1 / 2Griffith Observatory
π Griffith Park, CA
Griffith Observatory on Mount Hollywood offers free admission to 60 interactive astronomy exhibits, Samuel Oschin Planetarium shows, free public telescope viewing, and Tesla Coil demonstrations with panoramic views of LA and the Hollywood Sign.
Griffith Observatory is a Los Angeles Icon with Unreal Views Griffith Observatory is one of those rare places that somehow feels both legendary and completely welcoming at the same time. Sitting high above Los Angeles in Griffith Park, it delivers some of the best panoramic views in Southern California, including clear sights of the Hollywood Sign, the sprawling LA skyline, and the surrounding mountains that glow gold near sunset. What makes this spot truly special is how it blends science, history, and cinematic beauty into one unforgettable experience. The building itself is stunning inside and out, especially the famous rotunda ceiling mural beneath the central dome. Step outside and every direction feels like a postcard waiting to happen. Sunset into twilight is the magic window, when the city lights begin to sparkle and the observatory takes on that classic Hollywood movie atmosphere. A huge bonus is that admission to the observatory is free, making this easily one of the best value attractions in Los Angeles. Parking near the top fills quickly, so arriving earlier in the day or using the park shuttle is a great tip to save time. If you enjoy astronomy, donβt miss the public telescope viewing at night when available. Whether itβs your first visit or your tenth, Griffith Observatory never loses its sense of wonder. Scenic, educational, peaceful, and cinematic all at once, this is an absolute must-visit Los Angeles landmark.
π Family Action Verdict
Best for families with school-age kids interested in space, science, or simply spectacular cityscapes. The exhibits engage curious minds; the views reward everyone. Arrive one hour before sunset to catch telescope viewing as natural light fades β this is the single most memorable experience the observatory offers.
βΉοΈ What to Know Before You Go
π¬ What Families Are Saying
View all reviews β17,237 Google reviews
Hector Murillo
a month ago
βGriffith Observatory is a Los Angeles Icon with Unreal Views Griffith Observatory is one of those rare places that somehow feels both legendary and completely welcoming at the same time. Sitting high above Los Angeles in Griffith Park, it delivers some of the best panoramic views in Southern California, including clear sights of the Hollywood Sign, the sprawling LA skyline, and the surrounding mountains that glow gold near sunset. What makes this spot truly special is how it blends science, history, and cinematic beauty into one unforgettable experience. The building itself is stunning inside and out, especially the famous rotunda ceiling mural beneath the central dome. Step outside and every direction feels like a postcard waiting to happen. Sunset into twilight is the magic window, when the city lights begin to sparkle and the observatory takes on that classic Hollywood movie atmosphere. A huge bonus is that admission to the observatory is free, making this easily one of the best value attractions in Los Angeles. Parking near the top fills quickly, so arriving earlier in the day or using the park shuttle is a great tip to save time. If you enjoy astronomy, donβt miss the public telescope viewing at night when available. Whether itβs your first visit or your tenth, Griffith Observatory never loses its sense of wonder. Scenic, educational, peaceful, and cinematic all at once, this is an absolute must-visit Los Angeles landmark.β
Luis Miguel
a month ago
βA one of a kind landmark for this amazing city i call home. In my youth I was fascinated by what lied beyond our world, so I would go here and there to learn and be mesmerized. Now as an adult I can stay as long as I wish. The DASH observatory bus available at Vermont and Sunset station makes it simple to access. The architecture, the view spanning the entire series courtesy of the landmark being situated on mountains, and the deeply informative exhibits within the building and outside by staff makes the Observatory a worthwhile spot to see if you're ever visiting, after all its free to enter.β
T G
a month ago
βFirst of all, you canβt beat free! But more importantly, the narrators all seem to love their job. Very insightful and entertaining speakers. They seem very well educated and informed about what theyβre speaking about. Everything was clean and well kept and easy to navigate. Parking was super simple as well, but we did go at 12 oβclock in the afternoon. Make sure to check when the sunsets and arrive one hour early if you want to look through the telescopes. The experience was beautiful nonetheless with nice views of LA.β
Jack Qiu
a month ago
βThe scenery here is beautiful, offering a panoramic view of Los Angeles. It's truly spectacular, nestled right next to the Hollywood Hills. The location is fantastic; I fell in love with it on my first visit. The exhibits of aerospace equipment and telescopes are incredibly valuable historically. It's simply a wonderful place. It's a pity I'm back in China now, but I'll definitely go back. I'm looking forward to seeing you again!β
Reviews from Google
Overview
Perched on Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, this observatory delivers 360-degree views across Los Angeles alongside 60 interactive astronomy exhibits. The Samuel Oschin Planetarium runs live narrated presentations throughout the day; Tesla Coil demonstrations and monthly star parties extend the programming. Public telescope viewing is free on clear nights. The DASH shuttle from Vermont/Sunset station provides a reliable alternative to driving up the hill.







