Los Angeles is a city synonymous with cinema. The sprawling metropolis has been the backdrop to countless iconic movies, from the classic golden age of Hollywood to contemporary blockbusters. I’ve had the pleasure of exploring the city through the lens of these cinematic masterpieces, visiting the exact locations where some of the most famous movie scenes were shot. I’ll share my personal experience as I toured classic movie shooting locations in Los Angeles, and recommend some must-visit spots for fellow movie lovers and photographers. Whether you’re a fan of noir films, rom-coms, or action-packed thrillers, LA offers a treasure trove of locations to discover.
1. The Hollywood Sign: A True Icon of Cinema
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without visiting the Hollywood Sign, the city’s most famous landmark and a symbol of the movie industry itself. Standing tall in the Hollywood Hills, this iconic sign has appeared in countless films, from The Day of the Locust (1975) to La La Land (2016).
Personal Experience:
When I first arrived at the base of the Hollywood Sign, I was struck by its commanding presence. Despite being surrounded by urban sprawl, the sign somehow still feels like a distant dream, a beacon calling out to the magic of the movies. There’s something truly surreal about standing there, knowing that you’re in the same place where so many cinematic moments were filmed.
Location Details:
- Address: 3000 Canyon Lake Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
- Access: The Hollywood Sign is located in Griffith Park, which offers several hiking trails that lead to different viewpoints of the sign. The most popular is the Mount Hollywood Trail, which provides a panoramic view of both the sign and the city below.
What to Expect:
- The hike is moderately challenging but well worth it. It took me about 45 minutes to reach the closest viewpoint. Along the way, I marveled at the beautiful desert-like flora and fauna of Griffith Park.
- At the top, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the entire city, and of course, the sign itself is just awe-inspiring in person. Be sure to bring your camera to capture both the sign and the panoramic skyline of LA.
Tips for Visiting:
- The hike can get crowded, especially in the late morning and early afternoon. I recommend starting early to avoid the rush and to enjoy the cooler temperatures.
- You can also visit the Griffith Observatory for a great distant view of the Hollywood Sign, which provides an excellent backdrop for photographs.
Getting There:
- I drove to Griffith Park, where I found parking easily at the Griffith Observatory parking lot. Alternatively, you can take the DASH Observatory bus from the Hollywood & Highland Center if you prefer public transport.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
- Pros: The view is unbeatable, and the hike is a great way to enjoy nature while learning about the history of Hollywood.
- Cons: The hike can be a bit strenuous for some, and parking can get tricky during peak hours.
2. The Bradbury Building: The Heart of Classic Noir Films
A few miles away from Griffith Park, nestled in downtown Los Angeles, stands the Bradbury Building. This historic building, with its stunning Victorian architecture, has been the setting for numerous film shoots, most notably the 1982 sci-fi classic Blade Runner, where it was used to depict the dystopian world of the future.
Personal Experience:
Walking into the Bradbury Building was like stepping back in time. The interior is absolutely breathtaking, with intricate ironwork, marble staircases, and a glass atrium that floods the space with light. As a Blade Runner fan, I couldn’t help but think about the iconic scenes that took place here, particularly the moment when Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) confronts Rachael (Sean Young) in the building’s elevator. It’s fascinating to think that such a historical building has been immortalized in a futuristic film.
Location Details:
- Address: 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
- Access: The Bradbury Building is open to the public during business hours, and it’s free to visit. However, you’ll need to be discreet when taking photos inside, as it’s a working office building.
What to Expect:
- As I entered the Bradbury Building, I was immediately taken aback by the beauty of the iron staircases and the ornate details that cover every inch of the building’s interior. The natural light coming through the glass skylights added to the ethereal ambiance of the space.
- While you can’t venture into the upper floors (which are reserved for office tenants), the first-floor lobby and open atrium are perfect for snapping photos of the building’s intricate details.
Tips for Visiting:
- Since the Bradbury Building is a working office, I recommend visiting during the day when the building is open to the public but be mindful of the office workers who use the space.
