Old Los Angeles Zoo

The Old Los Angeles Zoo is a collection of former animal enclosures in Griffith Park, at 4801 Griffith Park Drive. Walk among stone grottoes and barred cages from the zoo’s original layout, with some enclosures open to explore. Graffiti marks many of the structures, giving the site an urban edge that draws photographers and visitors interested in Los Angeles history. Picnic space, trails and a playground nearby make it easy to pair the ruins with time outdoors. There are few signs explaining the site, so come ready to explore rather than expect a museum-style visit.

The former zoo in Griffith Park

The Old Los Angeles Zoo preserves animal enclosures from the city’s original zoo. When the zoo moved, its former site remained in Griffith Park and became part of the public park. The old structures still show parts of the zoo’s layout, including stone enclosures built into the hillside and smaller barred cages along the trail.

Some enclosures are open to enter, while others are locked. Picnic tables have been placed in some of the former animal areas, and open grassy spaces nearby give the site a different use today. The juxtaposition of picnic spots and old cages is part of what makes a visit here unusual.

Walking among the enclosures

The stone grottoes are among the largest structures on the site. You can walk inside and look out through the openings toward the public paths. Smaller metal cages stand along the trail; stepping inside an open one offers a closer view of the confined spaces once used for animals.

The enclosures are not presented as a museum, and there is little signage explaining their history. Graffiti covers parts of the structures. If you want context as you explore, plan for a self-guided walk rather than a sequence of labeled exhibits. Trails continue uphill from the zoo site, and nearby open space, benches and a playground make it possible to extend the visit outdoors.