14 Things To Do In San Fernando Valley, CA
The San Fernando Valley is a vibrant and diverse region in Southern California, filled with unique attractions and experiences that capture the essence of LA.
Known as “The Valley”, this area is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a mix of entertainment, culture, and natural beauty. From the lively atmosphere of Universal CityWalk to the artistic spirit of the NoHo Arts District and the tranquility of Lake Balboa Park, the San Fernando Valley has something for everyone.
One of the Valley’s standout qualities is its variety of attractions. Visitors can explore Hollywood nostalgia at the Brady Bunch House, dive into history at Mission San Fernando Rey de España, and enjoy family-friendly outdoor activities at Lake Balboa. For those interested in culture, the Valley features must-see destinations like the Autry Museum and the colorful Great Wall of Los Angeles mural.
With this guide, discover some of the best things to do in San Fernando Valley.
1. Pick Your Fancy at Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk is an exciting entertainment, dining, and shopping complex that offers a full LA experience with a touch of Hollywood glamor. Situated adjacent to Universal Studios Hollywood in the San Fernando Valley, CityWalk is bustling with energy, bright neon lights, and a variety of attractions. This sprawling promenade features themed restaurants like Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and Voodoo Doughnut, where you can indulge in quirky, delicious treats.
CityWalk isn’t just about dining, though. The complex also hosts a cinema with IMAX screens for an immersive viewing experience and a range of retail shops to explore, from high-end brands to unique boutiques. Street performers and musicians often provide live entertainment, adding to the area’s lively atmosphere.
For thrill-seekers, Universal CityWalk even has indoor skydiving at iFLY Hollywood. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to capture the Hollywood vibe without entering the theme park itself. Open late into the night, CityWalk is an ideal spot to experience the electrifying nightlife of the San Fernando Valley.
Fun Fact: Universal CityWalk opened in 1993 and features a 5-story guitar that stands as one of the largest neon signs in Los Angeles. It’s also home to one of the only outdoor, free-standing IMAX theaters in California.
2. Visit the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Located within the expansive Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is one of the top family-friendly attractions in San Fernando Valley. The zoo spans 133 acres and is home to over 1,400 animals, featuring species from across the globe, including endangered animals like the snow leopard and Sumatran tiger. The zoo is known for its naturalistic habitats, which offer an educational experience, bringing visitors closer to animals and fostering respect for conservation.
In addition to the zoo, the adjoining Botanical Gardens provide lush, green spaces and themed gardens that showcase native and exotic plants. The Rainforest of the Americas is one of the most popular exhibits, giving guests a chance to walk through a tropical environment complete with waterfalls and fascinating wildlife.
The zoo also hosts seasonal events, like Zoo Lights during the holidays, where the grounds transform into a spectacular light display. The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to spend a day exploring animals and plants. A visit here adds a unique combination of education, entertainment, and adventure to your San Fernando Valley experience.
Fun Fact: The Los Angeles Zoo houses over 1,400 animals from more than 270 species, including several rare and endangered animals like the Sumatran tiger and the California condor.
3. Enjoy the Outdoors at Lake Balboa Park
For outdoor enthusiasts visiting the San Fernando Valley, Lake Balboa Park is an ideal destination for relaxing and enjoying nature. Located within the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area, Lake Balboa features a scenic 27-acre lake where you can rent paddle boats, fish, or simply enjoy the view. The park is especially famous for its cherry blossom trees, which bloom in spring, creating a stunning pink landscape that attracts photographers and nature lovers.
Lake Balboa Park is also a perfect spot for recreational activities. It has shaded picnic areas, open green spaces, playgrounds, and a network of paved trails for jogging, biking, or a peaceful walk around the lake. Bird watchers can spot local species like herons and ducks, adding a bit of wildlife to the park’s serene environment.
The park’s combination of outdoor activities and natural scenery makes it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
Fun Fact: Lake Balboa Park becomes a breathtaking scene each spring as more than 2,000 cherry blossom trees bloom, attracting visitors from across Southern California.
