15 Best Restaurants Charleston SC Has to Offer to the Lowers of Southern Cuisine

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Stroll between King Street and East Bay Street in downtown Charleston and you will encounter extraordinary restaurants that will tickle your tastebuds with excellent southern cuisine. Alternatively, you can head to the islands for a more chill dining vibe. Select from hip breakfast stops, raucous rooftop bars, neighborhood pubs, and fine dining restaurants. Below, are the best restaurants in Charleston.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

15 Best Restaurants Charleston SC Has to Offer

Fried Chicken, Fried Green Tomatoes, And Grits

Fried chicken, fried green tomatoes, and grits should be on your personal menu at least once during your stay. These ubiquitous southern classics will have you grinning with pleasure. These soul food classics are served slightly different — just the way mamma made it or the updated cheffy version — but all bursting with delicious state-wide pride and flavor.

Sea scallops at Circa 1886 in Charleston, South Carolina. — Sea scallops at Circa 1886 (Photo Credit: Sandi Barrett)

1. Circa 1886

The award-winning, fine-dining restaurant, Circa 1886, is the best spot for a luxurious dinner and is easily one of the best restaurants in Charleston. Part of the historic Wentworth Mansion, Circa 1886 serves beautiful and elevated southern food. The chef-driven menu tells a lovely food story taking diners on a focused journey across the state’s foodie landscape and also has a rotating seasonal menu.

Circa 1886’s foie gras appetizer is served with cassava pudding, strawberry jam, and hazelnuts; it simply melts in your mouth. The inspired paring of perfectly-grilled sea scallops resting atop blue corn grits plays against the silky carrot sauce and vanilla bean vinaigrette.

Circa 1886 is perfect for a special occasion celebration. It is also just the spot to enjoy a celebration of exceptional cuisine in one of the best Charleston restaurants.

Pro Tip: Add the well-researched wine pairing option to elevate your dining experience.

2. The Rooftop

Hip and funky, with a gorgeous view of Charleston, the Rooftop bar at the Vendue is a great spot for meeting friends and enjoying your favorite libation.

Try the Red Moon Margarita to kick start your night. Jalapeno-infused tequila joins forces with Cointreau, blood orange, lime, and sparkling wine for a “let’s get this party started” moment.

Pro Tip: The line at street level waiting for a lift on the small elevator can be long. It moves fairly quickly as guests come and go from the Rooftop.

Soft shell crab at Peninsula Grill in Charleston, South Carolina. — Soft shell crab at Peninsula Grill (Photo Credit: KWhite / Explore Charleston)

3. Peninsula Grill

Fine dining at Peninsula Grill offers guests a beautiful setting, fabulous menu, and an extensive wine-by-the-glass menu. It’s the best recipe for a perfect night on the town with friends and family.

Start your evening with a bowl of their silky She Crab Soup followed by one of their renowned steak options. Rib eye, New York strip, porterhouse, and tomahawk — they have all the full-flavor beef cuts. Prepped to perfection, you will love their beef-centric dishes. Be sure to save room for a slice of their famous Ultimate Coconut Cake.

Pro Tip: You can order the Ultimate Coconut Cake and have it shipped across the country.

4. The Crab Shack

Fun and beachy, the Crab Shack on Folly’s Beach is just what you are looking for after a day in the sunshine. All seafood, including She Crab Soup, — all the time (except for the burger option) — completes your coastal Carolina day of fun.

Tuck into the house-made Carolina crab cakes; everyone who bites into one immediately turns into a southerner. Wash it down with their Charleston Rum Runner where Captain Morgan, Cruzan Coconut, and Myers dark rum meld with a touch of fruit juice just to keep it “healthy!”

Pro Tip: No reservations are accepted at the Crab Shack. It is a first-come, first-serve restaurant.

Beet salad at Jasmine Porch in Charleston, South Carolina. — Beet salad at Jasmine Porch (Photo Credit: Sandi Barrett)

5. Jasmine Porch

When you find yourself exploring coastal Charleston, Kiawah Island is a beautiful spot for lunch and a walk along the beach. Jasmine Porch is anchored in the Sanctuary, a luxurious oceanfront resort. Soaring ceilings, rich wood paneling, and garden views create a casual elegance reminiscent of an earlier time.

The way they fry their green tomatoes with benne seeds, creamed corn, and chow-chow take this classic dish into the 21st century. For a heartier fair, order the grilled cheese and heirloom tomato soup duo. The hefty sandwich is all about the American and Muenster cheese — there is a lot of cheese on this luncheon plate.

Pro Tip: You need a pass to drive past the guard shack to the Sanctuary. It is located on a private section of the island. Simply let the guard know you are heading to Jasmine Porch for lunch and you will be on your way to an elegant midday repast.

https://www.travelawaits.com/affiliate/best-charleston-vacation-rentals-near-the-beach/

6. High Cotton

If you find yourself strolling along East Bay Street and hunger pangs strike, pop into High Cotton and see if you can grab a table. Reservations are often required, but it is always a good idea to ask for an open table.

Start with the roasted beet salad dressed with creamy burrata, Fresno chilis, horseradish, pistachios, and pomegranate molasses for an upgraded remake on this classic starter. Beautiful steaks and seafood are the star entrées. Their updated take on shrimp & grits includes tasso ham, tomatoes, okra, fennels, and saffron gravy.

Pro Tip: High Cotton has happy hour between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Order a shrimp roll & bubbles combo for some fancy day drinking and a nosh.

7. Magnolias

Magnolias is a pretty downtown restaurant offering delectable southern dishes and exemplary service. Old world style and sophisticated elegance meld seamlessly at Magnolias.

The cauliflower and cheese side is a must-have. The cheese sauce is rich and creamy while the cauliflower adds a fresh bite and light feel to the dish. The braised beef short ribs with collards is a delicious and satisfying option that will fuel you up for a walk to Rainbow Row.

A quote from a diner, David Vance: “Pulled pork mustard BBQ is the truth. I’d take a picture, but it’s gone. Get it.”

Other tasty spreads include fried chicken, low country seafood, muscles, pork chops, blue crab bisque, and duck.

Pro Tip: Make your dinner reservations before you leave for your getaway. Magnolias’ tables are scooped up quickly. Alternatively, you can enjoy an early dinner or late lunch with easier-to-secure reservations. Dinner service begins at 4 p.m.

Yogurt bowl at Millers All Day in Charleston, South Carolina. — Yogurt bowl at Millers All Day (Photo Credit: Sandi Barrett)

8. Millers All Day

When you want breakfast in the morning, or anytime during the day, Millers All Day has got you covered.

