Griffith Observatory is more than just a scientific landmark; it is a cultural beacon and one of the most romantic vantage points in Southern California. Perched on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, the Observatory offers panoramic views that stretch from the Pacific Ocean to Downtown Los Angeles. While the exhibits inside are fascinating, the real magic often happens outside, as the sun dips below the horizon and the city begins to sparkle.
Finding the perfect spot to watch this daily spectacle can be overwhelming, especially with the crowds that flock to the area during golden hour. While the main terraces offer incredible views, the surrounding parkland is full of hidden gems that provide equally stunning, and often quieter, alternatives. Whether you are looking for a strenuous hike or a spot right next to your parking space, the area has something for every type of traveler.
This guide goes beyond the crowded front lawn to explore the diverse geography of Griffith Park. We have analyzed the topography, trail difficulty, and sightlines to bring you a curated list of locations that offer unique perspectives of the Los Angeles basin. From rocky peaks to shaded switchbacks, these spots guarantee a memorable end to your day.
By choosing the right location, you can trade the sound of traffic for the whisper of the wind through the chaparral. You might be looking for the perfect spot to propose, a place to meditate, or simply a scenic backdrop for your Instagram feed. Understanding the terrain and the angle of the sun during different seasons will help you make the most of your visit.
Whether you are a local looking to rediscover your city or a tourist ticking off a bucket list item, timing and location are everything. The haze of the marine layer or the clarity of a Santa Ana wind event can drastically change the view. Below, we break down the best spots to ensure you have the best seat in the house for nature’s nightly show.
Let’s explore the twelve best locations to watch the sunset near Griffith Observatory.
Griffith Park Observatory Trails Peak
| Address | 2715 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
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Excellent getaway with great pathways and mesmerising views....going inside was a further treatment.. great planetarium..Excellent setup of celestial bodies both on 1st and lower lobby levels.
The show is in a perfect setting and presentation is amazing.
Ample parking but has to be reserved..also members stand to benefit.
The tickets are well prized..views of Hollywood sign...was attractive.
Also the smoke over boyle Avenue could be seen.
Clean restrooms..Nice cafe and shopping too.
beautiful hiking trails. free parking everywhere. the view is breathtaking. there’s water fountain and clean bathrooms all over the park. horrible phone signal but they provide wifi access for free.
If you’re visiting the observatory, take the time to do this short trail as well.
It’s less than an hour round trip, but absolutely worth it.
You’ll get breathtaking views of the Griffith Observatory with the Los Angeles skyline in the background.
One of the best spots in Los Angeles for views of the city and the Hollywood sign. The building itself is beautiful, especially around sunset and at night when the city lights come on. Inside, the exhibits are interesting and the observatory has a classic old-Hollywood feel. Parking can be difficult and crowded, so be prepared to walk a bit, but the views make it completely worth it. A must-visit place in LA.
Great Hike to Mt. Hollywood!
We parked at the Greek Theatre and took the Mt. Hollywood Trail for a rewarding hike. The ascent was gradual, making it a pleasant and manageable climb. The trail is well-maintained, and the views at the top are fantastic—offering a great perspective of downtown LA and Griffith Observatory. There are multiple routes to reach this point, but the Mt. Hollywood Trail was a great choice. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a scenic and enjoyable hike!
Dante's View
| Address | Griffith Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
This is a nice maintained garden along many of my hikes at Griffith Park. Although I've never rested here, it seems like a nice place to rest and enjoy. Also there are some nice views a few feet away on the Hogback trail.
I've been hiking this particular place for a while now, still trying to discover more trails *hidden ones or new ones* for first timers I would recommend going in the mornings to familiarize yourself with the trails warm days you'll see some rattle snakes *not always* but be wary.
Scenery always amazes me. Sunset, sunrise, they are both very enjoyable.
Dante’s View offers a breathtakingly beautiful landscaped garden in the sky. With its well thought designed layout and stunning panoramic view, this haven provides a serene and awe-inspiring escape, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding gorgeous nature. A must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. It looked like I was somewhere tropical, simply breathtaking.
I’ve been hiking for 6 weeks now and had to work up to this one, it was a bit steep in some areas, but taking it slow worked just fine. It’s worth it!!
This trail system is very versatile. From the Greek Theater parking lot to Dante's view is about 3.5 miles (5.6km). You can certainly walk longer distances and modify based on your ability and time.
-Arrive early if you want to find parking ( 7am) and if you want to avoid extreme heat. Public restrooms are available close to the park next to the Greek Theater.
The name says it all, the view was spectacular overlooking the city. Its a great walk lovely trails. You definitely want to bring the water as the walk can be long if your a newbie or going the distance.
