Things to Do At Griffith Observatory & Park

The Griffith Observatory is a well-known landmark in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. Visitors can view the universe with the help of the planetarium, live demonstrations, and telescopes, as well as they can also visit the exhibits and have an impressive view of the city and the Hollywood Sign. Besides visiting the observatory, visitors are also provided with an opportunity to walk the trails of the park, see other attractions such as the Autry Museum of the American West, and enjoy the park’s public space.    

What Can You See and Do at Griffith Observatory and Park?

Here are the five things to see and do at Griffith Observatory and Park:

1. Observatory Exhibits: The interior of the observatory has several halls that teach tourists about astronomy and science. The Rotunda Hall contains a Foucault pendulum, which shows the rotation of the Earth and the Astronomers Monument, which is dedicated to great astronomers. This Space Hall is on the main floor and is dedicated to how the sky has been observed according to the people over the years, and it has a Tesla Coil that transmits electricity. The Eye Hall is an exhibit located on the lower level that reflects the history of telescopes and how we use them to view space. 
2. Samuel Oschin Planetarium: One of the highlights of the observatory is the planetarium, where live shows free of charge are presented by a presenter. The visitors are able to sit under the domed ceiling and watch immersive, 360-degree images, the celestial marvels, and the exploration of life outside this planet. 
3. Viewpoints & Photo Spots: The observatory has grounds and a roof that are magnificent vantage points for taking photos. The terraces at the observatory are the most popular place to take pictures of the legendary Hollywood Sign. Head of the pinnacle of the city skyline is eye eye-appealing sight, especially during sunset and once night falls and the city is lit up. 
4. Hiking Trails: Numerous well-travelled hiking trails begin literally in the parking lot of the observatory, and they lead through the urban wilderness of Griffith Park. The Mt. Hollywood Trail is a 3.2-mile loop through which you climb up the highest peak of the park, Mt. Hollywood. To have a more difficult and longer hike, you can continue to the trails, which lead to the back of the Hollywood Sign, to see it in a new light. Ferndell Trail provides an easier path to the observatory, and you can walk the trail, which passes through a shady and forest-like area. 
5. Griffith Park Activities: The park has a variety of attractive and leisure activities on all fronts, like visiting the Los Angeles Zoo, a Greek Theatre performance, and the Autry Museum of the American West and get to know the history of this area. Ride a vintage steam train at the Travel Town Museum or ride the vintage Merry-Go-Round for fun. There are golf courses, tennis courts, pony rides and large picnic grounds in the park. This park has hundreds of miles of trails, which is why it is one of the most common places for hiking, walking, riding a horse, and even watching birds. 

How to Get to Griffith Observatory & Park?

Here are the four best ways to go to the Griffith Observatory and Park:

1. By Car: Driving is the quickest route, but costly ($30) and congested during peak times and weekends. To avoid charges for parking, find a place close to the Greek Theatre in Griffith Park and walk or use the shuttle to the Observatory. 
2. By Metro + Shuttle: It is a very affordable alternative that keeps you out of the parking hassle. Use Metro B Line for  Vermont/Sunset Station. Get to the DASH shuttle to go to the top of the station. The shuttle operates on an everyday basis, even on holidays. Metro B Line costs $1.75 per person, and DASH shuttle costs $0.5-$0.35 per person.
3. Limo and Car Services: Limousine service Los Angeles provides luxurious and direct transportation. Hire the Limo from your current location and reach the Observatory Park without wasting your time. Visitors can avoid the hassle of parking by hiring Limo services. 
4. By Foot or Hike: To have a scenic and free alternative, hiking is the best way to go to the Observatory. One of the most popular is the Ferndell Trail, which is friendly to families and requires about 1.5-2 hours to be completed. 

What are the Entry Fees and Timings?

The entry is free in Griffith Observatory, but Certain shows like the ones at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium have to be paid for ($10-$12). It opens from 12 PM to 10 PM.

Where to Eat Near Griffith Observatory & Park?

Here are the four nearest eating places in Griffith Observatory and Park:

1. The Cafe at the End of the Universe: The Cafe at the End of the Universe is within the building of the Griffith Observatory on the lower level. It serves soups, salads, and sandwiches as a convenient and fast meal when visiting the observatory. It’s Easygoing and uncomplicated, with outdoor seating on the Sunset Terrace with a fantastic view of the Hollywood Sign and Los Angeles. 
2. The Trails Cafe (Griffith Park): The Trails Cafe is located in Griffith Park, on the Fern Dell Trail, an attractive place to lunch, have a coffee, or a baked good before or after a hike. TripAdvisor customers hail the homemade pies and serene environment. It’s an Outdoor, woodsy and relaxed picnic area with trees covering picnic tables. 
3. Alcove Cafe & Bakery: Alcove Cafe & Bakery is located in two vintage bungalows in the Los Feliz area, which has a huge, green outdoor patio. It has a full-course meal with a varied menu, including breakfast and brunch till dinner. The store has a bakery that prepares good cakes and pastries. It’s a busy and well-known place that has an old-Hollywood atmosphere and does not lack any outside chairs. 
4. MessHall Kitchen: MessHall Kitchen is a Modern gastropub in Los Feliz. It has a yummy meal in a very comfortable American setting, and a beverage. They serve cocktails, burgers and seafood. The place has a lovely environment with a historic ambience that provides a joyful and lively experience of dining out.