Griffith Observatory

The basics

The public observatory, whose construction was the dying wish of Welsh-born industrialist Griffith J. Griffith, shows a side of Los Angeles focused on scientific breakthroughs and art deco glamor rather than celebrity worship—and it is one of the city’s true must-sees. While you can join a tour to Griffith Park to catch the views and check the observatory off the sightseeing list, you can easily visit yourself, least of all because admission is free. Shows at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium require tickets purchased on-site and day-of.

Things to know before you go

• Admission to the observatory building, grounds, and public telescopes is always free.

• Don’t miss Hugo Ballin’s murals depicting the “Advancement of Science” on the main rotunda’s vaulted ceiling.

• The Zeiss telescope is free for public use every night the observatory is open and the sky is clear.

• Parking can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays; consider arriving early or using alternative transportation options.

• Sit down for casual meals at the End of the Universe café on the lower level.

• Planetarium shows play every 60 to 90 minutes.

• Find public restrooms next to the observatory parking lot.

How to get there

Griffith Observatory is in Griffith Park on the south side of Mt. Hollywood, accessible by car, public transportation, or the hiking trails starting from the Greek Theatre or Fern Dell. Paid parking is available on-site, and a DASH bus route provides service from the Vermont/Sunset Metro Red Line station to the observatory’s entrance every 20-30 minutes.

When to get there

To avoid the busiest times, visit outside of weekends, summer and holiday periods, and sunset—though you’ll risk missing the views. The observatory is open Tuesday to Friday from 12pm to 10pm, and from 10am to 10pm on Saturday and Sunday. Griffith Park is open daily from 5am to 10:30pm.

What’s playing at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium

Every show at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium is presented by a live storyteller accompanied by a state-of-the-art Zeiss star projector and theatrical lighting. These presentations vary throughout the year but tend to focus on humanity’s place in the universe, the nature of our ecosystems, and the search for life in our galaxy and beyond.

Ways to explore

The public observatory is one of LA’s true must-sees. Though you can visit independently—admission to the building, grounds, and public telescopes is always free—guided tours offer insight that makes the trip even more worthwhile. Thanks to its status as an LA landmark, Griffith Observatory is included on most classic sightseeing tours. Alternatively, take a guided hike through Griffith Park for views that only get better as you go up. For a more immersive experience, look for tours led by expert scientists who answer all your questions about the cosmos.

Accessibility

Griffith Observatory is fully wheelchair accessible, with manual wheelchairs available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. The observatory also offers immersive experiences for visitors who are blind or deaf, or have low vision or are hard of hearing.

Age limits

The observatory is open to all ages, but the Samuel Oschin Planetarium generally requires children to be at least 5 years old to enter.

What to pack

Credit card to pay for parking, reusable water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes for hitting the trails, layers to stay comfortable in both indoor and outdoor settings

Not allowed

Eating and drinking outside of designated areas, disruptive behavior inside the observatory, smoking or vaping anywhere on the property

Amenities

Restrooms, water fountains, hiking trails, café, gift shop

Address 

Griffith Observatory is in Griffith Park on the south side of Mount Hollywood. You can get there by car, public transportation, or by taking the hiking trails starting from the Greek Theatre or Fern Dell.

Driving

Try to avoid driving if possible; parking is limited, and the road often closes when traffic becomes congested. If you do drive, take I-5 or US 101 to Los Feliz Boulevard. Paid parking is available on-site.

Public transportation

The low-cost DASH bus provides service from the Vermont/Sunset metro station to the observatory’s entrance every 20–25 minutes. It costs just 50 cents to ride; make sure you have exact change.

Best times to visit

Visit at sunset if you can stand the crowds, then stay to stargaze through the free public telescopes on the roof and lawn.

Best days to visit

Plan your visit between Tuesday and Thursday to avoid the weekend crowds. The observatory is closed on Mondays.

Best months to visit

Los Angeles can be sweltering in the summer. Plan your trip for spring (March–May) or fall (September–November) for more pleasant weather.

Special events

The observatory is the best place to be during astronomical events such as solstices, equinoxes, and eclipses, which are often accompanied by special educational programming.