If you desire simply delicious yogurt, granola, and fruit for a healthful start to your busy day, the Millers bowl full will get you off and running. Alternatively, order the classic southern biscuits & gravy, “Millers’ Version” with two eggs, sausage gravy, bacon jam, and pickled okra — add some extra chicken if you like — will leave you happy and satisfied.

Pro Tip: Millers All Day is extremely popular. There can be a line waiting when they open the door at 8 a.m. Plan to arrive early if you are hungry to get a good seat.

9. Bowens Island

Located in the Folly Beach area, Bowens Island Restaurant cooks up amazing local produce and ingredients offering a lowcountry cuisine extravaganza.

Their popular frogmore stew is a play on a lowcountry boil filled with shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes. Order several seafood platters like the shrimp platter and the Fried Oyster Platter then share with your bestie. Or if you prefer your seafood raw they have an extensive oyster bar.

Pro Tip: Bowens Island is super casual, their focus is on delivering amazing fresh seafood for your dining enjoyment.

Food from Fig, a restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina. — KWhite / Explore Charleston

10. FIG

The most coveted reservation in Charleston is a dinner date at FIG. The ever-changing menu is a cornucopia of finely-crafted cuisine.

The Salad Lyonnaise, a dish of poached egg, duck confit, and sourdough, will satisfy the most discerning diner. The grilled grey triggerfish served with burgundy sweet potato, brussels sprouts, and Siberian kale farrotto is a plated masterpiece.

One of the diners, Nicolas L. said: “The Chicken Liver Pate came out first. Wow! This dish was amazing! The pate was creamy and lightly salty and paired with spicy Dijon mustard, tangy pickles, and crisp brioche bread. It was the perfect combination of flavors and textures.”

Pro Tip: Securing a reservation at FIG requires pre-planning. They accept reservations in advance beginning at 12 p.m., 4 weeks out from your preferred date.

11. Leon’s Poultry And Oyster Shop

Add a “repurposed garage space gone casual dining with a chic uptown vibe” to your dining bucket list. Leon’s Poultry And Oyster Shop is the spot for authentic southern fried chicken. With options from a two-piece chicken dinner to their Big Chicken Platter with sides, Leon’s is perfect for solo dining or feeding the entire gang.

12. Zero Restaurant And Bar

The elegant and refined Zero Restaurant and Bar in the lux boutique Zero George hotel is custom-made for a romantic celebration dinner.

When you don’t know what to order, the chef-driven, multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings takes all the guesswork out of what to eat. The daily menu presents the chef’s take on highlighting the freshest local ingredients available.

Meal from Little Jack's, a restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina. — Peter Frank Edwards / Explore Charleston

13. Little Jack’s

Little Jack’s is an old-fashioned tavern right on upper King Street is perfect for soaking up the Charleston neighborhood restaurant vibe. Little Jack’s offers a southern hunt club feel that works with the menu offerings like their fish and chips with minted pea puree or their Double Tavern Burger.

14. Poe’s Tavern

Poe’s Tavern on Sullivan Island is a fun spot for burgers after a day playing on the beach. Burgers with fun Edgar Allen Poe namesakes like the Pit and the Pendulum with applewood bacon and cheddar cheese on top or the Amontillado piled high with guacamole, jalapeño jack cheese, pico de gallo, and a chipotle sour cream. Poe’s offers their burger options with a beef, chicken, or veggie pattie so everyone can enjoy their favorite burger protein.

Poe’s is one of those places that will become a ritual when visiting Charleston’s coastal waters.

Husk cheeseburger, Charleston, SC. — Husk cheeseburger (Photo Credit: Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau)

15. Husk

Charleston is home to many fabulous restaurants and Husk is definitely one of them. Offering a Queen Street location, the kitchen at Husk transforms classic southern dishes, elevating them past delicious food to modern culinary masterpieces.

The Deviled Pimento Cheese appetizer is happily dressed with a mouth-watering green tomato relish. While the menu changes frequently, the entrée options are nothing less than spectacular. The fried catfish served with Hoppin’ John, bacon, mustard greens, and topped with tomato gravy is a delicious upscale version of a down-home classic.

Husk is on the pricey side but most diners (including the celebrities that are often seen there) don’t mind.

Downtown Charleston And Beyond

The best restaurants in Charleston deliver a selection of delicious cuisine from elevated southern fare to time-honored classic dishes. Whether you stroll down King Street, East Bay Street, or out to the beaches, the best restaurants in Charleston are just a step away.

Having said that, don’t limit your visit to just dining as there are many other awesome things to do in Charleston.

Not all of your activities in Charleston are going to cost you money as there are numerous totally free things to do there. So, why waste the opportunity?

Pro Tip: Explore Charleston has the most up-to-date best restaurants, dining, and getaway planning information to plan your perfect Charleston visit in spring, summer, fall or winter.

For more getaways:

FAQs

What Food Is Charleston, South Carolina, Famous For?

Marrying the southern culture Charleston is known for with its eclectic seafood scene, shrimp and grits is Charleston’s most notable food. Taking charge of its Lowcountry cuisine, the town features this dish at several of its restaurants.

What Is The Best Street In Charleston For Restaurants?

A one-stop-shop for both dining and shopping, King Street is the most famous street in Charleston for restaurants. With choices like The Darling Oyster Bar and Charleston Grill, visitors will not go hungry while exploring the downtown area.

Which Restaurants in Charleston Should I Avoid?

You should avoid T-Bonz, Hyman’s Seafood, Bubba Gump Shrimp, Charleston Crab House, and Sticky Fingers. Most of these are not horrible, just not good enough to bother with when there are so many fantastic restaurants in Charleston. In Addition, Poogan’s Porch and 82 Queen are past their prime and living on reputation only.

Where Do Celebrities Hang Out in Charleston, SC?

Husk is one of the exclusive clubs and eateries in Charleston that are loved by celebrities. Famous people frequently dine at these places or show up at private events which are held there. In fact, Bill Murray calls Charleston his home and so do Darius Rucker, Stephen Colbert, and Shepard Fairey.

5 Lesser Known European Food Cities

More than ever, people are traveling to Europe year-round. Those looking for authentic culinary experiences can find themselves among a crush of hungry visitors in popular destinations no matter when they travel. As professional food travel journalists living in Portugal, we believe exploring lesser-known European food cities gives you all the flavor without the crowds. We’ve enjoyed traveling to some amazing places that provide enriching experiences where culture, cuisine, and community come together. Here we share a few of our favorite places to inspire you to explore more hidden gems with your own sense of culinary adventure.

