Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, California

Perched high on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory is one of the most recognizable and beloved landmarks in Los Angeles, California. Offering sweeping views of the city below, the Pacific Ocean in the distance, and the iconic Hollywood Sign nearby, the observatory blends science, architecture, and cinematic history into a uniquely LA experience. Since opening in 1935, it has served as a public gateway to the cosmos, staying true to its mission of making astronomy accessible to everyone.

The observatory’s Art Deco design gives it a timeless presence, with its copper domes and white façade standing out against the rugged landscape of Griffith Park. Inside, visitors can explore a range of engaging exhibits that explain everything from planetary motion and solar eclipses to the scale of the universe and humanity’s place within it. The Samuel Oschin Planetarium is a major highlight, featuring immersive shows that combine cutting-edge visuals with compelling storytelling about space and science.

One of the most popular attractions is the Zeiss refracting telescope, which allows guests to observe the Moon, planets, and brighter celestial objects during evening hours. Even during the day, the observatory’s terraces provide unforgettable panoramas, making it a favorite spot for photographers, hikers, and tourists alike.

Beyond science, Griffith Observatory holds a special place in popular culture, appearing in countless films and television shows, from classic Hollywood movies to modern blockbusters. Free to the public and open year-round, it remains both an educational institution and a symbol of Los Angeles’ enduring fascination with the stars.

Griffith Observatory construction ca. 1930s

James Dean in Rebel Without A Cause (1955)

Griffith Observatory construction ca. 1930s

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York City

Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree has become one of New York City’s most beloved holiday traditions, drawing millions of visitors each year. What began as a modest gesture by construction workers during the Great Depression, who pooled their money to buy a small tree for the site, has grown into an international symbol of hope, celebration, and community spirit. Today, the annual tree lighting marks the unofficial start of the holiday season in Manhattan, transforming Midtown into a spectacle of lights, music, and festive energy.

The tree itself is typically a towering Norway spruce, selected months in advance for its size, symmetry, and overall majesty. Once chosen, it’s transported with great fanfare to Rockefeller Plaza, where workers carefully secure it and adorn it with miles of lights and shimmering decorations. The crowning touch is the iconic star at its peak, an illuminated masterpiece that casts a brilliant glow across the plaza.

Visiting the tree is more than just a quick stop for a photo. The surrounding area comes alive with ice skaters gliding beneath the lights, storefront windows dressed in elaborate displays, and holiday music echoing between the skyscrapers. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike pause to embrace the season’s warmth, even on the chilliest winter nights.

Whether you’re there to admire its scale, soak in the holiday charm, or simply join a cherished NYC tradition, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree offers a moment of wonder that captures the very heart of the holidays.