Griffith Observatory Tour and Optional Planetarium Ticket
See the real stars in LA
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
Griffith Observatory is one of the most popular attractions in LA, but it can be hard to navigate once you’re here. This historic landmark features 67,000 square feet of exhibition space, a public observatory, and a planetarium. How can you experience it all without missing anything? We have the pros here to ...
Griffith Observatory is one of the most popular attractions in LA, but it can be hard to navigate once you’re here. This historic landmark features 67,000 square feet of exhibition space, a public observatory, and a planetarium. How can you experience it all without missing anything? We have the pros here to help!
This small-group tour, designed by some of the observatory’s former employees, will enhance your experience by taking you on a curated journey through space and time. We cover everything from science and history to architecture and movie trivia.
And don’t forget the opportunity to add a show in the world-famous planetarium theater, tickets available for purchase on-site. It’s a 40-minute immersive show with live narration that is truly out of this world. However, this interstellar option is only for ages 5 and older.
Ready to discover the wonders of Griffith Observatory? We can’t wait to show you the real stars of LA!
Griffith Observatory tour itinerary
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Astronomers Monument
Honoring the world’s six most famous astronomers
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Central Rotunda & Pendulum
With overhead murals inspired by Greek mythology
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East Hall
Including the Tesla Coil, Nikola Tesla’s 50,000-volt invention
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Griffith Observatory Roof
Where you’ll learn about the Zeiss and solar telescopes inside the copper domes
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West Hall
Including the interactive periodic table of elements
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Edge of Space
Feature some of the world’s most sophisticated astronomical instruments
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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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Scale Model of Planets
Where your weight changes as you travel through our solar system
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Hollywood Sign
One of the best views of this LA icon
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Ticket option: Samuel Oschin Planetarium
A show in an immersive theater with a high-tech star projector
Plan your trip
Planetarium tickets
To see a planetarium show, you can buy tickets in person. Your guide will show you how. They’re $10 for adults and $6 for kids ages 5-12 (under 5 not allowed in the theater).
Tour ending point
This tour ends at Griffith Observatory.
Refund policy
We offer a 100% refund up to 24 hours before the start time.
Griffith Observatory tour reviews
I am so very glad we booked this tour. Oscar was incredible! So very knowledgeable and interesting. Well paced and informative too! Oscar was very passionate about the observatory, outer space, and planet Earth! Well worth the money!
— SusanJoe
Annie
Meeting point
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.
Griffith Observatory Tour FAQs
How much walking is there?
This tour covers less than a mile at a leisurely pace. If mobility is an issue, please choose our private tour.
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. Please see our blog for tips on getting to Griffith Observatory.
What if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine. If there’s extreme weather and we have to cancel, you’ll get a full refund.
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.