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    Palomar Observatory

    4.2 (65 reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 3:30 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    Palomar Observatory Photos

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    George Hale, the visionary of Palomar

    Awesome place to visit. The gift shop was small but well stocked. The guided tour costs only $5.00 and is more than a bargin. The volunteers are extremely knowledgeable about the observatory and it's history. Every American should visit this iconic landmark that is still contributing to the betterment of mankind. This place makes me proud to be an American.

    Trees
    Alex D.

    Cool place but not accessible. To get inside the Observatory and see the telescope it is not accessible as there are only stairs, no ramps. In the winter it is also very cold up here, so bring your coat, a hat, and gloves. In the summer bring your sunhat as it gets hot. There are places around here where you can sit down on benches and be under trees but it does get busy during summer. Also I'm not sure if it's just me, but this place does have an eerie feel to it, not sure why. Feels haunted or like I was being watched.

    Guided tour is a must...  Go behind the scenes...
    Johnny C.

    Guided tour is hands down the best and must do... Go behind the scenes with the experts who explain everything in detail... and answer all your questions...

    The tour takes you from the basement up two floors. Highly recommended as it's the only thing to do besides watching videos.
    Aiko M.

    I was going compare Palomar to Griffith Observatory, but they are truly two unique experiences. While Griffith is open late and has a lot of interactive activities set in several rooms like a museum, Palomar is privately owned, open just until late afternoon to the public, and the only interactive activity is a tour. I recommend getting there early on a weekend day and signing up for the tour. It's only 5$ and it sells out fast- I got there 10 minutes after the gift shop opened and the first tour was sold out already. While you wait, sit and watch the videos in the gift shop and learn a bunch of details about the creation of the site. It made the tour easy to understand since it was a lot of information packed into an hour. I don't recommend the tour for kids. While astrology is for all ages, the tour is about the history and architecture of the telescope. All the kids below the age of ten were super bored. Overall, it is a nice way to spend a bit of time. You could easily look around for 15 minutes and be done as there isn't much here. Neutral: - not kid-friendly Pros: - scenic drive - inexpensive tour - free parking - paved walkways, slight gradients (not super hilly like Griffith) - near camping and other activities - pet friendly exterior grounds Cons: - kinda boring - not much to see - not open late

    Museum
    Lisa W.

    We were staying at Observatory Campground and hiked here (2.2 miles one way) hoping to see the observatory. Upon arriving, there's a gift shop/museum. Many people were lined up for the tour tickets. We didn't want to do the tour because we read some reviews below and probably not for us. I guess I expected more from the observatory. I (for some reason) thought you can actually walk around/inside in the observatory. They had everything blocked off. You had one viewing window. I also stumbled upon the tour and it sounded very informative...saw a lot of bored kids. I wish they offer a tour where you can actually see how the observatory/telescope works and look through the telescope, like a real astronomer! I've never seen space, only through pictures.

    Palomar Observatory at Palomar Mountain, CA (5.9.18)
    Jenni M.

    If you're not into science, astronomy, engineering, architecture, physics, etc.... well, you won't appreciate the Palomar Observatory. Many astronomical discoveries have been made here thanks to ongoing research through Caltech. When the gates close to the general public, scientists hope for clear skies to record as much effective information that they can. As Robert T. alluded, this is one of most famous observatories in the U.S. due to its size. It may not be the largest in the world anymore, but for a very long time it was. The visitor's center is a nice clean facility with some information to read. Inside is the tiniest gift shop ever. It was closed when we visited (5.9.18) otherwise I would have liked to have taken a gander at their books. TIP - do some research before visiting... figure out their hours and when tours are available or it may be closed A shout out to George and Bill who both work there in maintenance. Thanks for making our day! For some extra fun, listen to The Wellwater Conspiracy's psychedelic instrumental tune "Palomar Observatory." There's also a crazy alien-like song from the Peter Thomas Sound Orchester called "Mount Palomar Observatory: Eye Into the Sky" too, but the former is much cooler. 2018 Challenge #81

    Fiery nebula
    Emma J.

