Bette Davis Picnic Area - Image 1
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Bette Davis Picnic Area

4.6
·414 reviews·Glendale, United States

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 content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and uncrowded

CrowdLow
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Bette Davis Picnic Area - Image 1

Bette Davis Picnic Area

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful and uncrowded

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Griffith Park picnic spot named after Bette Davis, featuring shaded tables, river views, and a unique horse ring.

4.6
(414 reviews)

"Amazing. I don’t have words to describe the peace, clean and beautiful place it is."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shaded Picnic Havens

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

The Miyawaki Microforest

Within the park

Explore LA's first Miyawaki-inspired microforest, a dense, native woodland showcasing local biodiversity.

Equestrian Spectacle

Equestrian Spectacle

Northern end of the park

Watch skilled riders train at the adjacent horse ring – a unique and captivating sight.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Discover a peaceful escape named after Hollywood legend Bette Davis. This Griffith Park gem offers shaded picnic spots and scenic river views, perfect for a relaxing day out. Arrive early for the best spots and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Local Gem, Not a Tourist Hotspot

While not a major tourist destination, Bette Davis Picnic Area is a beloved local spot. Expect a relaxed vibe, ample street parking, and a unique horse ring. It's ideal for a quiet picnic or a dog-friendly outing.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful and uncrowded
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Late fall walk around Rancho Equestrian District and Bette Davis Picnic Area. Below is a bit more information about both areas. “Near Griffith Park, Burbank’s Rancho Equestrian District is a horse heaven for those who love the equestrian life but don’t want to live far from the city. The Los Angeles Equestrian Center is smack dab in the middle of the district and is full of events, from horse sh...
walkinglosangeles
0 likes • 8.5K views

🚗 Ample Street Parking

Plenty of street parking available, making it easy to access for picnics and casual visits. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Shade

The park boasts beautiful, mature trees offering ample shade, ideal for a comfortable picnic. Reddit

The first Miyawaki-inspired #microforest in #losangeles was planted in June of 2021 at Bette Davis Picnic Area in #GriffithPark. Adapted from the #MiyawakiMethod of #afforestation, this “forest” features a plant palette resembling the dense #oakwoodland and #chaparral #plantcommunities of Griffith Park. #pocketforests such as these are designed to survive solely on #rainfall after establishment ...
seed_to_landscape
348 likes • 5K views
Recharging post park with auntie and grandpa #bettedavispicnicarea #bettedavispark #gsd #gsd❤ #gsdofig #parkwithauntie #parkwithgrandpa #germanshepherd #gsdmalinoislove #gsdmalinois
madelinethefoster
15 likes • 112 views

🐎 Watch the Horses

Don't miss the unique opportunity to see riders training at the horse ring. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

A great spot to let your dog run free and enjoy the open space. Reddit

Mark your calendars… Saturday, August 5th, @thesereneteam is hosting our annual client appreciation event at the Bette Davis Picnic Area at Griffith Park from 12pm-3pm. Come hang out, eat some tacos, play some games (prob some you haven’t played since you were in grade school 🤓), win some prizes, soak in some sun, mingle, and hang out with myself and the rest of the team. DM me to RSVP! Hope to se...
homeswithhoward
37 likes • 634 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Ample Street Parking

Plenty of street parking available, making it easy to access for picnics and casual visits. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Shade

The park boasts beautiful, mature trees offering ample shade, ideal for a comfortable picnic. Reddit

🐎 Watch the Horses

Don't miss the unique opportunity to see riders training at the horse ring. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

A great spot to let your dog run free and enjoy the open space. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Gentle Walking Path

A dirt track is available for leisurely walks or jogs, suitable for those with mobility concerns. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(414 reviews)

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

Peaceful and clean
Shaded picnic areas
Dog-friendly space

What People Dislike

Freeway noise
Limited amenities

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Bette Davis Picnic Area is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Entry is free for all visitors. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

There is no dedicated playground mentioned in reviews. The park's open space and picnic tables are the primary attractions for families. Reddit

Yes, there is a dirt track suitable for walking or jogging, making it a pleasant spot for light exercise. Reddit

Absolutely! Visitors have noted it as a great spot for bird watching, with sightings of white cranes. Reddit

Due to its proximity to the 134 freeway, some highway noise is present, but it's generally not considered overly disruptive by visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

Classic picnic fare like sandwiches, salads, and snacks are popular. Consider items that are easy to transport and enjoy outdoors. Reddit

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. Reddit

For larger catered events, it's advisable to inquire with the Griffith Park Department about necessary permits and regulations. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, it's always a good idea to bring your own water bottles, especially during warmer months. Reddit

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit

Yes, visitors mention watching the sun set over Griffith Park, making it a beautiful location for sunset photography. Reddit

Yes, you can photograph the horses and riders at the training ring. It's a unique visual element of the park. Reddit

Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photography. Weekday mornings provide a quieter setting for capturing serene shots. Reddit

The open spaces offer good vantage points. The area near the LA River and the horse ring provide distinct photographic subjects. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bette Davis Picnic Area is a great spot for families looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. While there's no dedicated playground, the ample shaded picnic tables and open green spaces are perfect for kids to play and enjoy a meal outdoors. The unique horse ring can also be a point of fascination for younger visitors. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Visitors with Mobility Concerns

This picnic area is a good choice for individuals with mobility issues due to its accessibility features. The park offers a dirt track that is suitable for walking or jogging, providing a gentle surface for movement. Reddit

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. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Bette Davis Picnic Area is a fantastic, dog-friendly destination. It's described as a wonderful place to let your dog run free and enjoy the open space. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Miyawaki Microforest: A Greener Future

Bette Davis Picnic Area is home to the first Miyawaki-inspired microforest in Los Angeles, planted in June 2021. This innovative approach to afforestation, adapted from the Miyawaki Method, focuses on creating dense, multi-layered native woodlands in small spaces. The forest at Bette Davis Picnic Area features a plant palette that closely resembles the natural oak woodland and chaparral plant communities historically found in Griffith Park. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

A Local's Perspective: Beyond the Freeway Noise

While reviews mention the presence of 134 freeway noise, many visitors find the Bette Davis Picnic Area to be a well-maintained and peaceful neighborhood park. Its long, narrow shape might be unusual, but it offers ample shaded green space that locals cherish for picnics and relaxation. The park's proximity to the LA River adds to its natural appeal. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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