Perched atop the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory is not only a haven for stargazers but also an iconic symbol of Los Angeles.
Offering breathtaking views of the Los Angeles basin, including the famous Hollywood Sign and the Pacific Ocean, this public observatory draws millions of visitors every year.
How to Get to Griffith Observatory
Parking: While admission to the observatory is free, parking can be a bit of a challenge, especially on weekends. There is a paid parking lot near the observatory that charges around $10 per hour. Alternatively, you can park further down in Griffith Park and hike up to the observatory.
Public Transportation: If you’d rather skip the hassle of parking, you can take advantage of the DASH Observatory bus, which provides an affordable and convenient way to reach the observatory from Hollywood and Vine Metro Station. The bus fare is just $0.50 for adults.
A Brief History of Griffith Observatory
The Vision of Griffith J. Griffith: The observatory owes its existence to philanthropist Griffith J. Griffith, who donated the land and funds to build a facility that would make astronomy accessible to the public. His goal was to create a place where people could look through telescopes and "see the stars." Opened in 1935, the observatory remains true to that mission, offering free admission to all and hosting numerous public programs.
A Landmark of Education: Over the years, the observatory has been a hub for learning, discovery, and space exploration. Its iconic Art Deco structure has become a cultural landmark in Los Angeles, often featured in films and television shows. Today, the Griffith Observatory continues to inspire curiosity about the universe, combining science, history, and stunning views.
What to See and Do at Griffith Observatory
The Zeiss Telescope: One of the main attractions is the 12-inch Zeiss refracting telescope, which has been offering public viewings since the observatory opened. On clear nights, visitors can use the telescope to observe celestial objects like the Moon, planets, and distant stars. The telescope offers a chance to connect with the vastness of the universe firsthand.
Planetarium Shows: Inside the observatory, the Samuel Oschin Planetarium features captivating shows that explore the cosmos. With state-of-the-art digital projections and live narration, the planetarium takes you on an immersive journey through the stars, planets, and galaxies. Tickets for the planetarium shows are around $7 for adults and $5 for children and seniors.
Exhibits on Space and Science: The observatory houses several exhibits that cover topics such as the solar system, space exploration, and the history of astronomy. "The Big Picture" exhibit is a popular attraction that showcases a massive photograph of the night sky, containing millions of stars and galaxies. From the Foucault Pendulum demonstrating Earth's rotation to displays about our place in the universe, there’s no shortage of engaging and informative exhibits to explore.
Stunning Views of Los Angeles
The Best Spot for Views: One of the most spectacular aspects of the Griffith Observatory is the panoramic view it offers of Los Angeles. From the terrace, you can see the entire city skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and the San Gabriel Mountains. During sunset, the observatory is a favorite spot for photographers and visitors alike, capturing the golden hues over LA.
Hollywood Sign: The observatory also provides one of the best views of the iconic Hollywood Sign. It's a great spot for taking photos of this legendary landmark, and the surrounding park offers hiking trails for those who want to get a bit closer to the sign itself.
Hiking and Outdoor Exploration
Trails in Griffith Park: The observatory is located within Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. If you're in the mood for a hike, the park has a network of trails that offer everything from easy walks to more challenging routes. The trails provide great opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Los Angeles while enjoying fresh air and scenic views.
The Griffith Park Loop: A popular trail is the Griffith Park Loop, which takes you from the base of the park up to the observatory. The trail is about 4 miles round-trip and offers stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Hills along the way.
6. Special Events and Star Parties
Monthly Star Parties: On one Saturday every month, the observatory hosts "Star Parties," where members of local astronomy clubs bring their telescopes to the lawn for public viewing. These events are family-friendly and give visitors the chance to look at the Moon, planets, and other celestial objects while learning from knowledgeable astronomers.
Seasonal Events: Throughout the year, the Griffith Observatory hosts a variety of special programs, including lectures, stargazing events, and astronomy workshops. These events are designed to engage the public in learning more about space and our place in the universe.
The Griffith Observatory is more than just a gateway to the stars-it’s an iconic destination that brings together science, nature, and culture in a way that only Los Angeles can. Hiking through Griffith Park, or gazing up at the cosmos through the Zeiss telescope, a visit to this observatory will leave you inspired and in awe of the universe around us.
