7 iconic Hollywood signs you can still see around Southern California

While many of the attention-grabbing signs that marked Hollywood are gone from the landscape, others still exist in various forms.

Some, like Castle Argyle, have been restored. Others, like The Pantages have been replaced with replicas. Others, like the Hollywood Museum at the Historic Max Factor building, have been altered but still retain aesthetic elements of the original design.

For related news, see: ‘Hollywood Signs’ shines a light on LA’s forgotten visual landmarks

In “Hollywood Signs: The Golden Age, Glittering Graphics and Glowing Neon,” author and designer Kathy Kikkert pays tribute to these and other classic signs,

Here are seven that you can view while visiting the neighborhood:

1. The Hollywood Sign

The original Hollywoodland sign is long gone, but this real estate advertisement-turned-landmark was replaced with a replica in 1978. While you can’t access the sign itself, you can get a closer view via several Hollywood Hills hiking trails.

2. The Pantages

6233 Hollywood Blvd.

While the original sign was replaced with a replica three years ago, The Pantages still lights up Hollywood Blvd. with a nod to the neighborhood’s past. You’ll get the best view from across the street or, perhaps, while you’re waiting in line for a show at the famed theater.

3. Frolic Room

6245 Hollywood Blvd.

The Frolic Room’s neon sign dates back to 1958, but the tiny bar’s history has its roots in Prohibition-era Hollywood. While you can see the sign itself clearly from various vantage points on the boulevard, it’s a good pit stop when you’re heading to or from a show at the neighboring Pantages.

4. Max Factor Building 

1660 N. Highland Ave.

Located right off the intersection of Hollywood and Highland, Max Factor’s former headquarters was where both celebrities and everyday Angelenos once went for the latest in cosmetics. Today, it’s home to The Hollywood Museum and the sign has been updated to reflect that. The museum itself is worth a visit because the lobby is even more impressive than the building’s art deco facade.

5. Castle Argyle 

1919 N. Argyle Ave.

Historic Hollywood apartment building Castle Argyle is perhaps best known for its sign, visible from the 101 Freeway. In recent years, the sign was restored back to neon by Paul Greenstein in a process that Kikkert describes in “Hollywood Signs.”

6. Norm’s

470 N. La Cienega Blvd.

On the edge of West Hollywood and Hollywood, Norm’s is a Googie landmark easily visible from the street. You’ll likely see this Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument from the street thanks to its tall, vertical sign, but the restaurant is open 24 hours, making it easily accessible for an up-close visit as well.

7. The Hollywood Downtowner 

5601 Hollywood Blvd.

Kikkert herself worked on the redesign of The Hollywood Downtowner’s lit sign. Located on Hollywood Blvd. near Gramercy Place, you’ll be able to see the sign from street level and, while it is an updated sign with LEDs in place of neon, it still retains mid-20th century motel charm.