The Griffith Observatory is another notable building perched upon the hill which overlooks the city of Angels, with the observatory actually being located adjacent to the iconic Hollywood sign. The Griffith Observatory gives visitors a truly fascinating insight into the universe, along with some light-hearted and entertaining exhibits that make the experience of peering into this extra-terrestrial ether both fun and informative. There is also the opportunity to gaze upon the actual constellations and planets by using the observatory’s telescopes which are fully available to visitors.First opened in 1935, the Griffith Observatory has become one of the most famous landmarks in Los Angeles, not least because it has appeared in numerous feature films. It is perhaps most famous for appearing in the Arnold Schwarzenegger flick ‘The Terminator’ along with James Dean’s infamous movie ‘Rebel Without a Cause’. The Griffith Observatory is also famed for its contribution to space exploration. The Apollo astronauts in particular spent a significant amount of time learning about the universe that they would be encountering aboard the space shuttle. As well as 60 space-related exhibits held within the observatory’s walls, the observatory also houses a 300-seat planetarium beneath the Griffith Observation’s central dome. There is also a multimedia theatre which offers a range of educational programmes and activities.The Zeiss refracting telescope and a range of solar telescopes, housed within the complex allow visitors to scan the skies to try to spot some of the universe’s notable bodies. The observatory also holds monthly star parties which allow you to peer at the moon, stars and other celestial bodies with other space enthusiasts. There are also observatory areas set throughout the grounds to give different vantage points on the universe.The Griffith Observatory is a fascinating and educational attraction for any Los Angeles visitor, and as well as offering the opportunity to gaze at the stars, the twinkling lights of the city below at night is another spectacular sight to behold. Open five days a week, from Wednesday to Sunday, the observatory is generally closed during public holidays. Admission is free.
Griffith Observatory Tours and Activities
Visit Griffith Observatory
Plan a trip to see Griffith Observatory
Hollywood Inn Suites Hotel
Reviewed on 15 Apr. 2024
1 Hotel West Hollywood
Reviewed on 18 Apr. 2024
Theme parks
See all 4 activitiesOpens in new tabKnott's Berry Farm Tickets
Holiday & seasonal tours
See all 35 activitiesOpens in new tabKnott's Berry Farm Tickets
Attractions
See all 22 activitiesOpens in new tabKnott's Berry Farm Tickets
History & culture
See all 214 activitiesOpens in new tabWarner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
Shopping & fashion
See all 17 activitiesOpens in new tabLos Angeles: City Sightseeing Hop-On, Hop-Off
Popular places to visit
Greek Theatre
You can get tickets for a performance at Greek Theatre during your trip to Los Angeles. Experience the great live music and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.
Bronson Caves
Explore the great outdoors at Bronson Caves and enjoy the beautiful sunsets during your trip to Los Angeles. Experience the entertainment choices or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area.
Griffith Park
One of the largest urban parks in the United States is renowned for its exceptional observatory and large zoo.
Hollywood Sign
You can learn about the history of Los Angeles with a trip to Hollywood Sign. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Capitol Records Tower
Stand outside the headquarters of the storied label that has recorded music for legends such as Nat King Cole, Paul McCartney and the Beach Boys.
Pantages Theatre
You can make plans for a show at Pantages Theatre during your trip to Los Angeles. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Top Griffith Observatory Hotel & Accommodation Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Griffith Observatory
- Holidays and getaways similar to Griffith Observatory
- Are there hotels near Griffith Observatory?
- Hotels near popular Los Angeles Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood
- Hotels near Crypto.com Arena
- Hotels near Los Angeles Convention Center
- Hotels near Dodger Stadium
- Hotels near Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Hotels near SoFi Stadium
- Hotels near Forum
- Hotels near Hollywood Boulevard
- Hotels near Rodeo Drive
- Hotels near Universal CityWalk
- Hotels near Sunset Strip
- Hotels near The Grove
- Hotels near Rose Bowl Stadium
- Hotels near University of California
- Hotels near Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- Hotels near L.A. Live
- Hotels near Melrose Avenue
- Hotels near Warner Brothers Studio
- Hotels near Echo Park Lake
- Hotels near Hollywood Sign