1. Toulouse, France

Known as La Ville Rose — or “The Pink City” for the color of terracotta bricks used in many buildings — Toulouse is a gastronomic paradise in southwestern France. Enjoy classic dishes like braised Toulouse sausage at the Brasserie de Beaux Arts, just as the artist Matisse once did. The vast Victor Hugo Market bursts with local produce and regional foods from cheese and chocolate to sausages and baguettes. Specialties of Toulouse include the renowned Cassoulet, baked chicken à la Toulousaine, and foie gras. Try the apricot tart la fénétra at the fourth-generation family-owned Pâtisserie Conté. A unique Toulousaine culinary specialty is the violet flower, which shows up in teas, macaroons, liqueurs, and candies, such as the crystallized petals invented by Candiflor, confectioners since 1818.

2. Stuttgart, Germany

Located on the “Sunny Side of Germany,” Stuttgart is a fun city for food lovers. Some central streets are pedestrian-only, great for discovering markets and restaurants on foot. Swabian dishes play a key role here, including our favorites käsepätzle (cheesy homemade noodles) and maultaschen (similar to meat-filled ravioli). For fine dining with a view, Cube offers modern cuisine in an architecturally unique setting. Between bites, there are medieval castles and a stunning city library to explore. The Porsche and Mercedes-Benz museums will please car enthusiasts too. Spring and summer are full of food, beer, and wine festivals, while the fall Cannstatter Volksfest and winter Stuttgart Christmas Market are some of the biggest festivals in Europe.

3. Viana Do Castelo, Portugal

We’re slightly biased about food in Portugal since we live there. One of our favorite lesser-known food cities is Viana do Castelo, way up north near the Spanish border. This picturesque jewel hugs the Atlantic at the mouth of the Lima River. The views are fantastic and so is the food. Fill the table with an enormous flaming tomahawk steak at Pecado Capital. Or get incredible prices for the freshest seafood at popular local hangout Casa Primavera. Line up with locals at 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. for freshly baked bolas de berlim (cream-filled donuts) at Pastelaria Confeitaria Manuel Natário. Then, walk off a few of the calories strolling the nearby shops or visiting the Gil Eannes hospital ship museum. Finish with a visit to the hilltop church Santa Luzia for an unforgettable view.

4. Cartmel, England

One of the most surprising lesser known European destinations we’ve explored is Cartmel, a tiny dot on the map of Cumbria in northwestern England. Here resides L’Enclume, a beautiful 16-room hideaway that is home to Chef Simon Rogan’s three-Michelin-star, farm-to-fork restaurant. Traditional pub fare and a touch of history can be found at local haunts like Kings Arms. For handcrafted cheeses and beers, Unsworth’s yard is a fun place with live music outdoors on summer weekends. The Cartmel Racecourse offers horse racing action in the warmer months. No visit would be complete without a stop at the Cartmel Village Shop for some famously delicious sticky toffee pudding. Cartmel is small in size but rich in many flavors to enjoy.

5. Bergamo, Italy

A visit to Bergamo, Italy, is like getting two trips in one. Città Alta, the walled upper town, is full of historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Roman ruins. Below, Città Bassa is buzzing with modern life. Cozy restaurants like La Dispensa di Arlecchino serve local specialties, like polenta with cheese, butter, and garlic, and casoncelli — called casonsei locally — which are fresh pastas stuffed with meats, cheeses, or vegetables. Many restaurants and bars offer aperitivo, drinks and snacks to whet your appetite. For a sweet treat anytime, visit La Marianna, birthplace of stracciatella — creamy vanilla gelato with dark chocolate shards. The Hotel Excelsior San Marco in Bassa is a quick walk away from the funicular that takes you up to Alta. Check out the Roof Garden restaurant for dining with a view.

The Secret Ingredient

One of the greatest thrills we get from our travels is finding new places and new tastes that expand our culinary horizons. These are a few of the many unique and memorable places we have gone that may not make it to the typical top 10 destination lists. We most enjoy getting to know the people in their natural surroundings, sharing recipes, stories, and local traditions. Connections and memories from exploring these lesser-known European food cities motivates us to discover more. We hope our discoveries ignite your curiosity — the secret ingredient of rewarding food travel.

My 7 Favorite Restaurants In Charming Concord, California

The cuisine in Concord has an exceptionally diverse vibe, welcoming and friendly, with more than 350 restaurants and 27 ethnic cuisine choices. Here are seven of my favorite Concord restaurants, not in any order.

Visit Concord sponsored my stay. All opinions are my own.

Baked oysters at Longport Fish Company
Photo credit: Janie Pace

1. Longport Fish Company

In the beautiful Veranda shopping center in Concord, Longport Fish Company proudly features the freshest seafood and appetizer plates, with craft cocktails, local beer, and hand-selected wine to complement your meal. Chef/Owner Nick Diarenzo creates globally inspired dishes, adding special attention and friendly service.

What To Order At Longport Fish Company

Baked oysters with garlic butter, parmesan, and breadcrumbs are yummy. You’ll want to place more than one order with your group to get at least one. The sweetness of the Calabrian chili honey butter with tasty thick slices of cornbread made me think of my grandmother’s cornbread that she baked in an iron skillet.

Splurge for the Yacht features 12 oysters, 12 shrimp, whole Maine lobster, truffle ahi poke, Bianca’s ceviche, and cool stuff from the kitchen, including yuzu aioli, kombu mignonette, kimchi cocktail sauce, lemon wedges, and Old Bay hot sauce.

Try the blackened shrimp tacos with mozzarella cotija, avocado, pico, pickled onions, and house-made corn tortillas.

Doppio Zero Southern Italian restaurant
Photo credit: Janie Pace

2. Doppio Zero

Doppio Zero is a southern Italian restaurant in a warm rustic ambiance at the sleek Veranda shopping center. The restaurant is famous for its Neapolitan pizza, homemade pasta, and traditional Italian dishes. I loved the warm and cozy family atmosphere.

The Doppio Zero name refers to the “double zero” flour used for the pizza crust and the ovens imported from Naples. The restaurant is certified Vero Pizza Napoletana (VPN), one of a few California pizzerias to hold this Neapolitan pizza approval.

What To Order From Doppio Zero

The chef recommended the Marechiaro — homemade squid ink tagliolini, jumbo scallops, clams, and roasted garlic in a light spicy tomato sauce. It was better than he described.

The homemade ravioli vegani is gluten-free, vegan ravioli filled with asparagus and topped with a garlic cherry tomato sauce and fresh basil.

Order the Salmone Alla Griglia — freshly grilled salmon in guazzetto sauce served with excellent black forbidden rice.

The Bistecca — 12-ounce grilled black Angus rib-eye steak with French fries and Italian green sauce — was tender and juicy.

