Ready to witness meteor showers, full moons, and the wonders of the night sky? Here are the top spots for stargazing in and around Los Angeles.
1. Griffith Observatory
- Why It’s Great: Convenient and popular, Griffith Observatory offers excellent views and occasional amateur astronomy group meet-ups. It’s open until 10 pm daily (except Mondays).
- Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
2. Mount Wilson Observatory
- Why It’s Great: Offers ticketed stargazing events with massive 60 and 100-inch telescopes. Even without a ticket, the surrounding area on Angeles Crest Highway provides dark skies for stargazing.
- Location: Mount Wilson Observatory, Los Angeles, CA
3. Malibu Creek State Park
- Why It’s Great: Minimal light pollution and great ocean views. The park closes at 10 pm, but you can extend your experience by camping overnight.
- Location: 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302
4. Leo Carrillo State Beach
- Why It’s Great: Known for its tide pools and craggy cliffs, it’s a picturesque spot for stargazing. Proximity to Neptune’s Net offers a chance for a delightful meal before stargazing.
- Location: Leo Carrillo State Beach, Los Angeles, CA
5. Joshua Tree National Park
- Why It’s Great: About three hours from downtown LA, Joshua Tree is famous for its unique landscape and excellent stargazing opportunities.
- Location: Joshua Tree National Park, California
6. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
- Why It’s Great: Just 2.5 hours from Los Angeles, Anza-Borrego offers camping, desert activities, and unique iron artworks as backdrops for stargazing.
- Location: Borrego Springs, CA 92004
7. Mount Pinos
- Why It’s Great: Near Frazier Park, Mount Pinos offers high elevation and minimal light interference, making it ideal for both casual stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts.
- Location: Mount Pinos, California
8. Big Bear Lake
- Why It’s Great: Two hours away in the mountains, Big Bear Lake offers a scenic location with the nearby Solar Observatory and numerous campsites for stargazing.
- Location: Big Bear Lake, California
9. Two Harbors, Santa Catalina Island
- Why It’s Great: A ferry ride away, Two Harbors on Santa Catalina Island provides dark skies away from city lights, perfect for a stargazing getaway.
- Location: Two Harbors, Santa Catalina Island, CA
10. Death Valley National Park
- Why It’s Great: About 3.5 hours from Los Angeles, Death Valley offers incredible stargazing opportunities and unique daytime exploration.
- Location: Furnace Creek Visitor Center, Death Valley National Park, CA
Explore these spots to experience the magic of the night sky in and around Los Angeles.