ZooCalifornia, US

Griffith Park Zoo

Nestled within the vast expanse of Los Angeles's iconic Griffith Park, the old Griffith Park Zoo, often referred to as the "Old LA Zoo," offers a truly distinctive and evocative experience.

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Nestled within the vast expanse of Los Angeles's iconic Griffith Park, the old Griffith Park Zoo, often referred to as the "Old LA Zoo," offers a truly distinctive and evocative experience. Far from a traditional wildlife park, this site is a fascinating journey through forgotten history, where crumbling animal enclosures have been reclaimed by nature and transformed into a popular hiking and picnic destination. Visitors can wander through the eerie remnants of what were once bear grottoes, lion cages, and smaller animal pens, many of which are now open for exploration and have been creatively repurposed with picnic tables. The site provides a poignant glimpse into early 20th-century zoo design, juxtaposing raw concrete and iron bars with vibrant graffiti and thriving plant life that has grown wild amongst the structures. Beyond the captivating ruins themselves, a network of easy to moderate hiking trails weaves through the area, including the popular Old Zoo Trail, offering scenic views of Griffith Park and opportunities to connect to other prominent park features like Bee Rock. It's a place where urban exploration meets outdoor recreation, making for an unforgettable visit that encourages reflection on history, nature, and urban decay. Whether you're exploring the former habitats, enjoying a picnic in a repurposed grotto, or embarking on a hike, the Old Griffith Park Zoo promises a blend of adventure and contemplation. It's a prime spot for photographers seeking unique backdrops and for families looking for an engaging outdoor outing where imagination can run wild amidst the silent echoes of the past. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

The Griffith Park Zoo first opened its doors in 1912, built on the site of Griffith J. Griffith's former ostrich farm with a modest budget and initially housing only about 15 animals. Over the decades, the zoo expanded, notably in the 1930s with assistance from the Works Progress Administration, which constructed new bear caves and other enclosures. However, the zoo was continuously plagued by inadequate funding, rudimentary cages, and persistent animal welfare issues, earning it criticism as "inadequate, ugly, poorly designed, and under-financed". Despite drawing millions of visitors annually, the outdated facilities struggled to accommodate its growing animal population. Calls for a new, modern zoo began in the late 1940s, culminating in a voter-approved $8 million bond measure in 1958 for its creation. The Griffith Park Zoo officially closed in August 1966, with its animals transferred to the newly opened Los Angeles Zoo just two miles away. Instead of demolition, the city opted to leave the old animal enclosures intact, removing some bars and installing picnic tables, thus preserving the site as a unique public recreational area and a haunting reminder of its past.

What to do here

Explore the various sizes of old cages and grottoes, enjoy a picnic in the designated areas, and hike the Old Zoo Trail. Consider continuing to the Bee Rock Trail for panoramic views of Griffith Park and the Los Angeles skyline.

Seasonal info

Summer can be very hot, so bring extra water. A small stream may flow through the area in wetter seasons but might be dry at other times.

Accessibility

The main paths around the old zoo are generally easy, comprising paved and dirt trails. Some areas might involve navigating around or into the old enclosures, which can have uneven footing, narrow passages, or steps. Parking is available near the Merry-Go-Round, offering relatively easy access to the start of the trails leading to the ruins.

Don't miss

large bear grottoes

former lion cages

vibrant graffiti art

Wildlife you might spot

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Bee

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Good to know before you go

Wear comfortable shoes

The area involves dirt paths and uneven surfaces, so hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are recommended.

Bring water and snacks

Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated. The picnic areas are a great spot for a packed lunch.

Visit during daylight hours

While the ruins have an eerie charm, it's best explored before sunset for safety and visibility.

Arrive early for parking

The area, particularly near the Merry-Go-Round parking lot, can get busy, especially on weekends.

Respect the ruins

Admire the graffiti and structures, but avoid climbing on unstable areas or contributing new graffiti. Practice "Leave No Trace" by taking all trash with you.

Explore beyond the main enclosures

Follow the connecting trails, like the one leading to Bee Rock, for extended hikes and panoramic views.

Frequently asked questions

: No, the Griffith Park Zoo officially closed in 1966, and its animals were moved to the current Los Angeles Zoo. The site now consists of abandoned animal enclosures and ruins, which are open to the public as a park and picnic area.
: Yes, many of the old animal enclosures, particularly the large bear grottoes and some cages, are open for visitors to walk through and explore. Some smaller or less stable areas might be fenced off for safety.
: The Old LA Zoo is an excellent spot for hiking, picnicking, and urban exploration. You can wander through the historic ruins, enjoy a meal in a former animal habitat, or hike the surrounding trails, which offer scenic views and connect to other parts of Griffith Park.