Also wear protective clothing, since it can get hot depending on time of day and enjoy the amazing views.
Every Time I am in the area I I enjoy taking these walk, its relaxing.
Captain's Roost
| Address | 2715 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
This is a great (and easy) hike! We started at the top of Griffith Park (at the Observatory) and followed the trails from the parking lot. We also timed it for sunset so it wasn't too hot and made for great pictures. The trail through the palm trees was super cool and I 100% recommend this hike!
I hiked up Firebreak trail to Griffith Observatory, then followed the signs to Mt. Hollywood. I wasn’t able to reach my final destination in time but I made it to Captain’s Roost. I had to work in the afternoon.
The hike up from the street is steep but the trails themselves are very wide and soft underfoot. Perfect for families or groups of friends. I took a .1 mile shortcut to Captain’s Roost that started behind the sign. It looked a bit challenging and I had to scramble a tiny at the beginning—but that’s what made it fun for me!
The view is phenomenal and if you enjoy being outside, this hike is a must. I would recommend going early because there is no shade. Wear a hat and sunscreen, and bring water with electrolytes. I hope to come back to Griffith Park when I have more time to explore the trail system.
There were bathrooms at the street level trailheads as well as outside the observatory on the edge of the parking lot. There was also a water bottle filling station by the bathrooms outside.
I am visiting from Louisiana. This was my 2nd trip to find the Hollywood Sign, mission accomplished. We paid to park on the West Observatory Rd. Then hiked to Captain’s Roost was beautiful. On this path you can view the ocean, Los Angeles city line, Griffith Observatory, and movie star watch. The best time to visit is sunset. My dog and pals had a great time!
Nice stopping point for a break while hiking up to Mt. Hollywood summit. Less than an hour from the observatory parking lot but over an hour and moderate hike from the bottom. It’s easy terrain just all uphill that’s why moderate.
What a fantastic (and simple) walk! We followed the paths from the parking lot at the Observatory, which is the highest point in Griffith Park. In order to avoid the heat and take beautiful photos, we also scheduled it for sunset. I heartily suggest this walk, and the route through the palm palms was really interesting!
Mulholland Scenic Overlook
| Address | 8591 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90046 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (310) 589-3200 |
Nice place to come and see the city from a higher view you can take photos with the Hollywood sign. Free parking however is small. You have some free water. The place isn’t that easy to access by foot bot by bicycle you must drive.
This is such a cool drive. Escape the city heat and streets and head to the hills! Not only do you get awesome views but the Hollywood sign of course and some nice stop off points for a refreshing drink and snack. Loved it! We really took our time!
We arrived in pursuit of a sunset–if one may indeed call it that–and were pleasantly rewarded with a rather splendid one. Parking is available for around 5-6 vehicles. Do keep in mind that reaching this spot requires navigating a few tight bends. Our goldendoodle thoroughly taken with the occasion graciously agreed to pose–clearly of the opinion that the view was worthy of her time
Mullholland Scenic Outlook is a beautiful spot with an amazing view of the city, peaceful, quiet, and perfect for a short stop to take in the scenery. It’s definitely worth visiting if you enjoy great views and a calm atmosphere. The only downside is the parking, it’s very limited and feels more like off-roading than a proper lot, with uneven, non-flat spaces. Still, the view easily makes up for it!
Awesome views , easy to find parking on the side of the road. Fun drive getting there and going all along Mulholland as well.
Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory
| Address | Western Canyon Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90068 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
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Very steep trail and difficult at certain points. It took me a little over 20 mins to hike the trail at a fast pace. Beautiful trail. The payoff is the view so don't stop. It's totally worth it. Don't forget your water.
This is such a great adventure. It's free and parking is free as well. Look up early in the morning to go take a hike. You also get very nice views up there. It's nice to see a lizard and try to catch a lizard as well. It's nice to be out of the city and have a big view of the city itself. The trail is nice and it is taken care of
I recently had a great hike in Griffith Park, starting from one of the Observatory Trailheads, and it’s a perfect urban escape.
The signage is clear, offering several short, accessible options like the West Observatory Trail (0.7 mi) or the Loop Trail (0.2 mi), making it ideal for a quick workout or a relaxed family outing. The trails themselves are mostly wide, dirt fire roads, which were well-maintained and easy to navigate.
The best part, of course, is the views. Even on an overcast or slightly hazy day (like when I was there), the vistas are stunning. As you hike up the wide, dusty path, you get that iconic perspective of the Griffith Observatory dome rising over the green hills behind you. Then, when you look out over the city, you are treated to sweeping, classic views of the Hollywood Hills and the Los Angeles skyline in the distance.
