Big Bus LA: Griffith Observatory Open-top Sunset Tour

If you’re visiting Los Angeles and want to soak in the city’s famous sights as the sun dips below the horizon, the Big Bus LA: Griffith Observatory Sunset Tour might catch your eye. This 90-minute adventure promises sweeping views, a lively guide, and the chance to explore one of LA’s most iconic landmarks — Griffith Observatory. While it’s not a full-day experience, it offers a convenient way to enjoy some of LA’s best scenery, especially if you’re short on time or don’t want to navigate the city on your own.

We’ve looked into this tour’s details, reviews, and what it really offers, to help you decide if it’s worth your time. Two things we genuinely like about this experience are the stunning vistas from Griffith Observatory and the knowledgeable guides who keep things interesting. On the flip side, a possible downside is that the timing can be tricky — the sunset experience depends heavily on weather and the timing of the day, which some travelers have found disappointing. This tour feels best suited for those wanting a relaxed, scenic overview of LA’s highlights in a comfortable setting.

Key Points

• Enjoy a 90-minute open-top tour with expert guides sharing fun facts and stories.
• Explore Griffith Observatory for 30 minutes, perfect for photos and taking in panoramic views.
• Beautiful sunset vistas and views of landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Downtown LA.
• No hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation to the meeting point.
• Limited group size (max 17 travelers), making it more intimate than large bus tours.
• Price point at $56 per person offers good value if you’re after quick, scenic sightseeing.

What Is the Big Bus LA Griffith Observatory Sunset Tour?

This tour is a combination of sightseeing, education, and relaxation, designed to give you a taste of LA’s most photogenic spots as the sun sets. Starting from Hollywood, the route takes you through some of LA’s most charming neighborhoods — Hollywood Hills and Los Feliz — before reaching the star of the show: Griffith Observatory.

The whole experience lasts about 90 minutes, with 30 minutes at Griffith Observatory. During this time, you can explore exhibits, peek through telescopes, and take in breathtaking views of LA stretching from the Hollywood Sign to Downtown, all framed by the Pacific Ocean and the San Gabriel Mountains.

The tour runs on an open-top Mercedes minibus, which is a real plus. It lets you feel the breeze and get unobstructed views of the cityscape, especially when the sky is painted in sunset hues. The guides are known for their engaging stories and local insights, which can add a lot of charm to the trip.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Start Point and Route

The tour kicks off at 6763 Hollywood Blvd, a central LA location easily accessible via public transportation or by taxi. From there, you’ll embark on a scenic drive through Hollywood and its surrounding neighborhoods, passing iconic sights and charming residential streets.

Neighborhoods You’ll Pass

• Hollywood Boulevard: Famous for the Walk of Fame and the Dolby Theatre, this area is a must-see for film buffs.
• Hollywood Hills: Known for its luxurious homes and stunning views, this area offers a glimpse into LA’s glitzy side.
• Los Feliz: A laid-back neighborhood with a creative vibe, full of cafes, shops, and great photo ops.

Griffith Observatory Stop

The highlight of the tour is, of course, the stop at Griffith Observatory. The observatory itself is a fascinating place — you can walk around, check out exhibits, and if you’re lucky, peek through the telescopes. It’s a fantastic spot for sunset views, offering panoramic vistas over LA.

You get 30 minutes of free exploration, which is enough time to snap some photos, soak in the views, and maybe even grab a quick snack at the café. Keep in mind, some reviews note that the timing can be unpredictable; if the weather is cloudy or traffic delays occur, your sunset might not be as spectacular as hoped.

Passing by Other Landmarks

The route also takes you past various LA sights and neighborhoods, but the focus remains on enjoying the scenery and the sunset rather than extensive sightseeing. Some reviewers mentioned that the bus passes by key points, but the main appeal is the views from Griffith Observatory.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic overview of LA without the hassle of driving or coordinating multiple stops. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want a taste of the Hollywood glamour and stellar city views. The open-top bus adds a fun element, making it more engaging than a standard tour bus.

If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful sunsets and panoramic vistas, you’ll likely enjoy this. However, if you’re expecting a detailed or comprehensive tour of LA landmarks or a later sunset than the schedule allows, you might find it a little limited.

The Honesty About the Experience

While many reviews praise the stunning views and the knowledgeable guides, not everyone has a perfect experience. One reviewer, John D., pointed out that the tour was “very disappointing” because it was dark when they left, and they didn’t see the Hollywood Sign or the sunset as promised. He also mentioned the guide being “overbearing and loud.” Such comments suggest that weather and timing are critical; if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the experience might not meet expectations.

The price of $56 is reasonable for a half-hour at Griffith Observatory combined with a scenic drive, especially considering the comfort of the open-top Mercedes minibus. However, do keep in mind that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your transportation accordingly.

The Real Value

If your goal is to enjoy a beautiful sunset with knowledgeable commentary in a small, intimate group, this tour offers a solid option. It’s not a deep dive into LA’s history or culture, but it’s a nice way to relax, see some highlights, and capture great photos. The tour’s maximum size of 17 travelers means it’s less crowded and more personal than larger bus tours, which many travelers appreciate.

That said, some travelers have expressed disappointment with the timing, especially if the sunset occurs earlier or the weather obscures the view. So, if this is your main goal, check the sunset time for your travel date and hope for clear skies.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Griffith Observatory Sunset Tour works best for those wanting a short, scenic glance at LA’s iconic sights during sunset. It’s a good pick for first-time visitors who want a quick overview without committing to a full-day tour. If you’re into stunning vistas, casual sightseeing, and a relaxed pace, this is a fit.

It might not be ideal if you’re after an in-depth tour or if you’re traveling during unpredictable weather. Also, since there’s no hotel pickup, travelers should plan their own transportation to the starting point.

Overall, it’s a decent value for the price and a charming way to experience LA’s sunset in style. Just keep some flexibility in your expectations — weather and timing can influence how much you get to see and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to arrange your own transportation to 6763 Hollywood Blvd.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 90 minutes, including 30 minutes of free time at Griffith Observatory.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The key highlight is the sunset views from Griffith Observatory, along with the opportunity to explore exhibits and take photos of LA’s skyline, the Hollywood Sign, and beyond.

Can I see the Hollywood Sign from Griffith Observatory during the tour?
While the observatory offers great views of the Hollywood Sign, some reviews indicate that timing and weather can affect what you see. It isn’t guaranteed to be perfectly visible every evening.

Is the bus comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses open-top luxury Mercedes minibuses, designed to give unobstructed views and comfort during the ride.

Will I get enough time to explore Griffith Observatory?
You’ll have about 30 minutes, which is enough for a quick look around, photos, and enjoying the scenery. If you want to dive deeper into the exhibits, you might need more time.

How many people are in the group?
The tour has a maximum of 17 travelers, offering a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the short duration and easygoing pace make it suitable for most travelers, including families with children.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it worth the $56 price tag?
If you’re looking for a scenic, easy, and comfortable way to catch sunset views and learn some fun facts, many find the price reasonable. However, if you’re expecting a sunset guaranteed to be clear or a more comprehensive tour, be aware of the weather dependency.

In the end, this tour offers a gentle, enjoyable way to end a day in LA. It’s not perfect, but with the right expectations — especially regarding weather and timing — it can be a memorable part of your LA experience.