Look up to enjoy Hugo Ballin’s striking murals

The eight rectangular murals just below the dome depict the ‘Advancement of Science,’ from time, geology and biology, mathematics and physics, to astronomy, aeronautics, navigation, civil engineering, and metallurgy and electricity. Upstaging them all is the dome’s own mural, its protagonists including an athletic Atlas holding up the world, the four winds, the 12 constellations of the zodiac, and the planets depicted as classical gods. Although the murals were meticulously restored more than 10 years ago, workers left a small patch of the dome untouched (hint: look above the main entrance). Suspended from the dome is Foucault’s Pendulum, its 240lb bronze ball demonstrating the Earth’s rotation. What to eat near Griffith Observatory There is a little cafe at the observatory, but a better option is to follow the signposted 0.

Almost everything from its tiny timber-cabin kitchen is made from scratch, from the popular egg-salad sandwich to the quiche and chunky apple pie. Order at the counter then devour at one of its picnic benches, under the shade of sycamores, Chinese elms and carob trees. How to get to Griffith Observatory You can drive of course, but parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. Consider catching the DASH Observatory shuttle bus from Vermont/Sunset metro station (Red Line) to Griffith Park Observatory. Alternatively, hike up from Los Feliz below which is a great option.

Universal Studios Hollywood

More than an amusement park, this is a multisensory immersion into the world of TV and movies on the grounds where filmmaking still takes place. Hop on a ride that drops you inside an iconic flick, explore movie magic at a Special Effects stage show and feast on the same food as your favorite characters. History of Universal Studios Hollywood How did a working production facility become a major tourist destination? That answer dates back to 1915, when Carl Laemmle opened the studios at Universal City

and, for a fee, invited the general public to watch as movies were made. Spectators gathered in stands above the actors’ dressing rooms and cheered for the stars while they worked.

A rowdy crowd was no problem for production as this was the silent film era. Though once sound was introduced to movies in the late ’20s, the spectators had to go. The studios once again invited the public in 1964 with the opening of Universal Studios Hollywood theme park. Though visitors today aren’t allowed to hoot and holler during active filming, they are given a peek at real production sites on the Studio Tour. Tickets and practicalities Save time and money by purchasing tickets in advance through Universal’s online ticket store. This is also where California residents can buy discounted tickets. Annual and season passes are available online at a lower price, too. Want to make sure you hit every ride in one day? Invest in a Universal Express ticket, which includes one-time express access to each attraction.

Dodge dinosaurs, hang with Homer Simpson and morph into a Minion on the sometimes hair-raising, always entertaining attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood

Want to hit rides more than once? A VIP Experience ticket will give you unlimited express meetme app access, plus an exclusive set tour, valet parking, snacks and a meal in the VIP dining room. Universal is open 365 days a year. Check the park’s calendar before your visit. Maximize your day by arriving about 20 minutes before opening. That’s about how long it will take to walk from general parking to the front gate. General as well as preferred parking are available for a fee. Located in LA, Universal is about 25 miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The park is divided into two areas: the Lower Lot and the Upper Lot. For a more detailed lay of the land, check out the map on Universal’s website.