About This Museum: The Griffith Observatory is located in the hills above Los Angeles and features a free museum, a planetarium (dome) theater, cafeteria, gift shop, hiking trails, and great views of L.A.
Visiting The Museum:
Unlike some observatories the Griffith Observatory is also a museum which is free to the public. Upon first entering you'll see the pendulum which swings from a steel wire attached to the ceiling. It demonstrates the Earth rotates on its axis and is one of several such devices typically on display at universities and science museums around the world. You may notice people gathered around observing it intently. They are waiting to watch it knock down one of the small pegs placed beneath it which happens every 7 minutes or so. After viewing the pendulum you can either go to either side of the museum. There are several displays dealing with planetary science and also a downstairs level which features other displays. There is also a small cafeteria and gift shop both towards the back right of the museum.
Points-Of-Interest:
There are many things to see both for the astronomy or earth science enthusiast and the casual visitor. Historical items and information are on display as well as small demonstrations of scientific phenomena. Shown in this photo below is a visual sampling of some of Earth's natural elements.
Don't Miss: It is highly recommended to attend a viewing of one of the planetarium shows. These take place in a unique dome theater located towards the rear of the observatory. The museum itself is free but there is an admission fee for the shows. Show themes and times vary so you may want check the schedule prior to your arrival, however, attending one of these shows should help create a unique and unforgettable experience during your visit.
Best Thing About This Place: The planetarium theater is the most interesting and unique aspect which may cause you to want to plan future visits to the observatory. Also worthy of mention are the great views of L.A. from on top of the mountain where the observatory is located. You can also see the famous Hollywood sign which isn't too far away from up top the hill as seen in the photo below.
Things To Note: Parking in the main parking lot is limited particularly on weekends, however, if you cannot find parking here there is parking along the road nearby.
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