Highlights
- Get an insider’s look at this famous landmark on a private tour designed by Griffith Observatory employees.
- See the 500,000-volt Tesla Coil and understand how it works.
- Explore 67,000 square feet of science exhibits with an expert guide who will show you highlights you don’t want to miss.
- Learn about modern architecture, science, movie trivia, LA history, and more.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the LA Basin and the Hollywood Sign from the top of Griffith Park.
- Watch a show on the high-tech Zeiss Mark IX Planetarium Projector.



















What you'll see
Griffith Observatory is a world-famous landmark, but even Angelenos don’t know a lot about it. Called “the hood ornament of Los Angeles,” it features a public observatory, planetarium, and 67,000 square feet of exhibition space.
How can you experience it without missing anything? This private tour, ...
Griffith Observatory is a world-famous landmark, but even Angelenos don’t know a lot about it. Called “the hood ornament of Los Angeles,” it features a public observatory, planetarium, and 67,000 square feet of exhibition space.
How can you experience it without missing anything? This private tour, designed by some of the observatory’s former employees, covers everything from science and history to architecture and movie trivia. Highlights include a show in the planetarium theater and seeing the incredible 500,000-volt Tesla Coil. And don’t forget the opportunity to get a closer look at outer space through telescopes, whether by day or night.
That’s why we call this your close-up with the real stars of LA.
Itinerary
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Astronomers Monument
Honoring the world’s six most famous astronomers
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Central Rotunda
With overhead murals inspired by Greek mythology
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Tesla Coil
Nikola Tesla’s 50,000-volt invention
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West Hall
Including glimpses of sunspots through telescopes (weather and schedule dependent)
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Samuel Oschin Planetarium
An immersive theater featuring a high-tech star projector
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Depths of Space
A view of the night sky as seen from the Samuel Oschin Telescope at Palomar Observatory
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Albert Einstein Statue
Photo op with one of the greatest minds in history
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Night sky viewing (weather and schedule dependent)
Using the state-of-the-art Zeiss 12-inch telescope
Reviews
Meeting point
FAQs
Can we stay in Griffith Observatory after the tour?
Yes, you can stay until closing time to spend longer enjoying the many exhibits.
Is the planetarium ticket included?
Yes, at the end of the tour, you’ll enjoy a show at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. Please keep in mind the show is only for guests 5 and older.
How many people can the tour accommodate?
This is a private Griffith Observatory tour for groups of 1-15 people. For groups larger than 15, please contact us for discounted rates.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand plans change. We offer a 100% refund or the option to reschedule up to 24 hours before your tour start time. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t eligible for refunds or rescheduling.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, this tour is accessible for both wheelchairs and strollers.
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand plans change. We offer a 100% refund up to 48 hours prior to your tour start time.
When should I get there?
Plan to show up 15 minutes early to make the most of your time. Tours begin promptly.
Are gratuities included?
Tips aren’t included but are always appreciated by our guides. If you think your guide did an outstanding job, a tip is a great way to show that.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes! If you want to give the gift of LA (or any of our destinations) to someone else, you can purchase a tour gift card. Our gift cards are good for any of our tours, and they never expire.