Sitting near Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory has a vantage point that allows visitors great views of the HOLLYWOOD sign during the day, and even more fantastic views of the stars at night. The space has plenty of telescopes for stargazing, but it’s also a great informal setting for learning about the universe, thanks to a large exhibit space and a 290-seat planetarium that puts on rotating shows about topics ranging from the northern lights to water—and possibly alien life—on other planets. There is no entrance fee for the institution and just a small admission price for the planetarium itself.
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Stargazing at Los Angeles's Window to the Cosmos
Sitting near Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory has a vantage point that allows visitors great views of the HOLLYWOOD sign during the day, and even more fantastic views of the stars at night. The space has plenty of telescopes for stargazing, but it’s also a great informal setting for learning about the universe, thanks to a large exhibit space and a 290-seat planetarium that puts on rotating shows about topics ranging from the northern lights to water—and possibly alien life—on other planets. There is no entrance fee for the institution and just a small admission price for the planetarium itself.
Observations At Griffith
You can spend all day and night trying to catch a glimpse of a celebrity, but if you really want to see some stars then head up to the Griffith Observatory. With free admission and an excellent view of the greater Los Angeles area, this is a great way to get away from the infamous LA traffic. Take advantage of the many free features inside the observatory including a working tesla coil, an interactive solar system display, and, on clear evenings, free public telescopes. I strongly suggest attending a show at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. Tickets are cheap, $3 to $7, plus the shows are narrated by current acting students from local universities. Their rich, deep voices, along with the right amount of panache, give the whole experience a sort of “Morgan Freeman” type effect.
Hidden LA: Hike to Griffith Observatory
This easy one-hour roundtrip hike starting from Fern Dell is best way to experience the beauty of the Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Hills, and stunning views of Los Angeles. Afterward, reward yourself with brunch or lunch at the charming and yummy Trails Cafe!
Seeing Past the Heavens at the Griffith Observatory
When I’m feeling particularly sick and tired of living in Los Angeles, I challenge myself to keep exploring new places in my city that I’ve never been to before. My husband and I recently visited the Griffith Observatory for the first time and the view up there helped me to see my city with new eyes. Looking at the city lights from such a beautiful space reminded me of why I’m proud to be an Angeleno.
Griffith Park Observatory
San Francisco has Golden Gate, Manhattan has Central, Brooklyn has Prospect…LA has Griffith Park. The grounds are sprawling and a maze of roads. The Observatory has a royal perch over the city with a location-specific view to remind you that yes, you are in Los Angeles and there is the whole city in all its (slightly smog-hazed) glory! You can’t see the smog at night, but you can see a clear view of Orion and other constellations you’ll learn about inside the Griffith Observatory’s museum.
Griffith park observatory
A beautiful historic observatory that is now a museum filled with planetary education. Not only will you learn new things about our solar system here, it is also one of the best views in all of Los Angeles, giving you a great 180 degree view of the beautiful city
Classic, Cozy and Chic in Los Feliz
The trendy hillside neighborhood where Mickey Mouse was born has come into its own as a cultural destination. Hiking through its hills to the iconic landmarks of Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign is a rewarding effort with panoramic city views. New stylish boutiques, cafes, and restaurants pop up regularly along the cluster of streets between Hillhurst, Vermont, and Franklin Avenues. Classic neighborhood staples include the retro Fred 62 diner, cozy vintage Los Feliz 3 cinemas, and the Dresden Room’s old-school piano lounge, made famous by the movie Swingers.