Quick Tips:
1. Parking: Parking near the Observatory can be a challenge, so consider starting your hike from a lower access point like Fern Dell Drive (which is listed as only 0.1 mi away from this junction) and walking up.
2. Sun: The trail pictured is quite exposed, so definitely bring water and sun protection on clear days, even if it feels cool at the start.
3. Footwear: Standard athletic shoes are generally fine for these wide paths.
This is a quintessential L.A. hike that's perfect for both locals and visitors. It offers a great payoff in views for a minimal time commitment and effort!
Went here on a Saturday morning. Parking can be hard to find, so you gotta drive around for a bit.
When I come to L.A. I make it a point to hike up this trail in the morning. It's a short, strenuous hike (depending on your lifestyle), but absolutely worth the views. The hike is steep the majority of the way, especially the first 2/3 of the way, but you'll get majestic views of L.A. (and the ocean on a non-smoggy/foggy day). It ends at Griffith Observatory. On the way down you'll enjoy the 180⁰ views of the city. Its stunning!
Overall, and absolute must when in L.A. You start off at the Ferndell Nature Trail to listen to the serene sounds of the natural creek and walk through the natural landscape that had been utilized by the Tongvas. Take it slow if you're not a hiker. It's about a 30 minute hike up, but maybe an hour or so if you're new to hiking.
Our daily favorite hiking area.
Cannot park at the park. After sunset, do parking across the Los Feliz street, street parking.
Jerome C. Daniel Overlook above the Hollywood Bowl
| Address | 7036 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (310) 589-3200 |
Beautiful place for a scenic view in the Los Angeles area near Hollywood. Peaceful atmosphere with amazing city views and a great spot for photos or simply enjoying the scenery. Definitely worth visiting if you want to experience a different side of LA and take in the landscape from above.
Super cool overlook. The Hollywood sign is a lot farther than we thought but the view of LA was breath-taking! Got some really nice pics. Getting there was a bit convoluted. We drove all the way to the Runyon Canyon Park and then drove back to take a right on this overlook. There’s a neat little sign explaining some history on the Hollywood sign.
Stumbled across this park while driving in the hills. Awesome location for a quick stop if you have some time to kill before dinner or want to see a number of sights in one place! I had never been to the hills before but this scratched my tourist itch even more than my last visit to Hollywood when I visited Hollywood Boulevard. Highly recommend sunscreen if visiting in the summer, as there wasn't much shade. I also recommend climbing up to the lookout, the view was impeccable! (Hollywood Bowl, Capitol Records, Hollywood Sign, and many other LA attractions were easily visible, even in the rain.)
Really cool scenic overlook with a great view of downtown (if you can catch it on a low smog day) and the Hollywood bowl especially! Good view of the Hollywood sign if you can zoom in on your phone maybe. Really fascinating house overlooking it too.
Lovely spot! It's a place you can drive right up to on Mulholland Drive, nice and easy. And the views are absolutely breathtaking! You can see the Hollywood Bowl spread out before you, the tall buildings of downtown LA reaching for the sky, and on a clear day. It's a real treat for the eyes, a peaceful place to take it all in without having to walk far at all. You should really consider a visit!
Barbara A. Fine Overlook at the Summit
| Address | 11801 Mulholland Dr, Studio City, CA 91604 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 221-9944 |
It has both sides of views on the mountain! You can also take a short walk.
Great views all over the way!
In my mind the overlook on the other side of the road (looking west) is even better.
A few nice views, not much to brag about.
My friend was excited to spot Gwen Stefani's Home with Blake Shelton. Loretta love's her some Blake Shelton ❤️🔥
Ferndell Nature Trail
| Address | Fern Dell Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 666-5046 |
Come early before it gets too hot! There are two trails, east and west. I went up the east side and down the west side. If you’re coming with kids, take the west side as it is less steep. If coming alone or with friends and you want a challenge, take the east side. The views are beyond gorgeous. Remember to apply sunscreen and bring a water bottle. Parking is plentiful, especially on a weekday in the morning.
One of our favorite walking spots in Griffith Park, especially on hot days. Most of the Ferndell Nature Trail is shaded by trees, so it stays much cooler and more comfortable. If you’re deciding between this trail and the trail toward Griffith Observatory, I definitely recommend Ferndell on a hot day since the Observatory route has very little shade.
Fishing is not allowed here, but depending on the season, you can see tons of crawfish in the stream. My kids have loved coming here since they were little, so this place has a lot of great memories for us.
There’s also a playground once you come out of the trail, which makes it a great spot for families with kids.
