Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory stands on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Los Angeles' Griffith Park. It is a gateway to the cosmos, offering visitors telescopic views of the skies, extensive exhibits about space and science, and the iconic Zeiss telescope. Opened in 1935, the observatory is named after its benefactor, Griffith J. Griffith, and is renowned for its art deco architecture and the stunning panoramic views it offers of the Los Angeles basin and the Pacific Ocean.

Exhibits and Displays

Griffith Observatory serves as a public observatory and hosts a variety of science and space-related exhibits that educate visitors on the universe. The "Hall of the Sky" and "Hall of the Eye" showcase how humans have observed and interpreted the sky through time. These exhibits provide insight into the tools used by astronomers and the advancements in our understanding of celestial phenomena. Additionally, the "Depths of Space" exhibition takes visitors through the vastness of the cosmos, featuring scaled models of the solar system and interactive displays on deep space exploration.

Zeiss Telescope and Public Telescope Events

The centerpiece of Griffith Observatory is the 12-inch Zeiss refracting telescope, located in the observatory's iconic dome. It's one of the most sought-after attractions, offering guests a chance to gaze at celestial objects, from planets to nebulae, depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Public star parties are held monthly, where amateur astronomers bring their own telescopes to share views of the night sky with attendees. These events encourage community engagement and provide an opportunity for firsthand stargazing experiences.

Samuel Oschin Planetarium

For a journey across the stars without leaving your seat, the Samuel Oschin Planetarium is a must-visit. This state-of-the-art facility offers several shows daily that cater to a variety of age groups, discussing various aspects of astronomy and the universe. Audiences are treated to immersive experiences featuring a high-resolution digital laser projection system. These shows are produced by a team of experienced astronomers and theater professionals, ensuring both accuracy and entertainment.

Hiking Trails and Views of Los Angeles

Griffith Observatory is not only about what's above but also offers a unique vantage point to what's below. The surrounding Griffith Park has several hiking trails offering different perspectives of the Los Angeles landscape. One of the most popular routes is the trail leading up to Mount Hollywood, providing hikers with a scenic workout and culminating in expansive views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.

Educational Programs

Griffith Observatory is committed to public astronomy education. It runs frequent educational programs aimed at inspiring visitors of all ages with live presentations and guided observations. The observatory regularly schedules talks by leading scientists and hosts special events that coincide with significant astronomical occurrences, such as eclipses or planetary transits, offering a deeper understanding of these events.

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities

The observatory aims to be accessible to all visitors. It offers elevators and wheelchair ramps alongside ample parking spaces, restrooms, and other visitor facilities. The grounds also include a café where one can enjoy a quick snack while taking in views of downtown Los Angeles.

Special Events and Lectures

Aside from its regular offerings, Griffith Observatory also hosts unique events and lectures on astronomy and related sciences. These include discussions with experts, special telescope viewings tied to current celestial events, and festivities during national astronomy week. The observatory's calendar is updated regularly with such events, appealing to those with a keen interest in space science as well as casual visitors looking for a unique educational experience.