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Parks with scenic views in Los Angeles

Made for those who seek out the highest vantage points in the city to spend their afternoons.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Point Fermin Park image 1
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Park offers great ocean views and an iconic lighthouse with free tours. It features spacious grassy areas, a large shaded playground, and picnic tables by the water. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, though occasional events can bring noise.

Spectacular ocean views overlook dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, creating a peaceful and cinematic atmosphere. Sunsets here offer stunning water vistas that photograph beautifully in every season.

Wide open spaces with green lawns and coastal paths create a beautiful setting. The park offers spectacular ocean views and areas for picnics, playgrounds, and group activities.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful ocean views here."

"I loved the beautiful ocean views here."

"The parks here have beautiful ocean views."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available along the roadside at the park.

2

The park has a lighthouse, playground, restrooms, and picnic benches.

3

Expect steep hills when walking to different areas of the park.

02
Ascot Hills Park image 1

Hills and trails offer panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles and surrounding valleys. The park maintains a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere with natural greenery and wildflowers. Visitors often walk, hike, or picnic in shaded areas while enjoying the serene environment away from city noise.

Offers breathtaking views of downtown Los Angeles and the skyline. Great spot for sunsets and capturing cityscape photos.

Steep hills and peaceful hiking trails create a quiet escape with phenomenal views of downtown and surrounding areas. Open spaces invite picnics and sunset strolls in a serene, urban nature preserve.

People are saying

"I loved the expansive, beautiful city views from the top."

"I loved the beautiful city views from the hiking trails."

"The park offers amazing views of downtown LA."

Good to know

1

Community events and family programming occur regularly at the park.

2

Bootcamp sessions for health enthusiasts are held at the amphitheater.

3

Be cautious of coyotes and hawks when visiting, especially with small pets.

03
Chatsworth Park South image 1

Park offers stunning mountain views and a peaceful, quiet atmosphere with plenty of space to spread out. It features multiple sports courts including basketball, tennis, and pickleball, alongside extensive playgrounds and walking trails. Natural elements like a stream and large grassy fields add to the relaxing vibe.

Sunsets offer great views framed by mountain scenery. Trails wind through the park, providing up-close mountain vistas and a peaceful atmosphere.

Spacious areas include a large playground and courts for pickleball and basketball. Clean restrooms and a state-of-the-art gym add to the park's well-maintained, safe, and pet-friendly environment.

People are saying

"The park's playground is packed with fun activities and has a natural climbing rock."

"The scenery here is beautiful, especially the mountain views."

"I loved the great, beautiful mountain views here."

Good to know

1

The park has several hiking trails suitable for all skill levels.

2

Restrooms are often closed, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is available and generally safe near the park entrance.

04
Los Angeles State Historic Park image 1

Large, green park offers open spaces and spectacular downtown skyline views. Atmosphere stays peaceful and laid-back despite occasional train and helicopter noise. Visitors include artists, families, and entrepreneurs enjoying trails, shaded areas, and room for dogs.

The park offers stunning views of the Downtown Los Angeles skyline. It captures the city's energy and diversity, highlighting why LA is a creative capital.

Open green spaces and walking trails invite group activities, solo runs, and nature lovers. The park offers scenic views of Downtown Los Angeles, plenty of restrooms, and well-maintained grounds that feel like a hidden gem close to Chinatown.

People are saying

"The park offers great views of the city skyline."

"It's a great place to walk your dog."

"I loved the great views of the city skyline."

Good to know

1

Parking costs about $2.50 per hour, or just under $9 per day.

2

Parking for events can be challenging, especially on weekends and holidays.

3

The park often hosts community events and art installations.

05
Barnsdall Art Park image 1

Park offers hilltop views of the city skyline, Hollywood Sign, and Griffith Observatory. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and serene on weekdays to lively with picnics and dogs on weekends. Historic Frank Lloyd Wright architecture adds a quiet, inspiring element to the green space.

Views include the Hollywood sign, Griffith Park Observatory, and the Los Angeles skyline. Multiple angles offer sunset views and a look at the west side of the city.

Offers great views of the city skyline, Hollywood Sign, and Griffith Park Observatory. Features a peaceful atmosphere with grassy areas for picnics, shaded spots under large trees, and dog-friendly spaces. Includes art and history elements like an art gallery, classes, and a historic house.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the picnic with a view of the Hollywood Sign and observatory."

"The scenic views of the Hollywood Sign and Observatory are amazing."

