Capitol Studios occupies the famous Capitol Records tower at 1750 Vine Street in Hollywood. The 13-story building dates to 1956 and is known for its recording studios and distinctive circular shape. Public entry is not available, so plan this as an exterior stop, with a view of the tower and its spire as the main draw. After dark, the light at the top blinks “Hollywood” in Morse code. Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street are close by for a longer walk.
The tower on Vine Street
The Capitol Records tower was completed in 1956 and rises 13 stories just north of Hollywood and Vine. Its circular form has become one of Hollywood’s most recognizable building shapes. The building is closely associated with the record company and its recording studios.
The familiar idea that the tower was designed to look like a stack of records is not established by the material available here. Its outline may suggest that image, but the building’s distinctive form is the reliable detail to look for from the street.
What to see from outside
The building is not open to public visitors, so an exterior view is the practical way to include it in a visit. At night, watch the light at the top of the spire: it blinks the word “Hollywood” in Morse code. The tower is at 1750 Vine Street, a short walk from Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame.
FAQ
Can the public go inside Capitol Studios?
No. The building is not open to public visitors, so plan to see it from outside.
What is the light on top of the tower?
After dark, the blinking light spells “Hollywood” in Morse code.
When was the Capitol Records tower built?
The 13-story tower dates to 1956.
