Eight Secrets of Hollywood City

Eight Secrets of Hollywood City

Hollywood—synonymous with glitz, glamour, and the magic of movies—is a name recognized around the world. But beyond the flashing lights, red carpets, and silver screens, Hollywood holds a treasure trove of secrets that even some locals don't know. From ghost stories and hidden tunnels to forgotten subway stations and time capsules, the real Hollywood is far more mysterious and fascinating than its surface might suggest.
Here are ten secrets of Hollywood City that reveal a deeper, more curious side of Tinseltown.
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Number one. The Hollywood Sign Was Originally an Advertisement
Most people see the iconic Hollywood sign as a symbol of the entertainment industry. But when it was first erected in 1923, it had nothing to do with movies. It originally read “Hollywoodland” and was part of a marketing campaign to promote a new housing development in the hills above the city. The giant white letters, each standing 50 feet tall, were only meant to last 18 months. But over time, the sign became an emblem of the dreams and drama associated with the film industry. In 1949, the “land” portion was removed, giving us the legendary landmark we know today.
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Number two. A Time Capsule Lies Beneath the Hollywood Sign
A secret time capsule was buried beneath the Hollywood sign in 1994. This capsule, intended to be opened in 2044, contains film memorabilia, including scripts, fan letters, and even a pair of Marilyn Monroe’s earrings. It was part of a restoration project led by fans and celebrities who wanted to preserve the cultural legacy of Hollywood for future generations.

umber three. Hollywood Was Once a Dry, Religious Community
Before it became the center of the movie universe, Hollywood was a conservative and deeply religious community. In the early 1900s, it was even a dry town—no alcohol was allowed. Bars and saloons were banned, and the area’s founders had strong Christian values. Ironically, the town that would become synonymous with excess and indulgence began as a quiet, sober place far removed from the chaos of Los Angeles.
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Number four. The Roosevelt Hotel Is Haunted by Hollywood Legends
Located on Hollywood Boulevard, the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is one of the city’s most historic buildings—and possibly one of its most haunted. Opened in 1927, it was the site of the very first Academy Awards ceremony. Over the years, guests and staff have reported ghostly sightings, including Marilyn Monroe, who stayed in the hotel regularly. Her spirit is said to haunt her old suite, and guests have reported seeing her reflection in a mirror that was once in her room.
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Number five . The Hollywood Walk of Fame Includes Fictional Characters
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is lined with more than 2,700 pink terrazzo stars, honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to film, television, music, and other entertainment industries. But not all of the honorees are real people. Among the stars are fictional characters such as Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, Godzilla, The Simpsons, and Shrek. Even Kermit the Frog has a star.
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Number six. Hollywood Has a Secret Subway System
Los Angeles is known for its traffic congestion, but few know that the city once had a fully functioning underground subway system—including lines running to and from Hollywood. Known as the Pacific Electric Red Car system, it operated in the early 20th century and connected much of Southern California. Today, some of the old tunnels still exist, hidden beneath the streets. Parts of the abandoned subway have even been used in movies and TV shows.

Number seven. There's an Apartment Hidden in the TCL Chinese Theatre
The TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) is one of the most famous movie palaces in the world, known for its celebrity handprints and movie premieres. But very few people know that there is a secret apartment built above the theater. It belonged to Sid Grauman, the theatre’s original owner. The apartment includes a private garden and was used to entertain Hollywood’s elite during the golden age of cinema. It’s been mostly untouched for decades and is now rarely seen by the public.

Number Eight . Hidden Speakeasies Still Exist Beneath Hollywood’s Glamor
During Prohibition, Hollywood’s elite gathered in secret bars and clubs to drink and party behind closed doors. Many of those hidden speakeasies still exist today—some restored, some repurposed, and some still hidden behind unmarked doors. Venues like No Vacancy, Good Times at Davey Wayne’s, and Adults Only recreate the Prohibition-era vibe, complete with vintage decor, secret entrances, and craft cocktails. They're a modern nod to Hollywood’s rebellious past.