"The park offers amazing views of the city and the Hollywood Sign."

Good to know

1

Barnsdall Art Park hosts events like outdoor art and cultural activities.

2

Friday night wine nights occur during the summer months.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially on busy days.

06
Elysian Park image 1

Large green space offers peaceful trails weaving through eucalyptus groves with excellent city and stadium views. Quiet atmosphere suits family outings and dog walking, with ample picnic spots and sports fields. Winding roads and dirt trails provide a good workout for runners and cyclists.

Trails wind through eucalyptus groves with views of Dodger Stadium and Downtown. Angels Point offers a cool view of Downtown LA and a unique art sculpture. The park provides beautiful city and valley vistas.

Offers beautiful views of the city, Dodger Stadium, and the valley with many amenities. The park is quiet and peaceful, ideal for walks, picnics, cycling, and challenging runs on its hills. Parking is easy, and it feels like a natural escape within the urban area.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of downtown LA and the mountains."

"The parks here offer beautiful views of the downtown LA skyline."

"I loved the spectacular urban backdrop and downtown LA views."

Good to know

1

Elysian Park has easy parking available for visitors.

2

The park offers a network of winding roads and challenging dirt trails suitable for jogging.

3

There are plenty of picnic spots and shaded areas throughout the park.

07
O'Melveny Park image 1

Huge canyon park offers spacious hiking trails and open grassy areas with picnic tables. Quiet and secluded atmosphere features birdsong, babbling brook, and beautiful oak trees. Summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

Summit trails reveal great views of the San Fernando Valley and the city beyond. Open spaces provide beautiful mountain and valley vistas during hikes.

Wide open green grass and many hiking trails offer plenty of space for walking, running, and picnicking. The park stays clean and safe with friendly people and staff on bikes, plus shaded areas and clean restrooms.

People are saying

"The parks here are beautiful with lots of green grass and trails."

"It's a great place for a picnic with plenty of shade."

"I enjoyed the amazing valley views from the top."

Good to know

1

There is a public restroom, but bring toilet paper as it often runs out.

2

The park has drinking water available for visitors.

3

Beware of rattlesnakes when hiking in the park.

08
Porter Ridge Park image 1

Park offers quiet hillside views with lush greenery and well-maintained playgrounds featuring a nostalgic E.T. caterpillar. It attracts families and nature lovers seeking a peaceful spot with scenic overlooks and open spaces. The atmosphere stays calm and safe, with few crowds and plenty of shade.

Views from Reseda point offer amazing valley sights. Porter Ridge Park features lush greenery and a picnic area with an amazing view behind the basketball court.

Quiet hills hide a well-maintained playground with kid-friendly climbing gear and a jungle gym inspired by a famous movie. Plenty of trees offer shade for reading, while basketball courts and scenic views add to the relaxing vibe.

People are saying

"You can visit the park where E.T. was filmed."

"You get amazing views of the valley from up here."

"You can see LA downtown on clear days from here."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available at Porter Ridge Park.

2

Avoid staying after dark due to roaming coyotes.

3

A nice picnic area is located behind the basketball court.

09
Veterans Memorial Community Regional Park image 1

Regional park spans 97 acres with oak trees, mountain views, and open grass areas. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, ideal for walking, hiking, and relaxing. Features include a disc golf course, playground, and picnic spots, with plenty of shade and clean surroundings.

A hill at the rear offers better views once climbed. Trails provide breathtaking views of the valley and mountains, including the Valleys of San Fernando and Santa Clarita.

Peaceful atmosphere and full nature immersion define this park. It offers well maintained trails for hiking and walking, a large playground for kids, and great spots for picnics or BBQs.

People are saying

"I found the parks beautiful, clean, and quiet with great trails."

"I enjoyed the beautiful views of the valley from the trail."

"I enjoyed the beautiful, breathtaking views during my hike."

Good to know

1

Expect a bee and wasp problem, which may affect outdoor enjoyment.

2

The park features clean restrooms available for visitors.

3

There are many shaded areas, ideal for picnics and relaxation.

10
Will Rogers State Historic Park image 1

State park offers peaceful grounds with beautiful views of mountains, ocean, and cityscapes. Trails lead to Inspiration Point, a spot with one of the best views of Los Angeles. Large green spaces support picnics, sports, and horse-related activities on polo fields.

Hiking to Inspiration Point offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica Mountains, and Los Angeles. Trails provide gorgeous ocean views and sweeping vistas that reward a moderate hike.

