Why visit North Hollywood
North Hollywood offers the Valley's richest concentration of live performance, with dozens of intimate theaters alongside murals, indie shops, and an accessible food and craft-beer scene. Its Metro B Line station makes it an easy car-free jumping-off point to Hollywood and Downtown, too.
Originally an agricultural area once known as Lankershim, the neighborhood was renamed North Hollywood in the 1920s to associate itself with the nearby film capital. For decades it was a workaday Valley district, but in the 1990s a community-led effort established the NoHo Arts District to revitalize the area around its theaters and the historic El Portal. The arrival of the Metro subway terminus and ongoing development have since accelerated its transformation into a dense, arts-focused, transit-oriented neighborhood.
Top Attractions
- NoHo Arts District
A walkable district of small theaters, galleries, cafes, and street art at the neighborhood's core.
- El Portal Theatre
A historic 1920s theater turned performing arts venue and a NoHo landmark.
- Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Emmys plaza)
Home to the towering Emmy statue and Hall of Fame plaza, a fun photo stop for TV fans.
- NoHo murals and public art
Colorful murals and sculptures throughout the district make for a free self-guided art walk.
- North Hollywood Metro station
The B (Red) Line terminus and a regional transit hub linking the Valley to Hollywood and Downtown.
A Suggested Day
- 1Arrive car-free via the Metro B Line terminus
- 2Take a mural and public-art walk through the NoHo Arts District
- 3Snap a photo at the Television Academy's Emmy statue
- 4Grab lunch at a neighborhood cafe or Middle Eastern spot
- 5Browse galleries and indie shops in the afternoon
- 6Catch an evening show at a small theater or the El Portal
Where to Eat
- Republic of PieCafe & bakery
A cozy NoHo cafe known for pie, coffee, and live acoustic music.
- The Federal BarGastropub
A bustling gastropub and music venue set in a former bank building.
- Mh ZhMiddle Eastern
A cash-only, no-frills favorite praised for its bright, flavorful Middle Eastern plates.
- Bow & TrussLatin American
A lively spot with a patio serving Latin-inspired food and drinks.
Where to Stay
- BoutiqueThe Garland
A retro-cool hotel with garden grounds, a pool, and a relaxed vibe in North Hollywood.
- Mid-rangeBeverly Garland Holiday Inn area hotels
Several mid-range chain hotels near the freeways and Universal serve the area; compare options for your dates.
Best Photo Spots
- 📸 The giant Emmy statue at the Television Academy
- 📸 Colorful NoHo Arts District murals
- 📸 The historic El Portal Theatre marquee
- 📸 Street-art-lined Lankershim Boulevard
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Top Attractions Near North Hollywood
Theme ParksUniversal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is a major movie-themed amusement park and working film studio, blending thrill rides with the famous behind-the-scenes Studio Tour. Immersive lands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World make it one of LA's top family attractions.
LandmarksHollywood Sign
Perched on the south slope of Mount Lee in Griffith Park, the Hollywood Sign is the world's most recognizable symbol of the entertainment industry. You can't walk up to the letters themselves, but several trails and viewpoints deliver unforgettable photos of the giant white letters against the hillside.
LandmarksGriffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory is a free public observatory on the slopes of Mount Hollywood, offering telescopes, science exhibits, and some of the best views in Los Angeles. Its Art Deco architecture and sweeping vistas of the city, the Hollywood Sign, and the Pacific make it a must-see for first-time visitors.
North Hollywood FAQ
What is North Hollywood known for?
It's known for the NoHo Arts District, with its many small theaters, galleries, murals, and a growing food and brewery scene.
Is North Hollywood easy to reach by Metro?
Yes, it's the terminus of the Metro B (Red) Line and a hub for the G (Orange) busway, making it very transit-friendly.
Can I see live theater in North Hollywood?
Absolutely, the NoHo Arts District is home to dozens of intimate theaters plus the historic El Portal Theatre.
