44 Fun Things to Do in Studio City With Kids: An Ultimate Guide!
Studio City sits right where the Santa Monica Mountains meet the Valley floor, and that geography is exactly what makes it such a good place to raise explorers. In one morning, you can hike a shady canyon trail, wander a farmers market with a kids' zone, and grab a chili dog inside a real railroad car. If your "things to do in Studio City with kids" list ends at Ventura Boulevard, you’re missing out on the good stuff. Strap in—there's way more to explore than a quick cruise down the main strip!
We've rounded up 44 fun ideas for your family: canyon parks and river walks, playgrounds, storytimes, bowling, a sensory-friendly gym, family restaurants and sweet treats, seasonal events, and a clearly labeled list of nearby add-ons in Universal City, North Hollywood, Burbank, Griffith Park and beyond.
📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox
Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas.
Kids Activities Near Me (Studio City Edition): At a Glance
Where it is: Studio City is a San Fernando Valley neighborhood of the City of Los Angeles (ZIP 91604, with a slice of 91602), between Sherman Oaks, North Hollywood, Toluca Lake and Universal City, with the Hollywood Hills and Mulholland Drive along its southern edge.
Best for: Babies through tweens. Toddlers love the fenced playgrounds, library storytimes and the farmers market kids' area; older kids can handle the Wilacre and Fryman Canyon trails, bowling at Pinz and a day at Universal Studios Hollywood next door.
Getting there & parking: Most parks have free street parking or free lots. Wilacre Park's lot charges $7 for up to two hours. The Sunday farmers market offers free parking in the Radford Studio Center garage.
Best time to go: Weekend mornings before 10 a.m. for trails and the market; weekday afternoons for playgrounds and the library. Summer afternoons in the Valley get hot, so plan hikes early.
Free favorites: Kids Club at The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge (Wednesdays through October), the LA River and Valleyheart greenways, TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park, Woodbridge and Moorpark parks, Studio City Branch Library storytimes and Kids Bowl Free at Pinz (through October 31, 2026, registration required).
Heads-up for 2026: Harvard-Westlake River Park, on the former Weddington Golf & Tennis site on Whitsett Avenue, is still under construction, and no public opening date has been announced.
Parks, Hikes & Outdoor Things to Do in Studio City With Kids
Studio City's best-kept secret is how quickly you can go from a busy boulevard to a quiet canyon trail. These parks and paths range from stroller-easy river walks to real hikes with a view.
3431 Fryman Road
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free entry; parking lot $7 for up to 2 hours
Best for: Ages 5 and up (strong toddlers in a carrier)
Wilacre Park is the classic Studio City family hike. This 128-acre park, managed by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority, climbs from a large parking lot at the corner of Fryman Road and Laurel Canyon Boulevard into walnut woodland and coastal sage scrub. The wide trail is well shaded, which makes it a smart pick on warm Valley days.
Fair warning: the first stretch is steep, so little legs may need a pep talk (or a snack bribe). Once you level out, the path connects to the Betty B. Dearing Trail and the wider Cross Mountain Park trail system. There are restrooms, drinking fountains and a picnic area at the bottom, and leashed dogs are welcome.
Parent tip: The lot now charges $7 for up to two hours (maximum four hours per day), payable by pay station or cash. Turn around at the first big bench with a view for a 45-minute outing that works for most 5-year-olds.
Trailheads at Wilacre Park
3431 Fryman Road
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free (parking fee at Wilacre lot)
Best for: Ages 8 and up; confident hikers
Ready for more than a quick loop? The Betty B. Dearing Trail is the backbone of the Studio City hills, a moderate 4.9-mile route with about 468 feet of elevation gain, according to Los Angeles County's trail guide. It links Wilacre Park, Fryman Canyon, Coldwater Canyon and Franklin Canyon, so you can choose your own adventure.
Older kids get a real sense of accomplishment here, with skyline peeks over the Valley and plenty of lizards to spot along the way. Many families hike it as the popular Fryman Canyon loop, climbing from Wilacre and returning through the neighborhood below.
Parent tip: Download the trail on the Trails LA County app before you go, since cell service can be spotty in the canyons. Pack more water than you think you'll need, and skip it entirely on red flag warning days, when MRCA parks may close.
8401 Mulholland Drive
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages for the overlook; ages 6 and up for the trail
Up on Mulholland Drive, Fryman Canyon Park's paved lot at the Nancy Hoover Pohl Overlook gives you a sweeping view of the Valley without any hiking at all. That alone makes it a fun stop for a car ride with grandparents or a quick sunset look.
The 122-acre park also includes a fitness course, year-round springs, native chaparral and wooded canyons. The Betty B. Dearing Trail runs through it, and hikers, equestrians and leashed dogs share the path (mountain bikes are not allowed). Kids who love spotting horses might get lucky here.
Parent tip: Starting from the top at Fryman means your hike begins downhill, which is great until you have to climb back out. With younger kids, walk 15 minutes down, then turn around while everyone still has energy.
12601 Mulholland Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages
Perched on the ridge between Studio City and Beverly Hills, TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park is one of the friendliest nature stops in the city for little kids. The 45-acre park has gentle trails, a native plant nursery, gardens, an orchard and an outdoor amphitheater, all run by the environmental nonprofit that has been planting trees across LA for decades.
Kids can wander the trails, peek at the plants and learn why trees matter to a hot city. TreePeople also hosts eco-tours, park work days and evening events, and says most of its events are family friendly. The park is free and open to the public from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., with restrooms near the nursery.
Parent tip: The entrance is on the Valley side of Mulholland where Coldwater Canyon Avenue meets Franklin Canyon Drive. Carpool if you can, since TreePeople reserves spaces for cars with two or more people, and keep dogs leashed at all times.
12621 Rye Street
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free
Best for: Ages 2–12
Beeman Park is Studio City's all-purpose neighborhood park, the kind of place where Little League, tennis lessons and toddler playdates all happen at once. It has a children's play area, lighted baseball diamond, outdoor basketball courts, tennis courts, picnic tables, barbecue pits and outdoor fitness equipment.
One update for 2026: the recreation center building itself has been closed since September 2024, according to LA Recreation and Parks, but the outdoor amenities remain open. For most families, that means the playground and fields work just as they always have.
Parent tip: Weekday late afternoons are the sweet spot, after school pickup rush and before evening games. Pack your own bathroom plan, since the building closure can affect indoor facilities.
11240 Moorpark Street
Studio City, CA 91602
Cost: Free
Best for: Babies and toddlers through age 8
Woodbridge Park is a small, leafy favorite for parents of little ones. It has a separate toddler play area, shade canopies over the seating, picnic gazebos, chess tables, outdoor fitness equipment and walking paths, so there's something for the adults while the kids dig and climb.
It's unstaffed and compact, which is exactly the appeal: you can see your kids from almost any bench. It's a great spot for a morning meetup with a baby group or a quick after-nap outing.
Parent tip: The shade canopies make this one of the more comfortable Studio City playgrounds on hot afternoons. The park is open dawn to dusk, and street parking along Moorpark Street is usually easy on weekdays.
12061 Moorpark Street
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free
Best for: Toddlers and preschoolers
On the northeast corner of Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Moorpark Street, this little pocket park has a fenced children's play area and a lawn big enough for a picnic blanket and a game of tag. It's unstaffed and simple, and that's fine.
What makes it handy is its location. It's a short walk from the Studio City Branch Library, so you can pair storytime with a swing session. It also hosts the Rotary Club of Studio City/Sherman Oaks Arts and Crafts Show, which traditionally takes over the park one weekend in spring and one in fall.
Parent tip: The fence is the big win for parents of runners. Bring a picnic from Ventura Boulevard and plan on 30 to 45 minutes; it's a perfect library-day add-on.
10844 Acama Street
Studio City, CA 91602
Cost: Free to visit; program fees vary
Hours: Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Sun
Tucked near the LA River on the east side of Studio City, North Weddington is a staffed recreation center with an indoor, lighted basketball gym, a children's play area, handball courts, a community room, a stage and picnic tables.
Because it's staffed, it's also a good place to find youth sports, fitness classes, cultural programs and seasonal camps run by LA Recreation and Parks. If your child is ready for a first basketball league or a school-break camp, check here before you look further afield.
Parent tip: Call (818) 506-1467 or stop by the front desk to ask about current youth programs and camp sign-ups, since the best ones fill fast. Remember it's closed on Sundays.
10600 Valleyheart Drive
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free
Best for: Ball-loving kids of all ages
South Weddington Park is mostly open fields and a baseball diamond along Valleyheart Drive, right by the river. It isn't a playground park, but it's a great place to run off energy, kick a ball, or practice batting on a weekday afternoon.
The fields are often used by leagues through private contracts, so weekend mornings can be busy with games. For families who already play youth sports in the Valley, there's a decent chance you'll end up here for a game day at some point.