4. Connect with America’s Past in the Autry Museum
The Autry Museum of the American West, located in Griffith Park, offers a unique journey through the history and culture of the American West. Founded by actor and Western icon Gene Autry, the museum features over 500,000 artifacts that tell the stories of Native American cultures, early settlers, and the impact of Hollywood on the American West.
One of the museum’s highlights is the collection of Native American art and artifacts, including intricate pottery, jewelry, and textiles that provide a glimpse into indigenous craftsmanship. The museum also explores the Western film genre, featuring costumes, props, and memorabilia from classic Western movies, bringing the silver screen’s cowboy legacy to life.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Autry Museum hosts rotating exhibitions and public programs, including film screenings, storytelling sessions, and live demonstrations. For families and history enthusiasts, the Autry Museum provides an engaging experience that enriches the understanding of American history and the diversity of Western culture. With its immersive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences, the Autry Museum of the American West is a must-visit in the San Fernando Valley.
5. Stay Active at the Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex
The Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex is a sprawling outdoor sports facility that’s perfect for visitors wanting to stay active in San Fernando Valley. Covering over 65 acres, this complex features facilities for almost every sport, including soccer, baseball, softball, and basketball. It’s a great spot for both organized leagues and casual games, with multiple fields and courts available for public use.
Beyond traditional sports, the Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex also has a skate park for skateboarders and a vast area for picnics and outdoor gatherings. For those looking to work out or practice their skills, the complex’s high-quality fields and courts make it a top choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts in LA.
Nestled within the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area, the sports complex is surrounded by scenic nature trails, offering a nice mix of recreation and relaxation. With its range of facilities, the Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex is an excellent spot for families, friends, and solo visitors to enjoy a day of sports or leisure in the Valley.
Fun Fact: The Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex is part of the larger Sepulveda Dam flood control project, designed in the 1940s to protect Los Angeles from flooding.
6. Have a Photo Op at the Brady Bunch House
The iconic Brady Bunch House in Studio City is a must-see for fans of the classic 1970s sitcom. This house served as the exterior for the beloved Brady family’s home, making it one of the most recognizable homes in TV history. While the interior scenes were filmed on a soundstage, the house’s exterior remains exactly as it was depicted on the show, and fans flock here for photo ops and a nostalgic trip back in time.
Recently, the Brady Bunch House was renovated to recreate the set interiors, allowing visitors to step inside and experience the retro decor as seen on TV. Although the interior is not always open to the public, the exterior alone draws fans for that perfect snapshot.
Located in a quiet neighborhood, the Brady Bunch House continues to be a popular spot for television history buffs and fans of vintage pop culture. Visiting the Brady Bunch House is like stepping into the past, reliving the family sitcom era that remains cherished in American pop culture.
Fun Fact: The exterior of the Brady Bunch House is one of the most recognized in TV history, even though all indoor scenes were filmed on a soundstage. In 2018, HGTV purchased the home and renovated it to match the set’s interior.
7. Join the Beat at the NoHo Arts District
The NoHo Arts District in North Hollywood is one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in San Fernando Valley. Known for its eclectic arts scene, NoHo is filled with theaters, galleries, dance studios, and music venues, making it a magnet for creative souls. With theaters like the El Portal Theatre and dozens of black box theaters, the area is celebrated for its live performances, from avant-garde plays to comedy shows and musical acts.
Art galleries along Lankershim Boulevard showcase the works of local artists, while bars and restaurants provide a lively atmosphere where patrons gather to enjoy the area’s creative energy. For those looking to experience the nightlife, NoHo offers everything from jazz lounges to trendy bars, each with its own artistic vibe.
8. Feel Racial Harmony at the Great Wall of Los Angeles
The Great Wall of Los Angeles is one of the most powerful artistic landmarks in the San Fernando Valley. Spanning over half a mile along the Tujunga Wash, this mural is one of the longest in the world and depicts key moments in California’s multicultural history. Created by artist Judith Baca with help from over 400 community members, the mural was designed to promote social justice and harmony by highlighting significant events, from the state’s Indigenous roots to the civil rights movement.
