Griffith Park: A Natural Haven
This 4,000-acre park is the nation's largest urban wilderness area, with sage and manzanita-covered hills in which deer, coyote and quail roam. Once part of Rancho Los Feliz, Griffith Park got its name from its former owner, the notorious Colonel Griffith J. Griffith, who spent a year in prison for attempting to murder his wife. Griffith gave the land to the city of Los Angeles in 1896. City leaders were scandalized by Griffith's behavior; they refused to accept the money he offered to construct an observatory until after his death in 1898. Today, in addition to the marvelous observatory, the park offers numerous attractions and activities.
Greek Theatre
Ballets, light operas, and rock, country and jazz concerts are staged in this 6,000-seat amphitheater. The season runs between June and October. Beer, wind and box lunches are sold. Bring a sweater; evenings in the foothills can be chilly. Call 410-1062 for program information.
Griffith Observatory and Planetarium
World-famous Griffith Observatory is home to a 650-seat planetarium theater, the Hall of Science and a twin refracting telescope. Astronomical shows are held daily in the planetarium. Laserium shows, featuring a dazzling combination of light and music, are held year-round. Call 664-1191 for planetarium schedules and program information. The Hall of Science offers a collection of meterorites and geological specimens, along with exhibits explaining basic physics laws and scientific equipment. The twin refracting telescope is available to the public on clear evenings from dusk until 10:00 p.m. Lectures and short courses in astronomical subjects are offered here as well.
Griffith Park also offers the following:
The Ferndell: A natural spring that feeds the sycamores, oaks, ferns and exotic plants.Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum: A Real and mythic history of the American West.
Los Angeles Zoo: This fabulous 115-acre zoo, features more than 2,000 animals, including 78 endangered species that can be seen at no other zoo in the United States.
Travel Town Railroad and Museum: This transportation museum displays locomotives, airplanes, trolleys and trains. Kids can climb aboard and explore a narrow-guage Hawaiian sugar train and a 110-ton Union Pacific locomotive.
Hiking and Horseback Riding: Trail maps and horse rental information for the park's 53 miles of hiking and equestrian trails are available at the visitors center. Pony rides for the kids are also offered. call 664-3266 for more information.
Sports Activities Include: Baseball, Bicycling, Golf, Soccer, Swimming and Tennis.