Mulholland Drive Scenic Overlooks
Iconic LA drive with breathtaking panoramic views of the city, perfect for sunset and stargazing.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Mulholland Drive Scenic Overlooks
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic LA drive with breathtaking panoramic views of the city, perfect for sunset and stargazing.
"The city stretches into the distance beneath you at this famous roadside viewpoint."
🚗 Plan Your Route
Mulholland is long & winding. Check for closures! Start at Cahuenga West for easy access.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Prime time for views, but expect company. Weekday mornings are quieter.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jerome C. Daniel Overlook
Above the Hollywood Bowl
Jaw-dropping views of the Hollywood Bowl, DTLA, and the Hollywood Hills. Perfect for photos!

Universal City Overlook
7701 Mulholland Drive
Expansive vistas looking out towards the San Fernando Valley and Universal City. Great for sunset.

Nike Missile Control Site LA-96
Western end of Mulholland
Offers amazing views, picnic benches, and bathrooms. A less crowded, scenic spot.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating Mulholland
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Plan Your Route
Mulholland is long & winding. Check for closures!
Start at Cahuenga West for easy access.🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Prime time for views, but expect company. Weekday mornings are quieter.
🅿️ Parking Precautions
Parking at lookouts after dark can lead to tickets. Park in neighborhoods if visiting late.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Many overlooks have picnic tables. Pack a meal for a memorable experience!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan Your Route
Mulholland is long & winding. Check for closures!
Start at Cahuenga West for easy access.🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Prime time for views, but expect company. Weekday mornings are quieter.
🅿️ Parking Precautions
Parking at lookouts after dark can lead to tickets. Park in neighborhoods if visiting late.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Many overlooks have picnic tables. Pack a meal for a memorable experience!
📸 Capture the City
Bring your camera! The panoramic views are incredible, especially at dusk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles, especially during sunset and at night when the city lights sparkle. The iconic status of Mulholland Drive, featured in films, adds to its allure. However, some find the drive itself challenging due to winding roads and can be frustrated by unexpected road closures or parking limitations.
"This viewpoint offers stunning views of the LA cityscape. There's relatively ample parking, and it's fun to explore the luxury homes hidden throughout. The road is winding, so caution is advised when driving. The Hollywood sign isn't visible."
Grateful Tears
"Its a "must see" amazing views. The drive to the scenic overlook was a great experience."
Rahul Ravishankar
"We didn’t have great weather so the view was a bit so and so. The views of Los Angeles from up there are rather nice, especially at sunset or night. The road was closed though, so we parked lower down and walked 100m. Feels pretty safe."
R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mulholland Drive is a scenic road through the Hollywood Hills. You can access it from various points, including Cahuenga Boulevard, Laurel Canyon, and Coldwater Canyon. Many visitors start at Cahuenga West and drive east for stunning views.
Be aware that sections can close due to landslides, so always check local advisories before your trip.For a classic LA experience, drive Mulholland Drive during sunset for breathtaking city lights and golden hour hues.
Many travelers recommend stopping at various overlooks for photos and to soak in the scenery. If you're a David Lynch fan, the drive itself is iconic.While some lookouts officially close at sunset, many are still accessible at night for incredible city light views.
However, parking at these lookouts after dark is often prohibited and can result in tickets. It's advisable to park in nearby neighborhoods if you plan to stay late.A popular starting point is right off Cahuenga Boulevard, which offers immediate pull-offs with good views.
You can also access it via Coldwater Canyon or Laurel Canyon, which connect to Mulholland.The drive spans a significant length. Popular sections include the area above the Hollywood Bowl (Jerome C. Daniel Overlook)
and the Universal City Overlook. The western end near the Nike missile site also offers great views.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Mulholland Drive scenic overlooks are public access points and do not require tickets. They are free to visit and enjoy the views.
Most official overlooks are accessible during daylight hours. While some may technically close at sunset, many visitors report being able to access them at night for city light views.
