4.6 (366) · Los Angeles · By ExperienceFirst Free cancellation
Discover the Griffith Observatory like never before on this insider-led guided tour. As part of our exclusive Insider Collection, you'll gain unique behind-the-scenes access and insights from employees who know the landmark intimately.
This small-group tour, designed by former observatory insiders, offers a captivating journey through the cosmos and history. It expertly blends science, history, architecture, and fascinating movie trivia, providing you with the firsthand knowledge of a local expert.
Your experience includes a ticket to a show at the renowned Samuel Oschin Planetarium. This 40-minute presentation is suitable for visitors aged 5 and above.
Are you ready to explore the marvels of the Griffith Observatory? We are thrilled to share the true stars of Los Angeles with you!
✓ Admission to a show at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium✓ A knowledgeable local guide with expertise on the Griffith Observatory✓ A carefully planned itinerary developed by former Griffith Observatory employees✓ Unobstructed, panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign✓ A photo opportunity with a statue of Albert Einstein✕ Parking fees✕ Gratuities for the guide1 Astronomers Monument
Visit the Astronomers Monument, an impressive outdoor concrete sculpture located on the front lawn. It serves as a tribute to six of history's most celebrated astronomers.
· Non-stop passage
2 Griffith Observatory
Explore this world-class observatory, featuring highlights such as one of the largest Foucault Pendulums, a powerful 50,000-volt Tesla Coil, and an interactive periodic table of elements.
Experience the night sky as observed from the Palomar Observatory's Samuel Oschin Telescope.
Your 1.5-hour visit includes admission.
· 1 h 30 min · Admission included
3 Hollywood Sign
Enjoy one of the most spectacular vantage points for viewing the iconic Hollywood Sign.
· Non-stop passage
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. Please present one ticket per booking.
Please meet your guide on the front lawn of the Griffith Observatory, near the Astronomers Monument.
Important Note: We operate as an independent tour company and are not officially affiliated with the City of Los Angeles or its employees. Observatory staff will not be able to provide information about our tour. It is essential that you check in directly with your guide at the Astronomer’s Monument.
The tour concludes at the same location where you met your guide on the front lawn at the Astronomers Monument.
Important Note: We operate as an independent tour company and are not officially affiliated with the City of Los Angeles or its employees. Observatory staff will not be able to provide information about our tour. It is essential that you check in directly with your guide at the Astronomer’s Monument.
Meet your guide on the front lawn at Astronomers Monument.
Important Note: We operate as an independent tour company and are not officially affiliated with the City of Los Angeles or its employees. Observatory staff will not be able to provide information about our tour. It is essential that you check in directly with your guide at the Astronomer’s Monument.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Service animals are permitted on the tour. Convenient public transportation options are accessible nearby. Infants can be accommodated in prams or strollers. All areas and surfaces are designed to be wheelchair accessible. Transportation options are also wheelchair accessible. The tour is wheelchair accessible throughout. This tour is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Please meet your guide on the front lawn at Astronomers Monument. Important Note: We operate as an independent tour company and are not officially affiliated with the City of Los Angeles or its employees. Observatory staff will not be able to provide information about our tour. It is essential that you check in directly with your guide at the Astronomer’s Monument. Arrive at the meeting point at least 10-15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved. Bring a camera to capture the incredible views and sights. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as parts of the tour are outdoors. Remember that observatory staff cannot assist with tour information; only your guide can. The planetarium show is suitable for ages 5 and up. To receive a full refund, please ensure your cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled tour departure time.
Product code: 46280P11
Activity offered by ExperienceFirst via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Tourists interested in astronomy and science History buffs Movie fans Visitors seeking unique Los Angeles experiences Individuals of all fitness levels Exclusive behind-the-scenes access with observatory employees Unique blend of science, history, architecture, and movie trivia Included ticket to the Samuel Oschin Planetarium show Stunning panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign Insightful commentary from a local expert Accessible for all fitness levels and wheelchair users
Population 3,898,747 (2020)
Elevation 106 m
Currency United States dollar
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Washington, D.C. Average temperatures 12° Jan 12° Feb 14° Mar 15° Apr 18° May 20° Jun 23° Jul 24° Aug 23° Sept 19° Oct 15° Nov 12° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the Griffith Observatory Insider Tour? + The tour lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Is the tour suitable for children? + Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, and the planetarium show is open to ages 5 and up. Infants can ride in a pram or stroller.
Is the Griffith Observatory wheelchair accessible? + Yes, all areas, surfaces, and transportation options are wheelchair accessible.
What happens if it rains? + The tour is not cancelled due to bad weather.
How do I cancel my booking? + You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Where do I meet my guide? + Meet your guide on the front lawn at the Astronomers Monument. Please note that observatory staff cannot assist with tour information.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Observatory
222StephenM222, October 2026
Estevan the guide was very nice but spoke far too quickly,no breaths from one word to the other.I am from the Uk and found it very difficult to catch everything he said,my partner hardly understood anything!
Slow down Estevan
★★★★★ Viator review
Time well spent!
Mary_H, October 2026
The Planetarium film "Signs Of Life" was the perfect conclusion to the tour. Waiting for the film to start was so relaxing, after being on our feet for the previous couple of hours, it was a welcome respite. The film was great and the live narration really impressive.
The tour was wonderfully thought provoking, forcing expanded views of our world, a great escape from the everyday issues that keep us occupied. The tour guide was friendly and enthusiastic although his presentation was a little disjointed at times. Very enjoyable overall.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Not worth the effort
Arecki_LoveToTravel, October 2026
⭐️⭐️
Very disappointing experience — not worth the money or time
I visited the observatory today and unfortunately left very disappointed. Considering the price of admission, I expected a much better experience, but I honestly feel that I wasted both my money and my time.
The visit did not live up to my expectations, and I found the overall experience underwhelming. There was nothing that made me feel that the cost was justified.
I usually try to focus on the positive when visiting tourist attractions, but in this case I simply cannot recommend it. For the price you pay, I expected much more.
Very disappointing and definitely not worth the money.
Response from the operator · Sime V Hi,
It looks like you just visited the Griffith Observatory on your own and did not take a guided tour with our company, Experience First. Please remove this review and leave any feedback about the Griffith Observatory directly to them on their site or on Google. Thank you.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Guide didn’t show up
BirdladyNZ, September 2026
Guide didn’t show up. When I got a message through I found iout the tour was cancelled. Spend 3 hours wandering the observatory. It was well laid out and easy to navigate with out a guide so I didn’t bother rebooking
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Delightful Griffith Observatory Experience
charlotteeconomu, September 2026
We were absolutely delighted with our Griffith Observatory experience. The presenter was very enthusiastic and engaging and held our attention for the entire duration of the tour. Would highly recommend this!
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