Griffith Observatory

See the scientific displays and enjoy great views at this popular California tourist attraction.

The Griffith Observatory opened in 1935 intending to make astronomy accessible to the public at a time when such things were remote and reserved for scientists. This goal was achieved and has been a favorite spot for locals and tourists ever since. Griffith Observatory was one of only three planetariums in the U.S. when it opened. This has been the filming location for dozens of movies and television shows throughout its life, including Rebel Without a Cause, Back to the Future, The Terminator, Transformers, and La La Land. During World War II, the planetarium was used to train pilots for celestial navigation and was again used to train astronauts for the first lunar missions in the Apollo program in the 1960s.

There is plenty to see and do at Griffith Observatory. Guests can expect to learn all about space by wandering through the various exhibits both inside and outside. You can also look through the public telescopes or catch a live show to discover the wonders of the cosmos. Outside the observatory, you can soak in views of downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, the Hollywood sign, and the Pacific Ocean. Admission to Griffith Observatory is and always has been free to the public. Hours are 12 pm to 10 pm Tuesday through Friday, and 10 am to 10 pm Saturday and Sunday.