Los Angeles: Hollywood Night Tour with Griffith Observatory

Discover Hollywood’s Nighttime Charm for $44

The Hollywood Night Tour with Griffith Observatory offers an engaging 90-minute exploration of Los Angeles’s most famous sights after sunset, all for $44 per person. Starting from the Starline Tours’ Visitor Center inside the Ovation Hollywood Shopping Mall, this tour provides a lively, open-air vehicle experience that reveals Hollywood’s glowing allure.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a guided bus journey with a 30-minute visit to the Griffith Observatory, where sweeping city views create perfect photo moments. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, and anyone eager to see LA’s iconic landmarks illuminated at night. While the tour typically departs at 7:00 PM, it adjusts seasonally to optimize sunset views, making it flexible for your evening plans.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: $44 per person for a 1.5-hour guided night tour
• Main stops: Griffith Observatory, Sunset Blvd., Hollywood Walk of Fame, Dolby Theatre, TCL Chinese Theatre, El Capitan Theatre, and more
• Includes: Guide, bus tour, 30-minute visit to Griffith Observatory
• Departure times: 7:00 PM (Mar 8–Oct 31), 5:00 PM (Nov 1–Mar 7)
• Meeting point: Ovation Hollywood Shopping Mall, inside Starline Tours Visitor Center
• Reviews highlight: knowledgeable guides, stunning views, good value

Starting Point at Ovation Hollywood Shopping Mall

The tour begins at the Starline Tours’ Visitor Center, located on the 2nd floor inside Ovation Hollywood Shopping Mall at 6801 Hollywood Blvd., suite #203. The check-in process is straightforward, and the location is convenient for visitors staying in central Hollywood or nearby areas.

From this starting point, the guide and open-air bus set off to introduce guests to Hollywood’s brightest lights. The meeting point is well-signposted, and both printed and mobile vouchers are accepted, making it easy to join.

Exploring Hollywood’s Main Attractions at Night

This tour takes you past Hollywood Marvels such as the Dolby Theatre, famous as the home of the Oscars, and the TCL Chinese Theatre with its iconic footprints and handprints. The El Capitan Theatre and Pantages Theatre are also highlighted as historic symbols of Hollywood’s entertainment legacy.

Cruising down Hollywood Boulevard, the guide points out famous film studios, restaurants, and legendary nightclubs—each with stories that evoke Hollywood’s golden age. The illuminated Walk of Fame offers a glittering display of star names, bringing the city’s vibrant nightlife into focus.

The Griffith Observatory Experience

A key highlight of this tour is the 30-minute stop at Griffith Observatory, where panoramic views of LA’s skyline unfold. The outdoor areas remain open even if the interior is closed on Mondays, allowing guests to enjoy the sparkling city lights from above. The views are often lauded as some of the best photo opportunities during this evening tour.

Guests have ample time to explore the surroundings, take photos, and appreciate the spectacular sunset and night views. The guide offers insights into the observatory’s history and its role in astronomy and film.

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Sunset and Night Views from Hollywood Hills

The tour provides unobstructed views of Sunset Blvd. and the surrounding Hollywood Hills, allowing for great photo opportunities of the neon-lit streets and cityscape. The drive past bonus sights like the Hollywood Funko Pop store adds a fun touch, capturing LA’s pop culture scene.

Reviews frequently praise the outdoor vehicle’s open design, which enhances the experience of seeing LA’s lights in the evening breeze. However, some note that it can get cold, so dressing warmly is advisable, especially during cooler months.

The Guides and Their Entertainment Value

Throughout the tour, the guide plays a vital role, offering informative commentary filled with interesting facts and stories. Multiple reviews mention guides like Craig and Brian as friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. Guests appreciate guides who go above and beyond to include everyone and share local insights.

Many reviewers highlight the guide’s humor and storytelling skills, which make the ride engaging and fun. Some mention the guide’s long experience—up to 25 years—and the personal touches they add to the commentary.

Practical Details: Timing, Pacing, and Accessibility

The evening departure times are designed to maximize sunset and nighttime views, with seasonal adjustments from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The tour’s pacing allows for a comfortable ride with enough time at Griffith Observatory to capture photos and enjoy the views.

Participants should bring a passport or ID, wear comfortable clothes, and have a charged smartphone for photos. Luggage or large bags are not permitted, and pets are only allowed if they are assistance dogs.

How the Tour Compares to Similar Hollywood Experiences

This tour is offered by Starline Tours of Hollywood and stands out for its combination of a bus ride and a dedicated observatory visit. It provides a cost-effective way to see Hollywood’s iconic sights at night compared to private tours or larger excursions.

Many similar experiences include celebrity homes or longer city tours, but this one’s focused route and timing make it ideal for those seeking a compact, informative, and scenic evening activity. The reviews consistently mention the value for money and the quality of the guides.

The Sum Up: A Bright and Informative Hollywood Night Tour

For $44, this 90-minute guided night tour offers an affordable and engaging way to experience LA’s most famous sights after sunset. The well-organized itinerary includes Hollywood landmarks, Sunset Blvd., and the spectacular views from Griffith Observatory.

While it’s not designed for extended exploration, the combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and panoramic views makes it a memorable activity, especially for visitors eager to see Hollywood in its illuminated glory. The expert guides and stunning vistas are what consistently earn this tour high praise.

This experience is best suited for couples, solo travelers, and anyone curious about Hollywood’s nighttime magic. With easy logistics, flexible timing, and excellent reviews, it’s a reliable choice for those wanting a short but scenic Hollywood adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Hollywood Night Tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, including a 30-minute stop at Griffith Observatory.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers a guide, bus tour, and the visit to Griffith Observatory.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is the Starline Tours’ Visitor Center inside the Ovation Hollywood Shopping Mall at 6801 Hollywood Blvd., suite #203.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, comfortable clothing, and a charged smartphone for photos. Dress warmly if visiting during cooler months.

Are there any restrictions?
Luggage or large bags are not allowed. Pets are only permitted if they are assistance animals.

When does the tour operate?
It departs at 7:00 PM from March 8 to October 31, and at 5:00 PM from November 1 to March 7.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby