Sights · Our pick in Los Angeles
Griffith Observatory
The city’s great viewpoint
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About Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory opened in 1935, built with a bequest from Griffith J. Griffith, who gave the land for Griffith Park in 1896 and asked that the observatory be run for the public with no admission charge. It is the best viewpoint for the Hollywood Sign, and open late most evenings; check its website for hours and planetarium shows.
Why it's on our list
- Views of the Hollywood Sign
- Planetarium shows
- Open late
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Griffith Observatory before you go.
What’s nearby
Distances from Griffith Observatory are approximate, measured in a straight line (as the crow flies). Times are approximate too: walking at about 80 metres a minute, cycling at about 15 km/h and driving at typical city-traffic speeds. Traffic and routes vary.
Key sights
- Hollywood Bowl2.2 miWalk 43 minCycle 14 minCar or taxi 12 min
- TCL Chinese Theatre2.6 miCycle 17 minCar or taxi 13 min
- The Grove4.6 miCycle 29 minCar or taxi 20 min
- LACMA5.0 miCycle 32 minCar or taxi 21 min
- Walt Disney Concert Hall5.2 miCycle 34 minCar or taxi 22 min
- Rodeo Drive6.8 miCycle 43 minCar or taxi 27 min
- Getty Center10 miCar or taxi 39 min
- Santa Monica Pier13 miCar or taxi 48 min
- Venice Beach Boardwalk13 miCar or taxi 48 min