Explore the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles | Southern California Adventures

 Photos and Story By: Ken Hulsey

Back in 2020, during our whirlwind trip to Los Angeles and Hollywood, we packed up the family into a rental SUV and traversed the winding roads out of Griffith Park to the historical Griffith Observatory. When Terri and I lived in California, we often traveled up to the observatory to soak in the history and enjoy the amazing vantage point where you have an unprecedented view of downtown Los Angeles as well as the famous Hollywood sign.

Griffith Observatory 90th Anniversary | Stargazing Celebration | Focus on Los Angeles

 Photo by Ken Hulsey - Story from KTLA

The Griffith Observatory, one of Los Angeles' most beloved landmarks, is pulling out all the stops for its 90th anniversary celebration this Wednesday. Visitors are invited to join the festivities, which will include a plethora of exciting exhibits, mesmerizing views of the cosmos through the observatory's world-famous telescope, and a breathtaking lunar spectacle known as the major standstill southern moonrise. Best of all, admission to this once-in-a-lifetime event is entirely free and open to the public. Since first opening its doors back in 1935, the Griffith Observatory has welcomed over 7 million stargazers from all walks of life to marvel at the wonders of the universe through its iconic 12-inch Zeiss refracting telescope - more than any other telescope on the planet! According to Observatory Director Ed Krupp, making astronomy accessible and free for everyone has always been central to the observatory's mission. But Wednesday's celebration is just the beginning. Throughout the year, the observatory will be hosting a constellation of special events, exhibits, and programs to commemorate its 90 years as a groundbreaking institution for science education and public engagement with the cosmos. From illuminating lectures by renowned astronomers to community storytelling projects that will highlight the observatory's profound impact, there will be no shortage of opportunities for visitors to participate in this milestone anniversary. Stargazers of all ages will also be treated to immersive exhibits and experiences designed to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of space explorers. It's a fitting tribute to an institution that has not only expanded our understanding of the universe but also played a starring role in some of Hollywood's most iconic films. So whether you're a die-hard astronomy buff or simply looking for an enchanting way to spend an evening under the stars, be sure to join the galactic festivities at Griffith Observatory this Wednesday and all year long!

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