Tucked away in a small part of Griffith Park lies one of the coolest and perhaps strangest of all Los Angeles attractions. Surrounding a grassy picnic area are the eerie remains of LA’s original zoo. Abandoned enclosures and cages contrast the stark beauty of the surrounding ravine where they are now held captive in time. As you wander from habitat to habitat don’t be afraid to climb into one of the cages and get a look from the animal’s perspective, it’s really kind of creepy! This place might even feel vaguely familiar to you, most likely because you have seen it before. The old zoo also serves as a movie location from time to time, with films like Police Academy 2 and Anchorman among it’s credits.
The old Griffith Park Zoo opened in 1912 to a grand total of 15 animals. Surviving multiple floods and even a famine, the zoo finally closed its doors in 1966 when the new Griffith Park Zoo was built only two miles away. The enclosures were never torn down and the zoo later reopened as a picnic area with adjacent hiking trails that take you throughout Griffith Park. So if you are looking for something to do on a lazy afternoon, this is the perfect spot to bring the kids or a date for a picnic. Have fun and don’t feed the animals!!!
Things You Should Know
Where does it take place
4730 Crystal Springs Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Hours
Park Hours 5:30am - 10:30pm
Prices
Free
Things I Wish Someone Would Have Told Me
Type in the right address. It will send you to the wrong entrance if you just type in the old abandoned LA zoo. Make sure you type in the Crystal Springs Drive address.
Free Parking!!! Not really something that someone should tell you, but it was a really nice surprise.
Bring your dog. The old zoo is very dog friendly. Just make sure you clean up after your pet please.
The trail is perfect for beginners. This is a great trail if you are up for a leisurely stroll. The paths are more like roads and the inclines are gradual and not tough at all.
Things you will Need
Bring some water and maybe a picnic!
EXPLORE!!!
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