According to the Encino Chamber of Commerce, the word “encino” is Spanish for “oak tree.” Encino, a city within the San Fernando Valley, offers many family-friendly things to do.
Los Encinos State Historic Park
16756 Moorpark St., Encino, CA 91436
You might find yourself in the valley, but a visit to this historic location will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time; back to the days before California was a state. The 5-acre park consists of an 1849 adobe dwelling as well as a natural spring (now home to a plentiful duck population). This little-known destination serves as a great way of making social studies seem more real for our children. Kids who are learning about westward expansion and California Indians will learn much here. Families can visit the Los Encinos State Historic Park Wednesday through Saturday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The facility offers free admission.
More Than Waffles
17200 Ventura Blvd., Encino, CA 91316
More Than Waffles is quite popular with the “locals.” This family-owned restaurant has been doing business since 1975. Each waffle is only 140 calories, and can be ordered plain or with a variety of toppings including fruit, ice cream, bacon, and more. And don’t be fooled by their name; they serve up much more than waffles including other breakfast foods (such as breakfast burritos and pancakes), as well as lunch (including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and soups). They are open every day of the year!
Encino Park (a.k.a. Genesta Park)
16953 Ventura Blvd., Enicno, CA 91316
You can make a day of it at Encino Park. Families will find basketball courts, a children’s play area, and barbecue pits and picnic tables here. There’s a large open space perfect for playing soccer, tag, catch, and more. Pack a picnic and an assortment of outdoor games and enjoy the sunshine.
Encino Commons
Ventura Blvd. between White Oak and Balboa Blvds., Encino, CA
Encino Commons is described as “the Valley’s Miracle Mile.” On this stretch of Ventura Boulevard, you’ll find a variety of shops, theaters, and restaurants. This particular stretch of Ventura Boulevard prides itself on being particularly pedestrian friendly. Strolling through Encino Commons is a great way to get some exercise and get out and explore Encino.
Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area
17017 Burbank Blvd., Encino, CA 91316
It sometimes is difficult to find one place that will make every family member happy. But the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area may be the place that can do it. You’ll find a soccer field, baseball diamond, and picnic tables here. In addition, this large facility also includes the Sepulveda Garden Center, an urban community garden which is comprised of 800 individual plots. You’ll find that spending some time here, being aware of all there is to see and smell and hear, is quite a tranquil way to slow-down your family’s normally more frantic pace.
Related: Things to do in Tarzana with Kids
My Gym Children’s Fitness Center
17271 Ventura Blvd., Encino, CA 91316
Whether you’re looking for a Mommy-and-me class for your little one, the opportunity for your child to develop his/her karate skills, or a venue for your chid’s next birthday party, My Gym has what you’re looking for. Classes are designed for children as young as 6 weeks all the way up to 10 years of age. A schedule of classes can be found online.
Balboa Sports Complex
17015 Burbank Blvd., Encino, CA 91316
You can learn it, practice it, and/or perform it here at Balboa Sports Complex. And “it” refers to sports (including flag football, basketball, and soccer among others), piano, ballet, gymnastics, and more. In addition to the camps, classes, and programs that are offered here, families will also find a children’s play area, football field, tennis courts, basketball courts, and more all at this one location.
MomsLA is your source for Things to do with Kids in Los Angeles
Disclaimer: MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.