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9 Things to Do in Van Nuys - 2026

Last Updated December 04, 2025
9 fun things to do in Van Nuys, a not-so-little neighborhood of Los Angeles in the San Fernando Valley.

1. Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Sky Zone Trampoline Park is the answer. With wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball courts, Sky Zone is not your average trampoline park. It's a high-energy tangle of trampolines that invites you to defy gravity and bounce off the walls.

2. Live Music

Yes, live music, but more specifically: The Baked Potato. This iconic venue has been serving up legendary live music since the 1970s, hosting everyone from local jazz artists to Grammy-winning performers.

3. Ice Skating

Looking for a blast of cold? Visit Iceland Ice Skating. Open year-round, this indoor rink offers a cool escape from the Valley's warm weather. Whether you're a seasoned skater or it's your first time on the ice, the rink has a nostalgic charm the whole family will love.

4. Golf Course

Golf aficionados will find their slice of paradise at Van Nuys’ go-to course, Van Nuys Golf Course. Boasting two 18-hole courses, the destination is a favorite among locals for its challenging greens and scenic views.

5. Escape Rooms

If you're craving a cerebral challenge, escape room experiences test your problem-solving skills. Spend an hour inside one of Van Nuys’ themed rooms, such as Hypnotic Escape Rooms, solving puzzles and unraveling mysteries to escape before the clock runs out.

6. Anthony C. Beilenson Park

At the south end of Lake Balboa, Anthony C. Beilenson Park, has paddle boats available for rental, which adds a leisurely way to explore the lake's beauty. Particularly niche, here birdwatchers can also appreciate the abundant bird species that call the park home, including herons and ducks.

7. Woodley Park

Close to Van Nuys Golf Course, Woodley Park features archery and model airplane areas. The park is also home to the popular Lake Balboa Park Path, which provides a scenic and safe pathway for cyclists, joggers, and walkers. Families can also visit the nearby Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Recreation Center for more recreational activities.

8. The Japanese Garden

For a serene and contemplative experience, make your way to The Japanese Garden. Tucked in at 6100 Woodley Ave within the sprawling confines of Woodley Park, this authentic Japanese garden is maintained with traditional elements, including bridges and lanterns.
design center

9. Design Center

Whether you’re on your way back to the Van Nuys airport after a trip to the valley, or if you live in Van Nuys or neighboring Burbank or North Hollywood — you’ve got to visit Van Nuys’ Design Center. Sit-down sessions with experts, a wall of swatches, and screens showing your floor plan rendered with your dream design. Experience that and more inside Living Spaces Van Nuys.
Van Nuys Design Center >

What Are the Top Attractions in Van Nuys?

Located at the Tillman Water Reclamation Plant, the Japanese Garden is a perfect spot for a peaceful picnic. Other popular attractions include the Van Nuys Airport Observation Area and the Museum of Neon Art. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Balboa Park is also a must-visit destination!  

Are There Any Outdoor Activities in Van Nuys? 

Yes, Van Nuys is brimming with outdoor things to do. Take a hike at Cascades Trail, where you can enjoy scenic views of waterfalls and lush greenery. Woodley Park's playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, and wildlife preserve also offer a day of fun!

What Dining and Culinary Experiences Can Visitors Enjoy in Van Nuys?

Van Nuys has some must-try dining experiences. The Original Johnnies, an iconic diner experience, serves up classic American fare and is one of the most popular places to eat in the neighborhood. Other must-try places, according to internet reviews? Salsa & Beer for Mexican, Zankou Chicken for Armenian and Sunnin for Lebanese.

Are There Any Family-Friendly Activities in Van Nuys?

Van Nuys is a great place for families. Some fun wholesome things to do include the nearby Sherman Oaks War Memorial Park, Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center, and the Fun & Fit Gymnastics Center. Bring the kids on a Saturday to let off steam at any of these places and more to enjoy the suburban and safe feel that the neighborhood offers.

What Is Van Nuys Famous For?

Van Nuys' rich aviation and railroad history make it one for the books. The neighborhood became the first stop of Pacific Electric Railway's early 20th-century lines. A little later, the Van Nuys Airport opened to the public, marking Van Nuys as a can't-ignore place amongst Hollywood, Burbank and the Valley.

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