Griffith Observatory is a city-owned public observatory on the south slope of Mount Hollywood in Los Angeles's Griffith Park. Open since 1935, it is one of LA's signature landmarks and a filming location for classics such as 'Rebel Without a Cause,' 'La La Land,' and 'The Terminator.' As of 2026 admission to the building, grounds, and public telescopes remains completely free, and it keeps its Tuesday-to-Sunday schedule (closed Mondays). By day you can take in sweeping views from the Pacific to Downtown and the Hollywood Sign; by night the city lights and the stars share the sky, making sunset the most popular time to arrive.
Panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and the LA basin from the terraces and rooftop, especially the city lights at 'blue hour' just after sunset
Free public telescope viewing — look at the Moon and planets through the 12-inch Zeiss refracting telescope in the east dome on clear nights
Live sky shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium (paid, limited seating)
Free permanent exhibits including the Foucault pendulum, a Tesla coil, and 'The Big Picture' cosmic image wall
Iconic movie spots on the grounds, including the James Dean bust from 'Rebel Without a Cause' and 'La La Land' scene locations
Good to know
SafetyCar break-ins occur in the parking lots and near the trailheads. Never leave bags or valuables in your car, and take care on the narrow, dark road and paths when driving or walking down at night.
SeasonSummer weekends, holidays, and the hours around sunset are extremely crowded and parking fills quickly. Consider a weekday visit right at opening, a morning arrival, or public transit.
SeasonThe site sits on a hilltop and can be cold and windy at night even in mid-summer. Bring a light jacket if you plan to stay for the view or stargazing.
RulesThe observatory is closed Mondays. Planetarium tickets cannot be booked online and are sold same-day at the on-site box office only; popular showtimes sell out, so secure them as soon as you arrive (confirm prices and times for the latest).
CautionBeware of third parties or roadside touts selling 'reserved parking' or 'discount tickets.' Admission is free, and legitimate parking is paid only at the meters (around $10/hour, confirm the latest rate).
MannersMind US tipping customs — 15-20% is standard at nearby restaurants. Wait your turn in the telescope lines and stay quiet during planetarium shows.
Practical info
Reach the observatory via the 'DASH Observatory' bus from the Metro B Line Vermont/Sunset station (low fare, TAP card recommended), or by car using the metered lots by the building (around $10/hour), free roadside spots lower down, or free parking at the Greek Theatre (except on event days). It is open Tuesday-Sunday (closed Mondays), admission is free, and only the planetarium is paid — always confirm current hours, prices, and parking rates on the official site before you go.
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