- Try to get there early, as the building can get crowded with tourists later in the day. It’s a popular spot for film buffs and photographers.
Getting There:
- The Bradbury Building is located in downtown LA, and I took a short Uber ride from my hotel to get there. If you prefer public transit, the nearest Metro station is the Pershing Square station, which is a 5-minute walk from the building.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
- Pros: It’s a must-see for movie buffs, especially fans of Blade Runner. The architecture is stunning, and it’s an opportunity to experience a piece of LA’s cinematic history firsthand.
- Cons: The building can get crowded, and it’s not the easiest location to photograph due to the office environment.
3. The Old Los Angeles Zoo: A Haunted Movie Set
For a different kind of movie location experience, I recommend visiting the Old Los Angeles Zoo, located in Griffith Park. Though the zoo closed its doors to the public in 1966, it’s still a popular spot for filmmakers looking to capture abandoned, eerie locations. It’s also featured in several classic films, including the 1960s series The Twilight Zone.
Personal Experience:
I stumbled upon the Old Los Angeles Zoo during a hike in Griffith Park, and it was truly a hidden gem. The abandoned cages, crumbling walls, and rusted signs create an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and slightly eerie. As I wandered through the remains of what once was a bustling zoo, I couldn’t help but think about the many film and television productions that had used this location for its hauntingly beautiful aesthetic.
Location Details:
- Address: Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA 90027
- Access: The Old Los Angeles Zoo is located inside Griffith Park, and it’s accessible by foot. There are no official tours, but you can explore the area on your own.
What to Expect:
- The site consists of several old animal enclosures that are now overtaken by nature. The decay of the once-thriving zoo creates a unique juxtaposition of urban decay and natural beauty. It’s an excellent location for atmospheric photography.
- There’s also a small picnic area, so I enjoyed sitting there for a while, taking in the eerie quiet of the place.
Tips for Visiting:
- This site is a bit off the beaten path, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as you’ll be walking a lot.
- Since the area is not a major tourist attraction, it’s relatively quiet, which makes it perfect for those seeking a more tranquil and reflective experience.
Getting There:
- I took the scenic walk through Griffith Park to get to the Old Los Angeles Zoo. The zoo is located near the main Griffith Park entrance, and it’s about a 15-minute walk from the parking lot.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
- Pros: It’s a unique, lesser-known spot for movie lovers. The atmosphere is perfect for photographers looking for something dark and gritty.
- Cons: It’s a bit isolated, and the location might not be easy to find without some prior research.
4. Must-Visit Movie Locations to Add to Your Itinerary
If you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots, I highly recommend visiting these four classic movie locations that showcase the diversity of LA’s cinematic history:
Santa Monica Pier (From Forrest Gump to The Sting):
- The Santa Monica Pier has been featured in a variety of films and is an iconic LA landmark. The pier offers beautiful ocean views, a historic carousel, and plenty of photo ops.
Union Station (From The Dark Knight Rises to The Terminator):
- Union Station’s grand, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture makes it a popular choice for filmmakers. It’s a beautiful location to photograph both the interior and the surrounding plaza.
The Los Angeles Public Library (From The Big Lebowski to Se7en):
- The library’s stunning architecture and grand staircase have been featured in numerous films. It’s a quiet, serene place to reflect on the city’s cinematic history.
Angels Flight Railway (From The 5th Wave to The Day of the Locust):
- Known as the “shortest railway in the world,” this funicular has been featured in films that focus on Los Angeles’ urban landscape.
LA’s Cinematic History Through the Lens
Exploring Los Angeles through its classic movie locations has been an unforgettable experience. Each location tells a different story, from the iconic Hollywood Sign to the eerie Old Los Angeles Zoo. Whether you’re a fan of historical architecture, sci-fi thrillers, or noir films, LA offers a fascinating range of cinematic sites to discover. If you’re planning a trip, I recommend taking the time to visit these filming locations—it’s a chance to connect with the city’s rich film heritage and see it in a whole new light.
Where to Book:
- You can book most of the locations and tours online, via sites like Viator or GetYourGuide, or even explore independently.
