Griffith Park
Vast urban park with iconic Hollywood Sign views, the Griffith Observatory, hiking trails, and festive holiday train rides.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid peak tourist crowds
Griffith Park
Best Time
Avoid peak tourist crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast urban park with iconic Hollywood Sign views, the Griffith Observatory, hiking trails, and festive holiday train rides.
"A tranquil escape with stunning city panoramas and family fun."
🎯 Beat the Parking Fees
Skip expensive parking by taking the 50-cent DASH bus from the bottom of the hill.
🚶♀️ Hike for Unique Views
For a different perspective of the Hollywood Sign, hike the Mount Hollywood Trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hollywood Sign Views
Mount Hollywood Trail
Hike to a unique vantage point for breathtaking, less-crowded views of the iconic Hollywood Sign.
Griffith Observatory
Summit of Mount Hollywood
Explore this iconic landmark offering stunning city panoramas and fascinating exhibits.
Fern Dell Trail
Western side of Griffith Park
A serene, shaded trail perfect for a peaceful walk, often featured in films like La La Land.
Holiday Train Ride
Griffith Park Southern Railroad
A festive, mile-long train journey through twinkling holiday lights, a beloved tradition.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Iconic Views
Seasonal Train Rides & Holiday Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Parking Fees
Skip expensive parking by taking the 50-cent DASH bus from the bottom of the hill.
🚶♀️ Hike for Unique Views
For a different perspective of the Hollywood Sign, hike the Mount Hollywood Trail.
📸 Sunset & City Lights
Stay after sunset for incredible city light views; the Observatory area is magical at night.
🚂 Holiday Train Tickets
Consider VIP tickets for the holiday train to skip long lines during peak season.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Parking Fees
Skip expensive parking by taking the 50-cent DASH bus from the bottom of the hill.
🚶♀️ Hike for Unique Views
For a different perspective of the Hollywood Sign, hike the Mount Hollywood Trail.
📸 Sunset & City Lights
Stay after sunset for incredible city light views; the Observatory area is magical at night.
🚂 Holiday Train Tickets
Consider VIP tickets for the holiday train to skip long lines during peak season.
🤫 Quiet Scroll Spot
Find quiet benches on trails for a peaceful break and enjoy your phone content.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Griffith Park is celebrated as a beautiful, expansive green space offering diverse activities from hiking and playgrounds to iconic city views. Visitors appreciate its tranquility, family-friendly amenities, and the magical holiday train ride. Some find parking and crowds challenging during peak times.
"This is a very modern park with a big play area for kids. There’s a coffee shop and toilets which makes it one of the best chill out areas. It’s also ideal for birthday parties."
mbongeni gumbo
"Perfect park, playground, open gym, tram cafe, river with swans and Lincoln logs and zipline and ….Thank You Dublin City for this park!! More cities should emulate this park!!!"
Aiden A
"Griffith Park in Dublin City, Ireland, is a well-loved urban park located in the Drumcondra area along the River Tolka. While not as famous as Phoenix Park, it holds a special charm for locals and visitors alike. Here are some experiences and features that people often talk about when visiting Griffith Park:
🌿 Peaceful Green Space in the City
Many people describe Griffith Park as a tranquil escape from the noise of the city. With its tree-lined paths, grassy areas, and riverside walkways, it’s ideal for:
• Casual strolls
• Jogging
• Picnics
• Reading on a bench
“It’s a hidden gem in the heart of the city. You can hear birdsong instead of traffic.” — Local visitor
🐦 Wildlife and Nature
The River Tolka runs through the park, attracting ducks, herons, and other birds. There are also flower beds, mature trees, and native plantings that change beautifully with the seasons.
🧒 Great for Families
The park has a popular playground, and many families bring their children here. There are open areas for games and play, as well as safe, shaded spots for younger kids.
🚲 Walking and Cycling Paths
It’s part of several urban walking and cycling routes, so you’ll often see commuters and fitness enthusiasts enjoying the scenic route through the park.
☕ Nearby Cafés and Culture
Located close to Drumcondra Road, you’re within walking distance of cozy cafés and traditional pubs. After a walk in the park, many people stop for:
• A coffee at local spots like Anderson’s or Fagan’s
• A pint in a nearby pub
🗺️ Connected to Dublin Life
• Near Croke Park (for GAA fans)
• Easy access by bus or a short walk from the city centre
• A peaceful midpoint between busy urban areas and quieter suburbs"
Mohun Krisna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Griffith Park is accessible by car, but parking can be challenging and expensive. Many visitors opt for the 50-cent DASH bus from the base of the hill to reach the Observatory area. Public transport options like Metro buses also serve the park's periphery.
