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Abandoned Zoos and James Dean: Hidden Gems in Griffith Park

A guide to the hidden gems of LA's Griffith Park

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Created by Roadtrippers - July 5th 2016

Tourists and native Angelinos rarely see eye to eye on things, but there's one place that both seem to love-- Griffith Park. One thing that helps is that despite the fact that it's tucked away in the Hollywood Hills, among expensive homes and tourist attractions, it's totally free to visit. It's also got something for everyone, from families to young adults, and everyone in between. Check out some of the awesome attractions the park has to offer, and you'll see why it's so popular!

Photo of Greek Theatre
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2700 North Vermont, In Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA, US

Greek Theatre

The Greek Theatre is basically secluded in the forest-- you'll totally forget that you're in LA. It was built in 1929 at the behest of Griffith J. Griffith (such a cool name-- he's the guy who funded the basically everything in the park) so that the citizens of Los Angeles could have a beautiful venue that would attract world-class entertainment. The area was selected because the canyon had lovely natural acoustics (as demonstrated by a local opera singer). It's undergone several renovations since then to keep it up-to-date, and now seats just under 6,000. It brings in all kinds of acts, including comedians and every sort of musician imaginable, from classics to small indie acts.

Photo of Griffith Observatory
4.5

2800 East Observatory Road, Los Angeles, CA, US

Griffith Observatory

No, not movie stars... outer space stars! The gorgeous Griffith Observatory is free to visit-- even the telescopes are free of charge (and although a visit to the planetarium will set you back a few bucks, it's worth it). Not only does it offer one of the best views of the city of Los Angeles (and its smog problem) but it's also one of the better spots to view the iconic Hollywood sign. After you take in the views (go around sunset to get the sunset and the night scenery) head inside to learn all about the stars-- because even though LA can seem like the center of the universe to some, it's completely insignificant in the grand scheme of things. I also appreciate that they have a little snack bar called "The Cafe at the End of the Universe", in tribute to Douglas Adams' Restaurant at the End of the Universe and a small statue dedicated to James Dean (who starred in Rebel Without a Cause, key scenes of which were filmed at the Observatory).

Photo of Griffith Park Zoo
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Griffith Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA, US

Griffith Park Zoo

Today, you'll find all kinds of wildlife at the park (mountain lions and coyotes included, so seriously be careful) but it used to be home to more exotic animals as well. Between 1912 and 1966, there was actually a zoo at Griffith park! When it first opened, it had 15 animals, and a film producer donated several more in the 1920s. Despite a 1930s expansion, the zoo never really caught on, and by the 1960's, it was being decried as an ugly, beat-up eyesore. A new zoo, the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens was built, and the Griffith Park Zoo was abandoned. The empty cages and exhibits are still there today, and are perfect for an afternoon of exploring-- honestly, an empty zoo is just about as fun as a normal zoo. Plus, the panda scenes from Anchorman were filmed here!

Photo of Bronson Caves
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West side of Griffith Park, end of Canyon Drive, Los Angeles, CA, US

Bronson Caves

If that Anchorman tidbit got your attention, you'll be happy to know that the Old Zoo isn't the only filming location in Griffith Park. It's also home to the Batcave (circa the Adam West era)! The Bronson Caves are a really popular spot for TV and movie productions, since the look like they're super secluded, but they're actually not. You can go check them out and re-enact scenes from one of the many things filmed there-- including Twin Peaks, Dukes of Hazzard, Star Trek, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers and tons more. Holy filming location, Batman!

Photo of Ennis House
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2607 Glendower Ave, Los Angeles, CA, US

Ennis House

Griffith Park isn't all abandoned, crumbling ruins, rock concerts, filming locations and star parties... if you're after something a little more cultured and historic, head to the Ennis House, which Frank Lloyd Wright himself designed and built right on the edge of the park. It's got a really wild Egyptian tomb-esque feel... there's really nothing else quite like it, and even if you aren't an architecture buff, you can definitely still appreciate how freakin' sweet this house is. It's currently owned by billionaire Ron Burkle-- and if you want to visit, you'll have to keep an eye out, since he only opens it roughly 12 days a year.

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