Is Griffith Park free for families?

Yes, the park itself is free. Some attractions within the park charge separately, such as the miniature train (~$3/person), pony rides (~$3), and the LA Zoo (separate admission). The Griffith Observatory is free to enter.

What is the best thing to do at Griffith Park with young kids?

Young children love the Griffith Park & Southern Railroad miniature train, the pony rides near the carousel, and Shane's Inspiration Playground. All are located near the same parking area, making it easy to visit all three in one trip.

How do I get to Griffith Observatory with kids?

Drive up Observatory Road — parking near the Observatory fills quickly on weekends. Alternatively, park in the lower lots on Los Feliz Boulevard and take the free DASH Observatory shuttle up the hill, which kids love.

Griffith Park

Name: Griffith Park
Address: Los Angeles, CA, 90027, US
Telephone: +1 323-644-2050
Rating: 4.7

Rating

4.7(69,371)

Price

Free

Duration

2–5 hours

Best Ages

All ages

About

Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America, offering Los Angeles families an extraordinary variety of outdoor experiences all in one place. The park encompasses the Griffith Observatory with its free public telescopes and planetarium shows, the Los Angeles Zoo, the Autry Museum of the American West, a carousel, pony rides, a miniature train popular with young children, and over 53 miles of trails ranging from easy paved walks to challenging hikes to the iconic Hollywood Sign. Shane's Inspiration Playground near the merry-go-round is one of the most inclusive, accessible playgrounds in the city.

Families regularly spend full days at Griffith Park without running out of activities. Entry to the park is free, though individual attractions charge separately.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Nursing / Changing

true

Kid Meals

true

Setting

Outdoor

Rainy Day

Not ideal

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Early morning on weekdays; arrive before 9am on weekends to beat parking and trail crowds

Wait Times

No waits for trails; pony rides and train may have short lines on weekends

Nearby Food

The park has snack stands and a cafe near the Zoo. Nearby Vermont Ave in Los Feliz has excellent family-friendly restaurants including Little Dom's and Fred 62.

Why Kids Love It

Griffith Park is LA's ultimate family outdoor destination — 4,310 acres of trails, picnic areas, the Los Angeles Zoo, the Griffith Observatory, a vintage merry-go-round, pony rides, and a miniature train. Kids can spend an entire day here without running out of things to do.

Pro Tips from Parents

The Griffith Park & Southern Railroad miniature train is beloved by young kids — it runs on weekends and school holidays
The Shane's Inspiration Playground near the carousel is one of the best accessible playgrounds in LA
Vista del Valle Drive at sunset offers stunning city views — a great family photo moment
Download the Griffith Park trail map before going — cell service is spotty on the upper trails

What to Bring

Sunscreen and hats
Water (lots — it gets hot)
Snacks or a picnic lunch
Comfortable walking shoes
Stroller for young children on paved paths

Cost Info

Free Admission

Estimated Cost (Family of 4)

$0–$30 for a family of 4.

Park entry is free; paid attractions inside (pony rides ~$3, train ride ~$3/person, Greek Theatre events extra).

Tips to Save

The park itself is completely free.
Pack a picnic — the picnic areas are plentiful and beautiful.
Parking near the Observatory fills fast on weekends; use the lower lots off Los Feliz and take the shuttle.