
Bette Davis Picnic Area
A serene Griffith Park picnic spot named after Bette Davis, featuring shaded tables, river views, and a unique horse ring.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and uncrowded

Bette Davis Picnic Area
Best Time
Peaceful and uncrowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Griffith Park picnic spot named after Bette Davis, featuring shaded tables, river views, and a unique horse ring.
"Amazing. I don’t have words to describe the peace, clean and beautiful place it is."

🚗 Ample Street Parking
Plenty of street parking available, making it easy to access for picnics and casual visits.
🌳 Enjoy the Shade
The park boasts beautiful, mature trees offering ample shade, ideal for a comfortable picnic.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shaded Picnic Havens
Throughout the park
Enjoy a meal under the canopy of beautiful, mature trees. Perfect for family gatherings or a quiet lunch.

The Miyawaki Microforest
Within the park
Explore LA's first Miyawaki-inspired microforest, a dense, native woodland showcasing local biodiversity.

Equestrian Spectacle
Northern end of the park
Watch skilled riders train at the adjacent horse ring – a unique and captivating sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Local Gem, Not a Tourist Hotspot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Street Parking
Plenty of street parking available, making it easy to access for picnics and casual visits.
🌳 Enjoy the Shade
The park boasts beautiful, mature trees offering ample shade, ideal for a comfortable picnic.
🐎 Watch the Horses
Don't miss the unique opportunity to see riders training at the horse ring.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A great spot to let your dog run free and enjoy the open space.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Street Parking
Plenty of street parking available, making it easy to access for picnics and casual visits.
🌳 Enjoy the Shade
The park boasts beautiful, mature trees offering ample shade, ideal for a comfortable picnic.
🐎 Watch the Horses
Don't miss the unique opportunity to see riders training at the horse ring.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A great spot to let your dog run free and enjoy the open space.
🚶♀️ Gentle Walking Path
A dirt track is available for leisurely walks or jogs, suitable for those with mobility concerns.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bette Davis Picnic Area is a well-loved local park offering a peaceful retreat with shaded picnic spots and unique features like a horse ring. While some freeway noise is present, visitors appreciate the ample green space, dog-friendly atmosphere, and the serene environment. It's a charming spot for a relaxed outing, though amenities are basic.
"Betty Davis Picnic Area is a well-maintained neighborhood park located within the Griffith Park ecosystem. While its long, narrow shape and proximity to the 134 freeway mean some highway noise is present, it's not overly disruptive. The park offers plenty of shaded green space for picnics and activities, as well as a dirt track for walking or jogging. Though amenities are limited to a restroom, a unique feature is the horse ring at one end, where visitors can watch riders train. With ample street parking and a pleasant atmosphere, it's a great spot for locals, even if it's not a destination park."
Kevin Webb
"Ok came to this park to attend a baby shower. Easy to find and felt safe. Plenty of street parking. Park is in between residential area and LA River. Had only one public restroom. Plenty of trees for great shade."
Alfredo Garcia Jr
"Amazing. I don’t have words to describe the peace, clean and beautiful place it is"
M C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bette Davis Picnic Area is located in Griffith Park, accessible by car. Ample street parking is usually available nearby. It's situated between residential areas and the LA River, making it a convenient spot for locals.
Yes, it's generally easy to find, especially if you're familiar with the Glendale/Burbank Rancho district. It's a well-maintained neighborhood park within the larger Griffith Park ecosystem.
Driving directly to the park and utilizing the available street parking is the most convenient option. The park offers a dirt track for gentle walking, making it accessible for those with mobility concerns.
Public transportation options might be limited for direct access. Driving is the most recommended method for reaching this specific picnic area within Griffith Park. It's best to check local transit routes for the most up-to-date information.
The park is located near the 134 freeway, which contributes to some ambient noise but is generally not overly disruptive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bette Davis Picnic Area is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Entry is free for all visitors.
As a public park within Griffith Park, it is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check Griffith Park's official hours for any specific restrictions or closures.
No advance booking is typically required for general picnic use. The park offers numerous picnic tables, and visitors can use them on a first-come, first-served basis.
While there are no strict restrictions for casual picnics, large organized events might require permits. It's best to contact the Griffith Park Department for information on permits for larger gatherings.
Information on bringing personal grills is not widely available. It's advisable to check with Griffith Park regulations or stick to using provided picnic tables for your meals.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers picnic tables, shaded areas, and a single public restroom. A unique feature is the horse ring where you can watch riders train.
There is no dedicated playground mentioned in reviews. The park's open space and picnic tables are the primary attractions for families.
Yes, there is a dirt track suitable for walking or jogging, making it a pleasant spot for light exercise.
Absolutely! Visitors have noted it as a great spot for bird watching, with sightings of white cranes.
Due to its proximity to the 134 freeway, some highway noise is present, but it's generally not considered overly disruptive by visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no on-site restaurants or cafes. It's a picnic-focused area, so you'll need to bring your own food and drinks.
Classic picnic fare like sandwiches, salads, and snacks are popular. Consider items that are easy to transport and enjoy outdoors.
You'll find various dining options in the nearby Burbank and Glendale areas. It's recommended to pick up your picnic supplies before heading to the park.
For larger catered events, it's advisable to inquire with the Griffith Park Department about necessary permits and regulations.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's always a good idea to bring your own water bottles, especially during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene picnic spots under the trees, the unique horse ring, and the scenic views of the LA River. The Miyawaki microforest also offers interesting photographic potential.
Yes, visitors mention watching the sun set over Griffith Park, making it a beautiful location for sunset photography.
Yes, you can photograph the horses and riders at the training ring. It's a unique visual element of the park.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photography. Weekday mornings provide a quieter setting for capturing serene shots.
The open spaces offer good vantage points. The area near the LA River and the horse ring provide distinct photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of food and drinks, as there are no concessions on-site. The gentle dirt track is also suitable for little ones who enjoy a short stroll. It's a low-key environment where families can connect with nature without the hustle and bustle of larger parks.
🚶♀️ Visitors with Mobility Concerns
Driving directly to the park and utilizing the available street parking is the most convenient approach. The shaded picnic tables are easily accessible from parking areas, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable picnic experience without extensive walking.
🐶 Dog Owners
The park's size and open layout make it ideal for dogs to play and explore. Just ensure your furry friend is leashed when not in designated off-leash areas (if any) and always clean up after them. It's a great spot for a relaxed outing with your canine companion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Miyawaki Microforest: A Greener Future
These pocket forests are designed to rapidly grow into self-sustaining ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and helping to combat climate change. Kathrine Pakradouni has spoken on the importance of these microforests in encouraging biodiversity health. The forest at Bette Davis Picnic Area fills about 1,000 square feet with four layers of native plants, including keystone species like coast live oaks.
Visiting this microforest offers a unique opportunity to see a concentrated example of native flora and understand the principles of ecological restoration. It's a testament to sustainable urban greening and a peaceful, albeit small, natural retreat within the park.
A Local's Perspective: Beyond the Freeway Noise
What sets this spot apart is the unique horse ring at one end, providing a fascinating glimpse into equestrian training. It's a feature not commonly found in city parks, adding a distinct character to the area. For dog owners, it's a wonderful, dog-friendly space where pets can roam freely.
Despite the occasional mention of a 'crazy homeless guy,' the overall sentiment from reviews is positive, highlighting the park's beauty, cleanliness, and the sense of peace it offers. It's a place where locals can enjoy mountain views, bird watching, and the simple pleasure of a sunset over Griffith Park.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit