Griffith Observatory is a must when in Los Angeles. Perched high above the city in Griffith Park, it offers one of the most iconic views over LA—especially during sunset when the skyline, hills, and Pacific glow in golden light. The building itself is a stunning piece of Art Deco architecture, and it’s also one of the best free public observatories in the world, with exhibits, telescopes, and views that rival any paid attraction.

If you want to catch the sunset, arrive early—really early. Traffic becomes brutal, with cars lining up and gridlocking the narrow road all the way up. Your best bet is to take the DASH Observatory Shuttle (listed as a separate location), which runs regularly from Vermont/Sunset Metro station and bypasses the worst of the jam.

I recommend combining your visit with a hike to the Hollywood Sign (listed as a hike trailhead in this guide). The trails nearby offer beautiful views of both the city and the sign, and you’ll earn the panorama once you reach the Observatory.

Whether you’re into stargazing, photography, or simply taking in the city from above, this spot delivers—just don’t underestimate the crowds at golden hour.