Griffith Park
One of the largest urban parks in North America, holding the Observatory, the LA Zoo, the Greek Theatre, trails, and the merry-go-round.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
An enormous, sprawling wilderness-in-the-city that anchors half of LA's outdoor life — miles of trails, the Observatory, the zoo, and pony rides all inside it.
Our read - 02
It's so big and car-dependent that 'visiting the park' means picking one thing; without a plan it can feel like a lot of driving between scattered sights.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
Griffith Park earns the spend, even on a tight budget.
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep Griffith Park.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, Griffith Park is an easy yes.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Griffith Park is an easy yes.
Think twice if
You want something active
Griffith Park offers some adventure, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free (attractions inside ticketed)
- Timing
- Morning to claim parking before the Observatory and trailheads fill.
- Allow
- Half to full day
- Accessibility
- Paved areas and attractions are accessible; trails vary widely.
- Getting there
- Drive — the park is large and spread out; some areas have DASH shuttle service.