Griffith Observatory Tour: Insider's Guide

Embark on a small-group guided tour of the iconic Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. Explore the exhibition space, observatory, and planetarium while learning about science, history, architecture, and movie trivia. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch an immersive show in the planetarium theater. Book now!

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Astronomers Monument - See the Astronomers Monument — a large, outdoor concrete sculpture on the front lawn that pays homage to six of the greatest astronomers of all time.
  • Griffith Observatory - This world-class observatory features one of the largest Foucault Pendulums, a 50,000-volt Tesla Coil, an interactive periodic table of elements,…
What's Included
  • Optional upgrade on-site for your ticket to see a 40-minute show in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium
  • Local guide and expert on the Griffith Observatory
  • Glimpse of the night sky as seen from the Samuel Oschin Telescope at Palomar Observatory
  • Curated itinerary design by former Griffith Observatory employees
  • Panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign
  • Photo op with a statue of Albert Einstein
What's Not Included
  • Parking
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Guided by knowledgeable observatory staff who are intimately familiar with this landmark, participants will enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience as part of our Insider Collection tour.
This small-group tour, designed by observatory experts, offers a carefully curated exploration through space and time, seamlessly integrating science, history,…

Location
Astronomers Monument
East Observatory Road
Meet your guide on the front lawn at Astronomers Monument. NOTE: We are an independent tour company and are not affiliated with the City of LA or their employees. If you ask Observatory staff about the tour they won’t be able to help. You MUST check in with your guide at the Astronomer’s Monument.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.6
(326 Ratings)
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Birgitcarolin97
May 28, 2026
Do recommend! - Great experience. Gets you to the most important points in 1.5h and gives you priority tickets to the 30min planetary show.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lisa_f
May 12, 2026
Knowledgeable guide, great tour! - Our guide Estevan was amazing! He was entertaining and really knew about the history of the building as well as the area and how the Observatory fits into greater LA.
Review provided by Viator
Deketa_s
May 4, 2026
Engaging & Knowledgeable - Very engaging and knowledgeable guide. Great way to learn about the exhibits at the observatory and leaves you wanting to explore more.
Review provided by Viator
D8166ssscotto
May 1, 2026
Griffith Observatory - Is an excellent tour and Barry was great guide.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Cathy_p
May 1, 2026
Guide was knowledgeable... - Guide was knowledgeable and the observatory is amazing. The acoustics sometimes make it difficult to hear the guide.
Review provided by Viator
Destination734808
Apr 28, 2026
A+ - Tour was comprehensive and educational; tour guide Matt was amazing - knowledgable, funny, and really invested in this amazing piece of LA and its history.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mary_m
Apr 10, 2026
Wonderful tour - Many steps/stairs are involved, so be warned. Estaben was our guide and is extremely knowledgeable. Only problem--so much info to cover in 1.5 hrs.--forced Estaben to speak very quickly. Also, due to crowd noise, perhaps a system with headphones, ear buds or something as it was easy to miss something.
Review provided by Viator
Nova_matt79
Apr 1, 2026
Fun Tour of Griffith - Expert guide, very friendly and informative
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kitty_s
May 2, 2026
Not sure it was worth it. - Estevan was delightful, but he spoke so fast, it was very difficult to hear and understand what he was saying. Not sure of what we learned or if it was worth the money. He seemed very rushed.
Review provided by Viator
Brenda_g
Apr 13, 2026
There is very little... - There is very little parking. No amenities for people with mobility problems. Had to leave without visiting the observatory. Waste of money.
Review provided by Viator
From $56
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).