Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., offering a vast array of activities for children and families. From hiking trails and playgrounds to unique attractions, there’s plenty to explore. Here’s a guide to the fun things kids can do at Griffith Park:
1. Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round:
A classic, vintage carousel located near the Los Angeles Zoo. The merry-go-round has been delighting children since the 1930s, with hand-carved horses and lively music.
2. Train Rides:
Travel Town Museum: Kids who love trains will enjoy this outdoor museum showcasing historic steam engines and railcars. There’s also a miniature train ride that takes children around the grounds.
Griffith Park & Southern Railroad: This popular attraction features a mini train that takes families on a scenic ride through Griffith Park. Kids love the ride, which includes tunnels and bridges.
Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum: On select days, kids can ride on small-scale model trains operated by train enthusiasts. This ride is a unique, immersive experience for little train fans.
3. Griffith Observatory:
A highlight for families, the observatory offers interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and the chance to look through telescopes to see celestial objects like the moon and planets. The planetarium shows are especially engaging for kids.
Outside, families can enjoy hiking or just take in the panoramic views of Los Angeles and the famous Hollywood sign.
4. Pony Rides and Petting Zoo:
Pony Rides: Young kids can enjoy gentle pony rides at Griffith Park Pony Rides, a long-standing family favorite.
Petting Zoo: Alongside the pony rides, the petting zoo lets children interact with friendly farm animals like goats and sheep, providing hands-on animal experiences.
5. Hiking Trails:
Ferndell Nature Trail: This shaded, easy hike is perfect for families with younger children. The path follows a stream through a lush, fern-filled canyon, offering a cool, peaceful escape in the middle of the park.
Mount Hollywood Trail: For older kids who enjoy adventure, this trail takes hikers to a viewpoint offering amazing views of the city and the Hollywood sign.
Bronson Cave (Batcave): A short, kid-friendly hike leads to the famous Bronson Cave, known for its appearance in the 1960s "Batman" TV series. Kids will love exploring this iconic cave.
6. The Autry Museum of the American West:
Located in Griffith Park, this museum offers interactive exhibits that kids will enjoy, including hands-on experiences about the American West. They can learn about cowboys, Native American cultures, and early explorers. The museum often has family-friendly events and craft workshops.
7. Los Angeles Zoo:
The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, and offers fun exhibits like the Rainforest of the Americas and the LAIR (Living Amphibians, Invertebrates, and Reptiles). The zoo also has kid-friendly areas like the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo with a petting zoo and playgrounds.
8. Griffith Park Playgrounds:
Shane’s Inspiration Playground: This inclusive, award-winning playground is designed for children of all abilities, including those with special needs. The space features slides, swings, and climbing structures, offering endless fun for kids.
There are other playgrounds scattered throughout the park where kids can climb, swing, and play while parents relax.
9. Picnic Areas:
Griffith Park is full of scenic picnic spots where families can enjoy a meal outdoors. Many picnic areas are near playgrounds or trailheads, making them a great base for a day of adventure.
Crystal Springs Picnic Area and Fern Canyon are popular options, and some spots offer barbecues and large tables for family gatherings.
10. Horseback Riding:
For an adventurous family outing, Griffith Park offers horseback riding with guided trail rides that take you through the scenic hills. Sunset Ranch Hollywood provides guided rides, some even going up to scenic viewpoints of the Hollywood sign.
11. The Greek Theatre:
Though primarily a concert venue, the Greek Theatre occasionally hosts family-friendly shows or performances that kids may enjoy. It’s an iconic open-air theater nestled in the park.
12. Bike Riding:
Griffith Park has a network of bike paths and trails where kids can safely ride bikes. The park’s varied terrain offers both easy rides for beginners and more challenging trails for older kids and parents.
13. Golf and Miniature Golf:
Griffith Park Golf Courses: The park has golf courses for adults, but older kids and teens who enjoy golfing can join in as well.
Tregnan Golf Academy: This junior golf facility is perfect for kids who want to learn how to play golf, offering lessons and a driving range.
14. Bird Watching and Wildlife:
Griffith Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and coyotes. Kids who enjoy nature can go bird watching or spot animals during hikes, especially in quieter areas of the park like the Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary.
15. Seasonal and Special Events:
Griffith Park hosts various seasonal events throughout the year, such as outdoor movie screenings, special holiday events (like Zoo Lights at the LA Zoo), and family festivals that include crafts, games, and entertainment.
With so many family-friendly attractions and activities, Griffith Park is a fantastic spot for kids to explore nature, animals, science, and history while having plenty of fun!