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Attended the Music of the Spheres event this past Saturday with the White Album Ensemble Chamber Orchestra performing an hour long show for a medium-sized audience. The setup and sound system for the musical performance was less than ideal, but the musicians were decent, lovely sounds of the keyboard, bass, and violin being played on a makeshift stage. Among the various tunes, a medley of music by the Beatles, including In my Life, Across the Universe, and Something. Our paid tickets also included telescope passes for two different telescopes, the 36" Refractor and 40" Reflector. But the system they used for visitor viewing was inconvenient and inefficient. Let's just say if you're #150 or above, you'll be waiting a while. Because of this ridiculous system, we opted to just visit one of the telescopes (the one with less people and a shorter "line"), and I'm glad we chose the Refractor. Inside the dark space, they shared interesting information about the science and history of the piece and about this unique setting, the first mountaintop observatory, with James Lick's tomb buried underneath this particular dome. After guests' questions were answered, visitors could then climb up a platform ladder, one-by-one, to peek through the giant telescope, on this day viewing M5, a cluster of stars 20,000 light years away. While waiting for our turn for telescope viewing, we were able to explore the other rooms, listen to a lecture by an astronomy speaker on site, check out views from the smaller telescopes outside, and visit the gift shop. They also had a few snacks and coffee for sale, as well as drinks from a vending machine available. For special events here, I felt there were a lot of negatives. They don't have enough parking to accommodate the number of tickets they sell and don't inform visitors that there will be at least a quarter mile walk uphill if not more, the seating for concerts and system for telescope viewing is flawed and unnecessarily complicated, and the drive up here caused some of the worst motion sickness I've ever gotten. I still gave 4 stars because the volunteers and staff were helpful for the most part, the views from Mount Hamilton are magnificent, and the experience is quite unique. Also admission to the visitor center is typically free. Can't complain about that.
It's incredible the the things that are here in our backyard of the greater Bay area. Gazing down at us from is this incredible observatory. As someone from San Jose I would see this building all the way from my corner of Los Gatos/Campbell/San Jose. I took a drive up here yesterday to clear my head, I went up Quimby which I don't recommend unless you are a very skilled driver and enjoy twisty roads which I actually do. It was a clear day so the driving conditions was perfect. Anyway look Observatory was incredible well they do have limited hours I recommend you get here before 5:00. I was able to check out the visitor center learn more about the telescope and how the building was built I even got to chat with some of the researchers who were wandering the grounds. There are many signs that actually say quiet day sleepers which indicate that the researchers and the scientists sleep during the day and then do their work at night. So try to be respectful when you visit. Anyhow the views are stunning and breathtaking. There are some binoculars attached to a stand that you can check out some of the other mountain peaks too. You can see Joseph D Grant Park and the lake down below, and some of the greater Bay Area in the distance. My favorite experience was seeing the Marine layer.
My husband and I attended a photography night event at Lick Observatory and it was no less than amazing. It was our first time at Lick Observatory and the drive was quite harrowing. For someone who gets carsick, I was very paranoid about making the trip up, so I stocked up on ginger chews. It took what felt like an eternity to get up there and about 1-2 miles from our destination, I had a bit of a panic attack, but with some steady breathing and once we arrived, I mellowed out and was fine to enjoy the rest of the evening on top of the world. They allowed up to 20 cars up for the evening and had things lined up specifically for photographers to take advantage of the location and evening. There were people with a wide variety of experience and gear up there with us. We found a great spot to each set up our tripods and cameras to enjoy and capture the sunset. I packed some hot ginger tea and layers and am SO glad I did. It got mighty cold and breezy up there. We caught a beautiful sunset of pinks, purples, and oranges that transitioned into a beautiful evening sky with a few streaks of clouds. They turned off the building lights, interior and exterior, so that we could get some cool shots of the 36" telescope dome. They had an infrared light inside the dome and opened it up, so people could shoot inside or outside the dome. We couldn't look or shoot through the scope, unfortunately, but it was still a neat experience. Once we were in the 10-11PM hour, they turned on the light in the dome and did a planned long exposure setup with us to create what they called a "Ghost Dome" image which was meant to be at a 2 minute shutter speed and F4 aperture. I unfortunately didn't have a remote trigger to set the shutter for that long, so I was just taking 30 second shots at a time, but it was still a neat experience. They gave us 2 (but really, 3 because one was a bit messed up) shots at it and it was great. The staff there were all super-knowledgeable and informative. It was really lovely being welcomed to the observatory for such a special experience. The car ride home was much better than the ride up, but it is a looong way from town. I would love to go back someday, but I don't know if I could stomach the ride. It was truly a night to remember, though.