Beautiful, peaceful, shaded, and a great little escape from the LA heat. Highly recommended!
Beautiful views of Los Angeles with so many different trails to take. If doing a long hike in the summer bring a hat and plenty of water. There is pretty much 0 shade.
I always start my mornings on this trail whenever I’m in town if the weather allows. Hike all the way to Griffith trail peak and often beyond. It's one of the best places to start the day if you love to hike or run.
Along the way, you may encounter some local wildlife, such as deer, coyotes, and, of course, plenty of squirrels. Don’t be surprised if your shoes and pants get a little dusty if you decide to run the trail.
Depending on your pace, you can complete the round trip in about one to two hours. There's a park where you'll often see families and friends enjoying picnics, relaxing, or spending time outdoors at the beginning of the trail.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful morning hike, a trail run, or simply a chance to enjoy nature, I highly recommend this trail.
Epic views of Los Angeles and a beautiful view while exercising! So many trail options and ample parking. A great way to escape the madness of the city and just appreciate nature, a good audio book or podcast. We did about 5mi round trip and got to see the Hollywood sign up close. I recommend bringing sunscreen and water. There’s picnic tables around the park to have lunch or to just chill and sit on a tree stump. Highly recommend this place if you’re in need of connecting with nature and self.
Universal City Overlook
| Address | 7701 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90046 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (310) 858-7272 |
Very cool, unique overlook over Universal Studios Hollywood. This overlook is different than a lot of the other overlooks that are focused on downtown and the Hollywood sign. It is not too far from a lot of the other overlooks, such as Griffith Observatory. Definitely worth a visit if in the hills. Free to go as well. There is not a parking lot, but even tour busses were able to find spots on the side of the road.
Nice little spot to chill and enjoy the view. Only 3-4 parking spots available. It's a hit or missed location. View is worth the drive.
Visiting Universal City Overlook was an amazing experience! The view from the top was breathtaking, offering a stunning panoramic vista of the city below. You can see the entire Universal Studios theme park, as well as the surrounding areas, all framed by lush greenery. The atmosphere was peaceful and refreshing, with the perfect balance of nature and cityscape. It’s a great spot to relax and take in the beauty of Los Angeles. The accessibility and well-maintained paths made it easy to explore, and it’s a perfect place to snap some memorable photos. It was truly a highlight of my trip!
A great spot to catch stunning city lights while passing by! The view is definitely worth it, especially at night. However, parking is tricky, and stopping isn’t always easy. If you get a chance to pull over safely, it’s a good place for a quick look. Worth trying at least once!
A beautiful viewing platform. I recommend visiting. It takes 5 minutes to take photos and videos. It is not very busy on a weekday. To get to this place, you need to drive along a winding road. Parking along the road, few parking spaces. People look quickly, do not stay here for long, when they leave, parking spaces appear. You need to wait. Tourist buses bring here.
Dead Man Overlook
| Address | 8591 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90046 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (310) 589-3200 |
Its not easy finding the location, but once you do, and suddenly look down and see Dead Mans Curve, it's very rewarding. We read many posts on Reddit Facebook Etc which gave the approximate location. But once you get there you still have to kind of track it down yourself. We finally use Google Maps in satellite view to pinpoint the spot, and we were standing right next to it. A fascinating bit of history and beautiful local scenery.
Love the view for here. It's such a beautiful photo location. Added bonus, look at the plane in the photo.
This was a little dirt turn out on the side of Mulholland Dr. There is a rustic wooden fence to keep you from going over the edge. There is also a beautiful view of the valley. There is room for a couple cars to park. And you can take your dog out for a look as long as they are on a leash. It's definitely worth the visit.
Most of Mulholland Drive has a double yellow line, and of course, that double yellow line exists right in front of this scenic overlook. Had we come from the other direction, we could have easily pulled into the unpaved "parking" area, but we didn't.
Drama.
Regardless, it may have been a once in a lifetime opportunity to drive Mulholland and stop here after a tough week of beaching it up in Malibu. It was worth it.
Nice view, I give it 4 stars due to the fact that only about 4 cars fit at once. And my 5 star views are where you can se dtla with plenty of parking. Just my 2 cents, no skyscrapers, no party!
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
| Address | 6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (310) 558-5547 |
Beautiful views for sunset!! I opted from doing the stairs or trail because it was already pretty late so I parked on the upper lot and it was $2 for day parking, and there’s plenty of parking. It does get a bit busy with people hiking up even on a weekday but not super bad.
I loved the view. Being so accessible within the city, yet full of trails and diverse plant and animal life, it truly feels like a feast for both the eyes and the soul. A perfect place for anyone seeking a wild yet tranquil escape.