    Up, up, 5550 ft high, suspended in a sleepy cloud forest above all of San Diego.... Mount Palomar and the Observatory are what dreamy afternoons are made of. Take it slow & enjoy the drive. There's lots of lookout points on the climb up the mountain, so step outside your four-doors to soak in the quietness & crisp air as the elevation rises. The big white dome in all its glory eventually comes into view, and it's truly a stunning & bright fixture among the green & natural backdrop. It sits at the highest point for as far as the eye can see, which makes for magnificent views when looking down to the now-dwarfed city & mountains. With only a handful of other quiet visitors during my trip, both the drive & exploring the Observatory grounds felt so soothing. You won't be able to catch a tour on weekdays, but opt for the open road & sleepy museum ambiance only possible on days other than Saturday & Sunday. The actual exhibit is quite small, but it's loaded with enough information to fill at least an hour. The displays are better suited for adults, as I could imagine children blowing through everything very quickly. Parking is free & plentiful, but be sure not to overstay your welcome - gates lock promptly at closing time! Stay mindful of the clock if you end up wandering off along the nearby hiking trail. **TIP** No gas, no food, and no notable gift shop. Visit with a full tank, a full belly or a picnic lunch, as well as a hunger to gain knowledge rather than mementos.

    Giant tree next to the visitor center
    Ron R.

    Upon arrival, the first place you encounter is the museum/visitor center and gift shop with the huge Hale Telescope in the background. At the visitor center you'll learn a little about the observatory and it's history ~ The Palomar's telescopes, and it's discoveries. ~ George Ellery Hale, the father of astrophysics. ~ Cool photos and information about galaxies, nebulas, and the instruments used to take these photos. Very interesting! ~ A couple of interactive exhibits. ~ And I didn't mind spending money in the gift shop to help support the research. As far as the Hale Telescope and the visitor gallery, you'll get a get a direct view of the telescope from the ground floor. There's also display panels describing the telescope's components, the 200-inch primary mirror, and how light passes inside the telescope. ~ This was the first telescope to discover quasars. Something I didn't know. I enjoyed it here, but honestly, I was expecting more. Not sure exactly what, but I guess killing a few hours here is fine. Maybe because I was expecting to visit the other telescopes. No big deal. Maybe I'll try a tour group next time. Definitely a different activity! I mean, how often do you really go out to visit an observatory? It's unique, as it is truly a site to see! Tips: ~ Call before you make the drive out, and make sure they're definitely open. ~ Fill up with gas, as it's a long stretch up Palomar mountain. ~ Good luck getting a signal to check in on Yelp. ~ Respect the rules of the facility, and keep the grounds clean. We're just lucky this place allows visitors.

    Marcus F.

    It's a nice drive and a quick visit but why not make a day out of it. Bring some food up for a picnic ( tables located on site), visit the observatory, then take a nice early afternoon hike through the surrounding forest. The hiking trail is called the Palomar Observatory Trail - https://www.yelp.com/biz/palomar-mountain-observatory-trail-palomar-mountain It's an out and back trail that is about 4.4 miles total. Just keep in mind when the Observatory's parking lot closes. Figure about 2.5 hours to hike and explore the trail. A Few Notes - The South Grade road is notorious for crotch rockets zooming up and down the switchbacks. They lean heavily on every turn, usually with a gopro on their helmet. Be careful. - Temper your small kids expectation as they cannot actually look through the telescope! - Mother's kitchen is good place to eat on the mountain. Many vegetarian dishes. - Take the East Grade road down to get a different perspective of the area. It's also less traveled by motorcyclists - Forgot to get gas? There is is a gas station further down the 76 on the La Jolla Reservation. It's right off the side of the road called the La Jolla Indian Trading Post. Higher gas prices but you're the one that forgot to fill up before you left.

    Mt Palomar
    Connie G.