Miles of hiking trails offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica Mountains, and Los Angeles. The park features picnic areas, a historic connection, and friendly park rangers for guided tours.

People are saying

"The picnic spot offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and mountains."

"I found the hike to be beautiful with incredible views."

"The park's trails offer gorgeous ocean views and peaceful beauty."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $12 for a full day or $2 per hour.

2

Most trails are currently closed, but reopening is expected in about two months.

3

One hiking trail leads to Inspiration Point, offering great views of Los Angeles.

11
Ernest E. Debs Regional Park image 1

Large park with hilly trails and an elevated position offers stunning views of downtown Los Angeles and surrounding mountains. Quiet and serene atmosphere dominates weekdays, with peaceful spots like a turtle pond and shaded picnic areas. Open spaces accommodate barbecues and picnics, attracting groups that can make parts lively.

Expansive views stretch across downtown, the San Gabriel and San Antonio mountains, and the San Gabriel Mountains. Trails and open spaces offer 180-degree panoramic views including city skyscrapers and natural landscapes.

Large green space offers hiking trails suitable for small children and plenty of open picnic areas. Visitors can spot many bird species, turtles, and enjoy panoramic views of downtown and surrounding mountains.

People are saying

"The parks here have gorgeous scenery and a beautiful city view."

"I found this park to be one of the hidden gems in LA."

"I loved the great city views from the park."

Good to know

1

No public restrooms are available at the park.

2

Parking is limited and can be challenging for large groups.

3

The park features many picnic tables and grilling spots.

12
Earvin "Magic" Johnson Recreation Area image 1

Huge park with sprawling green spaces and sparkling lakes creates a peaceful, open atmosphere. Shaded playgrounds and a dog park with separate areas offer family-friendly amenities. Walking trails near the lake provide scenic views and a relaxing environment.

Lake views dominate the scenery, especially at sunset, creating great photo moments. The park offers wildlife sightings like geese alongside vast, beautiful water vistas.

Sprawling green spaces and sparkling lakes create a peaceful, open atmosphere with plenty of playgrounds and a dog park that separates big and small dogs. The park hosts community events and outdoor fitness classes, making it lively and inclusive for families and pets alike.

People are saying

"This park's lakes and green spaces create a beautiful, peaceful oasis."

"I loved the nice view of the lake and the green spaces."

"The lake views here are beautiful and peaceful."

Good to know

1

The bathrooms are closed on Sundays when it is most crowded.

2

Expect community events and outdoor fitness classes throughout the year.

3

The park has a dog park with separate areas for big and small dogs.

13
Holleigh Bernson Memorial Park image 1

Spacious green fields and paved trails surround playgrounds and basketball courts, creating a family-friendly and relaxing atmosphere. Views of the valley, city, and mountains add a scenic backdrop despite some housing sprawl. The park stays mostly calm with enough open space for kids, pets, and exercise.

Views include the valley and mountains with some parts slightly blocked by housing sprawl. A track circles the park's perimeter, offering city and hill views from different spots.

A large green field offers plenty of space for dogs and play, while a well managed playground keeps kids busy. The park stays clean and calm, with open bathrooms at night and views of the city, valley, and stars.

People are saying

"I loved this park; it has a great playground for the kids."

"It's a great place for kids to play on the playground."

"The scenic views of the mountains were beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking can get full on weekends due to limited space.

2

The park is open at night, including the bathrooms.

3

There is a paved path around the park for walking or running.

14
Bird Sanctuary Griffith Park image 1

Quiet enclosure with two trails offers panoramic city views including the Hollywood Sign and Observatory. The area hosts local birds like Acorn Woodpeckers and features a refreshing stream after rain. Trails connect to larger park paths and provide a peaceful setting away from city noise.

Two trails at the bird sanctuary offer stunning panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. The trail sits at a slight elevation, providing great city views despite some haze and pollution.

Beautiful and isolated trails connect well to the rest of the park, offering a great place to hike and leave everything behind. Parking is limited with a few free spots early on weekdays and paid options nearby.

People are saying

"I found stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Sign."

"It's a magical place for quiet birdwatching and hiking."

"I loved the amazing city views, especially at dusk."

Good to know

1

To park for free, come early on weekdays for limited spots.

2

If free parking is unavailable, pay $10 at the parking area.

3

The trail starts near the Greek Theater with free parking options.

