Things to do with kids in the San Fernando Valley, California
Fun, Sanity-Saving Things To Do With Kids in the San Fernando Valley
If you’re a mom in the thick of it—running on caffeine, counting down to nap time, and Googling “things to do with kids near me” for the third time this week—this post is for you.
Because here’s the truth: motherhood in the San Fernando Valley can feel like Groundhog Day. The same parks. The same snacks. The same tantrums over the wrong sippy cup. Whether you're deep in postpartum, juggling toddlers and work meetings, or trying to reconnect with yourself between school drop-off and dinner battles, sometimes just getting out of the house can shift everything.
Let’s take some of the pressure off. You don’t need to plan a Pinterest-perfect outing. You just need options that are real-life friendly, stroller-accessible, and offer a moment of peace (or at least distraction). Below are some favorite family-friendly activities, hidden gems, and mom-approved spots around the Valley that help you survive—and maybe even enjoy—these long days.
🌳 Outdoor Spots for Fresh Air and Fewer Meltdowns
Lake Balboa Park (Anthony C. Beilenson Park)
One of the best family-friendly parks in the San Fernando Valley. Think wide-open space for toddlers to run wild, ducks to watch, and paths perfect for stroller walks or scootering. Pack a snack, bring bubbles, and you’ve bought yourself at least 30 minutes of peace.
The Japanese Garden in Van Nuys
A calm, quiet spot that feels like a total escape from the chaos. Best for early walkers or when you just need a change of scenery that doesn’t involve a screen. Bonus: it’s beautiful and not too crowded.
Franklin Canyon Park (just above Beverly Hills)
Technically right outside the Valley, but close enough. This hidden nature spot is stroller-accessible with short, manageable trails, picnic spots, and actual quiet. Yes, that still exists.
☕ Mom-Friendly Cafes + Play Spaces
1. Craft Bar
Located in Woodland Hills, California. Craft Bar offers a variety of crafting activities suitable for children. It's an awesome place to foster creativity and spend time together.
2. PlayLab Family Playspace Eagle Rock, CA
Perfect for littles. Safe, clean, and designed to encourage open-ended, imaginative play (read: less overstimulation, more calm). They also offer classes and events that are actually fun for both kids and parents.
🎨 Creative + Low-Key Indoor Activities
Kidspace Children’s Museum – Pasadena
Okay, it’s technically outside the Valley, but it’s worth the drive. Science, nature, water play, and exhibits that make learning fun (and give you a break from the constant "Why?" questions). Great for weekends or summer heat waves.
Valley Relics Museum – Van Nuys
Quirky, colorful, and surprisingly kid-friendly. A cool option for curious kids and nostalgic parents alike. Think neon signs, old-school LA vibes, and just enough chaos to be entertaining but not overwhelming.
🛝 Underrated Playgrounds + Hidden Gems
Vanalden Park – Tarzana
A shaded playground with climbing structures and a sandbox. Not as crowded as the big parks, so it's a nice option for sensory-sensitive kids or moms who just want a quiet morning.
Betsy Lueke Creative Arts Center – Burbank
Check their calendar for rotating family-friendly art exhibits and kids' workshops. A calm, inspiring space that sparks creativity without the overwhelm of bigger museums.
🚂 Trains, Animals + Off-the-Beaten-Path Fun
Travel Town Museum (Griffith Park)
Climb inside real trains, ride the mini train, and let your toddler live their best Thomas the Tank Engine life. Low-cost, high-reward, and perfect for little explorers.
Shane’s Inspiration Playground (Griffith Park)
An inclusive playground with tons of room to run and play. Bonus: it's designed to accommodate kids of all abilities, and there's plenty of shaded space for parents.
Los Angeles Equestrian Center (Burbank)
Take a walk and see the horses or check the schedule for events. It’s a calm, slower-paced outing with a little bit of magic for animal-loving littles.
Wildlife Learning Center (Sylmar)
A quiet gem in the San Fernando Valley with rescued animals you can meet up close—like sloths, foxes, and tortoises. It’s educational, calm, and perfect for toddlers or preschoolers.💆♀️ Real Talk: You Deserve a Break Too
Yes, you’re planning activities for your kids. But also? You’re trying to protect your sanity. You’re juggling everything. If you find yourself exhausted, touched-out, overstimulated, or wondering if you’re the only mom who hates pretend play after 10 minutes—you’re not alone. And therapy can help you create space to care for you, too. Click here to learn more about how therapy can support you!
If you’re a mom in the San Fernando Valley struggling with burnout, anxiety, or just feeling lost in the chaos of motherhood, I’m here. I offer virtual therapy for moms throughout California—so you can get support without needing a sitter or changing out of yoga pants.
Ready for a Reset?
It’s okay to not love every moment of motherhood. You’re doing your best. Sometimes that means planning fun things to do with your kids. And sometimes it means texting a friend, skipping the outing, and asking for help. Both are valid.
If you're craving more than just another activity—if you're ready for support, for space to breathe, and to finally feel like you again—I’d love to help. Therapy isn’t just for crisis. It’s for the moms who feel like they're disappearing under the weight of it all.
Learn more about therapy for moms in California by clicking here
Looking for support to start thriving instead of just surviving motherhood? My name is Alexa Levine, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in supporting pregnant and postpartum moms in Los Angeles with my virtual therapy practice. Let’s Connect! Stop surviving and start reclaiming motherhood—on your terms. I can’t wait to support you on your motherhood journey!
