Palomar Observatory – The Car Exam
Will you happen to be in Southern California for an upcoming trip, and you want a unique place to visit (and you’re a stargazer, too)? Try the Palomar Observatory in Palomar Mountain, California (South of Los Angeles and Riverside County; East of Yuma, Arizona). Nestled over 5600 feet high in the mountains away from city lights, this historic Caltech-owned observatory boasts the 200 inch Hale Telescope, once the world’s largest telescope. Go inside of the telescope, and you will see the inner-workings of the telescope along with displays about the history of the telescope, and the impact it has had on the world of astronomy and science. Take the Public Guided Tour (April – October) if you wish and pay $5.00 ($3.00 for children 5-12 years old), or make it an adventure and explore it yourself for free.
If you have more time during your trip, pay a visit to Palomar Mountain State Park, and go hiking if you wish. You can go hiking on one of its trails, go camping or even fishing (mountain bikes and dogs are not allowed on the trails, just so you know that ahead of time). If it’s as beautiful and scenic as the rest of the mountain, visitors will not be disappointed during their trek to Palomar Mountain State Park (address: 19952 State Park Rd. Palomar CA 92060). Go there and the nearby observatory, and you may be in for a fun day in Southern California. Obviously, it’s best to go when the weather is warm, so keep them on your list of places to visit. See their websites for directions, operating times, fees, and other visitor information.
–The Car Exam
Palomar Observatory – Close up – The Car Exam
The Car Exam 