culture

Griffith Observatory Opens Free Astronomy Access Year-Round for LA Community

The observatory's established schedule and free entry policies continue to enable public engagement with astronomy in Griffith Park.

By Los Angeles Culture Desk · Published July 24, 2026

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Griffith Observatory Opens Free Astronomy Access Year-Round for LA Community — Photo by aherrero / flickr (by)

Griffith Observatory at 2800 East Observatory Road remains open Tuesday through Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with the building closed every Monday.

Visitor Hours and Park Integration

These hours allow consistent daytime and evening access for residents and visitors seeking science exhibits and telescope viewing. The grounds and terraces stay open daily within Griffith Park hours from 5:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., even on Mondays when the building itself is closed. This separation of building and grounds access keeps the site usable for informal visits while respecting the observatory's operational limits.

Free Admission and Planetarium Details

General admission to the building, exhibits, and outdoor grounds is free. Only the Samuel Oschin Planetarium shows require a paid ticket, typically ranging from $6 to $10 depending on age and category. The observatory offers free public telescope viewing each night it is open, weather permitting, drawing people to the terraces for direct sky observation.

Exhibits and Iconic Views

Key exhibits include space and science-related displays, a high-tech planetarium, and an extensive array of astronomy and cosmology exhibits. The location provides iconic views of downtown Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign, reinforcing the site's role as a public vantage point within the city's largest municipal park. These features remain available under the current schedule without changes to entry policies.

Visitors planning a trip can check the observatory website for any updates to the listed hours or planetarium availability before arriving.

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