Parent tip: Pair it with a walk along the nearby LA River paths, and bring your own soccer ball or T-ball set. The park is open dawn to dusk.
Along the LA River between Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Whitsett Avenue
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages; strollers and scooters
Did you know the LA River has one of its most pleasant walking stretches right in Studio City? The LA River Greenway runs about 0.6 miles between Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Whitsett Avenue, with decomposed granite paths, native plantings, rock seating and river-rock ramps.
Kids can watch the water flow over the weir at Laurel Canyon Boulevard and look for ducks and egrets in the channel. From the Radford Avenue bridge, you can see the low-flow channel below. It's an easy, flat outing that feels surprisingly peaceful for being so close to Ventura Boulevard.
Parent tip: This is our go-to walk with a scooter-age kid. Grab coffee and snacks on Ventura Place first, then enter near Radford Avenue and walk toward Whitsett for an easy out-and-back.
Laurelgrove Avenue footbridge at Valleyheart Drive
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free
Best for: Ages 2–10
The quarter-mile Valleyheart Greenway is short, sweet and full of things for kids to discover. The star is the Great Toad Gate, designed by artist Lahni Baruck with input from local students, but there's also a Rattlesnake Wall with engraved names and a butterfly garden planted with California natives in wing-shaped beds.
Look for the Butterfly Bench with a Thoreau quote, then turn it into a scavenger hunt: who can find the toad first? It's a small space, but it packs in more art and nature per step than almost any path in the Valley.
Parent tip: Combine Valleyheart and the LA River Greenway for a roughly 1.9-mile walk. With toddlers, just do the Valleyheart stretch and a snack stop, and call it a big win.
8260 Mulholland Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Cost: Free
Best for: Dog-loving families
Just over the hill from Studio City on Mulholland Drive, Laurel Canyon Park is best known for its large off-leash dog area, which makes it a delight for kids who want to watch (and meet) a parade of friendly pups. LA Recreation and Parks lists it among the city's official off-leash dog parks.
For families without a dog, it's still a fun, low-key outing. Kids can sit on the grass and watch the dogs race around, and the canyon setting feels a world away from the Valley below.
Parent tip: Keep little ones out of the off-leash zone unless they're comfortable around big, fast dogs, and always ask before petting. Weekend mornings are busiest, so try a weekday afternoon if your child is dog-shy.
Markets, Shops & Strolling in Studio City
Ventura Boulevard is the heart of Studio City, and a few spots along it are genuinely built for families. Here's where to shop, stroll and snack with kids in tow.
Ventura Place
(between Radford Avenue and Laurel Canyon Boulevard)
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free to enter; kids' activities and food extra
Hours: Sundays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
The Studio City Farmers Market is a Sunday-morning ritual for Valley families, and it's easy to see why. Co-owned by the Studio City Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Studio City Residents Association, it fills Ventura Place with produce, flowers, baked goods, prepared food and local makers every week.
The market has a dedicated children's section with vendor-run activities, including Non Stop Fun and face painting. Over the years, families have come for pony rides, a petting zoo and a mini train, so it's worth checking what's running on your visit. Either way, kids get to taste samples, pick out fruit and burn off energy while you shop.
Parent tip: Park free in the Radford Studio Center's Sater Parking Garage, just past the studio's main gate at 4200 Radford Avenue. Bring small bills for kids' activities, and arrive before 10 a.m. for the best produce and shortest lines. For more ideas, see our guide to LA farmers markets for families.
12833 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free to visit
Best for: All ages
Built on the site of the famous old Sportsmen's Lodge, this open-air center on the Studio City and Sherman Oaks border is a relaxed place to grab lunch, browse and let kids wander. Erewhon anchors the center, and the terraced decks make it feel more like a village square than a strip mall.
The center runs a steady calendar of community events, from run clubs and markets to fitness classes. For families, the headline is the free weekly Kids Club, but it's also an easy stop for a smoothie and a stroll after a morning hike at Wilacre.
Parent tip: Check the events calendar before you go, since holiday and seasonal happenings change month to month. The lower deck is where most family events take place.
Lower Deck
12833 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free
When: Wednesdays, 5–6 p.m., February through October
Kids Club is one of the best free weekly things to do in Studio City with kids. Every Wednesday evening, the lower deck turns into a mini stage for musicians, puppet shows, storytellers, magicians, jugglers and other interactive performers.
