Historic Hollywood Boulevard

The 50-foot Hollywood sign is visible from almost anywhere in Hollywood but for an up close view go to Griffith Park.

Originally built as a giant ad for real estate development the “Hollywoodland” sign was erected in 1923.

The signs history paralleled that of Hollywood itself when a young movie actress who jumped to her death from the top of the 4-story 'H' in 1932 linked the towns name to failed hopes as Hollywood became the land of broken dreams.

Although named an official historical monument (Los Angeles Cultural-Historical Monument #111) the sign suffered from neglect and vandalism.

It was eventually restored and now serves as a symbol of not only the physical place that is Hollywood, but also the entire film and entertainment industry including the movie stars that are celebrated throughout the city.

The Hollywood & Highland Entertainment Center on Hollywood Boulevard was designed and built to frame a view of the famous Hollywood sign.

Historic Hollywood Boulevard is the center of Hollywood and it is here that you can visit Grauman's Chinese Theatre where legendary Hollywood stars foot prints are immortalized in cement, the Kodak Theatre—current home of the Academy Awards—and many more entertainment era icons.