Yes, there are parking lots, but they fill up quickly and can be costly ($10/hour). The DASH bus is a more budget-friendly alternative.
Ride-sharing services are a convenient option, especially if you're heading directly to the Observatory. Be aware that surge pricing can apply during peak times.
The park is vast, with many trails and attractions. Using a map app or downloading offline maps is recommended. Signage can be helpful, but trails can be winding.
While you can see it from the Observatory, for closer views, hike the Mount Hollywood Trail. Driving directly to the sign is not possible due to its location. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Griffith Park itself is free to enter. However, specific attractions within the park, like the Griffith Observatory's planetarium shows or the holiday train ride, may require tickets. +1
The park grounds are generally open from sunrise to sunset. The Griffith Observatory building has specific hours, typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays for interior exhibits, but the grounds and exterior views are accessible.
General admission to the Griffith Observatory building and grounds is free. There are fees for planetarium shows and special exhibits.
Yes, especially during the holidays, the Griffith Park Southern Railroad offers a popular Christmas train ride. Check their official schedule for other seasonal events. +1
It's highly recommended to book holiday train tickets in advance, as they are very popular. VIP options are available to help bypass long queues.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the trail to the Griffith Observatory, the Mount Hollywood Trail for Hollywood Sign views, and the Fern Dell Trail for a more shaded experience. +3
Besides the stunning views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign, the Observatory features exhibits on space and astronomy, a planetarium, and a historic telescope.
Absolutely! It features playgrounds, open spaces for picnics and games, and the popular holiday train ride. The Fern Dell Trail is also a gentle option for families. +1
There's a cafe at the Griffith Observatory, and nearby areas like Los Feliz and Atwater Village offer a wide range of dining options.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photos. The city lights at night from the Observatory are also spectacular.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
For unique angles, hike up the Mount Hollywood Trail. The Griffith Observatory also provides iconic backdrops with the sign visible in the distance.
Golden hour before sunset provides beautiful light for cityscapes and the Observatory itself. Staying after dark offers stunning views of the twinkling city lights.
Tripods are generally allowed in public parks, but it's always a good idea to check specific park regulations or any temporary restrictions, especially around the Observatory.
You can capture panoramic city views, the iconic Hollywood Sign, architectural shots of the Observatory, and natural landscapes along the hiking trails. +1
While generally permissive, be mindful of other visitors and avoid disruptive photography. Commercial photography may require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the holidays, the Griffith Park Southern Railroad's Holiday Lights Train Ride is a must-do, providing a memorable and festive experience. While parking can be a hassle, the park's accessibility via the DASH bus makes it manageable. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for a day of exploration and fun.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Many trails are well-maintained and offer varying degrees of difficulty. Early morning visits are ideal for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, allowing for a more immersive nature experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, bring water, and consider downloading a trail map.
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
The best times for photography are during golden hour (sunrise and sunset) for dramatic lighting, and after dark to capture the vibrant city lights. For unique shots of the Hollywood Sign, venture onto trails like the Mount Hollywood Trail. Be prepared for crowds, especially at sunset, but the views are well worth it.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Griffith Park Trails
Many trails offer stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles, making them ideal for photography enthusiasts. Early mornings are perfect for catching the golden hour light and avoiding the midday sun and crowds. Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as some trails can be steep and exposed.
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, consider the paved paths around the Griffith Observatory itself, which still provide incredible vistas. Always check trail conditions, especially after rain, and be aware of wildlife.
The Magic of the Griffith Observatory
Inside, visitors can explore fascinating exhibits on astronomy and space science, with many being free to access. The Samuel Oschin Planetarium offers immersive shows for an additional fee, providing an educational and entertaining experience for all ages. Don't miss the chance to look through the historic Zeiss telescope on clear nights.
Visiting during sunset is highly recommended, as you can witness the city transform into a sea of twinkling lights. The Observatory is a popular spot, so consider visiting on a weekday or early in the morning to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Griffith Park's Festive Holiday Train
The train ride is an affordable and enchanting activity, perfect for families and anyone looking to embrace the holiday spirit. Tickets are typically very reasonably priced, making it an accessible option for many. However, due to its popularity, long queues are common.
To make the most of your experience, consider purchasing VIP tickets which often allow you to bypass the standard lines. Arriving early or visiting on a less busy weekday can also help minimize wait times. The train operates from a dedicated station within the park, offering a unique way to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit