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Griffith Observatory

Write a Review Los Angeles, California All ages Verified•Science Museum

Last reviewed June 2026 by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

About Griffith Observatory

Peer through free public telescopes and catch a planetarium show high above Los Angeles.

Perched on the south slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, this landmark observatory is a free gateway to the cosmos. It blends space science with sweeping views of Los Angeles.

What you'll see and do - Explore 60 exhibits about humanity's curiosity about the sky and the universe. - Catch a live show at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium or a film at the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater. - Look through free public telescopes and pick up tips for backyard viewing. - Step outside for trails and views of the Hollywood Sign within Griffith Park.

Attraction Details

Facilities

  • Toilets
  • Gift Shop
  • Baby Changing
  • Food Options
  • Parking
  • Pushchair Friendly
  • Wheelchair Friendly

Events at Griffith Observatory

  • After Hours at Griffith Observatory: Spaceballs

    May 4, 2026

    The Griffith Observatory Foundation hosts an after-hours evening in celebration of Star Wars Day, featuring a screening of Mel Brooks’ iconic science-fiction parody Spaceballs.

  • Public Star Party – May 17, 2026

    May 17, 2026

    Once a month, the Observatory partners with local telescope groups to share their telescopes and knowledge with the public, offering dozens of telescopes on the lawn.

  • All Space Considered – May 2026

    May 21, 2026

    Griffith Observatory broadcasts this public program live from the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater, examining and explaining the most-talked-about subjects in astronomy and space science.

  • ABOVE – Night Gallery: The Stars of the Summer

    June 15, 2026

    Experience the wonder of the cosmos through a guided journey into the night sky.

  • All Space Considered – June 2026

    June 18, 2026

    Griffith Observatory broadcasts this public program live from the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater, examining and explaining the most-talked-about subjects in astronomy and space science.

  • Public Star Party – June 20, 2026

    June 20, 2026

    Once a month, the Observatory partners with local telescope groups to share their telescopes and knowledge with the public, offering dozens of telescopes on the lawn.

  • All Space Considered – July 2026

    July 16, 2026

    Griffith Observatory broadcasts this public program live from the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater, examining and explaining the most-talked-about subjects in astronomy and space science.

  • Public Star Party – July 18, 2026

    July 18, 2026

    Once a month, the Observatory partners with local telescope groups to share their telescopes and knowledge with the public, offering dozens of telescopes on the lawn.

  • ABOVE

    July 27, 2026

    A program presented by the Griffith Observatory Foundation, encouraging participants to meet above the city lights to experience the vast night sky.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Griffith Observatory.

Best time to visit

Arrive within the first hour of opening for the shortest queues and best photo light.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Onsite or nearby parking available at 2800 E Observatory Rd.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Griffith Observatory

2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

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This attraction has been claimed and verified.

Last updated 6/23/2026

Griffith Observatory Reviews

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