Los Angeles is the chief city in the state of California, and the next largest in the United States. It is located in the southern part of California, with a pleasingly mild climate.

Griffin Park and Observatory

Griffith Park is located in the eastern part of the Santa Monica Mountains and covers an area of 4,210 acres, is the biggest state recreational area in California. In the park is the Los Angeles Zoo, the Griffith Observatory and a planetarium, a Greek theater with 4,000 seats, a riding center formed for the 1984 Olympic Games, golf courses and tennis courts, and much more. Walking trails or drives into the mountains offer marvelous views.

The Griffith Observatory is situated on a hilltop outside the Los Angeles city center and provides viewing opportunities during the day as well at night. The Zeiss telescope is the highlight, allowing for viewing of the moon and planets. There are three solar telescopes too, allowing for screening of the sun. The park and observatory are named for the founder, Griffith J. Griffith, who donated the larger part of the parkland to the town in 1896.