Griffith Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Griffith Park?
What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can ride miniature trains, roam the zoo, and enjoy shaded playgrounds, while restrooms and picnic tables are close, making the park a full-day, kid-safe outing.
Positives:
- Hands-on fun: Kids board full-size trains and meet animals up close.
- Shaded rest spots: Picnic areas and playgrounds are under trees for breaks.
Challenges:
- Parking fills fast: Lots near Observatory and Zoo pack early—plan ahead.
- Hilly terrain: Some paths to Observatory are steep for young kids.
What is Griffith Park?
- A sprawling municipal park covering more than 4,200 acres in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains
- A cultural and recreational complex that includes the Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles Zoo, and the Greek Theatre
- A network of hiking, equestrian, and biking trails weaving through woodlands, historic sites, and panoramic city vistas
What is so special about Griffith Park for with kids?
- Miniature train rides at Travel Town Railroad
- Animal encounters at the Los Angeles Zoo
- Stroller-friendly creekside loop on Fern Dell Nature Trail
- Shaded playground and picnic tables at Park Center
- City views from Griffith Observatory terraces
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to ride trains, visit the zoo, explore trails, and enjoy playground without rushing
Kids-Friendly Activities in Griffith Park
Travel Town Railroad:
Ride miniature trains around historic locomotives.
Tip: Buy tickets at the station and arrive early to avoid lines.
Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens:
See over 1,000 animals and walk shaded paths.
Tip: Head to big cats first for cooler morning viewing and feedings.
Fern Dell Nature Trail:
Walk a stroller-friendly loop past creek and redwoods.
Tip: Bring water and let kids splash in shallow pond edges.
Park Center Playground:
Play on swings, slides, and climbing features.
Tip: Use nearby picnic tables for snack breaks and rest.
Griffith Observatory Grounds:
Explore exhibits and view city skyline from terraces.
Tip: Park at lower lot and shuttle up to save walking uphill.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Griffith Park
- Arrive early: Beat crowds at major spots like the zoo and observatory.
- Pack layers: Morning coolness can give way to midday sun or breeze.
- Use stroller: Trails like Fern Dell are stroller-friendly for little legs.
Reviews of Griffith Park
Brandon Martin
One of the coolest free experiences you can do in the city. Go at night during a weekday and the lines weren't too bad. They have a lot of exhibits inside the building to explore.
Road_Map
Ain't no other Observatory in the world like it. I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Make sure, if you want to see the sunset, GET HERE EARLY! MOST OTHER TOURISTS AND LOCALS WILL BE THERE TOO! Best way to get there, just use an Uber! ( easiest way ). We loved it; wish that it wasnt a 12 hour flight away 🇳🇿. Will, from Auckland, New Zealand.
Mino
A nice place where you can see the Hollywood sign and a enjoy a beautiful view. When we went it was early so the observatory was closed to public. If you do not want to pay $10 per hour, park at the bottom of the hill and just walk if you are able to. It will serve as exercise with breathtaking views.
Hyunwoo Lim (Michael)
Griffith Observatory offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Los Angeles night skyline. My wife especially loved it since it’s one of the iconic filming locations from La La Land, which made the visit even more special. Even on weekdays, it gets quite crowded, so it’s best to arrive early if you want to find parking easily. ✨ A must-visit spot in LA, especially for movie lovers and night-vie...
I A
Great park, I’ve been here only a couple of times so far, once biking, once for a short hike from the observatory towards a Hollywood sign. Great views, but the trail is quite exposed to sun, so we didn’t go far. We’ve seen mini-tornado - cool.
When is the best time to visit Griffith Park (Los Angeles, United States)?
In summer, start before 10am to avoid heat. After rain, trails get muddy—bring extra shoes. Spring brings wildflowers along Fern Dell.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Zoo tickets (2 adults, 2 kids) | USD 88 |
| Travel Town train rides | USD 14 |
| Paid parking | USD 20 |
| Snacks and lunch | USD 30 |
| Total Estimated | USD 152 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Griffith Park
Address: Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
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About Griffith Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 323-644-205010 BEST nearby Activities
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