It's hard to imagine anyone giving Lick Observatory anything less than a 5-star review! Set high up on one of the peaks of Mount Hamilton, this destination is a must-visit. The drive up to the observatory is an adventure in itself, with twisty roads that really test your driving skills. The narrow roads climb steadily, offering stunning views that prepare you for the spectacle ahead. At the summit, Lick Observatory stands as a landmark of historical significance and a hub of cutting-edge astronomical research, dating back to the late 18th century. Among its collection of telescopes is the Great Lick Refractor, once the largest refracting telescope in the world, and still a marvel of historical and scientific importance. Nighttime visits are especially magical. The observatory's summer stargazing programs allow guests to peer through telescopes at distant galaxies and stars, with expert explanations from the observatory's knowledgeable staff. It's an educational and intimate experience that connects visitors with the vast cosmos. Whether you're a stargazing enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, Lick Observatory is an excellent choice. It's a perfect spot for families, dates, friends, or even solo adventurers. You won't be disappointed. A few tips for your visit: 1. Drive carefully. The roads up the mountain attract fast drivers who can make the narrow, two-lane road tricky, especially at parts where it's impossible for wide cars to pass without crossing into the oncoming lane. 2. Watch for unprotected turns along cliffs with 1,000+ foot drops. If you're heading to the observatory, stay alert and cautious. 3. Share the road respectfully with cyclists, who are vulnerable and move slowly. The road includes several blind turns, so when in doubt, slow down. There's no need to rush--with so much beauty and excitement ahead, the drive is part of the adventure.
Fun place but lost track of time. the observatory area closed and I was kicked out by a man around his 40s I left the observatory without a hassle as I make it down to mt ham rd the worker then tells me I have to start making my way down the rd or he'll call sheriff. I simply wanted to rest and catch my breath from climbing all the way up but the worker refused.yes I get you are trying to do your job but you don't have to abuse it.do better.
If California were a nation (it kind of is) Lick Observatory would be a national treasure--an engineering marvel, truly stunning setting, and fascinating history all rolled into one. So why is it then that they are so cash strapped that they can't show a more updated video in their makeshift museum then one from the 90s, chairs in 'theatre' are shreaded and held together with duck tape, and per the docent-- they are still trying to raise the $2 million required to fix the elevated walkway in historic dome. With all the $$$ in this region why and how is fundraising even an issue?
Looking at the mountains, I've always wondered what those bulb-y looking things were. Little did I know it was Lick Observatory! Unfortunately the observatory was closed when we arrived so this review is based on the outside only haha. It was a nice day for a motorcycle ride and well, my bf decided to come all the way up here! The turns and twisties make the ride even more fun haha. There's some cyclists that travel up these hills so be careful! One thing we noticed was that when we were getting closer to the summit, the air was nicer and we got so far up that the trees started looking like broccolis to me haha. There was plenty of parking when we went and we were free to walk around the area. Those bulb-y buildings were HUGE. I mean, they looked huge from afar but damn when you get there you'll literally just ooooh and ahhhh at it. Overall, it's a great escape from the city but not too far. Highly recommend to everyone!
