Griffith Park

4.7 (69,615 reviews)

ParkTourist AttractionSports Activity LocationPoint of InterestEstablishment

Best time to visit

Early morning or late evening, when the sun sets and the city lights up. In the winter months, it is coolest and quietest.

Budget tips

Entry to the park is free, parking is also free. Just find a spot by the roadside. The zoo and train ride cost extra, but the forest trails and viewpoints do not cost a cent.

Recommended for

Hikers and nature lovers, Photographers and Instagram enthusiasts, Families with children, View seekers and city explorers

Plan your visit

2-4 hours

About

Quick facts: Spanning more than 17 square kilometers, the park is one of the largest urban parks in North America. It is also home to the Los Angeles Zoo and the Hollywood sign itself, which can be seen without entering the park.

Highlights: Driving through the park by car, you might encounter wild coyotes crossing the road late in the evening. In the old zoo, empty concrete cages stand, now taken over by street artists and photographers.

Insider tips

Go to Griffith Observatory at sunset, but come at least an hour early. Parking fills up quickly.
Bring a jacket, because the wind can get unexpectedly chilly, even if it is warm down in the city.
The old zoo has become an abandoned concrete art field. Look for the abandoned zoo bridges and cages.
If you want a peaceful hike, avoid weekend afternoons and choose a weekday morning instead.