Griffith Observatory is a Los Angeles city landmark that’s been watching over the skyline since 1935. It's perched on the southern slopes of Mount Hollywood and is a bucket-list destination for astronomy buffs. Inside you can check out the world’s most hi-tech star projector and discover interactive exhibits on ultraviolet x-rays and the history of the telescope.
Don't miss the chance to peer into the Zeiss Telescope and embark on a tour of the universe in the Planetarium. You can also watch fascinating documentaries in the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theatre.
The views from Griffith Observatory stretch across the City of Los Angeles towards Hollywood Hills and the Pacific Ocean. The observatory is also a popular place to snap selfies with the Hollywood Sign. After sunset, you can stargaze from public telescopes that are wheeled out onto the lawn.
Getting there
Griffith Observatory is in Griffith Park, a 25-minute drive from Downtown Los Angeles. The DASH Observatory shuttle bus whisks passengers between the Vermont/Sunset metro station and Griffith Observatory. Local buses also stop outside the main entrance and along Mount Hollywood Drive. Parking is available on site.