It's a bit of a drive from Milpitas up to the observatory, but very much worth it. The road is narrow and winding, so when your navi tells you that it's going to be an hour to get there, it's correct. On the bright side if you drive an electric vehicle up there, on the way down your battery will likely be at a higher percentage after the trip down than it is when you leave the observatory. The old telescope is the gem here. It's absolutely beautiful. If you can, catch the tour that the gift shop puts on. It's more of a talk than a tour, but worth it nonetheless. Make sure to look at the floor! It's almost as marvelous as the scope. There's a newer and still-in-operation telescope a short walk from the old observatory. It's very industrial but some of the posted material is really interesting to read if you're even remotely into astronomy.
8 months ago
On top of Mount Hamilton lies the lake observatory. This was my third time visiting the observatory, I came here with my four year-old daughter, and it was her first coming here. She was surprised and excited to see the telescope. Inside the observatory it's packed up but fascinating information regarding the meteors stars lots of scientific discoveries. This place also tells you about James Lick's achievements the way he brought the astronomy into reality and his life struggle. There are plenty of parking near Observatory just that while driving, you must be bit careful those were the newcomers because the road is very narrow once you get on the hill. There is a small gift shop inside the Observatory you can grab souvenirs like sweatshirt, T-shirt, magnets, some jewelries which was mentioned was made out of meteors which I found it fascinating and some kids related item, etc. read more
1 year ago
Took my "Goon Sqaud" Neo and laiza to come check out the Famous Lick Observatory. They've never been here before. Make sure to go on a weekend because during the week you won't be able to see the telescopes! It's about an hour drive once you start from 130 or from quimby rd. Make sure to ask someone from the area to give you the history behind Lick Observatory. I'm sure you'll find it interesting! read more
1 year ago
Amazing place to visit. Make sure to check the weather before visiting. Bring some snacks water. read more
2 years ago
Attended the Music of the Spheres event this past Saturday with the White Album Ensemble Chamber Orchestra performing an hour long show for a medium-sized audience. The setup and sound system for the musical performance was less than ideal, but the musicians were decent, lovely sounds of the keyboard, bass, and violin being played on a makeshift stage. Among the various tunes, a medley of music by the Beatles, including In my Life, Across the Universe, and Something. Our paid tickets also included telescope passes for two different telescopes, the 36" Refractor and 40" Reflector. But the system they used for visitor viewing was inconvenient and inefficient. Let's just say if you're #150 or above, you'll be waiting a while. Because of this ridiculous system, we opted to just visit one of the telescopes (the one with less people and a shorter "line"), and I'm glad we chose the Refractor. Inside the dark space, they shared interesting information about the science and history of the piece and about this unique setting, the first mountaintop observatory, with James Lick's tomb buried underneath this particular dome. After guests' questions were answered, visitors could then climb up a platform ladder, one-by-one, to peek through the giant telescope, on this day viewing M5, a cluster of stars 20,000 light years away. While waiting for our turn for telescope viewing, we were able to explore the other rooms, listen to a lecture by an astronomy speaker on site, check out views from the smaller telescopes outside, and visit the gift shop. They also had a few snacks and coffee for sale, as well as drinks from a vending machine available. For special events here, I felt there were a lot of negatives. They don't have enough parking to accommodate the number of tickets they sell and don't inform visitors that there will be at least a quarter mile walk uphill if not more, the seating for concerts and system for telescope viewing is flawed and unnecessarily complicated, and the drive up here caused some of the worst motion sickness I've ever gotten. I still gave 4 stars because the volunteers and staff were helpful for the most part, the views from Mount Hamilton are magnificent, and the experience is quite unique. Also admission to the visitor center is typically free. Can't complain about that. read more
