I recently checked out the newly opened Griffith Observatory. Here are a few tips to make your visit a little more memorable rather than forgetable…
- Don’t go on a weekend. Take the afternoon off and visit during the week, or visit during the week at night. I don’t know for sure, but it must be less crowded than the weekend.
- Eat before your get up there. No more hotdogs and churros. Just long lines for mediocre $7 sandwiches.
- If you plan on being there after dark bring a jacket.
- If you can avoid it, don’t take the bus. The ride to and from Hollywood and Highland can take anywhere from 30-60 min on the crowded “shuttle.” Walk up from the Greek Theater or take the shuttle from the Zoo parking lot.
- Don’t wait in the long line winding it’s way out the entrance to buy your seat for the planetarium show. There are ticket kiosks located inside.
- The gift shop is lame, don’t waste your time. I miss the old gift shop with NASA trinkets and astronaut ice cream.
- There is a video on the bus that gives you supposed “tips” on the new Observatory. They suggest entering the new exhibit area via the west entrance first. I would start through the main entrance first and work your way down.
Hopefully some of these tips help you. Most importantly be prepared to be patient. Kids aren’t the most curtious when it comes to crowded areas. Several times I had kids shove me out of the way to push buttons on the so called “interactive” exhibits. Oh, and I weigh 28 lbs on the moon, yeah!
NOTE: Check out the Observatory on Wed and get a peak of Mercury crossing the path between the sun and the earth. Cool! or hot…ÂÂ
Mon, Nov 6, 2006
City Beat