Unless you are really running low on souvenirs emblazoned with male genitalia (and who isn't?) and/or non-descript leather bags, there's no reason to allow a lot of time here. It's a tourist trap and a dull one at that. Rub the nose of Il Porcellino for luck and kicks and be done with it.
Even if you booked your tickets, and I highly recommend doing so, you have to wait, but not as long as the others. Friends of Renaissance paintings and religious art will love this museum. All the others, like me, will be impressed by the architecture. But beware the promised view from the CafeteriaEven if you booked your tickets, and I highly recommend doing so, you have to wait, but not as long as the others. Friends of Renaissance paintings and religious art will love this museum. All the others, like me, will be impressed by the architecture. But beware the promised view from the Cafeteria is a cheat, you are not allowed to go near the balustrade of the roof terrace!…see moresee less
Park at the foot of the mountain by Vermont Ave and Los Feliz Blvd and hike up the road to the observatory (stay on the left side). And you can't miss the planetarium shows (super cheap at $5/ticket). They've got three, and the most popular one is "Centered in the Universe." It's a half-hour show Park at the foot of the mountain by Vermont Ave and Los Feliz Blvd and hike up the road to the observatory (stay on the left side). And you can't miss the planetarium shows (super cheap at $5/ticket). They've got three, and the most popular one is "Centered in the Universe." It's a half-hour show narrated by an actress/actor and they run about every hour. Also best to do close to sunset to get an amazing view of the city.…see moresee less