Stargazing and Science at Griffith Observatory
Discover the wonders of the universe at Griffith Observatory, where science meets stunning views in the heart of Los Angeles.
Griffith Observatory is a must-visit destination in Los Angeles, ideal for tourists seeking breathtaking views of the stars and the city. Enjoy interactive exhibits, stunning architecture, and the chance to gaze through powerful telescopes.
A brief summary to Griffith Observatory
- 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, Griffith Park, California, 90027, US
- +1213-473-0800
- Visit website
- Tuesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-10 pm
- Friday 12 pm-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the evening for the best stargazing opportunities and to see the city lights.
- Check the schedule for special events and telescope viewings to enhance your experience.
- Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the exhibits before the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many trails in Griffith Park to explore before or after your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to the Griffith Observatory from downtown Los Angeles, start by getting onto the US-101 N freeway. Continue on US-101 N for about 5 miles, then take the exit toward Hollywood Blvd. Merge onto Hollywood Blvd and continue for about 1.5 miles. Turn left onto N Vermont Ave, then take a right onto Los Feliz Blvd. After about 1 mile, turn left onto E Observatory Rd. Follow E Observatory Rd until you reach the Griffith Observatory parking lot. Note that parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early.
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Public Transportation
To reach Griffith Observatory using public transit, you can take the Metro Red Line subway. Start by finding the nearest Metro station and board the train heading towards North Hollywood. Get off at the Hollywood/Highland Station. From there, transfer to the DASH Observatory bus (Route 222) which goes directly to the Griffith Observatory. The ride will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Make sure to check the DASH bus schedule as it operates less frequently during off-peak hours.
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Car
From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), take the Airport Boulevard to the Sepulveda Blvd N and merge onto I-105 E. After about 2 miles, take the exit to merge onto I-405 N. Continue for about 7 miles and take the exit onto US-101 N toward Hollywood. Follow the same directions as above from US-101 N.
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Public Transportation
If you are near Santa Monica, take the Big Blue Bus Line 1 towards Downtown Santa Monica and transfer to the Metro Expo Line at the 26th St/Bergamot Station. Take the Expo Line to the Washington/Crenshaw Station and transfer to the Metro E Line (Expo) towards Union Station. At the Union Station, switch to the Metro Red Line towards North Hollywood and get off at the Hollywood/Highland Station. From there, take the DASH Observatory bus (Route 222) directly to Griffith Observatory.
Discover more about Griffith Observatory
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Astronomers Monument
0.1 km
Discover the Astronomers Monument in Griffith Park, a tribute to celestial pioneers surrounded by stunning views and rich history.
Ennis House
0.7 km
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Two Stone Gates
1.9 km
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All view Terrace Hollyridge Stairs
2.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the All View Terrace Hollyridge Stairs in Hollywood Hills, a hidden gem in Los Angeles.
Stairway to Hollyhock House Barnsdall Park ( UNESCO World Heritage Site )
2.0 km
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Hollywood & Western Building
2.1 km
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Hoover Walk
2.4 km
Explore Hoover Walk in Los Feliz, Los Angeles – a vibrant blend of urban art and nature in the heart of the city.
Holly Mont Vista Del Mar Stairs
2.4 km
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Hollywood Sign
2.6 km
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Hollywood Reservoir
2.8 km
Experience tranquility at the Hollywood Reservoir, a scenic lake in the Hollywood Hills offering stunning views and lush walking trails near the iconic Hollywood sign.
Capitol Records Building
2.9 km
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Bob Odenkirk's Star
3.0 km
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Shakira Of Fame
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Hollywood & Vine
3.0 km
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Hollywood Walk of Fame
3.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Greek Theatre
0.4 km
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2700 N Vermont Canyon Rd
0.4 km
Experience the vast beauty and rich culture of Griffith Park, an urban escape filled with hiking trails, historical attractions, and stunning views of Los Angeles.
Hollywood Peak
1.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene hiking at Hollywood Peak in Griffith Park, a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and Hollywood enthusiasts.
Fern Dell Nature Preserve
1.2 km
Explore the lush landscapes and unique trees of Fern Dell Nature Preserve, a serene escape in the heart of Hollywood Hills for nature lovers and tourists.
Bronson Caves
1.3 km
Explore Bronson Caves: a stunning hiking area in Hollywood Hills with breathtaking views and iconic film history.
Hollyridge Trl
1.8 km
Explore Hollyridge Trail in Los Angeles for breathtaking views, serene nature, and a memorable hiking experience in the Hollywood Hills.
Old Los Angeles Zoo
2.0 km
Discover the captivating history and natural beauty of the Old Los Angeles Zoo in Griffith Park, a perfect blend of adventure and exploration.
Barnsdall Art Park
2.1 km
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Griffith Park
2.1 km
Explore Griffith Park, a vast urban oasis in Los Angeles, featuring hiking trails, the Griffith Observatory, and stunning views of the iconic Hollywood Sign.
The Garden of Oz
2.1 km
Discover a hidden world of art and imagination in the Hollywood Hills at the Garden of Oz, a vibrant mosaic sanctuary.
