Big Bus LA: Griffith Observatory Open-top Sunset Tour

Experience the Best of Los Angeles at Sunset with Big Bus’s Griffith Observatory Open-Top Tour

Travelers seeking a memorable way to see Los Angeles should consider the Big Bus LA: Griffith Observatory Sunset Tour. For around $56, you’ll hop aboard an open-top Mercedes minibus and spend about 90 minutes exploring LA’s iconic sights, climaxing with a half-hour at the famous Griffith Observatory. Starting on Hollywood Boulevard, this tour takes you through the city’s most camera-worthy neighborhoods — Hollywood Hills and Los Feliz — with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the breathtaking views and learn some fun facts from your guide.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the comfortable open-top vehicle that provides an unobstructed view of the city, and the knowledgeable guides who share engaging stories along the way. The highlight, of course, is the time spent at Griffith Observatory — a perfect spot for snapping photos of the Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA, and beyond, with the Pacific Ocean and San Gabriel Mountains framing the horizon.

A consideration to keep in mind is that hotel pickups are not included, so you’ll need to make your way to the starting point on Hollywood Boulevard. Also, some reviews hint that timing and lighting might not always align perfectly with expectations — for example, one traveler noted that the sunset was already over by the time they arrived, which can happen depending on the time of year and weather conditions.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick, scenic overview of LA’s highlights, especially those who love a good view and a dash of local lore. It’s also suited for travelers who enjoy guided experiences in a small group setting, with most tours accommodating no more than 17 people.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of LA, the Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA, and beyond from Griffith Observatory.
• Engaging Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide local insights and stories, making the experience more meaningful.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in style on an open-top Mercedes minibus, perfect for sightseeing.
• Flexible Exploration: 30 minutes at the Observatory allows ample time to explore and take photos.
• Timing & Lighting: Sunset timing can vary, so the actual sunset view might not always align with the scheduled departure.
• No Hotel Pickup: Travelers need to arrive at the starting point independently, which is near public transportation.

In-Depth Review of the Big Bus LA: Griffith Observatory Sunset Tour

Starting Point & Overall Atmosphere

The tour kicks off on Hollywood Boulevard, a lively hub packed with theaters, shops, and travelers. Meeting at 6763 Hollywood Blvd, you’ll find that the departure area is near public transit, making it relatively easy to reach if you’re staying in central LA. The small group size, capped at 17, ensures a more intimate experience, with opportunities to ask questions and engage with your guide.

The Vehicle & Comfort

Traveling on an open-top Mercedes minibus adds a layer of excitement — you’re not just sitting inside but truly feeling immersed in the city’s sights and sounds. The open-air design is especially enjoyable on warm evenings, and the vehicle’s luxury feel gives a sense of style and comfort.

The Itinerary & Highlights

The tour’s route is designed thoughtfully to maximize sightseeing while making the most of sunset timing. You’ll pass through Hollywood Hills, with iconic neighborhoods filled with charming homes and striking vistas. As the bus winds its way toward Griffith Park, your guide will narrate tales of LA’s film history, celebrity hotspots, and local trivia, adding contextual depth.

The main stop is Griffith Observatory, which itself is a highlight. Once there, you get 30 minutes of free time to explore the exhibits, look through the telescopes (if open), and marvel at the vast LA skyline. This is the moment that makes the tour special — standing at one of LA’s most famous vantage points, with the Hollywood Sign directly behind you and the city sprawling below.

The Views & Photo Opportunities

What makes this experience memorable is the panoramic perspective from Griffith Observatory. You’ll be able to line up shots of the Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA’s skyline, and even the distant Pacific, weather permitting. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide shared stories about each neighborhood and the views — it made the city feel alive.”

However, timing is everything. One guest remarked, “It was dark when we left, so we couldn’t see much along the way,” highlighting that weather and sunset times can influence what you see. If catching a sunset glow is your priority, it’s worth checking the specific sunset time for your travel date.

Guides & Stories

The reviews emphasize that guides are generally knowledgeable and engaging. They share fascinating facts, local anecdotes, and tips for further exploration. One reviewer described the guide as “overbearing and loud,” which reminds us that individual experiences with guides can vary — but most find them friendly and informative.

The Return & Overall Duration

After 30 minutes at Griffith Observatory, the bus heads back along a similar route to the starting point. The total tour lasts about 90 minutes, a perfect duration for travelers wanting a quick yet rundown of Los Angeles at sunset.

Price & Value

For $56, this tour offers a lot — breathtaking views, a guided narrative, and a chance to see LA from a unique vantage point. Compared to private tours or visiting sites independently, it’s a cost-effective way to cover multiple neighborhoods and sights in a short span. Plus, the small group size enhances the experience and allows for better interaction.

Considerations & Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers, like John D., expressed disappointment if the sunset timing didn’t match expectations or if the weather obscured the views. It’s important to understand that sunset tours are subject to natural factors, and the actual sunset might occur before or after the scheduled stop. Also, since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to coordinate your transportation to the meeting point on Hollywood Blvd.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors to LA who want an easy, guided overview of the city’s most famous sights and vistas. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy photography, scenic views, and insider stories. Because of the small group size and engaging guides, it’s also good for travelers who prefer a more personal experience over large bus tours.

If you’re short on time but want to capture the essence of LA’s iconic sights at sunset, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth exploration of specific neighborhoods or celebrity homes, you might want to supplement this with other tours.

The Sum Up

The Big Bus LA: Griffith Observatory Open-Top Sunset Tour offers a solid introduction to Los Angeles with its blend of panoramic views, lively guides, and convenient timing. You’ll love the stunning vistas from Griffith Observatory, especially if the weather cooperates, and the guided narration that makes your experience more engaging. The open-top vehicle provides a comfortable, immersive way to see the city’s highlights, and the 30-minute stop allows enough time to soak in the scenery and capture memorable photos.

While timing can sometimes be tricky — sunsets are natural and unpredictable — for most travelers, this tour delivers great value. It’s an enjoyable way to get your bearings, learn some local stories, and enjoy LA’s skyline at its most dramatic. Perfect for first-timers, small groups, or anyone wanting a scenic, guided overview of this sprawling city.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but young children should be comfortable riding in a small bus and sitting through an approximately 90-minute experience.

Does the tour include hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Travelers need to meet at the designated Hollywood Boulevard starting point.

How long is the total tour?
The total experience lasts about 90 minutes, including the time at Griffith Observatory.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Since it’s a sunset tour, the best time is around the scheduled sunset time, though weather and seasonal variations may affect the actual glow.

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes 90 minutes of guided sightseeing, 30 minutes at Griffith Observatory, live guide narration, and travel on an open-top Mercedes minibus.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The information provided doesn’t specify accessibility features; it’s best to contact the operator directly for specific needs.

Can I see the Hollywood Sign during the tour?
Yes, the views from Griffith Observatory typically include a great perspective of the Hollywood Sign.

What happens if there is bad weather or the sunset is obscured?
Weather can influence visibility; if skies are cloudy or foggy, views might be limited, and sunset timing can vary.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 29 days in advance; this helps secure your spot and plan accordingly.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Angeleno, this sunset tour offers a scenic, enjoyable way to experience Los Angeles from a fresh perspective — but always check sunset times and weather forecasts to ensure the best possible experience.