Landmarks

Mount Wilson Observatory

A historic site located on Mount Wilson in the San Gabriel Mountains above Pasadena at an altitude of 5,715 feet. Free of charge and open to the public daily from 10 am - 5pm, visitors can view the 100-inch telescope from the Visitors' Gallery inside the dome. During spring and summer, there are public programs including observing through historic telescopes, lectures, concerts, educational programs, and more. Open on weekends is the Cosmic Cafe, where you can enjoy the stunning view with a delicious lunch.

Directions

Access to Mount Wilson via the Angeles Crest Highway (CA Hwy 2) from the 210 Freeway at La Canada Flintridge. Map & Directions

Tours

Weekend public tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 am and 1:00 pm. Tickets are available for purchase only at the Cosmic Cafe. Tours last approximately 2 hours and involve a mile of walking and climbing stairs. Due to the high elevation and change in elevation throughout the tour, it is unsuitable for individuals with respiratory and heart problems or with limited mobility. Please see health notice.

Private tours, self-guided tours, engineering tours, and STEM tours can be provided.

Tour Tickets

  • Adults: $15
  • 62 and older: $13
  • Ages 6 - 12: $13

Seasonal

Open to visit during winter months. Gate opens 10am - 4pm. The Pavilion bathrooms, museum, and 100-inch viewing gallery are open. The Cosmic Cafe is closed and there are no public guided tours until Spring. For more information and weather related closure notices, visit mtwilson.edu.

  • Free Entrance
  • Free Wifi
  • Guided Tour
  • Historic Landmark
  • Kid-Friendly
  • Only In Pasadena
  • Outdoor Activity
  • Outdoor Seating
  • Parking Lot
  • Pet-Friendly

Mount Wilson Observatory

100 Mt Wilson Circle Rd
Mount Wilson, CA 91023

  • Phone: (626) 214-8030