Los Angeles: Private Tour of Griffith Observatory

Explore the wonders of the Los Angeles skyline with a private tour of the iconic Griffith Observatory. Led by former observatory staff, this 3-hour experience offers an up-close look at the observatory’s renowned exhibits and panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and beaches. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or simply seeking a unique perspective on the City of Angels, this personalized journey promises an unforgettable glimpse into the intersection of science, architecture, and LA history.

Key Points

• This private tour of the Griffith Observatory lasts 3 hours and is led by former observatory employees, providing an expert-guided experience.
• The tour includes panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and LA beaches, as well as optional access to the planetarium show.
• Guests can explore the observatory’s 67,000 square feet of exhibits, including iconic features like the Foucault Pendulum and Tesla Coil.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, and children 5 and under can join for free, though they are not allowed in the planetarium.
• The tour is organized by an independent company, not affiliated with the City of Los Angeles, and has received an overall rating of 5 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The private tour of Griffith Observatory offers a curated 3-hour experience for a starting price of $349.00 per person.

A curated 3-hour private tour of Griffith Observatory starts at $349.00 per person.

Led by former observatory employees, the tour explores 67,000 square feet of exhibits, providing panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and LA beaches.

Guests can learn about science, architecture, and local history, with an optional 40-minute planetarium show upgrade.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, though luggage and large bags aren’t allowed.

Visitors can take in the night sky through the Samuel Oschin Telescope.

Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

Tour Highlights

A curated itinerary developed by former observatory employees allows guests to explore 67,000 square feet of exhibits with an expert guide.

Panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and LA beaches await, as participants learn about science, architecture, and LA history. For an additional fee, guests can enjoy a 40-minute immersive planetarium show.

The tour includes iconic exhibits like the Foucault Pendulum and Tesla Coil, providing a unique educational experience. Kids 5 and under can join for free, though they’re not allowed in the planetarium.

With photo opportunities and a glimpse of the night sky, this private tour offers an unforgettable Griffith Observatory experience.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The Griffith Observatory tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing for equal access for all guests.

Children 5 and under can join the tour at no additional cost, but aren’t permitted in the planetarium show.

Younger children can accompany the tour without charge but are not allowed inside the planetarium.

For safety reasons, larger luggage and bags aren’t allowed on the tour.

Guests should dress appropriately for the outdoor activity.

The tour experience is designed to be inclusive and comfortable for visitors of all abilities, while maintaining necessary restrictions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour for everyone.

Tour Experience

Guests embark on a captivating, private tour of Griffith Observatory led by expert guides.

They’ll explore the observatory’s 67,000 square feet of exhibits, learning about science, architecture, and LA history. The tour includes iconic exhibits like the Foucault Pendulum and Tesla Coil.

Panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and LA beaches provide endless photo opportunities. Guests can upgrade to a 40-minute immersive planetarium show, offering a glimpse of the night sky through the Samuel Oschin Telescope.

The live tour guide provides a personalized, private group experience, ensuring an engaging and unforgettable visit to this LA landmark.

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Important Information

This private tour is organized by an independent tour company, not affiliated with the City of Los Angeles.

Customers must check in with the guide at the Astronomers Monument before the tour begins. The activity runs regardless of weather, and rescheduling or a full refund is available if the tour is canceled.

The Griffith Observatory is open Tuesday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and Saturday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but is closed on Mondays.

Based on 6 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 5 out of 5, praised for the experience and guide quality.

Exploring the Griffith Observatory

Visitors embarking on the private Griffith Observatory tour can expect an immersive exploration of the observatory’s 67,000 square feet of exhibits.

Led by former observatory employees, the curated itinerary showcases iconic attractions like the Foucault Pendulum and Tesla Coil. Guests will learn about the observatory’s science, architecture, and LA history while enjoying panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and beaches.

An optional 40-minute planetarium show offers an immersive glimpse of the night sky. The private tour experience allows for scenic photo opportunities and a personalized encounter with the observatory’s captivating exhibits and telescopes.

The Architecture and History

The Griffith Observatory’s striking Art Deco architecture has captivated visitors since its dedication in 1935. Designed by architect John C. Austin, the building features:

1. Dramatic arched windows

2. Sleek limestone façade

3. Ornate astronomical motifs

4. A central dome housing the Zeiss refracting telescope

The observatory was a gift to the city from benefactor Griffith J. Griffith, who envisioned a "people’s observatory" accessible to all.

Its exhibits explore the cosmos, LA history, and scientific principles. From the iconic Foucault Pendulum to the Tesla Coil, the observatory offers a captivating blend of science, architecture, and stunning skyline views.

Panoramic Views of Los Angeles

Perched atop Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory offers visitors unparalleled panoramic views of the greater Los Angeles area.

From this vantage point, guests can gaze out over the sprawling city, taking in the iconic Hollywood Sign, the serene Santa Monica Bay, and the distant Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Perched atop the observatory, visitors can gaze out over the sprawling cityscape, taking in iconic landmarks and serene coastal vistas.

On a clear day, the view stretches all the way to the San Gabriel Mountains.

This bird’s-eye perspective provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the scale and diversity of the Los Angeles landscape.

It’s a truly breathtaking sight that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Parking Available at the Observatory?

Parking is available at the Griffith Observatory, but it’s limited. Visitors can park in the onsite lot for a fee or look for free street parking in the surrounding neighborhoods, though availability may be limited.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

According to the tour details, outside food and drinks are not allowed. However, the observatory has a café where visitors can purchase refreshments. Bringing your own items is not permitted during the private tour experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?

While the tour doesn’t offer specific discounts, there’s a "reserve now & pay later" option available. Plus, kids 5 and under can join the tour for free, making it a budget-friendly option for families.

How Do We Get to the Meeting Point?

The meeting point is the Astronomers Monument on the front lawn of the Griffith Observatory. Guests should plan to arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour departs promptly at the scheduled start time.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour’s duration is fixed at 3 hours, but the cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance if more time is needed. Extending the tour beyond 3 hours would require booking an additional tour.

The Sum Up

The Griffith Observatory tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the cosmos. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Los Angeles, access iconic exhibits, and gain insights from former observatory employees. With a three-hour duration and a reasonable price point, this private tour provides an engaging and budget-friendly way to experience the observatory’s science, architecture, and history.

You can check availability for your dates here: