Griffith Observatory is a landmark that even locals don’t know enough about. Called “the hood ornament of LA,” it serves as a public observatory, planetarium, and exhibition space. Designed by some of its former employees, this tour will give you an intro to the city that you’ll never forget. When Griffith J. Griffith first viewed the moon from a telescope he exclaimed, "If all mankind could look through that telescope, it would change the world!" For the remainder of his life, he toiled to realize his vision for a public observatory that would benefit future generations. Now, the Griffith Observatory is the most popular attraction of its kind in the world. Join us as we discover not just an L.A. landmark, but a place where you’ll have the chance to make memories. As fellow travelers, astronomers, and Angelenos, we at ExperienceFirst will help you make the most of your time at Griffith Observatory.
Note: We are an independent tour company and are not affiliated with the City of LA.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Planetarium Show Ticket Included
✖ Gratuities
✖ Parking
✖ Please Note: We are an independent tour company and are not affiliated with the City of LA
Departure & Return
Departure:
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In front of Astronomers Monument on front lawn
Please Note: We are an independent tour company and are not affiliated with the City of LA or their employees. If you ask Observatory staff about the tour they won’t be able to help. You MUST check in with your guide at the Astronomer’s Monument.
Return: End right where it started.
Itinerary
1
Griffith Observatory
On this 3-hour walking tour, you’ll learn about Architecture, Science, Movie History, and the city of LA. We begin in the central rotunda, where you’ll gaze overhead at murals inspired by Greek myth. Next, you’ll learn about the inventor Nikola Tesla and his 50,000 volt Tesla Coil, which is on exhibit. Then we’ll discover how our solar system works, and look through a telescope to see sun spots. Next we’ll descend Gunther Depths of Space where you’ll view the night sky like you’ve never before: experience the 152-ft display of galaxies and nebula as you would from the Hubble Space Telescope. Learn more about seismology and about L.A. earthquakes and the Pacific Rim of Fire as you stand next to an active seismograph. Pose for a photo with a bronze statue of Albert Einstein, one of the greatest minds in human history. At night, wait in line for the Zeiss 12-inch telescope. One-of-a-kind and German-made, it gives viewers an unparalleled and intimate look at the planets and stars (depending on the weather and schedule). Finish the tour with one of the world’s best planetarium shows. The Zeiss star projector and state-of-the-art digital projection system put on spectacular show!
Duration: 3 hours
Additional info
• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please Note: We are an independent tour company and are not affiliated with the City of LA or their employees. If you ask Observatory staff about the tour they won’t be able to help. You MUST check in with your guide at the Astronomer’s Monument.