    If you live in San Diego County you have to come see this extraordinary spot! The drive up Mt. Palomar is full of twist and turns for those that seek an adventure on a bike, motorcycle, or car. Just remember to always do the speed limit and watch with caution! You will reach elevation of over 5,000 ft. There are a few turn outs where you can stop to take pictures or rest your legs. Once you get to the top you will come to the entrance of the Palomar Observatory! There is a Museum and Gift store located inside. The Observatory closes by 3:00 PM and the gift shop by 2:45. The views are incredible and who knew learning about stars and science could be so much fun! you are able to go inside the building to the this massive telescope! You can also purchase tours to go on the inside of the glass but taking a look is absolutely FREE!!! Pets are allowed but can not go inside the buildings. This is very unique and it was awesome learning about the stars! It's Out of this World!

    Palomar Observatory
    Saleen M.

    I took the 1 hour, 15 minute scenic drive here this past Sunday to try to catch the 130p tour. Unfortunately, when we arrived at 1p, we found out that the tour was already booked! It is such a shame & there is no way of knowing before you take the long drive because you can only buy tickets at the Palomar Observatory gift shop. The cashier informed me that they do this because the observatory can be closed due to weather conditions. Personally, I would rather take the risk of buying tickets beforehand & getting a refund due to bad weather versus driving all the way there only to find out that the tour is completely booked! :( The 1 hour observatory tour is only available on Saturdays & Sundays at 11a or 130p. The cashier informed us that both times on Saturdays & 130p on Sundays tend to book quickly so plan accordingly (maybe be there 2 hours ahead of time to buy tickets). 11a on Sundays are a better choice to come. The observatory outside is cool & you are able to see a tiny (& I mean tiny) section of the observatory.

    Nikki O.

    So it was really cool to read about the observatory and watch videos describing all kinds of things that this location has discovered and how they opened up to the public. We went with the intentions of getting to walk through the actual observatory and see the telescope but they only do it on the weekends and we went on a Friday. You have to hike a short distance from the gift shop/visitor center down to the observatory. If you are going to the big telescope, you have to walk up stairs to get to the top. They do not have an elevator so you have to make the trek up. If you have asthma like me, bring your inhaler!

    Sarah B.

    Great place for a day trip from SD! Make sure to check the road conditions during winter months because of snow and possible closures. It's really fun to see snow so close (about an hour drive from the city). The observatory is a really cool place if you're into science and astronomy. It's run by JPL so there's people there during work hours. Check the times before you go too and the gate from the parking lot to the trail closes. The hike up to the observatory is short w a mild grade uphill. The path is paved. There's some cool stuff to look at once you're inside. Make sure to have gas and snacks because it's a ways from most major stores. Cell service is spotty too.

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    Check the website and it was supposed to be open after 2 hours drive the place was closed and no one was answering. Very disappointing

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    A place with a very beautiful view. I was there last week and we liked it very much. I recommend it to everyone.

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    Ask the Community - Palomar Observatory

    Is there an age limit for viewing through the telescope?

    There is no viewing through the telescope. It is only used by researchers and accessed via computers and instruments.

    Is it possible to ask a question of someone on the staff? The CalTech page gives names but not duties of people on property. I would appreciate it. Regards some family history up there I'd like to show my sons.

    Our website had FAQ: https://sites.astro.caltech.edu/palomar/visitor/faq.html The best experience is to join one of the summer weekend tours with a volunteer docent :)

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    Review Highlights - Palomar Observatory

    However, you walk through a type of visitors area where they have lots of information about the telescope.

    Mentioned in 26 reviews

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    The Observatory North Park - Performance Stage

    The Observatory North Park

    3.2(684 reviews)
    44.8 miNorth Park
    $$

    A great venue. The interior architecture is phenomenal. Sound quality is very good…read more The floor is slightly slanted upward toward the back. There are little sections separated by railings, which add a little separation. We paid for the VIP up top (not the four-top tables). We could choose to sit on a counter/bar stool with a thin-line bar top. But, it was farther back and you looked down at the people in front of you. So we moved to the right side in a standing section. The best! On the rail. Had a table to set drinks on. Private bathroom for upper level guests. Way worth it. One thing I wish they did was sell the 4-tops in twos. They are great. It, it's not always easy getting four people together for a show. Oh. Parking is a breeze. Structure across the way validates for concerts.