The outstanding margherita pizza with San Marzano tomatoes, fior di latte mozzarella, parmigiano reggiano, and basil is the standard. You can add arugula, anchovies, prosciutto, or Italian salami for extra.

Figs and prosciutto pizza made with fior di latte mozzarella, 24-month prosciutto di Parma, light arugula, burrata cheese, and balsamic reduction is heavenly.

Explore its four locations: San Francisco, Mountain View, Concord, and San Carlos. A fifth location will open in Campbell in November 2023.

Tiramisu at Luna Ristorante
Photo credit: Janie Pace

3. Luna Ristorante

Luna Ristorante is a cozy place with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, serving superb, flavorful Italian dishes. The menu includes classics like lasagna, risotto, and tiramisu, all made with fresh ingredients. The homemade sauces make every bite memorable.

Luna Ristorante serves only the finest cuts of beef, chicken, and fresh fish, never frozen.

What To Order From Luna Ristorante

Start with the olive pesto dip — Mediterranean mixed olives with candied walnuts, pesto, honey, balsamic, cheese, and olive oil. Order the bread for dipping.

The gamberoni-sauteed tiger shrimp head-on with capers and olives in a spicy livornese sauce is fantastic. Share the stuffed mushrooms — mushrooms stuffed with crab meat and cream cheese — or you may want the plate for yourself; it’s so delicious.

Choose from six delightful salads for your greens, from Caesar, caprese, or spinach, with candied walnuts, apples, grapes, and feta cheese in a honey mustard dressing.

For the main course, try the traditional chicken marsala — tender pan-seared chicken in your choice of piccata or marsala sauce.

The hearty lamb shank is a tender braised shank with a wine demi glaze and roasted vegetables.

Save room for dessert like the limoncello, chocolate molten, or the traditional tiramisu.

Enjoy an extensive wine list of reds, whites, sparkling, and ports by the glass or bottle.

Tortilleria El Molino sign
Photo credit: Janie Pace

4. Tortilleria El Molino

Part of the annual Concord Taco Trail, family-owned Tortilleria El Molino serves authentic Mexican food, famous for the tortillas freshly made in house. This restaurant and catering company proudly makes homemade burritos, quesadillas, and tacos stuffed with seasoned meats like carne asada and carnitas.

It’s a busy place where workers stop in for a quick breakfast or lunch carry-out. They order pupusas, tortas, taquitos, tacos, burritos, and enchilada plates with sides of chips, salsa, rice, and beans.

What To Order At Tortilleria El Molino

Order a fish or shrimp taco, battered and lightly fried, topped with coleslaw, limes, and salsa. The pupusas are stuffed hand-made tortillas with chicharron, beans, and cheese, served with cured cabbage, carrots, and onions.

The most popular dish is the meat burrito, with your choice of meat, beans, rice, pico de gallo, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream. My second favorite dish is the soft taco, with your choice of meat, onions, cilantro, limes, and salsa on the side.

The whole chicken combo feeds a family with a rotisserie chicken, 16 ounces of rice and beans, 8 ounces of coleslaw, tortillas, and salsa.

Try the Torta Ahogada, a Mexican sandwich with beans and carnitas, topped with special tomato sauce, extra hot salsa, cured red onions, and limes. The combo includes a torta with two crispy tacos and a soft drink.

My beef fajita taco salad was delectable and made with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, Mexican cheese, and grilled beef fajita meat.

Take home a whole packet of tortillas with a 50-count of fresh corn tortillas. Save room for dessert: flan, caramel churros, or tres leches cake.

5. Fiore Restaurant

Fiore Restaurant serves authentic Italian fusion cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, delectable pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and curated cocktails. The cozy white tablecloth atmosphere and friendly staff make it a top choice.

Enjoy the front dining room with large windows or the romantic red room that reminds you of a night in Paris.

What To Order At Fiore Restaurant

Start with the classic caprese made with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, a decadent balsamic vinaigrette drizzle, and optional anchovies.

My favorite, Marchigiana Grancha, is magnificent, with prawns, crab meat, broccoli, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and crushed red pepper in a garlic olive oil sauce.

While famous for the best lasagna ever, the ravioli with truffle sauce is fabulous.

Order the classic veal scaloppini with a choice of piccata or marsala wine sauce for a truly Italian experience.

The lamb shank, braised with a demi glaze gorgonzola sauce over polenta, is hearty and flavorful while you enjoy a grand wine from the curated list.

6. Residual Sugar

Residual Sugar offers curated small plates, meat and cheese boards, and desserts focusing on local, organic ingredients to complement your choice of wine. Enjoy over 30 native and eclectic wines from Italy, Austria, Greece, Spain, and France.

What To Order At Residual Sugar

Choose a curated regional meat and cheese board from France, Italy, Spain, or America, or the Grand Platter with all four meats and cheeses to feed a group.

I loved the Juicy Lucy meatballs stuffed with cheese and topped with marinara, parmesan, and crostini. These paired well with the margherita flatbread topped with marinara, basil oil, and mozzarella.

Others enjoyed the loaded, crispy smashed potatoes topped with sour cream, cheese, and chives.

The warm Castelvetrano olives and rosemary marcona almonds were a treat for munching.

7. Concord Tap House

Enjoy tasty craft beer, wine, and favorite pub foods with 24 rotating local and Pacific Coast craft beer taps at Concord Tap House. Find something new or sip your local craft favorite.

What To Order At Concord Tap House

For brews, try the Narrative Spill the Beans, a sweet imperial coffee stout, or the Cellarmaker Double Mt. Nelson, a hazy DIPA with a big hoppy aroma and malt flavor.

Order pub food like Wings Your Way with seven sauces or dry-tossed with three seasonings. Try the chili cheese fries or the fried Brussels as well.

I enjoyed the cashew chicken wraps; you can’t miss any of the burgers, sandwiches, or wraps.

Mount Diablo in Concord, California
Photo credit: MichaelRLopez / Getty Images

About Concord, California

With an authentic hometown atmosphere, Concord has excellent outdoor adventures, culinary favorites, a vibrant art scene, and fabulous music. Concord’s downtown square, Todos Santos Plaza, is encompassed by many restaurants and local businesses.

Just 29 miles east of San Francisco, Concord is an uncrowded central location for travelers to the Bay Area — with the Napa Valley and Sonoma wine country to the north and Mount Diablo State Park to the east.

Four international airports surround Concord: Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose, and Sacramento. Buchanan Field Airport in Concord offers twice-daily flights to and from Bob Hope Airport in Burbank. All California Amtrak routes stop in Martinez, just north of Concord.

Concord is touted as the best place to raise a family in California, noting its friendly reputation, family-oriented community, historic downtown, and peaceful, spacious parks. The community has been a noted USA Tree City for 33 years and America’s happiest and smiliest city. The Livability website awarded Concord the Best Music Scene.

4 Amazing Wineries To Experience In Canada’s Only Desert

Canada’s only desert is situated in the South Okanagan Valley region of British Columbia at the tip of the Sonoran Desert. Canada’s warmest, driest location is semi-arid with remarkable growing conditions. The fertile soil — coupled with irrigation, mild winters, and hot summers — make growing grapes and other crops abundant.

This area near the towns of Osoyoos and Oliver has over 170 wineries, with Oliver known as “Canada’s Wine Capital.” While some orchards have become vineyards, you’ll still find a myriad of roadside fruit and vegetable stands. Some of these fruits, like cherries, also become wine.

I chose these wineries because they represent a wide range of winery styles and offerings. Some have inns, others restaurants, while some are upscale and others are family friendly. I’ve listed these four amazing wineries in alphabetical order.

Thank you to Destination Osoyoos for hosting my visit. All opinions are my own.

Burrowing Owl Winery landscape
Photo credit: George Rose / Getty Images

1. Burrowing Owl Estate Winery

Oliver, British Columbia

Burrowing Owl Estate Winery is devoted to crafting world-class wines in an environmentally sustainable manner. It was one of the first green wineries with an integrated pest management system. Founder Jim Wyse’s commitment to striving for balance infuses everything at Burrowing Owl. The winemaker maintains a natural balance in the vineyard by recruiting bluebirds and bats to help control harmful insects. At the wine-making facilities, they employ state-of-the-art technology and traditional methods, while in the Guest House and Sonora Room Restaurant, solar panels provide hot water. Ingredients are all sourced from local farms and suppliers.

A tasting at Burrowing Owl costs $5 for five wines, but I felt good about it since all proceeds go to helping the burrowing owls. The winery donated over $1.8 million to help these birds.

The Guest House offers 10 rooms, each featuring a fireplace. They also include a wine country breakfast with your stay. The Penthouse Suite can host a maximum of four guests — no pets or children under 16.

What To Order In The Sonora Room At Burrowing Owl Estate Winery

In addition to their Guest House, the winery has a full-service restaurant. Here’s what I recommend:

Starter: The fall pumpkin salad has frisée, endive, and arugula topped with roasted squash, walnut squash puree, pumpkin seed dressing, aged balsamic, and blue cheese. Pair it with Burrowing Owl Estate Winery pinot noir.
Entrée: Rack of lamb is a roasted parsley-crusted lamb rack served with fennel, beets, fingerling potatoes, and an olive-rosemary jus. Pair the meal with a Burrowing Owl Estate Winery syrah.
Dessert: Chocolate terrine offers a blueberry coulis with chocolate crumble topped with caramelized white chocolate and caramel ice cream.

Pro Tip: Anytime I participate in tours with alcohol, I use a designated driver. When I’m traveling alone, I sometimes hire a tour guide. Swiws Spirit Tours — a company owned by Patty Bower from the sukʷnaʔqin Okanagan Syilx Nation — offers a fun-filled day with an authentic local experience. In addition to wine tours, the company provides cultural tours.

Logo for Nk’Mip Cellars

Photo credit: Education Images / Getty Images

2. Nk’Mip Cellars

Osoyoos, British Columbia

As the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America, Nk’Mip Cellars expresses its culture in everything it does. The winery recognizes and celebrates the history and culture of the Osoyoos Indian Band with their four food chiefs: the bear, the fish, the root, and the berry. You can experience this at their adjoining restaurant of the same name through a food and wine pairing. You can discover the international award-winning wines they produce and the relentless spirit and remarkable history that inspire them. They were the 2016 Canadian winery of the year.

The Osoyoos Indian Band owns about 35,000 acres of land; about 1,700 of those acres produce grapes. They understand they are the stewards of the land. Their approach to sustainability was enlightening for me. They continue to provide and support the land through sustainability with a seven-generation philosophy. They make their decisions today based on how it will impact the seven generations from now.

What To Order At Nk’Mip Cellars

Here are some of my favorites from the Nk’Mip Cellars:

2022 Winemakers Pinot Blanc features hints of Granny Smith Apple and light floral notes and has a balanced, crisp finish.
2022 Mer’r’iym White Meritage has hints of fresh-cut grass, soft gooseberry, peaches, and tropical fruits.
2022 Dream Catcher offers white peach and fresh citrus notes stacked with juicy orchard fruit and honeydew melon.
2021 Q^wam Q^wmt Chardonnay features aromas of lemon grass, butterscotch, and pineapple, with a hint of spice on the palate.
2020 Q^wam Q^wmt Riesling Icewine offers flavors and aromas of apricot, peach blossom, ripe pineapple, and apple pie, leading to a fruity finish.

Pro Tip: The adjoining resort, Spirit Ridge, features a restaurant, accommodations, and a golf course. Located on site is also the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Center, a great way to spend several hours learning about the area. You can spend an entire day here.

Merlot vineyard at a winery located on the Black Sage Bench in the Okanagan Valley
Photo credit: laughingmango / Getty Images

3. Nostalgia Wines

Oliver, British Columbia

Open year-round on the Black Sage Bench, Gina Fernandes Harfman, a fourth-generation farmer in the South Okanagan, owns Nostalgia Wines. Harfman is the winemaker behind the terroir-focused, small-lot wines produced on the property.

Nostalgia Wines offers a range of wines from its Family Collection, Nostalgia Series, and Pin-Up Series: from dry to off-dry, medium to full-bodied reds to whites, rosés, sparkling wines, and even a fortified port-style dessert wine called “Cherry Baby.” They release wine in small quantities, from 24 to 675 cases.

What To Order At Nostalgia Wines

The mischievous Pin-Up Series showcases labels with 1960s-inspired artwork. I thought the Pin-Up Series was a fun group of wines. The labels are a cool retro painting by Ralph Busch. Being from Michigan, where we have an abundance of cherries, I was excited to try the Cherry Baby, and it didn’t disappoint. This wine features dates, dark chocolate, and a black cherry flavor. It is a beautiful dessert wine with dark chocolate, including a Black Forest cake.

Pro Tip: Enjoy a picnic! They stock their pantry and fridge with local cheese, charcuterie, crackers, pate, olives, and tapenade.

4. Phantom Creek Estates

Oliver, British Columbia

On the famed Black Sage Bench in Oliver, Phantom Creek Estates is a Canadian wine destination crafting wines from award-winning grape varieties grown in certified organic vineyards. You’ll want to visit if you’re an art lover and a wine enthusiast. The property has many art installations, which add to the venue. Ask to see the Chihuly chandelier in the lower-level event space. This unique art piece in shades of yellow and gold was custom-crafted for the property by Dale Chihuly himself; it’s stunning.