It's exactly the right length for little kids (one hour), it starts late enough for working parents to join, and there's dinner nearby when it wraps. The 2026 season runs through October, with remaining dates on October 7, 14, 21 and 28. The October 28 session is a Halloween edition with trick-or-treating, a costume contest and live performers.
Parent tip: Bring a small blanket or be ready to sit on the deck floor with your kids, since front-row spots go quickly. Wear costumes on October 28, and grab an early dinner at the center afterward to skip the dinner rush.
Tujunga Avenue between Moorpark Street and Woodbridge Street
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free to stroll
Best for: All ages; strollers
Tujunga Village is a two-block stretch of Tujunga Avenue lined with independent shops, cafés and little boutiques under shady trees. It has a small-town feel that's hard to find in LA, and it's a lovely place to push a stroller or let a preschooler practice their "walking nicely" skills.
It's also home to We Rock the Spectrum (see below), so you can easily pair open play with a coffee and a browse. Many families walk over from nearby Woodbridge Park for a mini morning adventure.
Parent tip: Metered and street parking fills quickly on weekends, so try a weekday morning. Shop hours vary, and some small businesses open later in the morning, so time your stroll for late morning.
12136 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free to browse; events vary
Best for: Readers of every age
This isn't your average bookstore. Bookstar, run by Barnes & Noble, lives inside the historic Studio City Theatre, so you're browsing picture books under the bones of an old Valley movie house. Kids usually get a kick out of learning that a theater once stood where the shelves are now.
The children's section is a cozy spot to spend a rainy afternoon, and the store hosts storytimes, author signings and book readings through its events calendar. It's an easy, low-cost outing that ends with a new book for bedtime.
Parent tip: Check the store's events page for storytime dates before you go. Set a budget before walking in, because the kids' section is very good at its job.
Indoor Fun, Libraries & History in Studio City
Rainy day, heat wave or just need a change of scenery? These indoor spots and history stops keep kids busy when the park isn't calling.
12655 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Paid; Kids Bowl Free (ages 2–15) through Oct. 31, 2026, with registration
Best for: Ages 3 and up
Pinz has been a Studio City landmark since 1958, and it still delivers a classic family bowling afternoon. Along with the lanes, there's an arcade, a full kitchen for pizza and snacks, and party packages that make it a birthday staple for Valley kids.
In 2026, Pinz is part of the national Kids Bowl Free program through October 31. Registered kids ages 2 to 15 get two free games per day, weekdays from 1 to 5 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shoe rental is required ($7 per visit, or a $32 shoe pass), and it's walk-in only, subject to lane availability.
Parent tip: Register on the Kids Bowl Free website before you go. Weekend afternoons fill up, so a weekday after school is your best bet. Our roundup of kid-friendly bowling alleys in LA has more ideas.
4397 Tujunga Avenue
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Paid; call for current open-play pricing
Best for: Toddlers through early elementary; sensory-friendly
We Rock the Spectrum is a sensory-friendly indoor gym designed for all kids, including children with autism and other special needs. Expect swings, crash pads, climbing and sensory equipment built to help kids move, regulate and play together.
It's open seven days a week and hosts open play, classes and birthday parties. The whole space is designed so every kid can play comfortably, which makes it one of the more relaxing indoor play spots for parents, too.
Parent tip: Call (818) 980-5437 to confirm open-play times and pricing before you go, and bring grip socks. Afterward, stroll Tujunga Village for a snack.
12511 Moorpark Street
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Free
Hours: Mon & Wed 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Tue & Thu noon–8 p.m.; Fri & Sat 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; closed Sun
The Studio City Branch Library is one of the best free things to do in Studio City with kids, especially for the under-5 crowd. The branch offers a Baby & Toddler Storytime with stories, songs and movement (sign-up required), plus volunteer-led STAR storytimes where kids can read one-on-one or in small groups.
Monthly drop-in crafts give families another reason to stop in. And for reluctant readers, the BARK program lets kids read aloud to Vida, a certified therapy dog, which may be the most motivating reading session ever invented.
Parent tip: Sign up early for Baby & Toddler Storytime, since spots are limited. Your free LA library card unlocks much more than books; see our guide to free perks with your LA library card.
3919 Lankershim Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
Hours: Thursday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Best for: Ages 7 and up; history buffs
Right across from the Universal City Metro station, Campo de Cahuenga marks the spot where the Treaty of Cahuenga was signed in 1847, ending the fighting in California during the Mexican-American War. Today, a reconstructed adobe and small historic park honor that turning point in California history.
