When you think of LA, you may picture Hollywood’s shopping boulevards and sprawling celebrity mansions. However, the city is home to so much more than that! Whether you’re looking to discover hiking trails or marvel at the ocean, there are lots of beautiful parks in Los Angeles. We’ve covered the best parks in LA for walking dogs, hiking, enjoying the city’s impressive horizons, and so much more!
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1. Griffith Park
4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Griffith Park is one of the most famous parks in the city. Within its 4,310 acres, you’ll find over 50 miles of trails leading to stunning waterfalls and lagoons. The park has something on offer for all ages, including hiking, golfing, cycling, and horseback riding.
⚠️ Keep your pooches on a leash here, as the park is home to some critters and coyotes!
Whether you’re living in LA or you’re a tourist looking to explore life in the city, some of the area’s must-see attractions are within the park. You can check out rare wildlife at the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens or watch a live show at the Greek Theatre.
? Fun Fact: Adele’s One Night Only concert was held at the Griffith Observatory!
Related: 16 Best Things to Do in North Hollywood
2. Elysian Park
835 Academy Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
The 600-acre Elysian Park is the oldest and one of the most beautiful parks in LA. Within it, you’ll find palm groves, baseball fields and picnic areas. And don’t be alarmed if you hear gunshots! The Police Academy is just next door and officers often practice at the firing range.
? TIP: There’s also a hidden gem called the Secret Swing Angels Point. Swing into a stunning view of the city at the intersection of Angels Point Drive and Park Row Drive.
3. Lake Hollywood Park
Location: 3160 Canyon Lake Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068, USA
This list would be incomplete without Lake Hollywood Park. After all, it’s one of the best parks in LA to walk your dog and catch a glimpse of the Hollywood sign. The park offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Plus, its picnic area, barbecue pit, and playground make it popular with friends and families looking to enjoy a Sunday afternoon together.
? There’s a grass field for dogs to roam around, but keep them on a leash to avoid a fine!
? TIP: Nearby attractions include the Garden of Oz and The Last House on Mulholland.
4. Echo Park
1632 Bellevue Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026, USA
For those living in LA, the history of this beautiful park is well known. It’s been around since 1860, and is one of the best parks in LA for recreational activities like boating and browsing colorful gardens. Discover this park by swan boat (or rowboat), if you’re keen to cruise by resident swans and pretty lotus beds. Exploring this park is surely one of the most leisurely and scenic things to do in LA! Plus, if you get hungry, there are many alfresco cafes to choose from, with excellent coffee and stunning views of the lake.
Related: Rooms for Rent in Echo Park
5. Descanso Gardens
1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011, USA
For botany enthusiasts, the Descanso Gardens have North America’s largest camellia collection! The park also boasts a wide array of oak trees, medicinal plants, rare herbs, and of course, plenty of beautiful flowers. Founded by E. Manchester Boddy in 1937, the botanical park is home to over 100 species of birds and mammals. Perfect if you love the idea of getting closer to the local wildlife!
? TIP: If you’re looking for things to do in LA, we recommend taking the Enchanted Railroad. The vehicle is a scaled-down version of a diesel train that takes you towards flowers in bloom.
Related: 15 Things To Do In Northridge, LA
6. Grand Park
200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
Grand Park is a 12-acre green space in Los Angeles’ civic centre. The park has shaded walking paths, botanical gardens, outdoor seating areas, and historic fountains. It was founded in 1966 as a place where locals could relax throughout the day. The park is home to a community terrace and a small lawn hosting cultural events and weekly farmers’ markets.
? TIP: The Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain has a membrane pool that is open for wading – ideal for hot summer days!
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7. Runyon Canyon Park
Location: 2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046, USA
If you’re living in LA and want to walk your dog off-leash, take your furry best friend for a game of fetch to Runyon Canyon Park! This is also one of the best parks in LA to conquer challenging hiking trails. There are plenty of hiking trails ranging from 1 to 3.5 miles in length. Moreover, you can experience beautiful hilltop views over the Hollywood sign. So, there’s something for everyone!
? Walking your dog? The park also has water bowls for your thirsty pooch.
8. Ernest E. Debs Regional Park
4235 Monterey Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90032.
Are you looking for a quiet place to enjoy your coffee? Fancy catching up with work buddies for lunch? Ernest E. Debs Regional Park is a 300-acre gem located on an old ranch land in the Arroyo Seco neighborhood. It’s near downtown Los Angeles, so you’ve probably driven past it dozens of times without realizing it was there. This is one of the best parks in LA to relax, and retreat into nature. The views of downtown LA are some of the most gorgeous you’ll find! Moreover, for avid bird-watchers, the park offers free binoculars!
? The Montecito Heights Recreation Center has an off-leash area for those who want to let their pets run free.
Related: 12 Best Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles
9. Exposition Park
701 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037, USA
Exposition Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Los Angeles! For starters, it boasts of a sunken garden and 200 varieties of roses. The park is also a wonderful crossover between sightseeing and relaxing. This 160-acre urban space opens entrances into the California Science Centre and Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County!
10. Palisades Park
Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
We’re ending strong with this stunning ocean-facing park in Santa Monica. Are you visiting LA for the first time? Do you want to revisit the city’s landscape through a tourist’s eyes? Regardless, Palisades Park deserves a spot on your checklist of things to do in LA! For history buffs, you’ll find a Civil War cannon within the park. For art enthusiasts, the impressive Statue of Santa Monica by Eugene H. Morahan stands tall. However, if you’re just looking to kick back, soak in the shade of the palm trees, and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Related: 12 Best Things To Do In Santa Monica
This breathtaking list of the best parks in LA is bound to inspire you to venture out in your hometown! Or, if you don’t already live in Los Angeles, it may just convince you to finally make the move!
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