Hollyhock House
2.1 km
Experience the artistic brilliance of Frank Lloyd Wright at Hollyhock House, a captivating historical landmark in Los Angeles.
Sidewalk Food Tours of Los Angeles
2.1 km
Explore the vibrant culinary landscape of Los Angeles with Sidewalk Food Tours, offering unique tastings and local insights into the city's diverse food culture.
Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round
2.2 km
Experience the charm and nostalgia of Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, a vintage carousel in the heart of Los Angeles that delights visitors of all ages.
HOLLYWOOD'S VILLAGE (A magical village hidden in LA)
2.3 km
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The Last House on Mulholland, in association with L.A. Explained
2.3 km
Discover stunning views and rich history at The Last House on Mulholland, a must-visit scenic spot in Los Angeles for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Carousel Restaurant Hollywood
1.9 km
Experience authentic Armenian and Lebanese cuisine at Carousel Restaurant in Hollywood—where every dish tells a story.
Beachwood Cafe - Restaurant for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner | A Wine Bar & Coffee Cafe
1.9 km
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Home Restaurant
2.1 km
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Palms Thai Restaurant
2.5 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors at Palms Thai Restaurant in Hollywood - a culinary haven blending tradition with modern flair.
Jane Q
2.8 km
Discover culinary delights at Jane Q, where breakfast and lunch meet creativity in the heart of Hollywood.
Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles - Hollywood
3.0 km
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Birdcage Hollywood
3.0 km
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RDEN Bar & Restaurant
3.0 km
Savor exquisite sushi and signature cocktails at RDEN Bar & Restaurant in the heart of Hollywood's vibrant nightlife.
SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa
3.0 km
Experience authentic sushi at SUGARFISH by Sushi Nozawa in Hollywood – where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.
Station Hollywood
3.1 km
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Katsuya
3.1 km
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Madera Kitchen
3.2 km
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800 Degrees Woodfired Kitchen
3.3 km
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Fabiolus Cucina
3.3 km
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Tender Greens
3.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Stellar Emporium Gift Shop
0.0 km
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Westsidestore
2.1 km
Explore Westsidestore in Little Armenia, a vintage clothing store offering unique thrift finds for every fashion lover visiting Los Angeles.
Soap Plant / Wacko
2.2 km
Explore Soap Plant / Wacko, an exceptional gift shop in Los Angeles filled with unique treasures and quirky finds that celebrate creativity.
Lost & Found
3.0 km
Discover unique clothing, gourmet groceries, and artisanal home goods at Lost & Found in Hollywood, a must-visit shopping destination for tourists.
Iguana Vintage Clothing
3.1 km
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Muzer Hollywood
3.3 km
Explore unique fashion finds at Muzer Hollywood, a vibrant clothing store on Hollywood Boulevard, perfect for trendy tourists seeking style.
Stars On Hollywood Inc
3.3 km
Explore the charm of Hollywood with unique souvenirs and memorabilia at Stars On Hollywood Inc, your go-to store for unforgettable gifts.
Souvenir Outlet
3.3 km
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Hollywood Exotic Shop
3.4 km
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Rich & Rotten
3.4 km
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Hollywood Luggage & Souvenirs
3.4 km
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Hollywood Souvenir Depot
3.4 km
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Hollywood Gifts
3.5 km
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Yolk
3.5 km
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Memento Mori Los Angeles
3.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Covell
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Ever Bar
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Good Times at Davey Wayne's
3.0 km
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Frolic Room
3.0 km
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Lost Property Bar
3.0 km
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Bigfoot Lodge
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The Well
3.2 km
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The Brickyard Pub Hollywood
3.2 km
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Oaks Hollywood
3.2 km
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The Bourbon Room
3.2 km
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Sunset & Vinyl
3.3 km
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Gold Diggers Bar
3.3 km
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The Powder Room
3.4 km
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Burgundy Room
3.4 km
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No Vacancy
3.5 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
District Fridays & Club My Castel
2.5 km
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Academy LA
2.6 km
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AVALON Hollywood & Bardot
3.0 km
AVALON Hollywood: Experience the Ultimate Nightlife Adventure in Los Angeles with Live Music and Vibrant Atmosphere.
Deja Vu Showgirls Hollywood Strip Club
3.1 km
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Novel Hollywood
3.2 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Novel Hollywood, where electrifying music and stylish ambiance create an unforgettable party experience in Tinseltown.
ClubhopLA
3.2 km
Unleash the vibrant nightlife of Hollywood with ClubhopLA, your premier limousine service and night club experience.
Club Tempo
3.3 km
Unleash your spirit at Club Tempo, the ultimate gay nightclub in Hollywood, where unforgettable nights and vibrant cocktails await.
Couture Hollywood
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Couture Hollywood, an upscale night club offering live music, exquisite events, and a dynamic lounge atmosphere in the heart of Los Angeles.
Station1640
3.3 km
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The Room Hollywood
3.3 km
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Playhouse Hollywood
3.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Los Angeles at Playhouse Hollywood, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await.
Dirty Laundry
3.4 km
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Le Jardin
3.6 km
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Cabana Club
3.6 km
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Discotech
3.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hollywood at Discotech, your premier event planner and nightclub access service for unforgettable experiences.
