Parks of Los Angeles: The вest from American Butler

Parks You Shouldn't Miss

Whether you choose Los Angeles as your home or vacation spot, we all need some time outdoors to feel more alive. In search of peace and harmony, there are many park options in Los Angeles, some of which already boast rich and interesting histories.

Griffith Park

It’s easy to forget you’re still in the city when you’re hiking a mountain trail that winds through this park.

The countless attractions of Griffith Park will interest many: fearless travelers can explore Bronson Caves and visit Amir’s Garden, tourists can relax in the shaded path through Fern Dell, visitors with small children can ride a steam locomotive at Travel Town, pop culture lovers can watch a performance at the Greek Theatre or visit the barn where Walt Disney tinkered with model trains.

Grand Park

The mission to turn Los Angeles into a bustling cultural hub took a new level when a portion of the 12-acre Grand Park was officially opened to the public in July 2012.

The park is dotted with picnic lawns, fountains, benches, and many quiet corners for relaxation. Grand Park is a vibrant urban oasis that proves the city is alive with a romantic atmosphere. The park hosts performances, gatherings, and other public events.

Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area

Kenneth Hahn impresses both in size and location in the heart of the Westside. In addition to the usual amenities, the park features a lotus pond, a fishing lake, and a sand volleyball court.

The park consists of more than seven miles of hiking trails through Baldwin Hills, offering views of almost every corner of Los Angeles — from the South Bay and the Pacific Ocean to downtown and the San Gabriel Mountains.

Los Angeles State Historic Park

The 32-acre State Historic Park adjacent to Chinatown boasts stunning views of downtown.

Once home to major events like FYF, Renegade Craft Fair, and Hard Summer, the park quieted down after a large-scale multi-year renovation began in 2014. Completed in spring 2017, the park’s modernization brought drought-tolerant landscaping, scenic views of the bridge, and an orange grove. It’s no coincidence that new restaurants and bars appeared after the reopening.

Barnsdall Art Park & Hollyhock House

After oil heiress and philanthropist Aline Barnsdall bought this charming little hill after World War I, she enlisted Frank Lloyd Wright to build a group of buildings on its summit.

Though the entire complex was never completed, Barnsdall donated the house and 11 acres of land to the city, intending for them to be used as a public art park. More than eighty years later, the land still serves that purpose, thanks to exhibitions in various gallery spaces and tours. In the summer, the park hosts outdoor movie nights, wine tastings, and cultural events.

Tongva Park

Most people who come to Santa Monica will flock to Palisades Park. And for good reason, with its ocean views, palm trees, and eucalyptus paths, but we couldn’t ignore its slightly less-known counterpart.

This idyllic and thoughtfully designed oasis next to the ocean boasts a playground, meadows, small waterfalls, walking paths, and a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.

Will Rogers State Historic Park

Explore the extensive grounds of the park that once belonged to the late actor, writer, philosopher, and first mayor of Beverly Hills, Will Rogers. Take a free tour of Rogers’ preserved 1930s ranch and explore the surrounding lands, which offer access to scenic views of the mountains and the sea. Polo matches are also held here on weekends, and you can take riding lessons.

The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens

The Huntington Botanical Gardens in Pasadena is a place to immerse yourself in a world of exotic plants and flowers. The garden includes a Japanese garden, a rose garden, a desert conservatory, and a tropical conservatory. There is something for everyone, and the well-maintained paths and ponds create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.