Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory

Observatory · Griffith Park
HOURS
Closed
942 RATINGS
92%

About

Griffith Observatory is a facility in Los Angeles, California, sitting on the south-facing slope of Mount Hollywood in Los Angeles' Griffith Park. It commands a view of the Los Angeles Basin, including Downtown Los Angeles to the southeast, Hollywood to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the southwest. The observatory is a popular tourist attraction with an excellent view of the Hollywood Sign, and an extensive array of space and science-related displays.

MoreLess
More on Wikipedia

Guides

Along with stunning views of the city, the Griffith Observatory is known for its planetarium, a telescope gallery, and a collection of space-related artifacts, along with a number of interactive exhibitions. The observatory also offers guided tours and monthly telescope viewing nights, making it a great destination for families, astronomy enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning more about the mysteries of the universe.
More
7 Must-See Museums in Los Angeles
Viator7 places
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.
More
Griffith Park's Best Photo Spots
Fotospot10 places
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.
More
First Timer's Guide to Los Angeles
Viator10 places
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.
More
L.A.'s most historic sites and buildings
Lonely Planet10 places
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!
More
Easy Scenic Hikes near Los Angeles
FATMAP6 places
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.
More
Best Hikes for the Family in Los Angeles
FATMAP7 places
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.
More
The Best Things to Do with Kids in LA
Tinybeans24 places
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.
More
The Must-See Attractions in Los Angeles
Culture Trip15 places
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.
More
A Date-Night Guide to Hollywood
Culture Trip8 places

Good to Know

Accessibility Features
Parking
Accepts Credit Cards

Featured in Guides

Details

Hours

12:00PM10:00PM
Closed Now

Hours

Closed Now
Sunday
10:00AM10:00PM
Monday
Closed
Tue – Fri
12:00PM10:00PM
Saturday
10:00AM10:00PM