At 4,210 acres, Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America and the 2nd largest park in the state, invoking the nickname of Los Angeles' Central Park. Named after Colonel Griffith J. Griffith, who started an ostrich farm on the park's land, the park today is home to several LA attractions including the Griffith Observatory, the Los Angeles Zoo, the Travel Town Museum and the Autry National Center of the America West. The park is also often recognized for the iconic Hollywood Sign, located at the southern end's Mount Lee.
Other park attractions include the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, whose 68 fine-carved horses have been an attraction for over five generations. The award-winning Greek Theatre is also in the park. This 5,801-seat venue has hosted entertainers such as Josh Groban, Sting, Elton John and Alicia Keys.
Outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty to do at Griffith Park, such as golf at one of two 18-hole courses and a nine-hole course; get out on the baseball field or one of many basketball and tennis courts; cool off in the swimming pool; or take a relaxing stroll or invigorating jog on one of various trails. Children can also take a pony ride or train ride at the park. Its one-mile-long miniature train track, operated by GP Rah, features Colonel Griffith, Freedom Train, and Stanley Diamond, which travel over several bridges, through a tunnel and past attractions such as Old Western Town.
The park is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM; hiking trails close at sunset. The Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round is open weekends year-round and weekdays during the summer from 11 AM to 5 PM. Performance schedules and ticket prices at the Greek Theatre vary. Griffith Park train rides run daily except Christmas. Entrance to the park is free; admission to attractions varies. For more information on Griffith Park: 323-913-4688
For more information on the Greek Theatre: 323-665-5857
For more information on the Griffith Park Train Rides: 818-881-2586