    I went to the Heated Rivalry Rave and I can say that was such a fun event…read more Purchasing tickets online was really easy and getting in was fast and efficient, I felt like everyone was working together to make it safe and easy. The venue itself is really huge, I've been for a couple podcast tours but it was always seated so getting to come where there was open floor was fun. Lots of space for dancing and letting our little hearts live in the music. Would totally come back or another event here!

    Photos
    The Observatory North Park - VIP bar on the second floor. You can order food from the West Coast Tavern menu here.

    VIP bar on the second floor. You can order food from the West Coast Tavern menu here.

    The Observatory North Park - Inside

    Inside

    The Observatory North Park - Waiting for the show

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    Waiting for the show

    Mount Laguna Observatory - SDSU property

    Mount Laguna Observatory

    4.8(5 reviews)
    43.7 mi

    W always stop here when we visit Mount Laguna, It has a nice parking lot which is never full. Lots…read moreof trails for hikers, bikers and horses. If you walk up through the observatory there is an incredible viewpoint where you can see for miles.

    We came up here recently overnight and I hadn't been in years. When I used to come out this way for…read morework I enjoyed coming up to Mount Laguna. I have to say it's still incredibly beautiful in the evening, watching the sunset. It's definitely one of the best views around and getting a chance to see the stars so brilliantly is a must as the pollution is more limited up there, making for clearer skies. The elevation is obviously higher, so dress in layers. I didn't drive up here this time, which was really nice, I had the chance to catch up on my sleep. It's not that bad of a drive though. We stayed nearby overnight, but it's worth the drive either way imo. There aren't that many places like this, especially in underdeveloped areas. The Pine House Cafe & Tavern is nearby on the Sunrise Highway if you get hungry afterwards. Be forewarned there's a bit of a walk to the top of the road from the visitor parking lot to the visitor's center. Adjacent to the visitor's center are the two apartments for visiting astronomers, a lecture hall, a kitchen for public gatherings, and the museum/gift shop. The Mount Laguna Observatory is owned and operated by SDSU under permit from the Cleveland National Forest. It's not unusual to see SDSU or local community college students here working on research projects or school activities. They do have a dedicated visitor's telescope and deck for public viewing. There are other telescope domes that are not available to the general public, but if you're willing to get a graduate degree in astronomy from SDSU I'm guessing you can get in there..

    Photos
    Mount Laguna Observatory - I miss you

    I miss you

    Mount Laguna Observatory
    Mount Laguna Observatory

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    Observatory - Balcony seating.

    Observatory

    3.1(1.2k reviews)
    65.1 mi
    $$

    My first time here, but definitely not my last!…read more The Observatory is a fabulous venue in Santa Ana. Parking was easy for us as we'd purchased a pass and we arrived pretty early. The entrance process was licketty split - we carried everything in our pockets. Upon entering, there's a photo spot, merch off to the right, as well as a bar and outdoor seating. To the left of the entrance is a smaller room, this time used for vendors,, but I suspect could be a multi-use space as needed. Bathrooms - clean and well stocked throughout the night - are also this way. Up along a poster covered hallway, and into the concert area you go! There's the stage in the front and a bar in the back. It's GA here folks, but there's a balcony with seats above. We chose the first tier behind the dance floor as there's a standing bar/shelf that spans the railing which is great to lean on and space to put drinks down. The location was perfect for us - up high enough to see everything going on onstage, great view of the folks dancing, and again, offered a space for our drinks and a restful lean. The sound system and lighting effects were fantastic! The lighting perfectly fit the dark, moody, goth atmosphere while the music was as clean and powerful as you'd want. No muddy, echoy, indistinct sound here. And extra wonderful? A pumping AC that kept the packed house cool and fresh as everyone danced all night. Such a great concert and really, the perfect venue for it: intimate yet spacious enough for comfort. Really great venue!

    I went to The Observatory to hear & to see Gimme Gimme Disco in The Constellation Room. This event…read morewas put on by events producer Burwoodland (aka Ethan Maccoby & Alex Badanes). Mark Cuban recently gave a bunch of money to Burwoodland, so I thought this event would be decent. I was wrong. Gimme Gimme Disco was a hot mess. I did not at all have a good time. A ticket to this event cost $27-$31 depending on time of purchase, & parking cost an additional $15. The price & location led me to believe Gimme Gimme would be a well organized event with a properly prepared DJ who prepared a professional level DJ set. Not so, & not at all. Random disco music played before the DJ started, & then when the DJ started, I cannot say the mixing or transitions from one song to another were much better than simply letting songs play out on Spotify or Pandora or cutting to commercial on the radio. I wanted to give the Gimme Gimme DJ (Julimuah?) the benefit of the doubt, so I stayed for awhile to listen to see if the mixing got any better. The Gimme Gimme DJ did no real mixing. Songs were blended in at random points. A song with a tempo of 100 was played immediately after a song with a tempo of 115. Songs were regularly cut mid vocal etc. The quality of DJing/music was not good enough to expect people to pay money to buy tickets. I'm incredulous that The Obseratory would book such a mediocre event/DJ/etc. Because the Observatory is a venue where professional musicians often play, there was a sound guy or engineer on the sound board. I asked him what was going on with the DJ. I mentioned she was not doing any mixing at all. He agreed, & then he added: "Yeah. DJ culture has changed so much though." I do not know whether this was an apologetic statement. It is hard not to read/construe the statement like a subpar excuse. After speaking with the sound guy, I opted to request a refund, & to leave immediately. I asked a security/door staff to connect me with a manager. The security personnel referred me to management. Here is the gist of my dialog with the manager: Self: The DJ for Gimme Gimme Disco is not mixing at all. Songs are simply being played end to end with little mixing, beatmatching, etc. The dancefloor stops between tracks. It is just really bad. Sorry. Management: I hear you. Unfortunately, the Observatory cannot refund your ticket. Gimme Gimme Disco rented The Constellation Room so it is their event; not ours. They rented the room for the night. Self: Okay. I understand. Could you please put me in touch with the people from Gimme Disco who booked The Constellation Room & planned the event? Management: They (Gimme Disco) have a website, etc. [The manager then proceeded to show me the contact us page of the Gimme Disco site]. I realize the manager might not have legitimately known who from Gimme Disco coordinated the event. However, the Observatory staff did not make much of an effort to connect me with anyone who might actually issue a refund. A contact us form on a website is usually a dead end. So the rental format of some events, such as the Gimme Disco event I briefly attended, allows The Observatory to make money without much, if any, responsibility/accountability, & getting in touch with anyone representing an event results in being forwarded to a FAQ or Contact Us page. Seems like a pretty ideal business structure for The Observatory & any themed event planners booking events. The Observatory makes money renting space; the event makes money too. Anyone who feels or was cheated out of their money is left with no one to direct their complaint to--unless a website Contact Us page counts as a person. I obviously did not risk eating any food or drinking anything at The Observatory. I feared the drinks might be as bad as the music, so I walked back to my car sober, & happy to no longer be inside such an indifferent, disappointing, unprofessional, & impersonal venue. I am legitimately stunned that an event put on by Burwoodland & all the deep pockets behind it could be so utterly lamentable. I want a full refund. An apology from The Observatory &/or The Gimme Disco people would not hurt either. People should not have to pay concert level prices for crappy DJing, & a dismal ambience. I reached out to Alex Badanes for a refund. He initially suggested that I would be issued or given a refund. I never ended up receiving a refund. Neither Alex nor anyone representing Burwoodland followed through after the first hollow mention of a refund. Fake talent, mediocre event, & false gestures are the norm for Burwoodland & its reps.

    Photos
    Observatory - View from my seat.

    View from my seat.

    Observatory - Venue clearing out after the show.

    Venue clearing out after the show.

    Observatory - Table seating at the balcony.

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    Table seating at the balcony.

    Palomar Observatory - observatories - Updated May 2026

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