Griffith Observatory is a fantastic destination for children, offering a mix of interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and outdoor activities that spark curiosity about space and science. Here are some engaging activities for kids at the observatory:
1. Explore Interactive Exhibits:
The Hall of the Sky & Hall of the Eye: These exhibit halls help children understand how people throughout history have observed the sky and explored space. Kids can interact with displays about the sun, moon, stars, and planets.
Foucault Pendulum: This giant pendulum demonstrates the Earth’s rotation, and children love watching how it swings and knocks down pegs over time.
Tesla Coil: This device creates mini lightning bolts, and kids can see demonstrations of electrical energy in action.
Scale Models of the Solar System: Children can compare the sizes of planets and even see what their weight would be on different planets.
2. Samuel Oschin Planetarium Shows:
The planetarium offers spectacular shows about the night sky, constellations, and space exploration. The immersive dome and visual effects make it engaging for all ages, and the shows are narrated in an easy-to-understand way, making complex science fun for children.
3. View Through the Telescopes:
The observatory has several public telescopes, where kids can look at the moon, planets, stars, and other celestial objects (weather permitting). Using a real telescope to see space is often a highlight for kids!
4. Watch Live Demonstrations:
Throughout the day, staff members provide live demonstrations, including information about the sun and how to safely view sunspots. Kids enjoy hands-on learning and asking questions about the universe.
5. Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater:
This theater often shows films about space exploration, including the history of the observatory and our exploration of the universe. The short films are family-friendly and educational.
6. Outdoor Exploration:
Astronomers Monument: Kids can learn about famous astronomers by exploring this outdoor sculpture.
Zein Planet Walk: A scale model of the solar system, where children can walk from the Sun to Neptune, helping them understand the vast distances in space.
Griffith Park: The observatory sits within Griffith Park, so families can also enjoy a hike or a picnic with amazing views of Los Angeles, the Hollywood sign, and beyond.
7. Free Star Parties:
On scheduled evenings, the observatory hosts free public star parties where kids can use telescopes to view celestial objects like planets, star clusters, and the moon. Local amateur astronomers often assist and share interesting facts.
8. Look at the Sun:
During the day, children can safely observe the sun through special solar telescopes that allow them to see sunspots and solar flares.
9. Kids Space Quiz:
Throughout the observatory, kids can take quizzes or participate in scavenger hunts that test their knowledge of space. It’s a fun way to challenge their curiosity.
10. Enjoy the View:
The views from Griffith Observatory are breathtaking, and kids often love spotting familiar landmarks, airplanes in the sky, and even trying to find the Hollywood sign.
With so many hands-on activities and educational opportunities, Griffith Observatory is a great spot to ignite a child’s love for space and science!
Average Time Spent: 3 - 4 Hours
2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Tuesday–Friday 10am–5:30pm
Saturday-Sunday 10am–8pm
Monday Closed