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Hours of Operation

We Are Open!

Grounds open daily 10AM–5PM.

Visiting Mount Wilson
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Tours of Mount Wilson Observatory

Step into a place where scientific history and stunning mountain views come together. Whether you join a docent-led walking tour, book a private group visit, or explore on your own, every tour offers a closer look at the telescopes and discoveries that changed our understanding of the universe.

Interior of a telescope dome at Mount Wilson Observatory, featuring a large blue-framed telescope surrounded by visitors during a guided tour. A yellow staircase leads to an observation platform, with focused lighting highlighting the equipment and group engagement.
Weekend public tour group

Weekend Public Tours

Docent-led walking tours of the Observatory are available every Saturday and Sunday at 11:30AM & 1PM April through November.

Private tour group seated inside the observatory

Private Group Tours

Private tours includes a walk around the grounds, a talk on the history of the institution, and visits to the major telescopes .

Mechanical and optical equipment that powers the telescope

Engineering Tours

These very special tours focus on the mechanical, optical, and electrical details of our two largest telescopes with full demonstrations of their motion controls.

Exterior view of the observatory

Self-Guided Tours

A Visitors Guide is available for purchase at the Cosmic Cafe., or you can  print your own brochure for a self-guided tour.

You can also take an incredible spherical panoramic virtual tour – visit 20 different spots on the mountain, including spaces not open to visitors!