Griffith Park stands as a unique testament to the sprawling and diverse nature of Los Angeles. Unlike the manicured rectangles of greenery found in the hearts of other major cities, such as New York’s Central Park or San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, Griffith Park sprawls across 4,210 acres at the eastern edge of the Santa Monica Mountains. It presents a fascinating juxtaposition: a vast expanse of rugged mountain wilderness interwoven with an array of cultural and recreational attractions. This blend of the natural and the man-made makes Griffith Park a true gem within the Los Angeles Parks Department, offering something for everyone.
The park’s landscape is a study in contrasts. While certain areas are meticulously landscaped for recreational use, the majority of Griffith Park is a captivating tableau of chaparral-covered mountains and steep, verdant canyons. This natural terrain provides a sanctuary for local flora and fauna, offering visitors a chance to escape the urban bustle and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Mountain Wilderness and Urban Attractions in LA’s Griffith Park offers a diverse collection of experiences.
A Legacy of Generosity: The Origins of Griffith Park
The park’s name pays homage to Griffith J. Griffith, a Welsh-American industrialist who played a pivotal role in its creation. Griffith acquired a significant portion of the former Rancho Los Feliz Spanish land grant and, in a remarkable act of philanthropy, bequeathed 3,015 acres to the City of Los Angeles. His vision was to create a public park where all residents could enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Over the years, Griffith Park has expanded considerably, incorporating notable landmarks like Mount Lee, the iconic home of the Hollywood Sign, and Cahuenga Peak, which rises majestically behind it. Griffith’s forward-thinking legacy extended beyond the land donation. He also established a substantial trust fund to support the construction of key park features, including the renowned Greek Theatre and the Griffith Observatory, both completed after his passing.
A Plethora of Attractions: More Than Just a Park
Griffith Park is far more than just a place to hike and enjoy nature. It’s a cultural hub brimming with diverse attractions. In addition to the Griffith Observatory and the Greek Theatre, the park houses the Los Angeles Zoo, a sprawling zoological garden showcasing animals from around the world, and the Autry Museum of the American West, a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the American West.
For those with a penchant for trains, Travel Town Museum offers a delightful journey through the history of rail transportation, while the Los Angeles Equestrian Center caters to equestrian enthusiasts. Numerous smaller diversions, such as a classic carousel, pony rides, and miniature train rides, add to the park’s family-friendly appeal. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the park’s full complement of golf courses, tennis courts, soccer fields, and a public swimming pool. However, it is the extensive network of hiking trails that many consider one of the park’s primary draws.
Navigating the Park: Location and Directions
Griffith Park occupies a substantial area, roughly bordered by Los Feliz Boulevard to the south, Route 134 (the Ventura Freeway) and the Los Angeles River to the north, and Interstate 5 to the east. The western boundary meanders through the Hollywood Hills. Some park features, like the Los Feliz Golf Course and the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, extend beyond these general borders.
The most convenient access to the park from Interstate 5 is directly from the freeway itself. If traveling eastbound on SR 134, take either the Forest Lawn Drive or Victory Boulevard off-ramps. When heading westbound on SR 134, use the Zoo Drive or Forest Lawn Drive exits. After exiting the freeways, follow the clearly marked signs directing you into the park. For specific directions to individual attractions within the park, consult the detailed descriptions provided below.
Iconic Landmark: Griffith Observatory
Perched on the slopes of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory stands as one of Los Angeles’ most iconic landmarks. Its allure stems not only from its stunning views of Downtown LA and the Hollywood Sign, but also from its multifaceted role as a space observatory, planetarium, and astronomy museum. Best of all, admission to the Observatory is free, making it one of the most accessible and popular attractions in the city.
The Observatory is accessible from the south side of the park via Fern Dell, off Los Feliz Boulevard if coming from Hollywood, or from the Western Avenue exit on the 101 Freeway. Alternatively, approach via Hillhurst Avenue if exiting the 5 Freeway at Los Feliz. Signage clearly guides visitors to the Observatory from both streets.
Wildlife Encounters: Los Angeles Zoo
Located on the eastern side of Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens offers a captivating glimpse into the animal kingdom. While perhaps not as widely known as its southern counterpart, the San Diego Zoo, the LA Zoo provides an enriching opportunity for both locals and visitors to observe a diverse collection of animals from around the globe, including fascinating examples of local wildlife.
The Zoo is easily accessible from Zoo Drive, off the 5 Freeway (Golden State Freeway), or from the Riverside Drive exit from SR 134 (Ventura Freeway).
Stories of the West: Autry Museum of the American West
The Autry Museum of the American West, part of the larger Autry National Center, resides within Griffith Park and serves as a repository of the history, art, and culture of the American West. The museum’s exhibits delve into the diverse narratives of the West, exploring both the realities of life in the Old West and its portrayal in popular culture, particularly in television and film.
The Autry boasts an extensive collection of Native American artifacts, accouterments of Old West life, and costumes and props from iconic Hollywood Westerns. The museum is located directly across from the entrance to the LA Zoo and can be reached via Zoo Drive off the I5 Freeway and Riverside Drive from SR 134 (Ventura Freeway).
