Los Angeles family guide
Things to Do in Van Nuys with Kids
Curated by Punita Patel
Things to do in Van Nuys
Lake Balboa / Anthony C. Beilenson Park
An 80-acre lake with a flat loop perfect for scooters and strollers. The cherry-blossom bloom is the Valley's mini-DC moment.
Free; boats ~$18–20/hrThe Japanese Garden (SuihoEn)
A quiet formal garden — but weekday-only hours surprise people, and 2026 construction has caused closures, so call ahead.
$5 adult / $3 childSepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve
A ~2.5-mile loop through a 225-acre reserve on the Pacific Flyway. No dogs in the reserve; it's vast and unshaded, so go early.
FreeLocal restaurants in Van Nuys
Dr. Hogly Wogly's Tyler Texas BBQ
A Van Nuys time-warp serving Texas-sized smoked ribs, brisket, and links since 1969 — generous, casual, and easy with a hungry table.
Local shops in Van Nuys
Valley Relics Museum Store
Gift shop of a nonprofit museum devoted to San Fernando Valley history, with neon-sign-inspired apparel, books, and collectibles.
Seasonal & outdoors near Van Nuys
The closest splash pads, patches, lights and more — distances from Van Nuys.
Van Nuys is part of the North of LA family guide — see the region's best things to do, local eats and events.
More Los Angeles family guides
Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.