Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory's shows, public telescopes and astronomy exhibits have been transforming everyday visitors into observers for over 60 years. Located on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, the observatory re-opened in 2006 after a $93 million renovation project. Today, guests can explore exhibits about how people observed the sky in the past at the Wilder Hall of the Eye, or see the one of the largest public solar telescopes in the United States at the Ahmanson Hall of the Sky. Visitors can also stop outside at one of several coin-operated telescopes to check out the Los Angeles basin and surrounding mountains with an expert view.

With of the largest planetarium domes in the world and the most sophisticated star project in the world, the observatory's Samuel Oschin Planetarium immerses up to 300 guests in films such as Centered in the Universe. The 200-seat, multi-media Leonard Nimroy Event Horizon theater hosts educational activities, live transmissions of space events and scientific training seminars. Visitors can also check out The Once and Future Griffith Observatory, an 18-minute film about the observatory's renovation and expansion.

Observatory space can be rented for events or commercial filming only when a clear link to its mission of public astronomy and science is made. Griffith Observatory is open Tuesday through Friday from noon to 10 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 10 PM. Admission is free. Planetarium shows run Tuesday through Friday and Saturday and Sunday at varying times. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis in blocks of two to three shows at a time. Tickets are $3 for children ages 5-12 and seniors and $7 for adults and children ages 13 and older. For more information: 213-473-0800