Mount Wilson Observatory
A historic observatory at about 1,740 meters elevation, where Hubble discovered other galaxies and evidence of the expanding universe. The summit offers views over the Los Angeles Basin.
Founded in 1904 by astronomer George Ellery Hale, Mount Wilson Observatory sits at about 1,740 meters in the San Gabriel Mountains. In the 1920s, Edwin Hubble used the 100-inch Hooker Telescope here to confirm that the Andromeda galaxy lies beyond the Milky Way, and he found evidence that the universe is expanding. The grounds include the domes of the 100-inch and 60-inch telescopes, a solar tower, and a small museum. Paid guided tours are offered on weekends, and some nights you can book telescope observing sessions. On clear days, the summit provides views across the Los Angeles Basin. You will need to drive up Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2), about 1.5 hours from downtown. The mountain road has many curves, and it is worth checking for winter road closures.
Opening hours
Approx. April–Nov 10:00–17:00; weekend tours (check website)
Nearby sights
- The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens
- Dodger Stadium
- Olvera Street
- Little Tokyo
- Walt Disney Concert Hall
- The Broad
- Grand Central Market
- Griffith Observatory