Griffith Observatory

The views from this place are phenomenal. I started going here when I was a teen prior to moving out of state. I would love to go back and visit for old times sake. Just think it's been nearly 20 years since I've been here and I can still remember how great it was.

Totally interesting from the moment you start to drive up the hill and walk in. This place is full of things for your child to see and do. I recommend this observatory for all ages - a definite must-see especially if you're just visiting California. This place will surely keep you entertained for hours on end and my kids love that most of it is all hands-on so now I can truthfully say that I've touched rocks from Mars and Jupiter. My kids get a kick out of it.

The Grifith Observatory is a great place to go for an amazing view of the city and the stars. It's great for a romantic date or a family trip. Inside the observatory there are display and exhibits to read and learn about. Outside hey also have a large telescope that gives you an even better view of the stars.

Aside from this they offer a laser lights show that's set to music. Pink Floyd and U2 are two that I know of, they tend to change it so call to check. The Observatory is currently closed for renovation, but will reopen next year in 2006.

(I am really excited to write this review, in hopes that others will take part of this temporary make-shift observatory. Griffith Park Observatory is now going under reconstruction and located near the L.A. Zoo instead of its normal "hill top park" location.)
Located near the LA Zoo is a small bungelow in a fairly large parking lot. It is the new temporary observatory until the reconstruction finishes, around 2006. Its small, but what a lot of fun. There is usually just 1 employee who will give you the small tour, but what knowledge!! I found this to be very personable and quite enjoyable. My kids asked questions forever, it seems. There are even large onsite meteors. In the evening, there is still a Lazarium show, only small scale, get there on time as the seating gets full rather quickly. Afterwards, go outside to find another treat.....a telescope set-up for viewing. You dont need to be an expert astronomer to enjoy this. All employees are very knowledgeable and are more than welcome to answer all questions.
Even though, I miss the original observatory I found this temporary site to be just as enjoyable. Because it is small, you can get one on one service without the usual crowds. Go now, before the original site re-opens.

PROS: Fun, knowledeable, a learning experience, cheap
CONS: None

The Griffith Observatory is currently closed to the public because it is being renovated and expanded but they are scheduled to reopen in 2006. The Observatory is located in Griffith park and while it's closed they have the Griffith Observatory Satellite facility to go to instead where they have a small space exhibit . Although this is really just a small one story building they have a telescope you can use to see the stars and moon at night which is pretty cool. Admission is free at the Satellite facility.