All of Angeles National Forest is closed through January 19 due to the Eaton Fire, and the observatory itself is closed until further notice. Though the fire reached the radio towers and parking lot nearby, the observatory has so far remained safe.
High up in the San Gabriel Mountains, Mount Wilson Observatory affords terrific views of the surrounding region. Look out for ticketed, daytime docent-led tours on weekends, as well as nighttime stargazing sessions. Admission to the grounds is free, but you’ll need to buy a Forest Service Adventure Pass in order to park at the site as it’s located within the Angeles National Forest; see the website for full details. Also, note that the road up to the observatory closed in the winter after it snows, but Angeles Crest Highway usually remains open.