The Hollywood Sign Tours

The Hollywood Sign is not simply a sign but an enduring monument. It began life as a temporary advertisement for a housing development company in Hollywood Hills. Its exact date of construction is not known. The sign, originally reading "Hollywoodland" and illuminated with electric lights, was first mentioned in a news report in 1923. In 1944, the sign became a property of Los Angeles. 

There are various ways to view the famous sign across the city. Hiking up to it is a popular way to see it from close quarters. A relatively easy hike is via the 5 mi (8 km) out-and-back Hollyridge Trail that brings you to Mount Lee Summit. The Burbank Peak Trail is shorter but more challenging. You can skip the hike and catch a clear view of the Hollywood Sign from Ovation Hollywood or Griffith Observatory. The sign is visible during daylight hours only. As it is fenced in and protected by an alarm system, you can't get too close or touch it.