The Griffith Observatory in LA is one of the most cherished tourist attractions in California.
It’s commonly mentioned as being one of the “must-see” parts of Los Angeles due to its scenic views, live shows, and exhibits that are going to take your breath away as a visitor.
Whether you are a local or a tourist, this is one of those attractions you will want to visit multiple times in your life.
While all of this is true, it is not open all the time. This makes you wonder, can you go to Griffith Observatory when it’s closed?
Yes, you can go to the Griffith Observatory when it’s closed. However, you will be limited to walking the grounds, hiking a small amount to view the Hollywood sign, observing around the structure, and taking pictures outside the building.
Is it worth doing this?
Absolutely.
This is not the same as watching the live shows or checking out the things inside but it is still quite a bit of fun due to how the structure is set up.
Here is a look at the timings of the Griffith Observatory and what you can do when the Griffith Observatory is closed.
Griffith Observatory Timings
- Monday – CLOSED
- Tuesday – 12 PM To 10 PM
- Wednesday – 12 PM To 10 PM
- Thursday – 12 PM To 10 PM
- Friday – 12 PM To 10 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM To 10 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM To 10 PM
You are welcome to read more about the timings at Griffith Observatory including holiday closings on their official website.
Things You Can Do When Griffith Observatory Is Closed
Walk The Grounds
If you will be going to the Griffith Observatory when it’s closed, this does not mean you are going to be completely restricted from the area around the location.
Instead, it’s common to see people walking around including tourists when it’s closed.
While you might not be walking in that part of LA after 2 AM, it’s still common for people to head out there earlier in the morning when it’s still closed.
We believe it’s quite a bit of fun to roam around on the grounds when there’s less foot traffic. You get to see more even though you can’t go inside.
Hike For View Of The Hollywood Sign
What about getting a view of the Hollywood sign?
Most people will go to the Griffith Observatory with the intention of getting a peek at the Hollywood sign from afar.
You can still do this when it is closed.
You are going to have to hike a bit and ascend to get to the spot where you will be viewing the Hollywood sign from. It’s not a difficult hike as long as you know where to go. We recommend planning this out and getting to view the Hollywood sign.
You will likely get an even better view since it will not have as many people walking around at that time of the day.
Observe The Structure
If you have a limited amount of time in Los Angeles, we do recommend waiting until the Griffith Observatory is open to get more of a comprehensive experience.
However, if you don’t have enough time to do so, you can just observe the structure from all corners. This includes walking around the structure even though you can’t go inside.
Is this fun?
Yes, there is an atmosphere around the building that’s going to bring a smile to your face. You will like taking a stroll around the Griffith Observatory and just enjoying the good weather, especially when it is warm out.
Take Pictures Outside
A lot of people will want to take a few Instagram photos.
After all, you want to show what you have been doing during the year and that’s going to shine through when you are taking pictures outside one of the premier LA attractions right now.
It is common for tourists to do this.
You can end up finding the best spots outside the building and taking pictures there from a wide array of angles. This might be the ideal time to take pictures as no one will bother you.
Final Thoughts
Can you go to Griffith Observatory when it’s closed?
Yes, you can go to the Griffith Observatory when it is closed. However, you will not be allowed inside the building nor will you see live shows or anything else. Instead, you can walk on the grounds, observe the structure from all angles, and hike to take a view of the Hollywood sign.
In our opinion, these are still fun things to do at the Griffith Observatory and something you should consider if you don’t have time to go when it’s open.
This will depend on your itinerary but if you do have the time, go when it is open as you will get the full experience this way.
Amanda Harper is a travel enthusiast with 10+ years of traveling experience across the planet. Her passion for writing and travel makes her a walking bibliography on modern-day tourism.