5 Famous Signs That are Recognized Throughout the World

Everywhere you go you’re bound to see a sign. Whether it’s a stop sign, a street sign, or a world renowned sign, we can all agree that signs are life’s way of telling you something. “Stop” or “50 mph” or even “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas!” might be what comes to mind when you think about signs. Here is an interesting list of 5 world famous signs and how they came to be.

1. Hollywood – This famous beauty is world renowned for being featured in many films and shows that take place in California. Originally, this sign actually read “Hollywoodland” and was built to advertise a new housing development. It was created in 1923 and has stood tall against the test of time. Although it has been refitted and redone many times since then, the Hollywood sign is no doubt the most famous sign to ever be created.

2. Welcome To Las Vegas! – Nothing is more synonymous with Las Vegas than this sign right here. This signals that you’re passing the border from the rest of Nevada into Sin City. The sign was conceived in 1959 and has not gone dark since (except for a week in 1999). It’s an unmistakable icon of the country’s biggest gambling mecca, and it’s Technicolor neon hue is impossible to miss. In 2013, the sign was finally added to the list of registered historic places in the state of Nevada. Finally!

3. Penny Lane – Located in Liverpool, England, the Penny Lane sign is one of the most photographed signs in the entire world. This is where John Lennon and Paul McCartney grew up and would meet to catch the bus into town. Once they released their famous tune, “Penny Lane,” the tourist storm soon ensured. Naturally, this prompted thieves far and wide to come and steal this famous sign, which led to “Penny Lane” being painted on the bricks above where the sign stands. Although a normal sign has replaced the original, it is still as famous as ever.

4. Route 66 – These signs are so well known to Americans that there’s even a clothing brand named after them. Route 66 was originally a 2,400-mile highway connecting Chicago to Santa Monica, spanning half of America. Construction started on this mega highway in 1926 and existed until June 27th 1985 when it was replaced in its entirety by the Interstate Highway System. Parts of the highway still exist and are designated a “historic part of Route 66.” Even if it no longer technically exists, road trippers can still enjoy a nostalgic feeling when driving on its remnants.

5. Platform 9 ¾ - This is a relatively new one but for any Harry Potter buffs out there, you’ll know it well. Located in Kings Cross Station in London, England, government officials have put up an actual sign and deemed it a historical landmark. Although hailing from a fictitious world of wizards, tourists still flock to this sign for pictures. The sign has been moved from its original location because it became such a large tourist attraction that it was affecting commuters’ ability to catch their trains. You know it’s a big time sign when you have to completely change your schedule to get around it!