Fancy a stroll into Hollywood’s past? We are now entering the Hollywood Dell. This residential neighborhood sits in the Hollywood Hills. It is nestled in the lower eastern Santa Monica Mountains.
Before Highway 101’s arrival, the Dell was part of Whitley Heights. It was considered part of the original Hollywood Hills. The Dell’s borders are Cahuenga to the east. Franklin is to the south. Argyle is to the west. The Hollywood Reservoir marks the northern boundary. The zip code 90068 encompasses the entire Hollywood Dell.
The Hollywood Dell earned its name because of its location. It sits “in” the hills above Hollywood. It is not “on top” of the hills. One generally travels downhill to enter the Dell. Uphill travel is required to exit. Roads within the Dell are mainly hilly. Many homes stand on hillside lots.
The Hollywood Dell’s history stretches back to the early 1920s. At that time, avocado and orange farmers sold their orchards. The Dell, as it was originally known, began to fill with homes. Mediterranean and Spanish architectural styles became popular. Before the Mulholland Dam’s construction in 1924, a brook flowed through the neighborhood. A small stream remains today.
The Hollywood Dell has a unique bucolic charm. It is rare among Los Angeles neighborhoods. Tree-lined streets offer plenty of shade. They create a visual break from bustling Los Angeles. Residents enjoy the quiet, verdant environment. This creates a small-town feel.
Homes perched on the hills offer excellent city views. Nighttime views are particularly beautiful. You might hear faint music drifting from the Hollywood Bowl. This is common on concert nights.
The Hollywood Dell has been home to diverse residents. Professionals and families live here. Even some celebrities have called it home. The Rolling Stones once resided here. Minnie Driver also lived here. Marilyn Manson too was a resident. Goldie Hawn and Eva Longoria Parker once called the Dell home. Audrina Patridge also lived here.
Single-family homes are typical residences. Many display a heavy influence of Spanish Colonial Revival Style architecture. The Hollywood Dell Civic Association is an active homeowners association. Membership dues are voluntary.
Parking can be challenging here. The Dell is close to the Hollywood Bowl. It is a popular free parking area for concertgoers. Concert parking is prohibited. Some entries are guarded. Locals know how to navigate the neighborhood. They sometimes contribute to overcrowding on concert nights.
So, as we leave the Hollywood Dell, remember its unique charm. This is a quiet residential area nestled in the hills.