The Restaurant at Phantom Creek offers sweeping vineyard and desert views, wines that showcase the diverse terroir of the Okanagan Valley, and inspiring, unforgettable food made with hyper-local ingredients. Executive Chef Alessa Valdez finds new inspiration daily from her surroundings in the South Okanagan’s bounty.

What To Order At Phantom Creek Estates Restaurant

Since ingredients are seasonal, what I recommend may not be on the menu when you visit, but here are some of my favorites.

Starter: Beet and Endive Salad has candy cane and golden beets, goat feta, spiced pepitas, navel orange, yuzu kosho, and basil paired with a 2020 Organic Pinot Gris.
Entrée: Try the 63 Acre Bavette with broccolini, shishito peppers, frisée, togarashi, and choron sauce paired with a 2019 Kobau Vineyard Cabernet Franc.
Dessert: The Vacherin is an apricot, herbed chantilly, streusel, and meringue paired with a 2016 Riesling Icewine.

Pro Tip: The restaurant hours are for brunch, 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Thursday through Monday.

In addition to exploring wineries, check out these other articles on things to do in British Columbia:

5 Top Destinations In Europe For WWII History Buffs

World War II was a catastrophic event that reshaped the world. In Europe, it resulted in millions of casualties, destruction of cities, and displacement of people. The war was fought on multiple fronts, from the shores of Normandy to the streets of Berlin.

It saw the emergence of new technologies in warfare, including the atomic bomb. WWII ended with the defeat of Nazi Germany and the formation of new alliances that shaped the post-war world order.

Europe houses some of the most historically significant sites related to WWII. These sites include battlefields, museums, and memorials that offer a unique and informative perspective on the war.

1. Malta

Malta played a crucial role in WWII as a strategic base for the British Royal Navy and the Allied forces. Axis powers heavily bombed the island because of its location in the Mediterranean Sea. Malta was the most bombed location during the war, but it remained resilient and never surrendered.

The Siege of Malta lasted for over 2 years and the islanders endured great suffering and sacrifice. Ultimately, Malta’s contribution to the war effort was significant, as it disrupted Axis supply lines and helped secure Allied control of the Mediterranean.

You can learn more about Malta’s wartime heritage through museums, fortifications, memorials, and other sites. Valletta, Malta’s capital, has several war museums, including the National War Museum and the Malta at War Museum.

2. France

France was significant in WWII. After being invaded by Nazi Germany in 1940, the country was divided into two zones: the German-occupied north and the Vichy regime in the south. The French Resistance fought against the German occupation and collaborated with the Allies to liberate the country.

The Normandy landings, also known as D-Day, were a series of Allied invasions of Normandy, France, in 1944 — ultimately leading to Paris’s liberation.

Explore France’s WWII history through museums, memorials, and battlefields. The Normandy beaches of Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword — where the Battle of Normandy and the D-Day landing took place — are popular self-drive tours.

3. Italy

Italy was initially allied with Nazi Germany during WWII. Still, after the fascist regime was overthrown in 1943, the country switched sides and joined the Allies. Italy was heavily bombed by the Allied forces during the war and the Italian Resistance played a significant role in the country’s liberation.

The Battle of Monte Cassino was a decisive victory for the Allies, which opened the way to Rome. Despite the country’s initial alliance with the Axis powers, Italy’s contributions to the Allied war effort were significant.

Immerse yourself in Italy’s wartime history by visiting museums, memorials, and battlefields, such as the Monte Cassino War Cemetery and the Gothic Line Museum.

4. Germany

Germany played a powerful role in WWII as the aggressor and leader of the Axis powers. Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime sought to expand territories and establish a new order in Europe.

The country was responsible for some of the most significant atrocities of the war, including the Holocaust and the invasion of the Soviet Union.

Germany’s wartime history can be confronted when visiting museums and memorials, such as the Holocaust Memorial in Berlin and the Concentration Camp Memorial Site at Stadt Dachau.

They are somber reminders of the devastation and loss of life caused by the war.

5. Poland

Poland was the first country to be invaded by Nazi Germany on September 1, 1939. Despite fierce resistance, Poland was quickly defeated and occupied for the entirety of the war.

The country, however, did not surrender. Polish forces fought alongside the Allies throughout the war and Polish pilots played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain. The war resulted in the death of millions of Polish citizens and the country was left devastated.

Poland has numerous museums, memorials, and other sites commemorating the country’s sacrifices and contributions during the war. A trip to Warsaw might include the Mausoleum of Struggle and Martyrdom, Pawiak Prison at Dzielna Street, and the Remains of the Ghetto Wall.

Conclusion

WWII history buffs should visit Europe to explore the sites of some of the war’s most significant events. From the Normandy beaches in France and the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium to the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland and the Berlin Wall in Germany, there are countless locations that offer a glimpse into the past.

History buffs can walk through museums and exhibitions that showcase the war’s impact on Europe and the world. These experiences allow you to better understand the war and its lasting effects, making it an essential trip for any history enthusiast.

10 Tips For The Best Views Of The Hollywood Sign | Choose a Memorable Hollywood Sign Viewpoint

In Northern California, where cinnabar towers pierce through the cool fog as they rise to the heavens, the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the region’s most recognizable landmarks. But in sunny Southern California, one of the most popular sights is a 45-foot-tall whitewashed metal sign affixed to the Hollywood Hills.

While builders in the other 47 contiguous states promoted real estate development with more mainstream marketing tactics, Los Angeles Times publisher Harry Chandler propped giant white letters atop Mt. Lee in the Hollywood Hills to create a three-dimensional billboard for his upscale neighborhood, Hollywoodland, in 1923. Although the $21,000 sign (about $320,000 in today’s dollars) was only intended to last about 18 months, nearly a century later it’s still filled with star power and is seen as an international icon.

In the years that followed, the neglected Hollywood Sign was torched by an arsonist and a letter O tumbled down the hill. On at least two occasions, pranksters rearranged the letters with the ease and cleverness of an El Arroyo restaurant sign, spelling out Hollyweed in support of looser marijuana laws and Holywood.

As the 1980s dawned, Hugh Hefner united an eclectic group of singers, stars, and other Hollywood elite under the roof of the Playboy Mansion to save this iconic Hollywood sign via a one-of-a-kind auction at a price of over $27,700 a pop. Shock rocker Alice Cooper sponsored the first O in honor of Groucho Marx. Crooner Andy Williams couldn’t take his eyes off of the letter W, and Warner Bros. Records saved the third O.