The Hollywood Sign: A Symbol of Dreams
Mount Lee, the site of the world-famous Hollywood Sign, and Cahuenga Peak, were incorporated into Griffith Park in 2010 following a successful "Save Our Peak" campaign. This community effort raised funds to purchase the land and prevent its private development, ensuring that this iconic landmark would remain accessible to the public.
A Stage for the Stars: The Greek Theatre
The Greek Theatre, located at 2700 N. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027, is a testament to Griffith J. Griffith’s original vision for the park. Completed in 1930, this 5,700-seat outdoor amphitheater has become one of Los Angeles’ premier entertainment venues. While the Hollywood Bowl is renowned for its summer classical music programming, the Greek Theatre primarily hosts top pop and rock artists, creating an unforgettable concert experience under the stars.
The Greek Theatre is accessible from the Los Feliz exit off the I-5 Freeway, heading west. Follow the signs, turning right onto Hillhurst and then right again onto Vermont. From the 10 Freeway, take the Vermont exit north into the park to reach the theater. If traveling south on the 101 Hollywood Freeway, take the Vine Street exit, which leads onto Franklin Avenue heading east. Turn left at Western, which curves into Los Feliz, and then turn left again onto Vermont.
All Aboard: Travel Town Museum
Travel Town Museum, situated on the northwest corner of Griffith Park, is a captivating destination for train enthusiasts of all ages. The museum displays a variety of train engines, cabooses, and passenger and freight cars from different eras, all meticulously preserved on tracks. Inside an exhibit barn, visitors can explore a treasure trove of railroad and other transportation artifacts.
A miniature train offers a delightful ride around Travel Town for a small fee. Admission to the museum itself is free, although donations are gratefully accepted. The address is 5200 Zoo Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027.
Train Rides Galore: Exploring Griffith Park by Rail
Griffith Park offers a variety of train ride experiences. In addition to the Travel Town Railroad, the Griffith Park and Southern Railroad operates at the southeast corner of the park, near Los Feliz Boulevard and Riverside Drive. A train has been running at this location since the 1940s, providing a scenic mile-long loop past pony rides, through a charming old Western town, and across a Native American village. Parking for the Griffith Park and Southern Railroad is shared with the Pony Rides. The address is 4400 Crystal Springs Drive (Near Los Feliz & Riverside), Los Angeles, CA 90027.
A third option for train rides is the Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum, a non-profit organization run by a local train club. The museum operates scale model 7 1/2 gage steam trains on a track adjacent to Travel Town. The Los Angeles Live Steamers also features exhibits including a Stationary Steam Plant and a collection of retired train cars.
A Timeless Classic: Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round
Located in Park Center, between the Los Angeles Zoo and the Los Feliz park entrance, the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round is a cherished piece of amusement park history. Built in 1926 by the Spillman Engineering Company and brought to Griffith Park in 1937, this classic carousel features 68 hand-carved jumping horses with jewel-encrusted bridles. A Stinson 165 Military Band Organ plays over 1,500 selections of marches and waltz music, adding to the nostalgic ambiance.
Equestrian Adventures: Horseback Riding and Pony Rides
Griffith Park offers a multitude of ways to experience the park on horseback. A guided horseback ride to the Hollywood Sign is a particularly memorable and romantic activity. Several private stables offer trail rides within Griffith Park. Each stable provides on-demand guided trail rides of varying lengths, as well as scheduled group rides, including Hollywood Sign rides, dinner rides, and twilight rides. Mountain Wilderness and Urban Attractions in LA’s Griffith Park is a perfect destination for equestrians.
For younger visitors, the Griffith Park Pony Rides, a private concession located on Crystal Springs Drive near the Los Feliz entrance, offers a delightful experience.
Hiking Amidst the City: Exploring Griffith Park’s Trails
Griffith Park’s vast expanse of mountains and canyons, situated at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains, separates Hollywood and Echo Park from Burbank and Glendale in the San Fernando Valley. Within the park, 53 miles of dirt and paved trails, bridle paths, and fire roads beckon hikers of all skill levels.
Popular trails include the hike from Griffith Observatory to Mount Hollywood, the park’s highest peak, and several routes to Mount Lee, located behind the Hollywood Sign.
Tee Off in Nature: Golfing in Griffith Park
Griffith Park boasts four municipal golf courses, providing golfers with the opportunity to enjoy their sport amidst the park’s scenic beauty. Wilson and Harding are two 18-hole courses situated adjacent to each other south of the LA Zoo. Roosevelt is a 9-hole course off of Vermont and Commonwealth, and Los Feliz is a 9-hole course on Los Feliz Boulevard.
Pedal Power: Biking Through Griffith Park
Explore Griffith Park’s paved roads and trails by renting a bike from Spokes ‘N Stuff Bike Rentals, conveniently located next to the Ranger Station.
Mountain Wilderness and Urban Attractions in LA’s Griffith Park offers a diversity of outdoor activities.