It's incredible the the things that are here in our backyard of the greater Bay area. Gazing down at us from is this incredible observatory. As someone from San Jose I would see this building all the way from my corner of Los Gatos/Campbell/San Jose. I took a drive up here yesterday to clear my head, I went up Quimby which I don't recommend unless you are a very skilled driver and enjoy twisty roads which I actually do. It was a clear day so the driving conditions was perfect. Anyway look Observatory was incredible well they do have limited hours I recommend you get here before 5:00. I was able to check out the visitor center learn more about the telescope and how the building was built I even got to chat with some of the researchers who were wandering the grounds. There are many signs that actually say quiet day sleepers which indicate that the researchers and the scientists sleep during the day and then do their work at night. So try to be respectful when you visit. Anyhow the views are stunning and breathtaking. There are some binoculars attached to a stand that you can check out some of the other mountain peaks too. You can see Joseph D Grant Park and the lake down below, and some of the greater Bay Area in the distance. My favorite experience was seeing the Marine layer. read more
My husband and I attended a photography night event at Lick Observatory and it was no less than amazing. It was our first time at Lick Observatory and the drive was quite harrowing. For someone who gets carsick, I was very paranoid about making the trip up, so I stocked up on ginger chews. It took what felt like an eternity to get up there and about 1-2 miles from our destination, I had a bit of a panic attack, but with some steady breathing and once we arrived, I mellowed out and was fine to enjoy the rest of the evening on top of the world. They allowed up to 20 cars up for the evening and had things lined up specifically for photographers to take advantage of the location and evening. There were people with a wide variety of experience and gear up there with us. We found a great spot to each set up our tripods and cameras to enjoy and capture the sunset. I packed some hot ginger tea and layers and am SO glad I did. It got mighty cold and breezy up there. We caught a beautiful sunset of pinks, purples, and oranges that transitioned into a beautiful evening sky with a few streaks of clouds. They turned off the building lights, interior and exterior, so that we could get some cool shots of the 36" telescope dome. They had an infrared light inside the dome and opened it up, so people could shoot inside or outside the dome. We couldn't look or shoot through the scope, unfortunately, but it was still a neat experience. Once we were in the 10-11PM hour, they turned on the light in the dome and did a planned long exposure setup with us to create what they called a "Ghost Dome" image which was meant to be at a 2 minute shutter speed and F4 aperture. I unfortunately didn't have a remote trigger to set the shutter for that long, so I was just taking 30 second shots at a time, but it was still a neat experience. They gave us 2 (but really, 3 because one was a bit messed up) shots at it and it was great. The staff there were all super-knowledgeable and informative. It was really lovely being welcomed to the observatory for such a special experience. The car ride home was much better than the ride up, but it is a looong way from town. I would love to go back someday, but I don't know if I could stomach the ride. It was truly a night to remember, though. read more
It's hard to imagine anyone giving Lick Observatory anything less than a 5-star review! Set high up on one of the peaks of Mount Hamilton, this destination is a must-visit. The drive up to the observatory is an adventure in itself, with twisty roads that really test your driving skills. The narrow roads climb steadily, offering stunning views that prepare you for the spectacle ahead. At the summit, Lick Observatory stands as a landmark of historical significance and a hub of cutting-edge astronomical research, dating back to the late 18th century. Among its collection of telescopes is the Great Lick Refractor, once the largest refracting telescope in the world, and still a marvel of historical and scientific importance. Nighttime visits are especially magical. The observatory's summer stargazing programs allow guests to peer through telescopes at distant galaxies and stars, with expert explanations from the observatory's knowledgeable staff. It's an educational and intimate experience that connects visitors with the vast cosmos. Whether you're a stargazing enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, Lick Observatory is an excellent choice. It's a perfect spot for families, dates, friends, or even solo adventurers. You won't be disappointed. A few tips for your visit: 1. Drive carefully. The roads up the mountain attract fast drivers who can make the narrow, two-lane road tricky, especially at parts where it's impossible for wide cars to pass without crossing into the oncoming lane. 2. Watch for unprotected turns along cliffs with 1,000+ foot drops. If you're heading to the observatory, stay alert and cautious. 3. Share the road respectfully with cyclists, who are vulnerable and move slowly. The road includes several blind turns, so when in doubt, slow down. There's no need to rush--with so much beauty and excitement ahead, the drive is part of the adventure. read more