What awaited the Hollywood Signin 2023? The centennial makeover!

10 Tips for the Best Views of the Hollywood Sign and Recommendations for Epic Photo Opportunities

Views of the Hollywood sign from the entertainment district. — Sage Scott

1. When Time Is Limited

If you have limited time in Los Angeles, the best place to see the Hollywood sign is from Hollywood & Highland. Just east of the TCL Chinese Theatre, where handprints and stars fill the sidewalk, the northeast corner of this upscale shopping and entertainment district feels as if it were built specifically to see the Hollywood sign.

About two miles east of Hollywood & Highland, another relatively easy way to take in the Hollywood sign is from the top of the Home Depot parking lot at 5600 Sunset Boulevard. Peer over the north side of the building for a direct shot of the nine white letters and the famous Hollywood Hills.

Finally, if you are driving or walking around Hollywood Boulevard, you can simply look north at just about any intersection and you will see the Hollywood sign.

2. For Classic Hollywood Sign Views (Using Public Transportation)

With time in your itinerary to explore Griffith Park and wind your way through its hilly terrain to the Griffith Observatory, you’ll not only be surrounded by the beauty of one of the nation’s largest urban green spaces, but you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to see the Hollywood sign.

One of the best things about this hollywood sign viewpoint is that you can avoid wasting time searching for a parking spot by using public transportation. The DASH Observatory bus regularly shuttles between the Greek Theatre and Griffith Observatory for a round-trip fare of less than a dollar.

Fun Fact: At 4,310 acres, Griffith Park is more than five times the size of Central Park.

Views of the Hollywood sign from Lake Hollywood Park. — Sage Scott

3. My Favorite View Of The Hollywood Sign

But my favorite view of the Hollywood sign is from Lake Hollywood Park in Greater Los Angeles. About a 30-minute drive down the hill from the Griffith Observatory and around the mountain bend, follow the residential road that climbs above the Hollywood Reservoir to this viewing spot. From the edge of Hollywoodland, you’ll discover one of the best views of the sign.

However, there are several things to keep in mind when trying to see the Hollywood sign while down Lake Hollywood Drive. Most importantly, remember that this is a residential area. People live in these homes, and kids play in this park.

In addition, expect limited parking and a steep hike up the sidewalk to the best viewing spot.

Respect the area as if it were your neighborhood, being mindful of private drives, traffic, and speed limits. Although a lesser-known spot for viewing this piece of Hollywood history, it’s often visited along with other popular Hollywood locations.

Pro Tip: In addition to my favorite viewing spots, this website provides a helpful map and several other sign-viewing tips including the best selfie spots.

https://www.travelawaits.com/affiliate/rental-houses-temecula/?utm_source=wid_emb

4. Hiking To The Hollywood Sign

Hiking to the Hollywood sign is a challenging uphill trek, but there are several options. Most of the hiking trails are quite steep, with very little shade and no potable water or restrooms along the way. Hikers need to take plenty of water, pack nutritious snacks, apply sunscreen, wear sensible shoes, and watch for rattlesnakes!

Another less crowded spot is above Sunset Ranch Hollywood. You would need to take the dirt path. Most people just don’t see it walk right by it. If you can find it, it’s got one of the best and least-seen views of the famous Hollywood Sign. You’ll also get an areal view of Sunset Ranch Hollywood.

This only horse ranch (no ORVs or ATVs) organizes horseback tours so you can take a closer look at the sign. Take the Sunset Ranch Hollywood tour if are looking for something definitely different.

Mount Hollywood Trail

Generally considered a moderately challenging route, the Mount Hollywood Trail takes an average of 2 hours 46 min to complete. It is a 5.3-mile, easy-to-moderate hike that begins at the Griffith Observatory parking lot. The trail will take you on a winding journey through the mountains, offering a new perspective of the sign at every turn.

There are two Mount Hollywood Trail versions. The quicker way is about three miles and starts at the north end of the Griffith Observatory parking lot. The Berlin Forest which is half a mile into the hike features a grove of pine trees that provide the precious shade. There are also tables and benches along the trail.

As you go along, you can take a detour to Captain’s Roost rest stop or the Dante’s View garden. These spots offer the opportunity to stop, rest, and enjoy the coolness of the pines. The last part of the trail leads you another quarter of a mile to the Mt. Hollywood summit. From this vantage point, you can get a clear view of the Hollywood Sign.

Moreover, you will have some of the best views of Downtown LA, and Griffith Observatory, as well.

The Cahuenga Peak Trail

The Cahuenga Peak is part of Griffith Park and also its highest summit. Most importantly, it features some of the best views of the back of the Hollywood Sign.

To begin this hike, head east 0.25 miles up Wonder View Drive, past the yellow vehicle gate to the trailhead. Continue up the dirt road to the unsigned Wonder View Trail on your right. Next, look for the singletrack named the Tree of Life Trail to the right side of the road. The section up to the Wisdom Tree is very manageable, though some will find it rough because of the steep rocky climb with uneven footing and loose gravel.

Once you are there, you can take a break to go through the summit logbook stashed below the Wisdom Tree as some of the impressions written in the book are very creative. From the Wisdom Tree, continue along the Aileen Getty Ridge Trail toward Cahuenga Peak. Push on for the last couple hundred yards that lead to Mt. Lee Drive and take in the well-earned view from behind the Hollywood sign

To trail the Cahuenga Peak you don’t need a permit and there is no fee required, so just go out and have a good time!

Runyon Canyon

Runyon Canyon is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Los Angeles and a must-see when you’re in LA. Spreading over 160 acres, at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains it is easily one of the most popular hikes because of its amazing views, from Catalina Island to the Santa Monica Mountains.

Runyon Canyon trail is given a moderate rating due to a few steep uphill climbs and declines at certain points, but you don’t have to be a fitness guru to complete this trail. This is why it is ideal even for beginners and inexperienced hikers. It can get a little crowded, but on a more positive note, whether you’re a local or just visiting, you can definitely expect to meet and see some interesting people or celebrities on the trail.

Runyon Canyon Park can be completed in one or two hours and, as a bonus, Runyon Canyon is also a dog park, so you can exercise yourself and your dog at the same time!
Great in the day, but even better at sunset, this is a perfect spot to take some really inspiring photos of the Hollywood sign.

Lake Hollywood Park

This is one of the best spots to take amazing photos of the Hollywood Sign. It is a huge park surrounded by some of LA’s most luxurious residences and the end of the road for anyone who wants to drive to a viewpoint. Whether you are looking for the easiest or closest view of the Hollywood Sign, this is probably your most favorable option. Distance from the sign is 0.6 miles and the quality of the view is fantastic.

