Have You Been to Griffith Park?

I read an interesting article today that brought many wonderful memories to mind.  In the heart of Los Angeles, Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States.  At more than 3000 acres, it is five times larger than New York’s Central Park.

Griffith J. Griffith purchased what remained of Rancho Los Feliz in 1882.  When he bought the land, it was chaparral-covered slopes, deep canyons shaded by trees and shrubs, and a wide array of wild animals.  It has not changed much in the intervening years.

In 1896, Griffith donated 3,015 acres of land to the City of Los Angeles.  It was a charitable thing for him to do, but he was not known for his kind, generous nature.  Beyond charity, Griffith was ridding himself of what was land that could not be developed at the time for which he had to pay taxes.  In 1903, Griffith shot his wife while in a drunken rage. He served two years in San Quentin Prison for attempted murder. 

Over the years since, Griffith Park has become a recreation area that includes a variety of family attractions.  This is where my memories kick in.  I went to Griffith Park many times as a child.  The Griffith Park Observatory, built in 1935, sits atop a mountain overlooking the city.  The Observatory has fun things for children and fascinating science displays.  I loved going there, and in fact visited there a couple years ago with my grandchildren.

 Many additions were made in the park over the years.  The Greek Theater opened in 1929, and I attended several concerts at the beautiful outdoor theater.    

The Los Angeles Zoo is fun and exciting.  Travel Town is a great place for children to play, but it is also loved by train “buffs.”  I remember climbing inside the old train cars when I was a child, and they remain there today.  There is also a miniature train ride in the Park that I always loved.  It is about a 15-minute ride going through lovely terrain.  I rode it again a couple years ago when we visited the Observatory. 

The Park’s old carousel is a popular attraction along with the live pony rides.  I was an adult when the Autry Museum of the American West opened in 1989.  Those who watched old “cowboy” movies will remember Gene Autry, one of the “singing cowboys.” Sports fans may remember that he also owned the California Angels baseball team at one time.

One of my favorite places in Griffith Park is Fern Del.  Many Angelino’s are not aware it even exists.  Even in the summer, it is cool, shaded and beautiful!  It is a park within the park with a running stream with small fish, beautiful ferns growing all around, walking and hiking trails, and swings for the kids – all this in the middle of Los Angeles. 

Many miles of hiking and walking trails remain, along with picnic tables and grills.  Griffith Park is a treasure.  If you are ever in Los Angeles, I recommend you add a visit to the Park to your itinerary.

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