1 year ago
Fun place but lost track of time. the observatory area closed and I was kicked out by a man around his 40s I left the observatory without a hassle as I make it down to mt ham rd the worker then tells me I have to start making my way down the rd or he'll call sheriff. I simply wanted to rest and catch my breath from climbing all the way up but the worker refused.yes I get you are trying to do your job but you don't have to abuse it.do better. read more
3 years ago
If California were a nation (it kind of is) Lick Observatory would be a national treasure--an engineering marvel, truly stunning setting, and fascinating history all rolled into one. So why is it then that they are so cash strapped that they can't show a more updated video in their makeshift museum then one from the 90s, chairs in 'theatre' are shreaded and held together with duck tape, and per the docent-- they are still trying to raise the $2 million required to fix the elevated walkway in historic dome. With all the $$$ in this region why and how is fundraising even an issue? read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
4 years ago
Looking at the mountains, I've always wondered what those bulb-y looking things were. Little did I know it was Lick Observatory! Unfortunately the observatory was closed when we arrived so this review is based on the outside only haha. It was a nice day for a motorcycle ride and well, my bf decided to come all the way up here! The turns and twisties make the ride even more fun haha. There's some cyclists that travel up these hills so be careful! One thing we noticed was that when we were getting closer to the summit, the air was nicer and we got so far up that the trees started looking like broccolis to me haha. There was plenty of parking when we went and we were free to walk around the area. Those bulb-y buildings were HUGE. I mean, they looked huge from afar but damn when you get there you'll literally just ooooh and ahhhh at it. Overall, it's a great escape from the city but not too far. Highly recommend to everyone! read more
2 years ago
Super crowded but the experience it was spectacular, we were able to saw juniper and Saturn my kids were astonish the service, security were amaizing this is the tepe.pf place you must go Everytime you can. We will come back again read more
5 years ago
It's a bit of a drive from Milpitas up to the observatory, but very much worth it. The road is narrow and winding, so when your navi tells you that it's going to be an hour to get there, it's correct. On the bright side if you drive an electric vehicle up there, on the way down your battery will likely be at a higher percentage after the trip down than it is when you leave the observatory. The old telescope is the gem here. It's absolutely beautiful. If you can, catch the tour that the gift shop puts on. It's more of a talk than a tour, but worth it nonetheless. Make sure to look at the floor! It's almost as marvelous as the scope. There's a newer and still-in-operation telescope a short walk from the old observatory. It's very industrial but some of the posted material is really interesting to read if you're even remotely into astronomy. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
This is a beautiful place to visit. We tried our best to get there when the presentation was happening and boy was it worth it. The presenter was super informative and gave so many fun facts and history on the place and telescope itself. I highly recommend going at least once. I would like to go back at some point during the summer series they have to look through the telescope but tickets sell really fast. Im sure it would be fun and with lots of information for astronomy enthusiasts. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
7 years ago
We had a few hours to kill so why not take the windy road up to Mt Hamilton? I'll tell you why...you might end up with a strong case of sea sickness....but the vistas are second to none as you snake up Mt Hamilton road. From sea level to one of the highest peaks in the Bay Area at nearly 4300 ft! We saw the 132 year old 36 inch refractor that was in pristine condition balanced on a 7ton cantilever which discovered among other things the one of the moons of Jupiter but there is a host of remarkable discoveries. Arriving at 3pm we managed shop briefly in the gift shop before squeezing in the tour at 3:30pm. This was a very cool attraction. read more
7 years ago
