Two years ago, LA’s beloved Griffith Observatory officially reopened to the public.  This LA icon is a national leader in astronomy.  It’s one of SoCal’s most popular tourist attractions.  And it’s one of the best-known and most visited public observatories in the world.

Heavenly History
Opened in 1935, and situated on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park (1,134 feet above sea level), Griffith Observatory gazes out over Los Feliz and the rest of the Los Angeles basin.  Before closing for renovation and expansion in 2002, the Observatory welcomed about 70 million visitors to gaze through its 12-inch Zeiss roof telescope.  And now, the awe-inspiring 40,000-square-foot expansion project added multi-level exhibit galleries, a brand-new exhibit program with over 60 stunning exhibits, a 200-seat presentation theatre Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon, and new entrances, elevators and ramps to improve overall access.  "We live in an expanding universe,” says Dr. E. C. Krupp, Director, “and Griffith Observatory has come up-to-date in the twenty-first century with new components that allow people to feel a little bit more at home in the universe.”

The Planetarium
Part of the Observatory’s state-of the-art renovation includes a refreshingly immersive planetarium environment.  The Samuel Oschin Planetarium features a seamless dome, a new star projector, new digital laser projectors, and upgraded sound and lighting systems.  The hourly show Centered in the Universe can seat 300.

Stellar Emporium
For those of you who want to bring a piece of the Observatory back home, the gift and book store offers a cosmic array of Observatory insignia items, as well as astronomy and space-themed books, gifts, clothing, toys and more.

Café at the End of the Universe
And whether you’re longing for a cool drink, a full meal or a delicious desert, the Observatory's café is sure to tickle your cosmic senses.  What’s more, it’s brought to you by world-famous Wolfgang Puck.

Fast Facts
Visitors may drive directly to Griffith Observatory and park in its lot or on the adjacent roads.  But don’t forget, the Observatory is a popular destination.  Visitors are encouraged to carpool, organize bus trips, hike, cycle, or take a taxi.  The busiest times are usually on weekends.  Please note there may be an uphill walk from some parking spots.

When: Tuesday – Friday (12 – 10pm) and Saturday – Sunday (10am – 10pm)
Where: 2800 E. Observatory Road, Griffith Park, Los Angeles.
How: For more information, call 213-473-0800 or check out www.griffithobs.org.
$$$: Free
Wheelchair Accessible