15
Norman O. Houston Park image 1

Hilltop park offers beautiful views and a defined walking path around green space. It features exercise stations, a kids playground, and picnic areas, creating a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere. Parking is limited, but the park remains clean and never too crowded early in the day.

Hilltop location offers beautiful views of downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. Clear days reveal a great view and a beautiful atmosphere at the park.

Hilltop location offers beautiful views and a clean, green space with a rubber pathway around the perimeter. The park includes a playground, pet park, picnic area, and workout equipment, making it kid friendly and good for walking, hiking, and exercising.

People are saying

"It's a great park for walking and jogging on the trails."

"I loved the great views from this park."

"I loved the great views from this park."

Good to know

1

Parking at the park is very tight, especially on busy days.

2

The restrooms can be unclean at times, so be prepared.

3

The park has exercise equipment, including a par course, and a play area for children.

16
TreePeople image 1
Non-profit organization

Wide, well-maintained trails wind through a quiet, natural oasis with plenty of shade and benches for resting. The atmosphere feels calm and refreshing, offering moderately difficult hikes and scenic views away from city noise. Visitors often encounter wood chip paths that keep the area clean and accessible.

Views of the valley stand out with clear, wide perspectives. Pathways and sitting areas add to the scenic experience and create a feeling of luxury during hikes.

Wide, well-marked trails run through a beautiful, well-maintained park managed by a nonprofit. Dog owners should watch out for sharp wood chips on the ground.

People are saying

"I found the hike and the killer view of the valley amazing."

"I found the park beautiful and well-maintained."

"It's a beautiful and special place with amazing scenic views."

Good to know

1

Parking at TreePeople is free and usually available.

2

The restrooms at TreePeople are clean and well-maintained.

3

Visitors should be cautious of rattlesnakes in the area.

17
Echo Park image 1

Park centers on a small lake with swan paddle boats and a visually appealing fountain. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, inviting relaxation and casual strolls. Visitors enjoy stunning views of downtown and a well-maintained natural setting with occasional food trucks and playgrounds.

Great views of the downtown skyline stand out, framed by palm trees and flowers. Walking around the small lake offers a scenic cityscape that feels both beautiful and well-maintained.

A beautiful lotus lake anchors this park, surrounded by palm trees and flowers with a great downtown skyline view. It offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and dog-friendly spaces, making it peaceful and lively for walking, paddle boating, and fitness activities.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful, peaceful, and well-maintained."

"I found this relaxing spot by the lake with skyline views to be truly refreshing."

"The scenic views of the downtown LA skyline are beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking is free, but it can take time to find a spot.

2

The park is open late, making it great for evening visits.

3

The Los Angeles Lotus Festival occurs annually in July.

18
Alma Park image 1

Small park offers spacious playground and lush old growth foliage with plenty of shade. Atmosphere stays peaceful and calm, suitable for toddlers and pets. Grassy areas and paved paths invite running and biking, while wildlife adds quiet interest.

Lush old growth foliage and spectacular views create a calm setting with a nice ocean breeze. Wildlife is abundant, offering plenty to watch while kids play or animals walk nearby.

A small park with a spacious playground and plenty of shade offers a nice spot for kids to play and relax. Picnic tables and benches provide places to sit amid lush old growth foliage and fresh air.

People are saying

"It's a great park for kids with a nice playground."

"It's a great place for kids to play and get energy out."

"The lush foliage and fresh air make for spectacular scenic views."

Good to know

1

Alma Park has a clean playground suitable for younger kids.

2

There are picnic tables and benches available for visitors.

3

The park is accessible and easy to navigate for all visitors.

19
Joan Milke Flores Park image 1

Park offers mesmerizing ocean views and verdant green grass with ample off-leash space for dogs to roam. Cool, breezy weather with fog and drizzles creates a peaceful, community vibe where people gather around built-in tables and shaded areas.

Shaded areas provide comfort while taking in mesmerizing ocean views. Weather systems move from the ocean to the mountains, adding dynamic scenery around the park.

This park offers a beautiful off-leash dog area with plenty of shade and great views of the Pacific Ocean. It has a strong community feel and stays clean, making it popular for dogs and their owners.

People are saying

"This dog park is amazing, with so much space for them to explore."

"I thought this was the best dog park I had ever been to."

"I loved the awesome ocean views from the park."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms, so plan accordingly.

2

Bring poop bags as the bag stands are usually empty.

3

There is no dedicated small dog area, which may be a concern for small dog owners.

