Old Zoo Picnic Area: Dine Inside Griffith Park's Abandoned Cages

Why It Stands Out

This site functioned as the city's primary animal park starting in 1912, beginning with a small group of 15 creatures. During the 1930s, the Works Progress Administration revamped the facility, constructing the heavy stone enclosures and barred dens that characterize the era's approach to zoological architecture.

These structures were designed for the "pacing animal" style of display, which eventually fell out of favor as conservation standards evolved. The facility was shuttered in 1966 to make way for the modern zoo nearby.

Rather than being demolished, the hillside ruins were integrated into the public park system. Other notable ruins in the area include Rustic Canyon's Murphy Ranch.

Similar stone structures can be found at The Witch’s Castle in another urban park. Today, the bear grottos have been repurposed with grills and benches, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal while peering out from behind the bars.

A winding trail leads further up the slope, revealing the former lion's den and a series of smaller, eerie monkey cages that remain largely untouched by time.

Before You Go

Finding the ruins requires a bit of careful navigation through the park's winding roads. The entrance is located off Griffith Park Drive, but the intersection where it meets Crystal Springs Drive can be confusing for first-timers.

Look for the parking area on the left shortly after making the turn toward the hills. The Chemosphere is another unique structure located in the nearby hills.

While the main grottos are easily accessible, wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike the upper trails to see the more secluded cages. The area is open for public use and includes functional picnic amenities.

Questions worth answering