Griffith Manor Park

Shady, easy parking and never crowded. "Track" is perfect for kids bike rides. Restrooms are actually clean.

I'm almost wary to review this place because it's the sort of hidden gem I want to keep to myself. A stone's throw down the freeway from Griffith Park proper (not far from Golden Road brewery), this small, fenced-in park has everything a kid needs: multiple play structures, swing sets, grass field for running and a bike track encircling the grounds. Bonus: plenty of mature shade trees. It's never too crowded, and there are covered picnic tables and a rec building that can be rented out for birthday parties. A great alternative to Shane's Inspiration.