The park is also a brilliant spot for those looking to get here without a car. If you want to hike closer to the sign, you can hike a somewhat strenuous 1-mile route to the top of Mt. Lee, which puts you in the perfect spot, right behind and above the sign.

On the other hand, the park and the area around it is a nice place to just spend some time there relaxing. The best time for a visit is early in the morning on weekdays when you can have this park almost whole for yourself. However, later in the day or at weekends, you can expect some serious crowd here.

Ferndell Trail

The Ferndell Trail is an amazing long-distance hiking route that features splendid vistas of the city and the chance to see the Hollywood Sign. Ferndell Drive is a pretty, meandering Griffith Park entrance located on the north side of Western Avenue. The good thing about Ferndell Trail is that it’s relatively accessible by car. If you drive, you’ll do good to find a spot near the Trails Cafe, where you can grab something to eat, fill up your water bottles, and use the restrooms.

It is an attractive route but it is more difficult. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through Griffith Park, before summiting Mount Lee to soak up the incredible scenery. While it may be a long hike, this route has stretches that see high volumes of foot traffic so make sure to arrive early.

If you want to soak up some famous Los Angeles sights or simply want to go on a longer adventure without leaving the city, the Ferndell Trail is a great alternative. Apart from hiking, you can go horse riding and running. The trail is open all throughout the year and is dog-friendly. Your furry friends are welcome but it is not an off-leash dog park.

Burbank Peak Trail

At three miles round trip, this is the shortest trail. But the Burbank Peak Trail is also the most challenging hike to the iconic Hollywood sign.

Hollyridge Trail

Although it is about half a mile longer than the Burbank Peak Trail, the Hollyridge Trail has an elevation change of about 750 feet. Sadly, the Hollyridge Trail was closed to the public in April 2017 and as of March 2021, this trail is closed indefinitely. A recommended alternative hike to the Hollywood sign is Brush Canyon Trail to Mt. Lee.

Innsdale Drive

This hiking trail is 4.6 miles round trip with a mix of dirt fire roads, paved trails, and residential streets. You’ll experience an elevation change of about 750 feet and some nice views looking up at the iconic Hollywood sign right from the start.

Bush Canyon Trail

Nearly double the length of the Hollyridge Trail, the Bush Canyon Trail is a recommended alternative now that the Hollyridge Trail is closed indefinitely. This 6.4-mile round trip hike has the highest elevation change at 1,050 feet.

Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park

At 8.8 miles roundtrip, the hike from Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood sign atop Mt. Lee is the longest.

Pro Tip: Although hiking Mt. Hollywood doesn’t take you to the Hollywood sign, the trails on this prominent peak in Griffith Park deliver Instagram-worthy photos of the Hollywood sign and Griffith Observatory plus amazing views of the city.

The Hollywood sign in California. — Sage Scott

5. Look But Don’t Touch

Although Hot Chelle Rae sang about dancing on the edge of the Hollywood sign in their 2011 hit song, “Tonight, Tonight,” any actual party on the top of the world likely occurred elsewhere. In order to protect the iconic sign (as well as the native plants and critters that live in the area), the Los Angeles Police Department monitors a variety of motion sensors and cameras 24/7. So be sure to keep your distance when admiring the Hollywood sign up close.

Pro Tip: While cameras will prevent you from touching a piece of history, you can see the Hollywood sign from anywhere in the world via this live webcam.

6. Out Like A Light

While the original roaring twenties Hollywoodland sign was once illuminated, the Hollywood sign of the 21st century is not. In fact, the last time the sign was brightened by bulbs was on New Year’s Eve 1999 as the world counted down to 2000. However, based on the shimmering city below, sometimes the Hollywood sign appears to be lit when the city’s glow reflects on the tall white metal letters stretching 350 feet across Mt. Lee.

7. Avoid Rain, Haze, And Fog For The Best Sign Views

Like much of the Golden State, Los Angeles has both wet and dry seasons, which means you can expect several inches of rain per month from late fall to early spring and then next to none during the hotter, drier months of June, July, and August.

When the sun’s sizzling summer rays heat the smoke and exhaust produced in the valley, a depressing brown haze descends over the City of Angels, obscuring views of the Hollywood sign. So the best time to see it is on a clear day in the cooler months, typically October through April, provided it’s not rainy or overcast. Then the sign is clearly visible even during the stroll down the Hollywood Boulevard.

Pro Tip: Round out your trip by adding all classic Hollywood locations to your Los Angeles itinerary but aim for the perfect weather, as well.

8. Get Up Early Or Go Late

While the Hollywood sign is an iconic landmark that most people are excited to view at any time, the most beautiful views are at the beginning of the day as the sun rises and in the evening as the sun sets (especially when the sky is clear).

Pro Tip: If you want to see the Hollywood sign from any of the spots within Griffith Park, it’s open from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

A sign for parking at the Hollywood sign. — Sage Scott

9. Viewing The Hollywood Sign Is Free

There is no fee to view the Hollywood sign. However, expect to pay for parking when viewing the sign from the Hollywood and Highland entertainment district or the Griffith Observatory. (But remember, traveling to the observatory via DASH is less than a dollar compared to approximately $10 per hour to park your car.)

10. The Hollywood Sign Has Copycat Admirers

From the Dunedin suburb of Mosgiel in New Zealand to the green hills that once framed the animated world of Mickey’s Toontown, the world-renowned Hollywood sign has inspired others. Even Dolly Parton has cited the Hollywood sign as her muse for the Dollywood sign featuring a more elegant font and substituting a butterfly for the letter W.

Fun Fact: Known as SF Hollywood Hills, ShyFoundry created a font family that mimics the lettering used to create the Hollywood sign.

FAQs

How Big Is the Hollywood Sign?

The original Hollywoodland sign was 50 feet tall by 800 feet wide. The current Hollywood sign is 45 feet tall by 400 feet wide. In 1949, the last four letters, “land” were removed. Hence the decrease in width.

Why Isn’t the Hollywood Sign Lit Up at Night?

The Hollywood Sign isn’t lit up at night because it overlooks a residential neighborhood whose access narrows from a two-lane road to a steep, winding single lane. So, if it were lit up, that would be a driving hazard for the residents.

The original sign, however, was lit up by 4000 bulbs which were maintained by a single man for decades.

Did Hugh Hefner Help to Save the Hollywood Sign?

Yes, the late Playboy founder Hugh Hefner helped to save the Hollywood sign twice. First, in the late seventies, he managed to gather enough money to restore the decrepit old sign by throwing a fundraiser. Then, in 2010 he donated the last $900.000 to help the Trust for Public Land to provide $12.5 million in order to protect the 138 acres around the sign from developers.