Griffith Park
Griffith Park Credit LOS ANGELES TOURISM & CONVENTION BOARD
The largest municipal park in Los Angeles and one of the largest in the country, Griffith Park offers a beautiful and peaceful respite from the bustling city. Covering a stunning 4,310 acres in the Santa Monica Mountains in the Los Feliz neighborhood, Griffith Park gained its origins in the annals of L.A. history. Officially established in 1896, the land was originally utilized by Colonel Griffith J. Griffith, a successful mining investor who started an ostrich farm on the site. A colorful individual, Col. Griffith drew early tourists to his properties with stories of hauntings. Whether or not those stories rang true, Griffith eventually donated much of the land to the city which has evolved into the oasis-like park you find today.
Among the beautiful greenery and water features, you can find an abundance of attractions in Griffith Park that make for perfect vacation outings. Explore the park by foot and travel from the Los Angeles Zoo to the Autry Museum of the American West, look down into Bronson Canyon, or explore the now abandoned historic site of the original Griffith Park Zoo. The Griffith Observatory is located at the top of the tallest peak and is open during regular visitors' hours to explore the facility and see shows at the planetarium. You can also find the Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum, the Travel Town Museum, and the Greek Theatre where you can see live performances.
Close to both Hollywood and Burbank, Griffith Park is a highly popular destination for locals and tourists alike. There are dozens of natural hiking and biking trails as well as sites for group gatherings. Merry-go rounds and carousels, baseball fields, pony and train rides, golf courses, and concession areas are spotted throughout the park and make for wonderful meeting places for groups to spend a sunny, scenic day in Los Angeles.
