See stars and vistas: Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

#1 in Best Things To Do in Los Angeles

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see-stars-and-vistas-griffith-observatory-and-griffith-park

Key Info

2800 E. Observatory Road

Price & Hours

Free
Park: 5 a.m.-10:30 p.m. daily | Observatory: Tues-Fri noon-10 p.m. | Sat-Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Details

Museums, Free, Parks and Gardens, Hiking, Recreation, Sightseeing
Time to Spend: 2 hours to Half Day

Discover the Magic of Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park offer a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and astronomical wonders right in the heart of Los Angeles. Perched on the south-facing slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory provides spectacular views of the city, the iconic Hollywood Sign, and the cosmos above. The Observatory features captivating exhibits, including the Foucault pendulum, Tesla coil, and a Zeiss telescope, allowing visitors to marvel at the wonders of the universe.

Visiting Tips

To make the most of your visit, arrive early to secure parking and experience a less crowded environment. The Observatory is open until late in the evening on most days, allowing for star gazing through their public telescopes. Admission to the Observatory and its grounds is free, but there are fees for planetarium shows. Be sure to check the schedule in advance to plan your visit around the shows you're interested in. Allow time to explore Griffith Park's numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and the Los Angeles Zoo for a full day of adventure.

Precautions

Griffith Observatory can get quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so patience is key. The parking lot often fills up quickly; consider using public transportation or a rideshare service to avoid the hassle of parking. Griffith Park is large and can be easy to get lost in, so be sure to carry a map or use a GPS device. There are uneven trails and steep paths, so wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. Lastly, be mindful of wildlife in the park and adhere to posted guidelines to ensure a safe visit.

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