Hollywood

Since we were already in the area (see previous post), we decided to check out a few of the iconic Los Angeles sights. Many of the things we wanted to do were closed due to COVID but we were able to cross a couple things off our California bucket list. Our first stop was the Griffith Observatory. Here we had great views of the city and the Hollywood sign. However it did not lend itself to great pictures with the sign. I really wanted a good picture with the Hollywood sign and this location was slightly disappointing. We did a quick internet search and came across a travel blog that mentioned great photo ops with the Hollywood sign in a nearby neighborhood. We hopped in the car and made our way through the streets of Hollywood to the destination in question.

We arrived in the neighbourhood, interested to find out that it actually leads into the old Hollywoodland subdivision. Although the pictures from this location proved better, and we had a chance to get a few pictures at the cool arches for the old subdivision, these pictures (and the view) still weren't quite right for me. Another internet search provided us the information we needed: direction to a park where we were able to get a picture that made me happy. If you are ever in LA and are looking for a great spot to take a picture with the Hollywood sign, put 3000 Canyon Lake Drive into your GPS and start driving. You will wind your way through streets with signs that say things like "No vehicle access to Hollywood sign." While it is true that these streets won't lead you right up to the sign, they will lead you to the park that will give you a great vantage point for pictures. 

The view from the neighbourhood

One of the arches

The view from the park. Finally!

We also stopped at the Walk of Fame. It was really cool to see all the stars and the Chinese Theatre. Sadly the theatre was blocked off so we couldn't wander through the hand and foot prints in the cement out front. I did manage to get a few pictures through the fence though. This is on our list to go back to once things open up again. 

Despite the numerous closures in the area, it was still fun to get the opportunity to see some of the sights. I am hopeful that LA will open back up before we leave California so we can do the rest of the things on our long and ever growing bucket list. 

Gluten Free Find: 
I had heard a lot of good things about Erin McKenna's Bakery and wanted to try it out. I ordered a salted caramel éclair, a maple donut, and a slice of lemon cake. I did not like the éclair or the donut and was disappointed that I paid so much money for something that didn't taste very good (warning, this place is pricey, even for a gluten free bakery). The lemon cake, on the other hand, was delicious; worth every penny. It's not worth going out of your way to visit this bakery but if you are in the area and you decide to make a stop here, I highly recommend the lemon cake.