Mount Wilson Observatory

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 closes in the winter after it snows, but Angeles Crest Highway usually remains open.