Look to the Hollywood Hills. Just to the right of the Hollywood sign, you can see one of LA’s other iconic sights—the Griffith Observatory and Planetarium. Admission to the Observatory is free, and you can explore the exhibits, peek into the telescopes and poke around the grounds Tue.–Fri. from noon–10 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Take in a show at the planetarium (kids under 5 are free and are only allowed at the first show of the day) for $3-$7. And before you leave, be sure to look to the hills behind you for a spectacular view of the Hollywood Sign.
Bonus: During school vacations (winter, spring and summer breaks) the Observatory hosts the Let’s Make a Comet demonstration, where a scientist demonstrates how to mix common household ingredients with dry ice to make a small comet that’s just like the real thing. This free 25 minute show is worth seeing again and again.
Find It: 2800 East Observatory Road
Learn More: griffithobservatory.org
photo: mmcothern via Creative Commons
