Griffith Observatory: Gateway to the Cosmos
Explore the universe with free telescopes, exhibits & shows at LA's iconic Griffith Observatory, offering stellar views of the city & the cosmos.
Perched on Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign, and the cosmos beyond. Since 1935, this iconic landmark has made astronomy accessible to the public with free admission, telescopes, exhibits, and planetarium shows.
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
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking is limited and the crowds can be large.
- Take the DASH Observatory bus from the Sunset/Vermont Metro station or the Greek Theatre to avoid traffic and parking fees.
- Check the Griffith Observatory website for the schedule of planetarium shows, Tesla coil demonstrations, and other events.
- Visit about an hour before sunset on a weekday to enjoy both daytime exhibits and the sunset over Los Angeles.
- Don't miss the free telescope viewings offered every night the building is open and the sky is clear.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Sunset/Vermont Metro station, take the LADOT DASH Observatory bus directly to the Observatory. The bus runs every day, even when the Observatory building is closed, with shuttles arriving every 15-20 minutes. The fare is $0.50, or $0.35 with a Metro TAP card. Buses require exact change.
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Walking
From the Greek Theatre, it's approximately a 15-20 minute uphill walk to the Griffith Observatory. Parking is often available near the Greek Theatre, but it may be restricted or unavailable during events. Check the Greek Theatre schedule in advance.
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Ride Share
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the Greek Theatre. From there, you can walk uphill to the Observatory (15-20 minutes) or take the DASH Observatory Bus for $0.50. Note that ride-share vehicles are not permitted to drive up to the front of the Observatory.
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Driving
From downtown Los Angeles, take US-101 N and CA-27 N to E Observatory Rd. Be prepared for potential traffic congestion, especially on weekends and holidays. Parking at the Observatory costs $10 per hour. Pay stations accept credit cards only. As an alternative, free parking is available in the area around the Greek Theatre, with a 15-20 minute walk to the Observatory.
Discover more about Griffith Observatory
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Astronomers Monument
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Ennis House
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Two Stone Gates
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All view Terrace Hollyridge Stairs
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Stairway to Hollyhock House Barnsdall Park ( UNESCO World Heritage Site )
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Hollywood & Western Building
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Hoover Walk
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Holly Mont Vista Del Mar Stairs
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Hollywood Sign
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Hollywood Reservoir
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Capitol Records Building
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Bob Odenkirk's Star
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Shakira Of Fame
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Hollywood & Vine
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Hollywood Walk of Fame
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Greek Theatre
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2700 N Vermont Canyon Rd
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Hollywood Peak
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Fern Dell Nature Preserve
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Bronson Caves
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Hollyridge Trl
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Old Los Angeles Zoo
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Barnsdall Art Park
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Griffith Park
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The Garden of Oz
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Hollyhock House
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Sidewalk Food Tours of Los Angeles
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Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round
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The Last House on Mulholland, in association with L.A. Explained
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Essential places to dine
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Beachwood Cafe - Restaurant for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner | A Wine Bar & Coffee Cafe
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Home Restaurant
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Palms Thai Restaurant
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Jane Q
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Birdcage Hollywood
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RDEN Bar & Restaurant
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SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa
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Station Hollywood
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Katsuya
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Madera Kitchen
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800 Degrees Woodfired Kitchen
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Tender Greens
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Stellar Emporium Gift Shop
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Westsidestore
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Soap Plant / Wacko
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Lost & Found
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Iguana Vintage Clothing
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Muzer Hollywood
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