However, be mindful of parking restrictions after dark.There is no entrance fee to drive along Mulholland Drive or to stop at its scenic overlooks. It's a public road and a free attraction for visitors.
You can drive Mulholland Drive at any time, but access to specific overlooks and parking availability can vary. For the best experience and to avoid parking tickets, visiting during daylight or early evening is recommended.
No passes or special permits are required to visit the Mulholland Drive scenic overlooks. It's a public road and a free attraction for everyone to enjoy.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jerome C. Daniel Overlook above the Hollywood Bowl offers iconic shots of the amphitheater and the city.
The Universal City Overlook provides sweeping valley views, and the Nike missile site overlook is great for panoramic vistas. Sunset and twilight are magical for photography.Sunset is incredibly popular for photography, offering the 'golden hour' light and the transition to city lights.
Early mornings provide clear, crisp views with fewer crowds. Twilight, just after sunset, is also spectacular for capturing the illuminated cityscape.No special permit is required for personal photography at the public overlooks on Mulholland Drive. However, if you plan on commercial photography or large-scale shoots, it's always best to check with local authorities for any potential regulations.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive cityscapes.
A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on specific landmarks. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light photography, especially during sunset and at night.Experiment with different angles to capture the vastness of the city. Consider including the winding road in your foreground for a sense of depth. Don't forget to capture the details, like the iconic Hollywood sign if visible from your vantage point.
🚇 🚗 Getting Around
The primary way to explore Mulholland Drive is by car. It's a scenic drive with numerous pull-offs and overlooks. Public transportation is not practical for navigating the entire length of the drive and accessing the overlooks.
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak sunset hours. There are designated pull-offs and small parking areas at some overlooks.
Be aware that parking is often restricted after dark and can lead to tickets.While you can technically bike or walk sections, it's not recommended for most visitors due to the winding roads, lack of sidewalks in many areas, and fast-moving traffic. It's best enjoyed by car.
Yes, Mulholland Drive is prone to closures due to landslides, particularly after heavy rain.
It's crucial to check local traffic reports and Caltrans for any current road closures before you plan your visit, as sections can be impassable.The drive can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on how many stops you make and which sections you cover. Starting at Cahuenga West and driving east is a popular, manageable route.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
🎬 Film Buffs & David Lynch Fans
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Mulholland Drive Experience
When planning your drive, it's essential to be aware of potential road closures. Landslides are a recurring issue, especially after significant rainfall, which can impact accessibility to certain sections. Checking local traffic updates before you go is highly recommended. For a classic experience, many suggest starting at the eastern end near Cahuenga Boulevard and heading west, allowing you to gradually discover the various scenic pull-offs and viewpoints.
Beyond the visual spectacle, Mulholland Drive offers opportunities for quiet contemplation and romantic moments. Several overlooks are equipped with picnic benches, making them perfect spots for a leisurely meal with a view. Whether you're seeking a quick photo opportunity or a leisurely afternoon drive, Mulholland Drive promises a memorable encounter with the beauty of Los Angeles.
Best Overlooks for Sunset and City Lights
Another must-visit for evening views is the Universal City Overlook. Located at 7701 Mulholland Drive, this viewpoint offers expansive vistas looking out towards the San Fernando Valley and the entertainment hub of Universal City. As darkness falls, the lights of the theme park and surrounding areas create a mesmerizing scene. For a more secluded experience, the Nike missile control site LA-96 at the western end of Mulholland Drive is a hidden gem, offering impressive views and picnic facilities, perfect for a more intimate sunset viewing.
It's important to note that while these overlooks are breathtaking at night, parking regulations can be strict. Many officially close after dark, and parking tickets have been issued for violations. Visitors planning to stay late should be aware of these restrictions and consider parking in nearby residential areas if necessary. Despite these considerations, the allure of the illuminated Los Angeles skyline from Mulholland Drive makes it an unforgettable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit