Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory combines free astronomy exhibits, public telescopes, city views, outdoor terraces, and paid live planetarium shows. Children can learn how people observe the sky, watch demonstrations such as the Tesla coil, explore space-focused exhibit areas, and look toward the Hollywood Sign. The building, grounds, exhibits, and public telescopes have free admission.

The Samuel Oschin Planetarium is the main paid activity.

The strongest age range is about 5 to 14. Younger children can still enjoy the building and views, but the official planetarium guidance says shows are not appropriate for children under five because the visuals and sounds may be upsetting or disorienting. Children under five are admitted only to the first show of each operating day and must sit on an adult’s lap.

Tesla coil demonstrations can also be loud. Noise-reducing headphones may help sound-sensitive children.

Plan two to three hours for exhibits, terraces, and telescope time. Add another hour or more if buying planetarium tickets and waiting for a show. Same-day show tickets are sold only at the Observatory, not online or in advance.

Prices are $12 for adults ages 13 to 54, $8 for children ages 5 to 12, and free for children under five under the special entry rules. Two adults and two children ages 5 to 12 cost $12 x 2 + $8 x 2 = $40. Guests must line up 15 to 20 minutes before showtime, and late seating is not allowed.

Getting there is the main family challenge. Parking near the Observatory is limited and paid during posted hours. Congestion can trigger road closures, especially during evenings, weekends, holidays, spring break, and summer.

The Observatory calls public transportation the easiest and fastest option. The DASH Observatory bus stops in front of the building and runs every 20 to 25 minutes under the current schedule.

Strollers can reach every level by ramps and elevators. Staff assist with stroller storage for planetarium shows, while strollers must stay outside the Leonard Nimoy theater. Every restroom has a baby-changing station.

Rain does not prevent an indoor exhibit visit, but clouds can reduce telescope viewing and hide the city views. During very busy periods, building capacity controls may cause a 5 to 15 minute wait. Check the official calendar and weather before making the uphill trip.