Vermont Canyon Play Area

Vermont Canyon Play Area is one of Griffith Park's lesser-known playgrounds, tucked into the canyon landscape near Vermont Avenue and Commonwealth Canyon Drive. The 4.9 Google rating among 43 reviewers is the highest signal type — a 'hidden gem' where every family who discovers it becomes an evangelist.

The canyon setting is the defining feature. Vermont Canyon has significant natural shade from mature trees, a cooler microclimate than Griffith Park's sun-exposed areas, and a genuinely immersive natural feel. The playground equipment is set within this canyon environment rather than on an exposed flat pad — which makes the experience feel fundamentally different from standard park playgrounds.

For families who've visited the more popular Crystal Springs playground and found it crowded on summer weekends, Vermont Canyon is the alternative. Fewer people know about it. The access is slightly more involved — you're navigating into the canyon rather than driving to a main parking lot — but that same factor is what keeps it less crowded.

The access point is off the Vermont Canyon Road entrance within Griffith Park, which connects to Los Feliz Boulevard. Street and lot parking near the tennis courts allows access. From there, the playground and canyon areas are accessible on foot.

Pack a full picnic for a longer stay. The Trails Cafe within Griffith Park is a beloved local option for coffee and snacks. The Los Feliz and Vermont Ave restaurant corridor just outside the park has excellent family dining.