With vibrant illustrations depicting stories often left out of textbooks, the Great Wall invites visitors to walk along its length and reflect on California’s diverse heritage. A popular educational site, it frequently draws students, historians, and tourists alike.
Fun Fact: Stretching half a mile, the Great Wall of Los Angeles is one of the longest murals in the world, depicting a timeline of California’s history, with a focus on underrepresented communities.
9. Shopping at Ventura Boulevard
Ventura Boulevard is a major thoroughfare in the San Fernando Valley, stretching from Studio City to Woodland Hills. Known for its bustling shopping scene, Ventura Boulevard offers an eclectic mix of trendy boutiques, local shops, and popular chain stores. It’s the perfect spot to find unique fashion, accessories, and home decor while enjoying the Valley’s laid-back vibe.
Lined with cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues, Ventura Boulevard is ideal for a day of shopping and dining. Stop by Iroha Sushi of Tokyo for authentic Japanese cuisine, or grab a coffee at The Coffee Roaster.
Fun Fact: Ventura Boulevard is one of the oldest and longest avenues in Los Angeles. It follows a historic route originally used by Spanish settlers and has since become a bustling hub of activity. Shopping on Ventura Boulevard combines modern retail with a touch of LA’s history, making it a unique experience in San Fernando Valley.
10. Visit the Mission San Fernando Rey de España
Founded in 1797, Mission San Fernando Rey de España is a serene historical site and one of California’s 21 Spanish missions. Located in the heart of San Fernando Valley, this mission offers visitors a chance to step back into the past and explore California’s Spanish colonial history. The mission complex includes a beautiful chapel, tranquil gardens, and a museum filled with artifacts that reveal the lives of early settlers and the indigenous Tongva people.
Wander through the mission’s courtyard, lined with fountains and blooming flowers, or explore the relics housed in its museum. The mission remains an active place of worship, so visitors can also attend services or take quiet time for reflection.
Fun Fact: Founded in 1797, Mission San Fernando is one of California’s original 21 missions, and its stunning church, gardens, and museum attract thousands of visitors every year.
11. Relive Old Ranch Living in Leonis Adobe
Step into the 19th century at the Leonis Adobe Museum in Calabasas, one of the oldest standing structures in Los Angeles County. Built in the 1880s, this preserved ranch house offers a glimpse into ranch life in early California, complete with artifacts, antique furnishings, and farm animals. Known as the "last of the great ranchos," Leonis Adobe brings Old West history to life through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
The grounds also feature a barn, a blacksmith’s shop, and a working farm with chickens, sheep, and other animals, making it a hit with families and history buffs alike. The museum frequently hosts educational programs and seasonal events, perfect for visitors interested in California’s pioneer past.
Fun Fact: The Leonis Adobe Museum is one of the oldest standing buildings in Los Angeles County, built in the 1880s, and is said to be haunted by its original owner, Miguel Leonis, who was known as the “King of Calabasas.”
12. Jazz It Up at the Baked Potato
The Baked Potato in Studio City is a legendary jazz club and a must-visit for music lovers in San Fernando Valley. Since 1970, this cozy venue has hosted some of the biggest names in jazz, from Chick Corea to Larry Carlton. Known for its intimate setting and incredible acoustics, the Baked Potato offers live jazz performances nearly every night, creating an electric atmosphere for musicians and audiences alike.
Aside from its musical lineup, the club is famous for its namesake menu item: the baked potato. Patrons can choose from a variety of toppings, making the potatoes a unique—and delicious—part of the experience.
Fun Fact: The Baked Potato got its name from its menu specialty, offering oversized baked potatoes with toppings like cheese, bacon, and even chili. Many jazz legends consider the Baked Potato one of the best places to play in LA, making it a premier jazz destination in Southern California.
13. Meditate at Woodley Park’s Japanese Garden
The Japanese Garden at Woodley Park offers a tranquil escape within the bustling San Fernando Valley. Modeled after traditional Japanese gardens, this serene spot features winding paths, koi ponds, bridges, and a teahouse, creating a peaceful space for meditation and reflection. Known as “SuihoEn” or the “Garden of Water and Fragrance,” the Japanese Garden spans 6.5 acres and is designed to highlight seasonal beauty and harmony with nature.
