Everyone I know who moved to LA in the last couple of years always asked, what's that big dome building at the top of Griffith Park? Since closing its doors for massive renovation in 2002, the Griffith Observatory & Planetarium has remained that mysterious landmark more known for a movie backdrop than housing the most looked through telescope in the world. Amazing, huh? Now hundreds more will get a chance to peek through the observatory's two world famous telescopes as well as experience the same attractions guests did at original opening almost 70 years ago, like Tesla spheres and scaled planet models. Ever wonder what you would weigh on Venus? They have special scales for every planet's unique gravity. The planetarium still hosts its live starshow, made famous in Rebel Without A Cause, but has modern-day visual effects thrown into the classic showcase of galaxies and constellations. The Observatory has a new theater too, thanks to Leonard "Spock" Nemoy. For now the Observatory will be the top of every tourist and Angeleno's list of things to do, and you'll have to book a reservation to ride one of the shuttles up the hill until parking opens up. Two stops are at the Zoo and Hollywood & Highland. On the bus your visit to the Observatory will begin with informational videos and guides on board. Parking is also available at the Greek Theater for those who want to hike or bike up the hill. You'll still need to make a reservation and can only do so 48 hours in advance. So the question is, is it worth it to go now? The hiking and planetarium show sound like a great weekend date but I'm waiting a little longer to enjoy the entire facility when special exhibits and other films start making their way in. Or join up the Volunteer Program in February 2007. Reservations and shuttles will still be necessary for probably quite some time and hopefully they don't plan on expanding the parking lot at the top. I don't ever want to look up into the Hollywood Hills and see traffic.

Griffith Observatory - Reservations
Open Tuesday - Friday Noon-10:00pm
Open Saturday-Sunday 10:00am - 10:00pm

Admission
Adults $8
Children & Seniors $4

Planetarium Shows (every hour)
Adults $7
Seniors $5
Children $3

Labels: events, newsworthy