Travel Town at Griffith Park: What’s it Like?
Do you or someone you know love trains? If so, you should head over to Travel Town at Griffith Park! Read on to learn what you will find there!
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I am embarrassed to say that I flat out refused to go to Travel Town at Griffith Park. We have driven past it on the freeway so many times and had zero interest. I thought, “Why would I want to see the outside of a couple of trains that don’t move?” Had I known what it was like, I would have gone sooner! You should definitely check out Travel Town if you are looking for something local to do this week! It’s fun and FREE!
Picnic area and Miniature Train Rides
I confess that my hubby bated me to go by offering a picnic. Specifically, a picnic that involved my favorite food from Porto’s Bakery. He sweetened the deal by offering to bring Mr. Jackson. DEAL!
We sat on a grassy hill just steps away from the entrance. There was a great view of the miniature Train Rides as they passed by. Train goers waved at us as they passed, and we happily waved right back!
If you prefer to sit at a table, they have these cute picnic tables at Travel Town as well. Bring miniature trains along if you have a little one that loves trains! This will keep them entertained during lunch 😉
We did not have time to hop on the miniature train, but it looks like a lot of fun! You can find Travel Town Railroad ride information HERE.
Outdoor Exhibits
Trains
You will find plenty of trains to look at on the grounds. All are out of operation, however you are able to climb inside to take a look! The black train was open at the front.
It was really neat to see the inside of the front control room (is that what it’s called?). Of course, the pictures were fun too 😉
There are some beautiful trains at the front entrance. However, we were unable to enter because there was a birthday party going on in there. How fun would it be to hold a party inside of a train?!
If you or other family members would love to take a nice train ride, you should check out our experience at The Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel! We highly recommend it 🙂
Make sure to bring your cameras! There are so many beautiful pictures to be taken!
Trolley Car and Casey Jones Statue
There is a beautiful statue of Casey Jones and a trolley car at the front of Travel Town Museum. It is quite a sight to see!
My girls excitedly recalled our trip to San Francisco and riding real cable cars across the city. Be sure to check out our Epic Road Trip Itinerary from Los Angeles to San Francisco!
Indoor Museum
We almost missed the indoor museum! It looks like a big warehouse. We were pleasantly surprised by all that we found inside.
There was an old zoo train caboose in the exhibit…
There were different modes of transportation in this exhibit. We saw carriages and older model cars.
Be sure to check out the miniature train model while your in the indoor exhibit! We almost missed this one too! Keep your eye out for a large plastic window. It is just behind the small children play area inside the exhibit.
Show and General Store
There are two more areas we did not take advantage of during our visit to Travel Town. You will see a museum store near the entrance that looks like it would contain items a train lover would enjoy.
There was a show available as well. We did not have time to go inside and therefore can’t provide information about it.
Our favorite part?
My favorite part of Travel Town Museum? Mr. Jackson got to enjoy transportation history along with us!
Quick Facts
Address: 5200 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA
Hours:Open year round, except for Christmas Day.
10am-5pm, November through February, and 10am-6pm, March through October.
Cost: Free!
Web Site: Travel Town Museum
Check out these posts:
Griffith Park Pony Rides: 10 Parent Tips
The Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel: Is It Worth It?
Epic Road Trip Itinerary: Los Angeles to San Francisco
Los Angeles to Las Vegas: 5 Fun Road Trip Stops
Great Wolf Lodge Anaheim: Is It Worth It?