LA’s Best Free View
Griffith Observatory sits on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, at approximately 340 metres elevation — an Art Deco astronomical observatory and planetarium (opened 1935) with a terrace that provides the most famous panoramic view in Los Angeles. From the terrace, you see the Hollywood Sign to the northeast, the downtown LA skyline to the southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the southwest, and on clear days, the San Gabriel Mountains to the north — the entire LA basin laid out below you in a single 270-degree sweep.
The Observatory is free to enter (the planetarium shows are ticketed), and the combination of the view, the Art Deco architecture, the astronomical exhibits (telescopes, the Foucault pendulum, the solar telescope), and the cultural significance (the building has appeared in “Rebel Without a Cause,” “La La Land,” and dozens of other films) makes it one of the most visited attractions in Los Angeles.
What You Will See
The terrace and grounds — the view is the primary draw. The Hollywood Sign framing from the Observatory terrace is the most widely reproduced image of the sign. At sunset, the city lights up across the basin below, and the sign is visible on the hillside to the right — the golden-hour and dusk photographs from this position are extraordinary.
The planetarium — the Samuel Oschin Planetarium shows run approximately 25 minutes and cover astronomical topics with state-of-the-art projection. Shows are ticketed (approximately $7 per person) and sell out — book early in the day or online.
The exhibits — the Hall of the Eye (telescopes and observational astronomy), the Hall of the Sky (solar system and weather), the Foucault pendulum (a mesmerising proof of the Earth’s rotation), and the rooftop telescopes (open for free public viewing on clear nights when the Observatory is open after dark).
The building itself — the 1935 Art Deco architecture (architect John C. Austin, who also designed Los Angeles City Hall) is a landmark in its own right. The copper domes, the exterior murals, and the interior design make the Observatory as visually significant as its contents.
Practical Tips
Parking is extremely limited. The Observatory has a small car park that fills early, particularly on weekends and holidays. The DASH Observatory shuttle bus from the Vermont/Sunset Metro station is the most reliable access. Alternatively, hike up from the Fern Dell trailhead (approximately 45 minutes, moderate gradient, through Griffith Park).
Visit at sunset for the best experience. The daytime view is impressive; the sunset view — the city lights appearing as the sky colours shift — is spectacular. Arrive 1–2 hours before sunset to explore the exhibits, then move to the terrace for the light transition.
The Observatory is closed on Mondays. Weekday afternoons (Tuesday–Friday) are the least crowded. Weekend afternoons and evenings are the busiest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Griffith Observatory free?
Yes. The building, the exhibits, and the grounds are free. The planetarium shows are ticketed (approximately $7). The rooftop telescopes are free to use on clear nights.
How do I get to Griffith Observatory?
The DASH Observatory shuttle from Vermont/Sunset Metro station (free with a TAP card) is the most reliable option. Driving is possible but parking fills early. Hiking from Fern Dell (45 minutes) or from the Greek Theatre car park (30 minutes) avoids the parking issue.
Can I see the Hollywood Sign from Griffith Observatory?
Yes — the Observatory terrace provides one of the most famous views of the sign, across the canyon to the northeast. This is the most accessible viewpoint (no hiking required).