Once again finding a gem in the city I grew up in and had no idea existed! What’s nice is it’s for all ages. You can drive up to the scenic top of this winding road or you can take on the challenge of walking the steep hills. Either way, you will be rewarded by incredible 360 degree views of LA from the top of the Baldwin Hills mountains! There’s a cool visitors center with things to interest kids and adults alike. Plenty of parking even for a weekend visit
Great spot to walk up to with your friends or pets to get a great 360 view of Los Angeles. Moderately easy trek up to the top which is around 400 feet in elevation. Also has bathrooms and a little informational center.
Great hike. Start at the trailhead off Jefferson Blvd, up the stairs, then all the way up into Kenneth Hahn Park. My doggie and I try to hit it every week!
Griffith Observatory
| Address | Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Griffith Observatory is a must-visit! Stunning city and Hollywood Sign views. Plan 2–3 hours here. Parking is $10/hour. Don’t miss the planetarium show is $12 for adults, $8 for students absolutely worth it.
We went to the Griffith Observatory after we visited the Hollywood sign. We went in the middle of March and there were a lot of people visiting. The parking was full, but luckily, some kind hearted visitors gave us their paid parking ticket with 2 hours remaining in it. We were very thankful. We hiked for a bit to reach the main observatory. The first thing that you will notice is the awesome view of Los Angeles from this area. There were binoculars that you can use if you want. We entered the main hall and it was free, however, there were areas that were reserved for people who want a more detailed experience for a fee. We saw several interesting exhibit like the periodic table of elements, with all the samples of the safe ones (no radioactive elements), there is a Faraday cage which is awesome, and a giant telescope that you can look at located at the rooftop dome. Overall this was a wanderful experience.
We hiked all the way to the observatory. It is a nice walk with gorgeous views of the city unfolding as you go up. The observatory itself is very interesting if you are a space geek, all in art deco style! It offers beautiful views of the city as well as the Hollywood sign. Consider going in the evening as the telescope is open between 7:00PM and 9:00PM as well as for sunset shots.
The observatory wasn't open yet as we got there early. I do think they should open early rather than in the afternoon. However the views from outside was great to look at. You can see a lot of Los Angeles, the Hollywood sign and the Yosemite mountains. The scientific information is also quite fascinating to learn about.
It's free to park around before 12 in case you want to go only for the views.
There are also restrooms available.
Just getting there is wonderful because you must drive up the hill to get there. Then you walk and once you enter the observatory, you remain speechless.
There is a planetarium in the top and a big telescope that works at night.
Plan for at least 4 hours if you like to read everything around you.
Tips for Watching the Sunset Near Griffith Observatory
Before you head out the door, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your sunset experience is smooth and enjoyable. The terrain around Griffith Park can be tricky, and the popularity of the area means logistics can be challenging. Here are five essential tips to help you navigate the crowds and the landscape like a pro.
- Plan for Parking and Traffic: Parking at the Observatory is notoriously expensive and fills up hours before sunset. Instead, consider parking along Western Canyon Road, near The Greek Theatre, or at the bottom of the hill in the free lots. Be prepared for a steep walk up the hill if you don’t use the DASH shuttle service, which runs from the Vermont/Sunset Metro station.
- Bring Layers, Even in Summer: The temperature can drop significantly once the sun goes down, especially during the winter months or when a coastal breeze kicks in. A light jacket or windbreaker will keep you comfortable while you wait for the sky to shift from orange to deep purple.
- Arrive 45 to 60 Minutes Early: The visual spectacle begins well before the sun hits the horizon. The "golden hour" light is perfect for photography and viewing the city. Arriving early allows you to secure a good spot, especially if you are hiking to a peak like Mount Hollywood.
- Wear Proper Footwear: While some of these spots are accessible by pavement, many of the best views require navigating dirt trails with loose gravel. Avoid flip-flops. Sturdy sneakers or hiking boots will make your descent in the dark much safer.
- Bring a Flashlight or Headlamp: After the sun sets, the park gets very dark very quickly. Trails are not lit, and it is easy to trip on rocks or roots. A flashlight is essential for safely navigating back down the trails to your car.
There is a profound sense of calm that comes from watching the vastness of Los Angeles transition from day to night. The grid of city lights flickering to life while the sky fades is a reminder of the scale of the metropolis. By choosing a spot that suits your physical ability and tolerance for crowds, you can turn a simple evening into a core memory. Whether you chose the convenience of the Observatory terraces or the solitude of a distant ridge, the view is a reward for making the effort to look up.