Be warned the car ride to this historic gem was incredibly nauseating. The roads are now evenly paved with side reflectors, so it's much safer than years prior. I drove up Mt. Hamilton on my own once... I don't know why we even decided to go up to the Observatory this time. But it's probably going to be a once in a lifetime thing to do. The lovely tour guide (and gift shop owner) piqued my curiosity of the quirky nature of James Lick after providing an overview of the observatory and his life in the Bay Area. (He was definitely very passionate about the telescope and James Lick's life) After the trip, I did a lot of reading on him.... and briefly here's what I've gathered: James Lick was once the most affluent entrepreneur of California during its early years after the Spanish American war. He came around the time when California was acquired by the United States and the Gold Rush was booming. His main residence was here in San Jose, Santa Clara and San Francisco, and he acquired a lot of land around here (also owning Catalina Islands in SoCal). He had a son with his sweetheart, but her father rejected James' proposal to marry her... he ended up starting his personal business in piano making in Buenos Aires, Argentina and then moved to Chile. There in Chile he was friends and neighbors with Domenico Ghiradelli (Yes, ghiradelli chocolates). James sold his business many years later and moved to California in the mid 19th century. He later convinced Domenico to move to Oakland to start his chocolate business in the United States from Chile. The observatory is an important landmark... James Licks coffin was exhumed from a San Francisco location and his coffin now rests beneath the telescope in the Observatory. When visitors arrive, you are able to not only view such a magnificent invention from the 1800s but also pay respect to James Lick himself... read more
3 years ago
This place is so cool! I can't believe I've lived in the Bay Area for so long without really knowing this existed. I was reminded of it again this week when I heard there was snow up here, so my friends and I made a weekend trek up the mountain to see a tiny bit of snow. (Side note: their website has a link to check if the road is open, which it won't be if there's fresh snow. Check before going, and don't be deterred by a "road closed" sign blocking the road if it's supposed to be open. They tried to fool us!) The observatory is open Thursday-Sunday, as well as most Monday holidays. The drive up takes an hour from downtown San Jose on a long and windy road. Luckily there aren't too many other cars around, but be warned that there are a lot of turns on the drive up. We brought sandwiches and fruit up with us, and enjoyed a really nice picnic on tables that they have in a small courtyard. I would highly recommend doing that! There are tours every hour, on the half hour, where you get to go inside the dome to see the huge telescope that was built in the late 1800s. It's crazy that they built this whole thing when horse and buggies were the only way up the mountain. The views from the top are also pretty incredible. They're open at night only on certain days in the summer, and you have to buy tickets for those nights far in advance. My friends and I definitely want to come back for that! If you love astronomy or not, Lick Observatory is a great place to visit. It seems like a place a world away, even though it's just an hour drive (and technically in San Jose!). I definitely recommend that everyone who lives in the area make a drive up here at some point! read more
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Lick O.
We'd love you to come back! Stay tuned for our evening events in the…
9 years ago
Beautiful and fun drive up! Not for those who do not like windy roads. The road is quite dark once the sun sets. Also, wifi goes in and out so it is best to load a map in advance! Great views, and the observatory is informational (lots of text to read). It is chilly outside and inside, so bring a jacket. We thought we would get a chance to look through the Lick telescope, but that wasn't the case on the tour we went on. Best to keep a look out for events that allow for viewings through the telescope. read more
Business owner information
Lick O.
Stay tuned for our evening events in the summer. Tickets will go on…
10 years ago
Although a very long and windy drive to get here; it is very worth coming up to visit at least once in your life. I think astronomy is cool and love learning more about it. There is so much information here that you can spend all day here reading and watching videos about space exploration. Being up so high in the mountains also makes you feel calm since it is super quiet all around. They have a free tour which was my favorite, the lady tour guide was super friendly and very knowledgeable. Ps..if you get car sick easy this might not be the best place to visit. read more
Business owner information
Lick O.
Thank you, we are glad you enjoyed your visit :-)
From San Jose, look to the east at the top of the mountain, see those white thiings that look like clouds that NEVER move, That my friends, is Lick Observatory! I have driven up here only a handful of times (4 times), and every single time I enjoy myself! The drive up there is a trek, but I absolutely love it! I went up there on Sunday morning with my good friend Maddy, and there was a very soft brisk blanket covering the summit on our way up, but it was gorgeous. The road is trecherous and curvy all the way up the summit, so I recommend you be an experienced driver. On that note, PLEASE BE COURTEOUS of cyclists and hikers on the way up AND the way down. When passing them, try to not do it on blind turns as you may hit an oncoming car or cyclist! The drive up gets me every single time! I drive up the Alum Rock side and sometimes drive down the Evergreen hills side. As you progress towards the summit, you will see the air become nicer, and the sky become bluer (on nice days). Even the trees and leaves near the summit change, becoming red. The trees themselves are red! Once you reach the peak, there is a small town that surrounds the Lick Observatory, with a small school, and a few houses. It is eerie up there, quiet and calm. There is so much peace up there. I have only been inside the actual observatory once, becasue it is usually closed when I get up there, but it is really neat! It has the massive telescope, and a richter scale or seismographer. The people are all very welcoming and informative! The tour is free, but short. The view from the peak outside the Observatory is breathtaking in whatever direction you look, may it be to the east and see Stockton, or to the South and you can see Morgan hill and Mt. Uhumunum, or to the west and see San Jose nestled in the valley. Sunset up there are a mavel as well. The stars and city are also something to definately check out, may it be from the summit or even on the drive up there! Overall; this place is a very nice escape for me, and I enjoy it very much. The drive, the scenery, the people up there are also really nice. The Observatory has LOADS of history which to be frank, is all really interesting! I place to definatly check out if you have a few hours to kill, a full tanks of petrol and a camera read more
This is in the hills of San Jose, but will take you about an hour to get to even if you live in San Jose like I do. It's a twisty winding road getting here, so if you have a problem with long twisty roads, this journey might not be for you. We reached the top and surprisingly the parking was free, as well as the entrance fee. So technically there is no entrance fee! They do take donations and would like you to buy something from their shop to support this place. The story goes that James Lick was old and dying and wanted the world to remember him. He had no kids and was alone. His original thought was to build a giant statue of himself at the ports of SF, his second idea was to build a pyramid in the heart of SF, and his final choice which he went with was to build the worlds largest telescope of the time. It's a breathtaking piece and they give tours every hour. The views are amazing here and you can't believe you're in San Jose. Can't imagine how it looks at night or when it snows. Either way, if you're in SJ give it a go. read more
12 years ago
In all fairness, this review is a combo of my two visits... Once when I was 10 and the other a few weeks ago (I'm now 48, BTW.) What a cool place - and I'm not even into astrology (heh, heh...yeah, I know it's astronomy...I think.) I rode my bike from San Ramon to the top of Mount Hamilton (whew!) with some friends (we travelled the less-frequented road up the backside.) It's a great ride, but travelling by car is probably easier. Upon arriving at the top of the mountain, I was amazed to see the little village scattered about - observatories, sleeping quarters, a schoolhouse, the visitor's center, assorted houses and various other structures. The main observatory is a fascinating place to visit - check out the telescope - wow! From the mountaintop, San Jose is an afterthought - hardly noticeable off in the distance. What a great place to explore and get away from town. It was just as cool the second time as when I first visited 38 years ago! 5 gazillion stars in the galaxy...seems like a 5 star review on Yelp hardly compares. read more
Wow. Love this place. It truly is worth the windy-ass drive. We took the Quimby Rd route going up and although the views are gorgeous, I just about had a heart attack on some of the steep switchbacks. Skip the steep route and take Alum Rock Rd via 130 to get there - just as scenic minus the crazy-steep road. I saw hardcore cyclists and even a few hikers coming up the mountain - kudos to them. Like most folks, you'll drive up there. Parking is limited, but there are designated Handicap parking for those who need it. The bathrooms are clean, there are snacks in the vending machine and a cute little gift shop selling something for everyone - postcards, Tshirts, tote bags, posters, books, etc. Take time for the tour of the 36-inch Refractor. It's free and the guide is knowledgeable. The view from the Observatory is totally worth the drive. It's breathtaking. Since we just had some rain, the hills are green right now which makes the drive up even better. Bring a light jacket even when it's hot in the valley, you never know if it's going to be chilly up there. read more
