Hollywood

Add some retail therapy to your sightseeing and you’ll find Ovation Hollywood, where you can shop, snack, and still sneak in a solid angle to view the Hollywood sign. The observation decks and bridges perched above the shopping center deliver a surprisingly good line of sight, even if the sign looks smaller than expected.

It’s perfect if you’re already on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and don’t have time for a detour. Think of it as the grab-and-go version of sign spotting: convenient, quick, and paired with popcorn if you want it.

Runyon Canyon Park

Hike-lite lovers, rejoice! Runyon Canyon Park is one of the best places to see Hollywood sign without committing to a serious trek. The park is famous for its people-watching (yes, celebrity joggers are a thing), but the viewpoints sprinkled along the trails make it just as good for sign-watching.

The inclines aren’t brutal, and the wide paths mean you can meander with friends, pets, or iced coffee in hand. Come for the Hollywood Sign photos, stay for the chance to overhear a casting call conversation mid-trail.

Universal Overlook

If cardio isn’t on your itinerary, pull over at the Universal Overlook off Mulholland Drive and enjoy the Hollywood sign viewpoint by car. This scenic stop lets you hop out, snap your photo, and be back behind the wheel before your playlist even loops a song.

The angle here is clean and direct, giving you that classic “LA from the road trip” vibe without breaking a sweat. It’s the ideal quick stop for road-trippers, Uber drivers sneaking in a moment, or anyone who thinks hiking is just a four-letter word.

Trails that Make You Question Life Choices… Until the View

Brush Canyon Trail

You’ll wonder why you agreed to a six-mile hike, but halfway up, the payoff becomes clear: this is hands-down the Best Hollywood sign viewpoint. The trail leads you behind and above the letters, so you’re literally looking down on one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

Parking at the end of Canyon Drive is free, which feels like winning the LA lottery. Just bring water and sunscreen, because shade here is about as rare as a quiet day on the 405.

Mount Hollywood Trail

Don’t let the name intimidate you. The Mount Hollywood Trail is actually a friendly, steady climb with gorgeous views of the Hollywood Sign and all of Los Angeles sprawling beneath it. The 5.3-mile loop is well-maintained and doable for most fitness levels, even if your workout routine is more “Netflix remote curls.”

Starting right from the back corner of the Griffith Observatory parking lot, it’s easy to find and easy to love. By the time you reach the summit, you’ll feel like you’ve just unlocked a whole new appreciation for the city.

Wonder View Trailhead

This steep, rocky trail will have you bargaining with your legs, but the reward is being at one of the best places to see the Hollywood sign. Known for the Wisdom Tree at the top, it’s short but intense. Think quick burn, big bragging rights.

The views are sweeping and dramatic, with the sign framed perfectly against the city. If you’re into a “work hard, post harder” kind of hike, this one’s for you.

The Original Hollywood Sign Hike

Sweeping panoramas and behind-the-scenes stories are what make The Original Hollywood Sign Hike such a standout. On this 2.5-hour trek, a guide leads you closer to the Hollywood sign than any other tour, with stops for prime photo ops along the way.

The hike is family-friendly and easy to moderate, so you don’t need to be training for a marathon to enjoy it. By the time you’re looking down at LA from behind those giant white letters, you’ll understand why people call it the ultimate brag-worthy experience.

Deronda Drive

Head up Deronda Drive in Griffith Park and you’ll score an easy-access angle of the Hollywood sign that doesn’t require a half-day commitment. It’s more of a stroll than a strenuous hike, which makes it perfect if you want the photo without the blisters.

Locals often rave about how underrated this spot is, since it avoids the crowds of bigger trails. Bring your camera and a little patience; the lighting here is pure LA magic.

Hollywood Reservoir

Walk the flat, scenic path around the reservoir and you’ll discover some of the most peaceful views of the Hollywood sign anywhere in the city. The loop is wide, paved, and surrounded by water and greenery, making it a refreshing change from dusty canyon climbs.

Because it’s quieter, it’s a favorite for locals sneaking in a jog or leisurely walk. And yes, the photo ops here feel like a secret you almost don’t want to share.

Hollywood Sign Tours that Earn You Bragging Rights for Years

Horseback Riding with Sunset Ranch

Picture yourself riding through dusty trails while the Hollywood Sign peeks over the hills. That’s exactly what horseback riding with Sunset Ranch delivers! This guided horseback ride takes you through Griffith Park, where you’ll get unforgettable views of the sign paired with those “only in LA” vibes.

Daytime rides give you golden-hour glow, while evening rides end with dinner under the stars. If you’re after a story that sounds cooler than “I drove past it,” this is the move.

Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour

Gliding through Mulholland Drive and the winding streets of Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour is a front-row seat to the glitz of the Hollywood Hills. Riding in an open-air bus, you’ll pass celebrity mansions, famous filming spots, and yes, the Hollywood Sign in the distance.

The live narration adds juicy backstories that feel like you’ve got your own insider Hollywood gossip session. It’s equal parts sightseeing and “I can’t believe I’m here” moments.

Big Bus Tours Los Angeles

Flexible and laid-back, Big Bus Tours Los Angeles is the hop-on, hop-off adventure that checks the Hollywood Sign off your list without rushing. The open-top buses cruise by major LA landmarks, giving you clear views of the Hollywood sign alongside Rodeo Drive, the Sunset Strip, and even Santa Monica.

You can choose your own pace, whether to stay on for the full loop or hop off to explore before catching the next bus. It’s sightseeing without the stress, perfect for anyone who wants the city highlights in one smooth ride.

So, Which Spot Will Earn a Spot on Your Camera Roll First?

By now, you know that every angle has its own charm, but the best place to see Hollywood sign depends on whether you’re a hiker, a driver, or someone who just wants a quick photo before brunch. Each stop offers its own story, from sweeping canyon views to cityscapes that scream “LA forever.”

When you’re ready to start planning your Los Angeles trip, you can bundle with vacation packages through Tripster that make the whole process a breeze. It’s the easiest way to lock in Los Angeles attractions, shows, and hotels without wasting hours comparing tabs.

So whether your dream is standing behind the letters, cruising Mulholland, or simply sipping coffee with the sign in view, there’s no wrong way to do it. Get ready to discover the best place to see the Hollywood sign and make your visit one for the books!

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