Stroll through carefully landscaped areas filled with cherry blossoms, bonsai trees, and water features that promote a sense of peace. The garden’s layout follows Japanese design principles, creating spaces that encourage visitors to pause and enjoy the surroundings.
Fun Fact: Known as “SuihoEn” or the “Garden of Water and Fragrance,” this Japanese garden uses reclaimed water from the LA River, making it one of the world’s few Japanese gardens with a focus on water conservation.
14. Experience Valley Buddhism at Wat Thai Temple
Wat Thai of Los Angeles is the largest Thai Buddhist temple in California and serves as a cultural center for the Thai community in San Fernando Valley. The temple’s stunning architecture and colorful decor transport visitors to Thailand, offering a unique cultural experience right in LA. Open to the public, Wat Thai provides an opportunity to explore Thai Buddhism, witness traditional ceremonies, and learn about Thai culture.
On weekends, the temple hosts a lively food market featuring authentic Thai street food, including favorites like pad thai, mango sticky rice, and Thai iced tea. The temple grounds are peaceful, with ornate statues and shrines, making it a perfect place to meditate or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Fun Fact: Wat Thai Temple was built in 1972 and has become a beloved cultural landmark in LA. The weekend food market attracts visitors from all over the city, making it one of the best places to sample authentic Thai cuisine and experience Thai culture outside of Thailand.
Conclusion
The San Fernando Valley truly offers an incredible variety of experiences, making it one of the most diverse areas to explore in Los Angeles. From historical landmarks like Mission San Fernando Rey de España to modern entertainment at Universal CityWalk, the Valley has a unique blend of old and new, perfect for every type of traveler. Nature lovers will find serenity in places like Lake Balboa Park and the peaceful Japanese Garden at Woodley Park, while art enthusiasts can delve into the local culture at the NoHo Arts District and the Autry Museum of the American West.
For those interested in local flavors, the Valley’s Ventura Boulevard is packed with restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, offering a taste of LA’s famous dining scene. Family-friendly spots like the Los Angeles Zoo make it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages. Embrace all that the Valley has to offer and uncover why it’s one of LA’s most beloved areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the San Fernando Valley best known for?
The San Fernando Valley is known for its diverse range of attractions, from cultural landmarks like Mission San Fernando Rey de España to arts districts like NoHo, shopping experiences on Ventura Boulevard, and natural spots like Lake Balboa Park. It is also famous for its role in the entertainment industry, being close to Universal Studios and other film-related venues.
2. Is it easy to get around the Valley?
While public transportation is available, including buses and the Metro, having a car is generally the most convenient way to explore the San Fernando Valley. Many attractions are spread out, making it challenging to rely solely on public transport.
3. Are there family-friendly activities in the San Fernando Valley?
Absolutely! Places like the Los Angeles Zoo, Lake Balboa Park, and Universal CityWalk offer a variety of activities that are suitable for families. Kids can also enjoy the Sepulveda Basin Sports Complex for sports and the Autry Museum for educational activities.
4. Is the San Fernando Valley safe for tourists?
Generally speaking, the Valley is considered to be safe, especially in the tourist-friendly areas. However, as with any urban area, it's important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
5. What is the best time to visit?
The San Fernando Valley experiences a Mediterranean climate, making it pleasant to visit year-round. However, the spring and fall offer moderate temperatures and less crowded attractions.
6. Are there cultural and spiritual sites to visit?
Yes, the Valley is rich in cultural and spiritual sites. Wat Thai Temple offers a slice of Thai culture and Buddhism, while the Great Wall of Los Angeles provides a vivid artistic representation of the diverse history of the area. The Mission San Fernando Rey de España is another must-see cultural landmark.
7. What kinds of shopping experiences can I expect?
From high-end fashion stores to quirky boutiques, Ventura Boulevard offers a diverse shopping experience. For those interested in vintage and local crafts, the NoHo Arts District is a great place to shop.