Your Insider Griffith Observatory Experience
Griffith Observatory Insider Tour
Explore with a guide who’s also an observatory employee and knows the place inside and out for a true behind-the-scenes look
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Local experts
Personal stories and insider travel tips -
Top-rated
Thousands of reviews averaging 4.9 stars -
Worry-free booking
Flexible scheduling and refunds
$42 per adult €36 per adult £31 per adult C$58 per adult A$65 per adult
Highlights
- Get an insider’s look at this famous landmark on a guided tour designed by former Griffith Observatory employees.
- Hear the history of Griffith Park, a gift to the city from philanthropist Griffith J. Griffith.
- Explore 67,000 square feet of exhibits with an expert who’ll show you highlights you don’t want to miss.
- Learn about science, modern architecture, movie trivia, LA history, and much 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, if a ticket is purchased on-site.
What you'll do
Led by observatory employees who know this monument inside and out, you’ll get a true behind-the-scenes on this guided tour part of our Insider Collection.
This historic landmark boasts 67,000 square feet of exhibition space, a public o...
Led by observatory employees who know this monument inside and out, you’ll get a true behind-the-scenes on this guided tour part of our Insider Collection.
This historic landmark boasts 67,000 square feet of exhibition space, a public observatory, and a planetarium. So how can you possibly experience it all without missing a thing?
Our small-group Griffith Park observatory tour, crafted by insiders who’ve worked at the observatory, takes you on a curated journey through space and time, blending science, history, architecture, and movie trivia. You’ll get the perspective of a pro who knows the observatory’s secrets firsthand and can share tips and hidden gems for more to see and do in LA.
We recommend catching a show in the world-famous planetarium theater while you’re here. It’s a 40-minute immersive experience with live narration that’s truly out of this world! This interstellar option is only for ages 5 and up, but your guide can help you get tickets on-site for a seamless visit. As for Griffith Observatory tickets, no need to worry about those — admission is free.
This experience is the only comprehensive guided tour of LA’s popular Griffith Observatory. It’s personal, thought-provoking, and thoroughly immersive. Leave with your mind dazzled by the real stars of LA!
Griffith Observatory tour itinerary
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Astronomers Monument
Honoring the world’s six most famous astronomers -
Central Rotunda & Pendulum
With overhead murals inspired by Greek mythology -
East Hall
Including the Tesla Coil, Nikola Tesla’s 50,000-volt invention -
Griffith Observatory Roof
Where you’ll learn about the Zeiss and solar telescopes inside the copper domes -
West Hall
Including the interactive periodic table of elements -
Edge of Space
Feature some of the world’s most sophisticated astronomical instruments -
Depths of Space
A view of the night sky as seen from the Samuel Oschin Telescope at Palomar Observatory -
Albert Einstein statue
Photo op with one of the greatest minds in history -
Scale Model of Planets
Where your weight changes as you travel through our solar system -
Hollywood Sign
One of the best views of this LA icon -
Ticket option: Samuel Oschin Planetarium
A show in an immersive theater with a high-tech star projector
Meeting point
Meeting Point
Astronomers Monument, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Meet your ExperienceFirst guide in front of the Astronomers Monument outside Griffith Observatory. If you’re looking for tips on how to get here, check out our guide on getting to Griffith Observatory.
End Point
Griffith Observatory, East Observatory Road, Los Angeles, CA, USA
This tour ends at Griffith Observatory.
Your insider experience
Discover the secrets of this famous LA landmark with an observatory employee who knows it inside and out. Our guide unravels the mysteries of the cosmos as you explore hands-on exhibits and hear insider stories of history, science, cinema, and more.
FAQs
How much walking is there?
This tour covers less than a mile at a leisurely pace.
Is this tour good for families?
Yes! This tour is both educational and engaging for kids. If you decide to see the planetarium show, please note that the show is only available for guests 5 and older. However, our tour is open to all ages.
Are planetarium tickets included?
Planetarium tickets aren’t included in your booking, but you can purchase them on-site from Griffith Observatory after your tour. Your guide is happy to help you get tickets. The 40-minute show includes live narration and is open to ages 5 and up.
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 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.
When should I get there?
Plan to show up 15 minutes early. The tour starts promptly, and you may not be able to catch up if you arrive late.
Is parking included?
No, it is not included. Parking is limited and costs $10 per hour in the meter so this can get pricey. We suggest using public transit or a rideshare app to get here.
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.
