Founded in the 1950s by a group of rail enthusiasts, the Travel Town Museum is dedicated to American railroad history, particularly from the period between the 1880s and 1930s. Its dozens of special trains on display include steam locomotives, sleeping cars, a San Francisco cable car, horse-drawn tram cars, and more. Travel Town’s arguable highlight is its narrow-gauge railroad, which encircles the museum and provides visitors the chance to, for a small fee, tour the area by miniature train.
The Travel Town Museum is a highlight of Griffith Park visits, and is easy to explore independently. Bring the whole family along for a fun and immersive day out.
The Travel Town Museum is located in the northwest corner of Griffith Park. If using public transportation, take local bus services, including the 96 and the LADOT Dash Bus. Alternatively, travel via car (the museum is located off the 134 Freeway at the Forest Lawn Drive exit) or rideshare service, though be aware that area traffic can be very congested, particularly on weekends.
The Travel Town Museum is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. It is open weekdays from 10am–4pm, and weekends from 10am–5pm (November–February) or 10am–6pm (March–October). The landmark is particularly festive in the lead-up to the holidays, when it hosts the Holiday Light Festival: visitors can admire the twinkling lights and festive decorations as they ride the miniature train.
The Travel Town Museum isn’t the only must-visit cultural stop in Griffith Park—particularly given the fact that it’s one of the largest urban parks in America. Other popular attractions include the Los Angeles Zoo, the Autry National Center (which tells the story of the diverse peoples who have inhabited the American West), the Griffith Observatory, and more. The iconic Hollywood Sign is also just a quick trip away.
