Griffith Park Train Ride for Kids – 2025 Guide
A classic LA family experience on the Griffith Park & Southern Railroad
The Griffith Park & Southern Railroad has been delighting families since 1948, making it one of Southern California's most beloved miniature train experiences. Located in the heart of Griffith Park, this charming 1-mile loop takes kids and parents through scenic landscaping, past a Western town facade, and alongside the Los Angeles River. It's a perfect introduction to trains for toddlers and a nostalgic ride for parents who remember visiting as kids themselves.
Quick Facts
Ride Length
~10 minutes
Cost
$3.50/person
Best Ages
1–8 years
Parking
Free lot
2025 Schedule & Hours
Regular Season (Sept–May)
Weekends & Holidays: 10am–4:30pm
Summer Season (June–August)
Daily: 10am–4:30pm
Holiday hours may vary. The train closes during rain and extreme heat.
Tickets & Prices
Tickets are $3.50 per person (cash or card). Children under 18 months ride free when held on a lap. No advance reservations—just show up and buy tickets at the booth. Lines can get long on weekend mornings, so consider arriving right at opening or after 2pm for shorter waits.
Best Age Range
This ride is ideal for kids ages 1 to 8. Toddlers love the gentle movement and train sounds, while preschoolers enjoy spotting the Western buildings and tunnel. Kids over 8 may find it a bit short, but it's still fun as part of a bigger Griffith Park day. The open-air cars mean even babies can enjoy the breeze.
Stroller-Friendly Details
The station area has paved, flat paths making it easy to navigate with a stroller. You'll need to park your stroller at the boarding platform—there's a designated area, but it's not supervised. Consider bringing a compact stroller or baby carrier for the ride itself. The nearby picnic areas and pony rides are also stroller-accessible.
Parking & Map
Address: 4400 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Free parking is available in the main lot. On busy weekends, arrive before 10am or expect to circle for a spot. Overflow parking is available along Crystal Springs Drive (watch for signs). The train station is a short, flat walk from the parking lot.
What Kids Love Most
- •The train whistle at departure—toddlers go wild for it
- •Passing through the tunnel (a brief, exciting dark moment)
- •The Old West town facades—perfect for imaginative play
- •Waving at other families on the parallel track
Nearby Family Spots
Make it a full Griffith Park day by combining the train with these nearby attractions:
- Travel Town Museum – Free outdoor train museum with vintage locomotives, just 5 minutes away
- 🐴Pony Rides – Right next to the train station
- 🎠Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round – Historic carousel nearby
- 🦁LA Zoo – 10-minute drive within the park