The Griffith Observatory is an icon of Los Angeles, a national leader in public astronomy, a beloved civic gathering place, and one of southern California’s most popular attractions. Home to great hiking trails and many movie shoots, the Observatory is located on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, just above the Los Feliz neighborhood. It is 1,134 feet above sea level and is visible from many parts of the Los Angeles basin.

Hall of the Eye

Inside the Observatory, this exhibit illustrates the nature and progress of human observation of the sky and the tools used for that exploration. This exhibit gallery focuses on how people have observed the sky and the often profound impact those observations have had on people and society. Each of the four The Hall of the Eye exhibit areas chart the key developments that have further evolved our ability to help our eyes see farther, fainter, and beyond. See other exhibits at the Observatory here.

Samuel Oschin Planetarium

With its spectacular Zeiss star projector, laser digital projection system, state-of-the-art aluminum dome, comfy seats, sound system, and theatrical lighting, the 285-seat Samuel Oschin Planetarium Theater is the finest planetarium in the world.

Theater Shows

• Centered in the Universe – takes you on a journey of cosmic exploration and discovery

• Water Is Life – leads you on a search for water – and possibly life – beyond Earth

• Light of the Valkyries – reveals the wonders of the northern lights

• Time’s Up examines the fundamental nature of time through the prism of false claims regarding the end of the world in late 2012

For more show information click here.

Special Events

• Triumph of the Dream film screening is a documentary that explores the human face of the Mars Exploration Rover mission that landed two rovers on Mars in 2004. After the film, join director Norman Seeff for a lively discussion. August 2 at 7:30 p.m.

• Griffith Observatory holds this exciting, free program on the first Friday of every month in the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon theater called All Space Considered. Join the Observatory’s staff as they examine and explain the most-talked-about subjects in astronomy and space science. Seating is first come, first serve. August 3 at 7:30 p.m.

• NASA Curiosity rover lands on Mars and staff will present NASA’s live coverage of the event, provide commentary on the mission, and answer questions in a free program. The Observatory will be open for this event until midnight. August 5 at 9:00 p.m.

• Free public star parties are held monthly with the assistance of the Los Angeles Astronomical Society and the Los Angeles Sidewalk Astronomers. They are a chance for the whole family to look at the sun, moon, visible planets, and other objects, to try out a variety of telescopes, and to talk to knowledgeable amateur astronomers about the sky and their equipment. August 25 from 2 – 9:45 p.m. For more event information click here.

Zeiss Telescope

The Griffith Observatory is one of the premier public observatories in the world. One of the principal reasons is the presence and regular availability of high-quality public telescopes. Griffith wanted the public to have the opportunity to look through a telescope, which he felt might broaden human perspective. Mounted in the copper-clad domes on either end of the building, the Zeiss and solar telescopes are free to the public every day and night the sky is clear.

Free Public Telescopes

Free public telescopes are available each evening the Observatory is open and skies are clear. Knowledgeable telescope demonstrators are available to guide visitors in observing. Please be aware that the demonstrators must cut off the line for each telescope to enable all viewing to be completed by 9:45 p.m.

Stellar Emporium Gift Shop

The Observatory’s brand new gift and book shop offers a cosmic array of Observatory insignia items, as well as astronomy and space-themed books, gifts, clothing, toys, and other items. Operated by museum expert Event Network, the gift shop is located on the new lower level. You may also shop at the Observatory’s online store.

Cafe at the End of the Universe

Whether you are looking for a cool drink, a full meal, or a delicious dessert, the Observatory’s new cafe is conveniently available to serve you. Operated by world-famous Wolfgang Puck, the cafe is located on the new lower level.

The mission of Griffith Observatory is inspiring everyone to observe, ponder, and understand the sky. Enjoy your visit!

WHAT: The Griffith Observatory
WHERE: 2800 East Observatory Road | Los Angeles, CA 90027
WHEN: Tuesday – Friday | 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday | 10:00 am – 10:00 pm | Closed Mondays

CONTACT INFO: (213) 473-0800

DETAILS:

• Admission to the Observatory building and grounds is free
• Parking is available in the parking lot or on the adjacent roads

Dear reader,

I appreciate your support and feedback. Please respond to this article now by leaving a comment and/or “liking” it. For exciting, up to date events in Los Angeles, subscribe to this blog via email. You can also share this article with friends and family and visit my Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest pages.

Thank you for visiting!

Mr. Events.

Mr. Events.