It's a quick stop, but it's a meaningful one for elementary-age kids studying California history in school. It's also a fun "did you know?" moment right before or after a Universal Studios day.
Parent tip: The site is open only Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., so plan around that window, or call the museum manager at (818) 623-4166 about group tours. Otherwise, pair it with the Metro ride below.
Lankershim Boulevard near Cahuenga Boulevard, across from Universal Studios Hollywood
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Metro fare (check Metro for current fares)
Best for: Train-loving kids of all ages
For a lot of kids, the subway is the attraction. The Metro B Line stops at Universal City/Studio City Station, and a short ride underground to North Hollywood or Hollywood can be a thrilling mini adventure for a preschooler.
Ride one stop to North Hollywood and you can walk to the NoHo Arts District and the Amelia Earhart library (see the Nearby section). Ride the other way, and you're in Hollywood in minutes without fighting for parking.
Parent tip: Check Metro's website for current fares and kids' fare rules before you go, and load a TAP card in advance. Ride midmorning on a weekday to skip commuter crowds.
Family Eats & Sweet Treats in Studio City
Studio City has no shortage of restaurants, but these three are easy wins with kids, whether you want a quick bite, a relaxed lunch, or dessert.
12601 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Casual, order at the counter
Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Carney's serves chili dogs, burgers and fries inside a real vintage railroad car, and it has been parked at this spot on Ventura Boulevard since 1981. For kids, eating in a train is basically the whole point, and the red booths, old photos and narrow windows make it feel like a trip back in time.
The menu is simple and kid-approved, with house-made chili as the signature. It's a great post-hike stop, since it sits right at the corner of Ventura Boulevard and Laurel Canyon, near the Wilacre Park trailhead.
Parent tip: Grab a booth by the windows so kids can "ride" the train. Street parking is along Ventura Boulevard, and weekday afternoons are calmer than weekend lunch.
12059 Ventura Place
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Moderate
Hours: Daily, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Joan's on Third's Studio City outpost is a bright café and marketplace on Ventura Place, and it's a lifesaver for families who want something a bit nicer than fast food without a sit-down dinner. The case is full of salads, sandwiches and baked treats, and there's plenty to please picky eaters.
Because it's steps from the Sunday farmers market, it's a natural pairing for a weekend morning. Kids tend to zero in on the baked treats, so plan accordingly.
Parent tip: Weekend mornings get busy, especially on market Sundays. Try a weekday breakfast or late lunch, or order to go and picnic along the LA River Greenway a few blocks away.
12180 1/2 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604
Cost: Paid, per scoop
Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Salt & Straw is the scoop shop kids beg to visit after a Ventura Boulevard stroll. The Portland-born creamery is known for adventurous flavors that rotate monthly, alongside classics that picky eaters can count on.
The staff is happy to hand out samples, so kids can try the wild stuff before committing to chocolate. With late hours every day, it's also a reliable after-dinner treat.
Parent tip: Lines can stretch out the door on warm weekend evenings. Go in the afternoon, and let each child pick one "weird" sample as part of the fun.
Nearby: Easy Add-Ons Within 15 Minutes of Studio City
One of the best things about Studio City is how close it is to some of LA's biggest family attractions. These spots are in neighboring Universal City, North Hollywood, Burbank, Griffith Park, the Hollywood Hills, and the Valley, most within about 15 minutes by car.
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
Cost: Paid; check the official site for current ticket prices
Best for: All ages; many rides have height requirements
Studio City's famous neighbor is a full theme park and working movie studio just over the freeway. Kids can explore Super Nintendo World, cast spells in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, ride Jurassic World, and take the legendary Studio Tour through real backlot sets.
Fall brings Halloween Horror Nights, but that event is designed for teens and adults, not little kids. Families with young children will have a better time on regular daytime visits, and the holiday season brings family-friendly celebrations.
Parent tip: Check height requirements for your kids' favorite rides before buying tickets. For planning help, read our tips for two days at Universal Studios Hollywood and our guide to holidays at Universal.
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
Cost: Free to enter; paid parking
Best for: All ages
You don't need a theme park ticket to enjoy CityWalk. This outdoor promenade just outside the Universal Studios Hollywood gates is lined with restaurants, shops and bright signage, and it's home to the AMC Universal CityWalk movie theater with IMAX.
It's a fun evening outing for a family dinner and a movie, and kids love the neon energy after dark. If you're visiting Universal, it's also the natural place to eat before or after the park.