Came here with my bf. I'm taking astronomy and my teacher suggested coming here for extra credit. I also want to mention that the drive SUCKS. Its a very windy road so beware!!! Head aches, dizziness and nausea may happen to you! You also have to be very focused driving these roads because you could definitely drive off the mountain. Anyway, we finally reached the top and it is very peaceful, cleansing and BEAUTIFUL!!! We got there at 3 and watched the sunset. We finally went in to see the telescopes a little after 4 (they close at 5) there wasn't much t see. There also was only one worker there, that ran the gift shop. We went to see the old telescope and she also showed us in. The old telescope is pretty magnificent. We went to the newer telescope and it wasn't as interesting as the old one. Would I return? Probably not. If you have patience to drive a long ways and if you love astronomy, you should go up and see it. read more
12 years ago
The ride to get to the summit of Mt Hamilton can be a little pain...even for a motorcyclist! but the view is like..."Woah" ! amazing all way long! You can get an outstanding free tour of the 1888 telescope (a gem of historical astronomy) given by a passionate astrophysicist. The lecture is interesting and easy to understand. The telescope and it's surrounding building are an archive of technological development. You need to tour and read by yourself (the guide is only here to give an history lecture about the telescope), they trace back from the construction era to newest techniques developed for space observation through photos, old prototypes and antiques, and TV/slide show presentations. Do visit this place. You'll see some really interesting innovation (for the 19th century!), enjoy a great view and get smarter ;) Small snacks, souvenir shop. Visits are free. read more
8 years ago
The road to the Lick observatory has many twists and turns. if you haven't been there before, you should leave some time for driving. Lick Observatory gave me an excellent experience for astronomy and stargazing - I joined "Public Evening Tours at Lick Observatory" event in June. The astronomers guided us to visit Visitor Center, given lectures for telescopes' structures, history and functions. After seeing around tool setting and different buildings, they delivered a short history lecture of Lick Observatory, with some hot chocolate and tea - that's lovely! In the final round, they showed all participants the amazing amounts of stars in the thousands miles away dark sky through a huge, historical telescope, may over hundred years, the stars looked so surreal close. Great place for chilling, sunset and gaining some knowledge, will visit again for sure! read more
We went to Lick Observatory on Sat 8/25/12 for their annual Music of the Sphere for Great Guitars w/ Daniel Roest & Alex de Grassi & lecture given by Dr. Mariska Kriek. From Fremont it took 1hr20min with A. driving crazy fast up that very windy road. If you get motion sickness take ginger beforehand! We got there by 7pm and I do recommend getting there earlier because the parking is tight, not sure how they fit all the cars. They do check if you have tickets or on the list for Will Call so don't go up there without reserved tickets (tickets were $40pp for non-reserved seats, reserved just means you sit up closer) - they are Sold Out really fast on them! Sign up on their website for the email if you missed it this yr & get tickets early next yr! FREE Mug or Wine Glass per ticket. Get it before the show starts & put it in your car. Found the guitar players just ok, 2nd one was more interesting to me. Lecture with Dr. Mariska Kriek was ok for the first 10 min, then I fell asleep, woke up & didn't learn anything, something about blue is young, red is old galaxies. B. loved it & said he learned something. After that we checked out the 4 telescopes set up outside by volunteers. Saw a bunch of things - don't remember any names anymore. Some had rings, blobs in the sky, saw the moon craters. Highlight is seeing the 36-inch Great Lick Refactor. They give you numbers to see it so it take a long time. We saw Albireo, a colorful binary star & also the 2nd brightest star in the constellation Cygnus (from program). 40-in Nickel Reflector They give u number to see it, so it takes long time - saw NGC 6826-the Blinking Planetary Nebula, a dying sun-like star in the constellation Cygnus (from program). Driving down the crazy, windy hill is scary & slow. We got home after 1AM to Fremont. Gift shop they kept open until 11:30pm. They have moon/planet/stars shirts, socks, hats, posters. Sale for their older mugs 2011. read more
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7281 Mt Hamilton Rd
Mount Hamilton, CA 95140
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(408) 274-5061
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My wife is concerned about making the trip up the road in an older car. Any thoughts from those who have made the journey?
Though there aren't any extremely steep areas, I would caution as in the event of a breakdown, there aren't any service stations and the reception may be choppy.
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Lick Observatory - observatories - Updated October 2026
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