The Griffith Observatory's been wowing visitors since 1935 with its panoramic views of the city, science and space-themed exhibits, world-famous planetarium shows, and of course its massive telescope. Also a popular film location, most notably for the 1955 classic Rebel Without a Cause.

Just because nobody walks in LA doesn’t mean locals don’t love to hike. After all, the city is encircled by mountains, which make for the perfect escape after eating or being stuck in traffic. Feel free to skip the hike behind the Hollywood sign, and go for one with a view of it. A hike up to the Griffith Observatory is an excellent option, complete with a Hollywood ending.

L.A.'s landmark 1935 observatory opens a window to the universe from its perch on the slopes of Mount Hollywood. Its planetarium claims the world’s most advanced star projector, while its astronomical touch displays explore some mind-bending topics, from the evolution of the telescope and the ultraviolet x-rays used to map our solar system to the cosmos itself. Then, of course, there are the views, which (on clear days) take in the entire L.A. Basin, surrounding mountains and Pacific Ocean.

One of LA's most beloved trails, this one grants a panorama of the city before the hike even begins. Continuing on, you’ll find various viewpoints toward the Hollywood sign, making for iconic photo opportunities. The hike is enjoyable without being too strenuous, but it’s possible to go quite far in this sprawling open space. Make sure to bring water and protection from the elements. The LA sun is gorgeous but can be brutal!

Take a hike to the classic view over Los Angeles from the Hollywood Sign! The route shown here begins from the Griffith Observatory and adds in a few other landmarks and overlooks along the way.

At the top of Griffith Park, you are met with sweeping views of the city, where on a clear day you can see from the San Gabriel Mountains to the beach. But don’t miss heading inside the planetarium for one of their amazing shows—there's a reason this is favorite place to visit with the kids.

Arguably one of the best lookout points in L.A., the Observatory itself also offers hosts of activities once inside. Not only does the Observatory provide free public telescope usage almost every clear-skied evening, it also holds public star parties once a month where visitors can look through a variety of telescopes with well-informed astronomers. Leading from Griffith Park to the Observatory is a bevy of hikes, from the well-known Firebreak trail to the lesser-known Western Canyon loop.

High up on the Hollywood Hills, Griffith Observatory has long been a popular spot where couples go to crank up the romance. The panoramas over Los Angeles are truly dazzling, and particularly dreamy at dusk when the sea of lights gradually flickers on over the city. You can get a bit more elevation from the observatory roof, plus you can geek out over a show in the planetarium inside, featuring immersive 360-degree films and projections.