Van Nuys, a neighborhood within the San Fernando Valley, is named after a developer of the same name — Mr. Van Nuys. Families with kids of all ages will find lots of fun things to do here.
Public Observation Area at Van Nuys Airport
Off of Woodley Ave. at the end of Waterman Dr., Van Nuys, CA
The Van Nuys Airport “ranks as one of the world’s busiest general aviation airports.” If your kids are interested in airplanes (this airport is for noncommercial air travel), take them to the Airport’s Public Observation Area. This part of the airport features “permanent displays, special children’s exhibits, and a continuous live broadcast of air traffic controllers in the airport’s control tower.” The Observation Area is open daily from 8:00 am to sunset.
Woodley Park
6350 Woodley Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91436
Woodley Park is not your regular park. Here, you’ll find common amenities such as barbecue pits, picnic tables, a children’s play area, and a baseball diamond. But you’ll also find an archery range and cricket field here as well. The large grassy areas make it an ideal spot for flying a kite!
Van Nuys Branch Library
6250 Sylmar Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91401
The Van Nuys Branch Library is a part of the Los Angeles Public library System. The library hosts many special family-friendly activities and events including story times, Movie Saturdays, special performances, Teen Tech Month, and more. Students will also appreciate the “Student Zone,” open Monday through Friday. Students in grades 4-12 may sign in to use the resources, equipment, and supplies to assist with homework assignments. The library is closed on Sundays.
SuihoEn “Garden of Water and Fragrance” aka The Japanese Garden
6100 Woodley Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91406
Within busy San Fernando Valley, you’ll find this peaceful escape — a 6 1/2 acre garden, which is actually three gardens in one. The Japanese Garden is adjacent to a water reclamation plant. The garden is “fashioned after those strolling gardens which were built during the 18th and 19th centuries for Japanese feudal lords on their vast estates.” Additionally, the Garden is designed to be enjoyed during each of the four seasons and offers a variety of blooming flowers throughout the year. The Garden is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and on Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. (The Garden is closed on Fridays and Saturdays). Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors (62 and older), and $3 for children 12 and younger. No outside food is allowed within the garden (only water).
Iceland Ice Skating Center
14318 Calvert St., Van Nuys, CA 91401
Families of all ages and skill abilities can have a good time skating at Iceland Ice Skating Center. They offer classes (hockey and figure skating), serve as a birthday party venue, and host public skate sessions. Children 12 and younger may skate with a “walker” which helps them with balance on the ice.
Van Nuys Park and Recreation Center
14301 Vanowen Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91405
Get ready for some outdoor fun at Van Nuys Recreation Center. You’ll find something for every member of the family here. The facility offers special classes, after-school programs, and special events. In addition, families will enjoy the tennis courts, children’s play area, basketball courts, baseball diamond, soccer field, and more.
Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Preserve
6350 Woodley Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91406
The Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Preserve is a 225-acre site featuring a bird refuge island and native plant revegetation. Bring the binoculars and get ready to bird watch. Take a walk on one of the trails and be on the lookout for egrets, geese, ducks, and more. The area is actually divided into the South Reserve and the North Reserve. You can find trail maps online.
Pump It Up
6862 Hayvenhurst Ave. Unit B, Van Nuys, CA 91406
Pump It Up is a popular venue for children’s birthday parties. In addition, they offer “Open Jump” sessions allowing kids to explore and have fun in their indoor play space featuring huge inflatables. Open Jump is usually available during the week; check the website for more information. Socks are required, and children must be at least 34 inches tall to play.
Beeps Diner
16063 Sherman Way, Van Nuys, CA 91406
Beeps has been a Van Nuys favorite since 1956! This classic diner is open seven days a week and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day long. They offer a large menu, reasonable prices, and daily specials. Don’t forget to save room for one of their “fountain treats” such as a sundae, banana split, shake, or malt. (Be warned though — customers mention that parking can be challenging, and the restaurant does not have a public restroom).
Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park
6300 Balboa Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91406
Although you’ll still be in Van Nuys, you may temporarily feel as if you’ve traveled somewhere further away. Take a walk around Lake Balboa and enjoy the scenery. Take advantage of the jogging/walking path and the bike path here. Kids will love seeing ducks and have lots of fun at the maritime-themed play area.
Sky Zone
7741 Hayvenhurst Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91406
Sky Zone is described as “the world’s first indoor trampoline park.” Here, you and your kids will be active and will feel as if you’re flying. The facility offers Freestyle Jump, a SkySlam court, Ultimate Dodgeball, and a Foam Zone. Tickets can be purchased online.
Delano Park and Recreation Center
15100 Erwin St., Van Nuys, CA 91411
Many different classes and programs are offered at Delano Recreation Center including basketball, ballet, and summer camp, to name a few. In addition, the park offers a children’s play area as well as large grassy areas perfect for games of tag and catch.
MomsLA is your source for Things to do with Kids in Los Angeles
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