20
Lake Hollywood Park image 1

Open grassy areas and walking paths create a spacious, peaceful urban escape with unobstructed views of the Hollywood Sign. The atmosphere stays calm and welcoming, making it ideal for picnics, dog walks, or light exercise. A dog park adds to the appeal for animal lovers.

Unobstructed views of the Hollywood Sign dominate the scene. The park offers a peaceful urban escape with postcard-worthy city vistas.

Spacious and clean, the park offers unobstructed views of the Hollywood Sign and a peaceful urban escape. It features a dog park and is popular for photos and picnics.

People are saying

"Lake Hollywood Park offers the best views of the Hollywood Sign."

"Parking available here offers great views of the Hollywood Sign."

"You get the best, closest views of the Hollywood Sign here."

Good to know

1

Parking fills up quickly on weekends, so arrive early.

2

There are no public restrooms available at the park.

3

The park is spacious and well-maintained, ideal for picnics and walks.

21
Kenneth Hahn Lower Park image 1

Park offers scenic city views and spacious natural areas with playgrounds and picnic spots. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxed, ideal for walking, hiking, and unwinding. Wildlife sightings and well-maintained trails add to the tranquil experience.

Sweeping panoramic views of the city appear from upper trails and the mountain top. The park offers beautiful cityscapes and a hummingbird garden with views of feeders and birds along the main trail.

A natural and tranquil environment offers scenic views and wildlife sightings. The park features excellent playgrounds, safe kid areas, hiking trails, ponds, and spots for fishing and BBQs.

People are saying

"I found it a peaceful and relaxing getaway from the city."

"These parks offer beautiful, scenic views of the city."

"I loved the sweeping city views from the top of the mountain."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at a low cost, with plenty of spaces.

2

The park is free to enter if walking in, but charges $7 for driving in.

3

The park has clean restrooms and picnic areas.

22
Airplane Landing View Point image 1

Park offers close-up views of airplanes landing just overhead on runways 24R and 24L. It feels quiet and windy, with open grassy areas for sitting and watching. Aviation enthusiasts gather here to enjoy the unique perspective of aircraft arrivals and departures.

The Airplane Landing View Point offers incredible views of planes landing and taking off on runways 24R and 24L. The small park has grassy areas to stand or sit while watching the spectacular overhead landings.

Small, well-kept park offers grassy spots to sit and watch planes. It provides excellent views for planespotting and capturing landings on camera, making it a favorite for aviation fans.

People are saying

"I loved watching the planes land; it's a great spot for plane spotting."

"This park is amazing for plane spotting, with planes flying right overhead."

"Parking available here is very limited, so watch out."

Good to know

1

Parking might be tight depending on the time of day.

2

There are no restrooms at the location.

3

You can watch planes landing from really close.

23
Amir's Garden image 1

Small hillside garden features vertical garden, maze for kids, and tree fortresses with hidden picnic nooks. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere invites rest on benches near a water fountain. Short but steep hike attracts dog owners and runners, offering city views from the top.

Beautiful city views and greenery stand out on clear days. The hike offers good views and covers a relatively short distance.

Amir's Garden sits 0.4 miles uphill from the North Trail trailhead. Kids enjoy after school hikes and adventures along the trails.

People are saying

"I found a nice picnic area with hidden nooks and tree fortresses."

"You'll find fun mazes and picnic nooks in these parks."

"It's a peaceful, colorful garden, a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Parking at Amir's Garden is free.

2

Dogs are allowed on leash in the garden.

3

The hike to Amir's Garden is short but steep; wear proper hiking shoes.

24
Gloria Molina Grand Park image 1

Large open lawns and illuminated fountains create a modern, family-friendly atmosphere with pink chairs and shaded seating areas. The park offers play spaces and splash zones for children alongside well-maintained walking paths. It provides a quiet, relaxing environment amid the city with views of nearby landmarks.

Lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere create an urban oasis with stunning views. The upper level offers a clear sightline to the Civic Centre Mall and downtown, enhanced by lights and lasers during events.

Offers a tranquil atmosphere with great views and plenty of benches, playgrounds, and public restrooms. The park is clean and well maintained, making it a relaxing spot for families and groups to connect and unwind.

People are saying

"I loved the lively mix of cultural events and DJs at this park."

"It's really kid friendly with a great playground and splash park."

"The city views from the park are great."

Good to know

1

Entry to the park is free for all visitors.

2

Parking can be difficult to find near the park.

3

There is a metro stop right next to the park for easy access.

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