Griffith Observatory and Beyond: Top Things to Do

Griffith Observatory and Beyond: Top Things to DoNestled on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory is one of Los Angeles’s most iconic landmarks — part science museum, part cultural symbol, and part gateway to sweeping views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. Visiting the observatory is rarely just a single stop: it’s a day of exploration that can include hiking, planetarium shows, architecture appreciation, stargazing, and discovering nearby parks and neighborhoods. This article covers must-see attractions at the observatory itself and presents the best things to do in the surrounding Griffith Park and nearby areas.

Why visit Griffith Observatory?

Griffith Observatory opened in 1935 and was gifted to the city by Griffith J. Griffith with the mission to make astronomy accessible to the public. Today it still serves that purpose, offering free public telescopes, affordable planetarium shows, hands-on exhibits, and a stunning art deco building that’s become a cinematic backdrop for films like Rebel Without a Cause and La La Land. Beyond the exhibits, the observatory’s location provides panoramic views of Los Angeles, making it an excellent spot for photographers, tourists, and locals alike.

Plan your visit: practical tips

• Hours and admission: The observatory building is typically open most days, and general admission to the grounds and exhibits is free; the Samuel Oschin Planetarium shows require a paid ticket. Check the official site for current hours and showtimes before you go.
• Parking and transit: Parking on-site is limited and often fills early on weekends and holidays. Consider taking public transit, rideshare, or parking lower in Griffith Park (e.g., Fern Dell or Greek Theatre areas) and hiking up. Weekday mornings and late afternoons are less crowded.
• Best times to go: For daytime cityscape views and sunsets, arrive 60–90 minutes before sunset. For stargazing and the public telescope, check evening schedules; the lines can be long but move steadily.
• Accessibility: Paths and many exhibits are wheelchair accessible, though some trails and viewpoint spots involve steep walking.

Inside the observatory: highlights

• Samuel Oschin Planetarium: A state-of-the-art dome theater offering immersive astronomy shows. Shows are informative and family-friendly; buy tickets early for popular programs.
• Tesla coil and Foucault pendulum: Hands-on exhibits that demonstrate electricity and Earth’s rotation — engaging for both kids and adults.
• Public telescopes and rooftop observing: When weather allows, the observatory offers public telescope viewing sessions, including a historic Zeiss refractor. It’s an unforgettable experience to view planets, the Moon, and star clusters through such instruments.
• Exhibits and galleries: Displays cover the solar system, telescopes through history, and the cultural significance of astronomy. Special exhibits rotate periodically.
• Building architecture and murals: The art deco design and interior murals add cultural and historical interest beyond the science content.

Griffith Park: outdoor activities and trails

Griffith Observatory sits within Griffith Park — one of the largest urban parks in North America — which offers dozens of miles of trails, picnic areas, and recreational facilities.

• Mount Hollywood Trail: A moderate hike that rewards you with 360° views of Los Angeles and a close-up perspective of the Hollywood Sign.
• Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round and Travel Town: Family-friendly attractions nearby; Travel Town has historic trains that children can explore.
• Fern Dell Nature Trail: A short, shaded walk with lush foliage, seasonal streams, and benches — ideal for a quieter nature break.
• Bronson Canyon (Bronson Caves): Famous as a filming location for many movies and TV shows, it’s a fun short hike with a cavernous cave at the end.
• Elysian Park and Los Feliz neighborhood walks: Combine park strolling with visits to local cafes and bakeries in Los Feliz.

Photography and viewpoints

• Griffith Observatory terraces: Provide sweeping views of downtown Los Angeles, the Pacific, and the valley neighborhoods — ideal at golden hour.
• Mount Hollywood summit: Best for panoramic shots and sunrise/sunset photography.
• Lake Hollywood Reservoir: A quieter spot with reflections of the Hollywood Sign and tree-lined surroundings.
• Observatory at night: The building and its lights make for dramatic night photography; use a tripod for long exposures to capture city light trails.

Nearby cultural attractions

• Hollywood Bowl and Greek Theatre: Both major outdoor performance venues within or adjacent to Griffith Park; check event calendars for concerts and performances.
• Los Angeles Zoo: Located inside Griffith Park; a full day with family-friendly exhibits and animal encounters.
• The Autry Museum of the American West: Offers art, history, and cultural exhibits relating to the American West, located within Griffith Park.
• Los Feliz and Hollywood: Walkable neighborhoods with restaurants, bars, indie shops, and historic theaters for a post-visit meal or drink.

Food and rest stops

• Trailside Cafe (when open) and nearby cafes in Los Feliz offer coffee and light meals; picnic in the park to enjoy views without leaving the grounds.
• Consider packing water and snacks — hiking and high temperatures can dehydrate visitors quickly.

Events and special programs

The observatory hosts astronomy nights, special lectures, and themed events (e.g., eclipse viewing parties). Planetarium show schedules and guest speaker events change seasonally — check the observatory’s official calendar for up-to-date listings.

Suggested day itineraries

• Quick visit (2–3 hours): Park lower, walk up to the observatory, explore exhibits and terraces, watch a short planetarium show if time allows.
• Full day (6–8 hours): Morning hike to Mount Hollywood, picnic at Fern Dell, afternoon visit to the observatory and planetarium, sunset photos, and an evening public telescope session.
• Family day: Start at Travel Town or the merry-go-round, stop by the zoo, then the observatory for an early evening show.

Safety and preservation

Stay on marked trails, carry sufficient water, wear sunscreen and appropriate footwear. Help preserve the park by carrying out trash and respecting wildlife and plant life.

Final notes

A trip to Griffith Observatory is more than a museum visit — it’s a layered experience combining science, nature, architecture, and stunning views of Los Angeles. Whether you come for a planetarium show, a sunset hike, or to spot the Hollywood Sign, plan ahead for parking and timing to make the most of your visit.