Must See Places in Los Angeles: The Griffith Observatory

Los Angeles is a city of dreams, and it is full of exciting places for tourists and locals alike. One of the most popular and iconic tourist attractions in Los Angeles is the Griffith Observatory. Sitting high on the hillside overlooking Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city. The observatory offers incredible views of the city, a unique and engaging exhibit hall, and plenty of educational opportunities.

History of the Observatory

The Griffith Observatory has been a staple of Los Angeles since its opening in 1935. It was built as a memorial to Colonel Griffith J. Griffith, who donated the land to the city of Los Angeles. The observatory was designed by architect John C. Austin and is a prime example of Art Deco architecture. From the beginning, the observatory was intended to be a place of learning and exploration for everyone in the city. Today, it remains a popular destination and is one of the most photographed spots in the city.

The observatory underwent a major renovation in 2002, which modernized the exhibits and added a new planetarium and theater. This renovation allowed the observatory to become even more accessible to the public, and it has since become a favorite of both locals and tourists.

Observatory Exhibits

The Griffith Observatory is home to a number of educational and interactive exhibits. The exhibits explore a variety of topics, from astronomy to physics to history. The observatory is also home to a variety of telescopes, which visitors can use to observe the night sky. The exhibits are constantly updated and changed, so there is always something new to explore.

The observatory also features a number of interactive exhibits, such as a virtual reality experience and a hands-on science lab. These interactive exhibits are great for both adults and children, as they allow visitors to get a hands-on experience with science and technology. The observatory even offers a number of educational programs for children, which help to engage them in the world of science.

The exhibits at the Griffith Observatory are a great way to learn more about the world around us and to get a unique perspective of the city of Los Angeles. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or just looking for something interesting to do, the exhibits at the observatory are sure to please.

Observatory Events

In addition to the exhibits, the Griffith Observatory also hosts a variety of events. These include lectures, educational workshops, and stargazing events. The observatory also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as a summer solstice celebration and a meteor shower viewing party. These events are a great way to get a unique perspective on the night sky and to learn more about the science of astronomy.

The observatory also hosts a number of public lectures, which are open to the public. These lectures cover a variety of topics, ranging from the history of astronomy to the latest scientific discoveries. The lectures are a great way to learn more about the universe and to get a unique perspective on the world around us.

The observatory also offers a variety of educational workshops for both adults and children. These workshops cover a variety of topics, from the basics of astronomy to the latest in space exploration. The workshops are a great way to learn more about the science of astronomy and to get a unique perspective on the universe.

Observatory Views

In addition to the exhibits and events, the Griffith Observatory also offers some of the best views of Los Angeles. From the observatory, visitors can see the entire Los Angeles basin, stretching from the San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day, visitors can even spot the Hollywood sign from the observatory.

The views from the observatory are also a great way to get a unique perspective on the city. From the observatory, visitors can see the bustling city below and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The views from the observatory are a great way to get a true sense of the city of Los Angeles.

Observatory Gift Shop

The Griffith Observatory also features a unique gift shop, which offers a variety of souvenirs and memorabilia. The gift shop offers a variety of items, from t-shirts and books to telescopes and binoculars. The gift shop is a great way to take a piece of the observatory home with you.

The gift shop also offers a variety of educational materials, such as books and posters. These materials are a great way to educate yourself about the science of astronomy and to get a more in-depth understanding of the universe.

The gift shop is a great way to commemorate your visit to the observatory and to take home a piece of the experience. Whether you’re looking for a souvenir or an educational material, the gift shop is sure to have something that you’ll enjoy.

Observatory Cafe

The Griffith Observatory also features a cafe, which offers a variety of snacks and drinks. The cafe is a great place to grab a bite to eat after exploring the observatory. The cafe also offers a variety of unique drinks, such as the Observatory Sunrise and the Space Latte.

The cafe is a great way to take a break from exploring the observatory and to enjoy a snack. The cafe is also a great place to relax and enjoy the views of Los Angeles.

The cafe is open during the observatory’s regular hours, so make sure to stop by the cafe when you visit the observatory.

Observatory Parking

The Griffith Observatory also offers parking for visitors. The parking lot is located at the bottom of the hill, and it is free for visitors. The parking lot is a great way to make sure that you have a spot to park when you visit the observatory.

The parking lot is also a great way to get a unique view of Los Angeles. From the parking lot, visitors can get an amazing view of the city and the surrounding landscape. The parking lot is a great place to take in the beauty of Los Angeles.

Observatory Hours and Admission

The Griffith Observatory is open every day from 12PM to 10PM. Admission to the observatory is free, however, there is a fee for parking. The observatory also offers discounted admission for children, seniors, and students.

The observatory is also open for special events, such as the summer solstice celebration and the meteor shower viewing party. These events require an additional fee, but they are a great way to get a unique experience of the night sky.

Conclusion

The Griffith Observatory is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Los Angeles. The observatory offers incredible views of the city, a unique and engaging exhibit hall, and plenty of educational opportunities. From the history of the observatory to the public lectures to the views from the observatory, there is something for everyone at the Griffith Observatory. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or just looking for something interesting to do, the Griffith Observatory is sure to please.