Best Parks in Los Angeles (2025)

An immense urban wilderness where you can ramble from ferny canyons to the Observatory and even find volunteer-tended oases like Amir’s Garden. Celebrated by the Los Angeles Times and Condé Nast Traveler for essential hikes and classic views.

L.A.’s oldest park pairs mellow ridge walks and sweeping DTLA vistas with the historic Chavez Ravine Arboretum. Time Out highlights its laid-back trails; the Los Angeles Times frequently features Angel’s Point and scenic loops here.

Beloved by locals for pond-side strolls, hilltop views, and access to the Park to Playa Trail. The Los Angeles Times and LAist praise its city-to-sea connection and family-friendly amenities; county updates confirm robust programming.

A Northeast L.A. favorite for shady climbs to Peanut Lake and Audubon-led programs. Featured in the Los Angeles Times’ hiking guides and LAist’s Eastside picks, it offers wildlife, city views, and a genuine neighborhood vibe.

An MRCA-built urban landscape of meadows and oak savanna framing a postcard DTLA view. Time Out spotlights its picnic-friendly lawn, while the American Society of Landscape Architects honored its design and habitat benefits.

Once a rail yard, now 32 acres of open lawn with Chinatown views, artful bridges, and community events. Time Out and local critics recommend it for picnics and skyline gazing; state updates confirm steady programming.

Climb the Culver City Stairs or take the switchbacks for one of L.A.’s signature panoramas. The Los Angeles Times regularly recommends the overlook; agencies note it anchors the Park to Playa network and hosts ranger programs.

A classic Hollywood Hills loop with generous views and popular off-leash areas. Time Out keeps it on best-of lists, while 2025 coverage in the Los Angeles Times confirms it’s open with the West Trail still closed.

A serene, city-run chisen-style garden irrigated by reclaimed water, with a teahouse and strolling paths. Time Out recommends it for contemplative walks; official updates confirm weekday hours and occasional cultural events.

A nonprofit garden with oak woodlands, camellias, and seasonal exhibitions that locals love. The Los Angeles Times frequently features its programming and collections; daily hours and ticketing are clearly maintained.

DTLA’s civic lawn stages community festivals, danceable New Year’s countdowns, and family mornings. Covered by the Los Angeles Times and The New York Times since opening, the Music Center’s updates confirm a busy 2025 calendar.