Release your inner science nerd, and clear up a few of those astronomy issues that have been nagging you since that C in high-school physics.

Not only is the Observatory building a gorgeous LA landmark with a view well worth the hike, but the recent renovation has made it even more worth a visit. The exhibits on the first floor are all redone, with lit moving planets, moons and suns illustrating different stellar motions. As for the planetarium, the old beloved Zeiss projector has been relegated to the basement, replaced with a newer model that claims to be best in the world. It's a wonderful show, and leaning back under the dome listening to the live narrator, one can imagine really looking up at the stars on a mountain top far from the glow of civilization (with a comfy seat to boot). And then, there is the point of the whole place, the telescope itself, open most evenings after dark to allow you an up close and personal peek at the moon.

But wait! There's even more. Where the old Observatory stopped they have added a whole new gallery cleverly tucked under the front lawn and featuring giant floating planets, more science fun, a cafe and gift shop (for those more interested in buying planets than learning about them).

Tip: You can always drive up, but the hike from Trails on Ferndale (see below) makes a great full day--with the Observatory, planetarium and view at the top as a lovely reward. After, if you've still got energy to burn, keep heading up to the top of Mt. Hollywood for the best view in town. Just remember, what goes up must come down.