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Griffith Observatory

2800 E Observatory Rd · Los Angeles, CA

Why you should go…

Opened in 1935, Griffith Observatory offers free entry to its exhibit halls, telescope viewing, and panoramic views over Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign. The domed planetarium runs ticketed sky shows, and the front lawn is one of the most photographed spots in the city at sunset.

  • #planetarium
  • #views
  • #free
  • #astronomy
  • #griffith park

Good to know

General museums guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Check the special exhibition separately

    Touring shows usually carry their own ticket and their own opening hours, listed apart from general admission.

  • Look for the free window

    Many museums run community days, member evenings, or discounted late openings. It is worth a look before you pay full price.

  • Travel light through the door

    Large bags and backpacks often have to go to a coat check, and lines for it move slowly at opening.

  • Weekday mornings beat weekend afternoons

    School groups clear out by early afternoon midweek, while weekends stay busy from late morning on.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Griffith Observatory, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sightseeing
    Iconic

    Hollywood Sign

    Free

    The nine white letters in the Hollywood Hills are the most recognized symbol of the movie industry.

    1.6 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Shopping
    Local Gem

    Amoeba Music Hollywood

    Free

    A sprawling independent record store on Hollywood Boulevard selling new and used vinyl, CDs, and movies.

    1.8 mi awaySwitch it up: Shopping

  • Theatre & Events
    Date Night

    Hollywood Pantages Theatre

    $50+

    A restored 1930 Art Deco movie palace that now hosts touring Broadway musicals.

    1.9 mi awaySwitch it up: Theatre & Events

  • Museums
    Local Gem

    Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

    Under $25

    The largest art museum in the western United States, next to Chris Burden's iconic streetlamp forest.

    5.0 mi awayMore like this

  • Museums
    Quirky Fun

    Petersen Automotive Museum

    Under $25

    A car-lover's museum in a striking stainless-steel-ribboned building on Museum Row.

    5.2 mi awayMore like this

  • Museums
    Iconic

    The Getty Center

    Free

    A hilltop art campus with European masterpieces, gardens, and free admission for everyone.

    10 mi awayMore like this