GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY IN LOS ANGELES REOPENS TODAY

After a nearly five-year restoration hiatus, the Griffith Observatory--located on Mount Hollywood in Los Angeles--reopens today for stargazers and black hole buffs. The closure of this icon allowed workers to complete needed renovations and a 40,000 square foot expansion. These facelifts, which included a multi-level exhibit building, a state-of-the art planetarium environment, a 200-seat presentation theater--and more--cost 93 million dollars.

For those of you who live in or near Southern California, or for others who may be coming to California on vacation, make plans ahead of time to see this astronomical site. There is an expected "crush" of people, so organizers at the Observatory have created a system to allow visitors to enjoy the new building and exhibits in an orderly way. This will be through a timed-entry system, with reservations.

Parking will be at an off-site location with shuttles available to take people to and from the Observatory.

Costs to visit?

General admission: $8.00
Children 5-12: $4.00
Children 4 and under: free
Seniors 60 and over: $4.00

To make reservations, call this toll-free number between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m:
(888) 695-0888

Or visit the website:
Griffith Observatory