Griffith Observatory

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Griffith Observatory

Overview: The Griffith Observatory is truly a remarkable, world-class site in Los Angeles. This renown 1935 astronomical observatory sits at atop Mount Hollywood at the pinnacle of Griffith Park and reigns supreme over the diminutive landscape of Los Angeles below.

Aside from its powerful telescopes and unobstructed view of the stars, a few key things make the Griffith Observatory a gem for both locals and tourists. The phrase “obstruction of view” has no place at the Griffith Observatory. Not only does the Griffith offer a view of the galaxy, it also offers an enviable view of the Los Angeles spread (from the Hollywood Hills to the beach) and a close view of the Hollywood sign – from every level of the observatory. The front lawns of the observatory have a few telescopes on either side along the terraces. Directly in the center of the lawn stands a monument of all the illustrious astronomers and a large sundial.

The Griffith Observatory building itself is something of an architectural hercules itself. The building has three sections, each one with its own astronomical and educational exhibits. There are two wings that flank the central rotunda and wing of the building. The bronze domes of the outter wings give prominence to the massive middle one, which is the dome of the Samuel Oschin Planetarium.

When you enter the Griffith Observatory, you are standing in the observatory’s central rotunda, where a very cool Foucault Pendulum swaying back and forth will catch your eye. The pendulum is 240 pounds and demonstrates the earth’s rotation. Look up at the vaulted ceiling and you’ll see quite lovely murals reflecting celestial mythology. Along the far wall of the entrance hall is a photo of Griffith J. Griffith and his history. The history of the observatory and Griffith Park are explained on two panels under glass. Quite fascinating.

The wings on either side of the rotunda contain interesting educational exhibits all relating to astonomy and science. The Wilder Hall of the Eye has features the progress of scientific instruments to observe the sky. The Ahmanson Hall of the Sky has alcoves with various exhibits and galleries. The roof of the observatory offers even a more tremendous view of Los Angeles, the Hollywood sign and the lush lawn in front of the observatory. From the roof, you can access the Zeiss Telescope and Solar Telescope in either of the outer domes.

The large dome at the center of the Griffith Observatory belongs to the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. The dome has 300 seats that recline far back so you can enjoys its planetarium shows and exhibits presented along the dome’s ceiling. A new state-of-the-art Star Projector and laser projection system immerses you in the planetarium’s show about the beginnings of time to the present. The show is live (no cameras).

The Griffith Observatory also contains the Leanord Nimoy Even Horizon theatre, the Gottlieb Transit Corridor, various exhibitions, a Wolfgang Puck cafe called “The Cafe at the End of the Universe” on the lower floor and a gift shop.

Lastly, a bronze bust of James Dean stands to the right on the lawn of the Griffith Observatory. It’s a funny and surprising thing to see when you’re visiting a scientific and cultural phenomenon. But, the bronze bust of James Dean is a tribute to his movie Rebel Without a Cause, which featured the observatory and brought international attention to it.

Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Site: http://www.griffithobs.org/
Ph: (213) 473-0800

Cost: Free for all. The Samuel Oschin Planetarium show costs $8.00/adult.

Parking: The observatory has a large parking lot in front. The closest section of the parking lot is closed off for staff, special events and Handicap Parking. The road up to the observatory also has street parking, which is usually pretty full.

Accessibility: All of the features at the Griffith Observatory are wheelchair accessible.

Getting There: Check out the observatory’s website regarding the bus system from the Hollywood and the LA Zoo. Also, www.metro.net, www.ladottransit.com