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Getting to the Griffith Observatory can be an adventure all on its own. The observatory is located high on a hill which requires you to drive up a narrow and winding road but the destination is more than worth the drive. I have gone in the late afternoon and at night. My recommendation is to get there before the sunset but to stay until you can see the stars. Not only is the view here fabulous but it is even better since you the Griffith Observatory admission is free. Both times I had to park pretty far away so I would encourage to wear walking shoes. Parking is free though finding a parking spot can be a challenge since this is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Did you know that the observatory has been used as a filming location for movies and tv shows? Movies like La La Land, Rebel Without A Cause, and Jurassic Park have filmed scenes here. Tv shows like Beverly Hills, 90210, Melrose Place, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Agent Carter have filmed here as well. Filmmakers and everyone else who come here do so because of the beautiful view of the city.
On my first visit to the Griffith Observatory I went with my mom and a friend. That night was a public star party. Lots of volunteers had come and set up telescopes. There were several telescopes set up on the lawn and an extremely big permanent telescope is on top of the observatory. On that particular night we were able to see Jupiter as well as an amazing view of the moon and stars. You do not need to pay to be at the observatory but there is a fee if you decide to see any of the programs in the Planetarium.
Posing with my friend in front of the Griffith Observatory at the Public Star Party
The Griffith Observatory hosts several events like the public star parties and provides opportunities to learn about as well as see the stars and planets above. Both times that I have visited the observatory I was shocked by how long the lines were for the telescopes so let this be a word of warning. On my second visit my friend and I were on top of the building waiting to look out of a gigantic telescope. When we got in line it did not seem like it would take too long.
Well we could not see how far inside the line went and we did not realize that every so often the telescope would need to be readjusted. I would say that we ended up waiting around an hour and a half and while it was really cool it was a very long time to wait so if the lines look short jump right on in. In addition to all of the wonderful telescopes and information that the Griffith Observatory has to offer it is also an incredible location to view the Hollywood sign from as well as the city of Los Angeles.
The lights from Los Angeles make for a great background
While you do need to pay to go in the Planetarium there is a free film shown called The Once and Future Griffith Observatory which is on my to do list for my next visit. One thing that I have learned from my visits to the observatory is that it is best to visit when you do not have anywhere you need to want to be after. That way you are not rushed and it doesn’t really matter if the lines take a long time.
What to know before your visit: the Griffith Observatory is closed on Mondays. If you would like to purchase tickets for the Planetarium they only accept Visa, MasterCard or Discover. And good news they do offer free wifi if you need it!
Wow Today our post was all about the Things to do in Los Angeles and we very briefly mentioned The Griffith Observatory for star Gazing literally. Yes its quite a steep climb and can be a bit much for anyone with health issues or knee injury. Yet the views are breathtaking and worth the visit.
Thanks for sharing.
Griffith Observatory seems like an interesting place will make sure visit while I am in California gif I am in the area. looks like you had a great time with your friend.
Sounds like a great time at the observatory and it sounds like it can be a bit crowed too. I’d love to visit sometime if it’s at all possible. I want to travel the world one day.
The Griffith Observatory looks like a great place! I wish I lived closer. Thanks for sharing.
I will have to check out your post and make sure i’m not missing out on awesome things to do in LA
Observatories are stunning aren’t they? But not always accessible for everyone!
That looks like such an awesome place to see the city and all the lights! I would love to make sure to stop by there when we visit!
This would be a cool place to visit. We dont have a star gazer here
That’s such a lovely place, it would be nice to go there at night so you can observe all the stars! Thanks for sharing your experience.
Very interesting indeed! Thanks for sharing.
Griffith Observatory is a wonderful adventure. The show of starts and planets right above the head is so thrilling.
These are great tips. I’ll have to visit one day.
This sounds like a really cool place to visit, and to spend a few unrushed hours! I bet at dusk is an amazing time to be at the Observatory. Thanks for sharing!
What an interesting place to visit. My son would be very interested in this.
I had no idea that was even there. I’m heading to LA in March, I now feel like I need to check it out! Thanks!!
Wow what a beautiful place! I’ve never heard of the Griffith Observatory but I would love to check it out if I’m ever in LA :)
I bet it has a spectacular view, I would love to visit some day!
I bet it looks beautiful at night. I love going to places like this with my husband.
Thanks for sharing adding this on my list of things to do. The views of the Hollywood sign look so nice.
Oh wow that looks like a lot of fun! I would love to visit some day… when the kids are gone and I’m probably retired. LOL
This is great. I would love to visit. Thanks for sharing. :)
I’ve never been there! Sounds like a very interesting place
this sounds like a lovely place to go. may just have to add it to my wish list of places to visit whilst travelling,