Griffith Park Pony Rides has been part of LA families’ lives since 1948! The Pony Ride pasture sits on four acres within Griffith Park, which is a one of the largest natural terrains within the city of Los Angeles (the Los Angeles Zoo and Travel Time Museum are just around the corner, and also located in Griffith Park!). The pony rides happen in a safe and controlled area of the park, guided by trained staff. Its an excellent experience to let your kids enjoy!

There are a few different levels of Pony riding:

The Pony-Go-Round with real ponies for the smallest of riders (one year and up), where parents are allowed to walk with the child and next to the pony. The child is secured in the saddle and the ponies are attached to the carousel. It’s a great first pony riding experience if you want to guide your child. The next few pony riding levels don’t allow parents to go with the child!

Slow Ponies are the next step up from the Pony-Go-Round. The child is secured to the saddle and they are lead through the inner circle of the track on a slow pace. Parents can watch and wave from the designated waiting area. The staff does not walk with your child for the full 2 laps, but instead they are around to guide and help, if needed. A little nerve-wrecking to see your 18 month old all by himself out there doing laps on a pony (image below)! But a good lesson in letting go and trusting your child’s capabilities!

The Medium Pony Rides are for children three years and up. The ponies go a little faster. I’d say they run for half the time! They go around on the outer circle of the track. The staff takes your child and helps them get on the pony and secures them to the saddle while you wait at the waiting area from where you can watch.

For the Big Pony Rides your child must be seven years old and up, or 48″ tall and up. This is the most advanced level offered at Griffith Park Pony Rides.

If you are looking for a ride for the whole family, you can go on a wagon ride! To find out the ponies names and a few facts about each, head this way!

Each pony ride costs $5. The park is open from 10:00am to 4:00pm on weekdays and from 10:00am to 5:00pm on weekends. There is free parking.

4400 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles CA 90027