Parent tip: Parking is paid, so consider taking the Metro B Line to Universal City/Studio City Station and using Universal's shuttle up the hill. Weeknights are much calmer than weekends.
3655 Cahuenga Boulevard West
Los Angeles, CA 90068
Cost: Moderate
Best for: All ages; dinner with a show
Miceli's has been serving Italian food in LA since 1949, and its Universal City location adds something kids remember: singing servers and a classic piano. Waitstaff perform Italian arias and classics during service, turning a pizza night into a mini concert.
The old-school atmosphere feels like a special occasion, but the menu of pizzas and pastas is easy for kids to love. It's a fun choice for a birthday or grandparents' night.
Parent tip: Call (323) 851-3344 to reserve for a larger group. Ask when the singing usually starts so you can time dessert with the show.
4222 Vineland Avenue
North Hollywood, CA 91602
Cost: Moderate
Hours: Breakfast daily from 7 a.m.; weekend brunch 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; dinner nightly from 5:30 p.m.
Best for: All ages
The Front Yard is the restaurant at The Garland hotel, just east of Studio City, and it's a relaxed, garden-style spot for a family brunch or an early dinner. The open, leafy setting gives families a bit more breathing room than a typical restaurant.
It's close to Universal City, so it works well as a meal before or after a park day. The vibe is laid-back enough that a wiggly toddler won't feel out of place.
Parent tip: Call (818) 255-7290 to book, and ask for the outdoor patio under the sycamores. Weekend brunch is the most kid-friendly window.
Around Lankershim Boulevard and Magnolia Boulevard
North Hollywood, CA 91601
Cost: Free to stroll
Best for: Ages 6 and up
One Metro stop from Studio City, the NoHo Arts District is a walkable neighborhood of small theaters, murals, cafés and shops. Kids who like art will enjoy spotting murals, and the area makes for a fun "take the train somewhere new" outing.
The historic El Portal Theatre anchors the district, though its fall 2026 lineup is aimed at adults. Families can still enjoy a mural walk and lunch, then head to the nearby library and park.
Parent tip: Take the Metro B Line from Universal City/Studio City to North Hollywood Station and skip parking entirely. Make it a loop with the Amelia Earhart library and North Hollywood Park.
5211 Tujunga Avenue
North Hollywood, CA 91601
Cost: Free
Hours: Sun 1–5 p.m.; Mon–Thu 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri & Sat 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Named for the famous aviator who once lived in North Hollywood, this regional library is a great rainy-day stop. It offers a Fall Preschool Storytime for ages 2 to 5 with stories, songs and action rhymes, plus a student zone, computers and Tech2Go bundles.
It's larger than the Studio City branch and open on Sundays, which makes it a handy backup when your home branch is closed. Kids who love planes can learn a little about Amelia Earhart while they're there.
Parent tip: Check the library calendar for the current storytime day and time. Pair your visit with the playground at North Hollywood Park next door.
11430 Chandler Boulevard
North Hollywood, CA 91601
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages
North Hollywood Park is a big, green city park with a children's play area, a seasonal outdoor pool, a jogging path, sports courts and shady trees, right next to the Amelia Earhart library. It's a good spot for a long picnic or a birthday party in the park.
Because it's larger than most Studio City parks, it's great for kids who need room to run, bike or kick a ball. It also pairs perfectly with a NoHo Arts District visit.
Parent tip: Weekend afternoons get busy with parties, so claim a picnic table early. Check LA Recreation and Parks for current programs and pool schedules.
3160 Canyon Lake Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90068
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages; photo lovers
Want the Hollywood Sign as your picnic backdrop? Lake Hollywood Park offers one of the closest views of the sign from a grassy park, and it's only a short drive from Studio City through the hills.
There's a children's play area and picnic tables, so it works as a real outing and not just a quick photo op. Kids love running on the lawn with the sign looming above.
Parent tip: The park is open sunrise to sunset. Come on a weekday morning, since weekend afternoons can get crowded with sign-seekers, and follow posted parking rules on the residential streets.
2600 Franklin Canyon Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Cost: Check MRCA's site for current fees
Best for: Ages 2 and up
Just over Mulholland from Coldwater Canyon, Franklin Canyon Park feels like a hidden valley with a lake, a small duck pond and easy trails. Kids can look for turtles, ducks and frogs around the pond, and the shaded paths are gentle enough for small hikers.
The park connects to the same trail network as Wilacre and Fryman, so ambitious families can link them together. For most families, though, a slow loop around the pond is the perfect pace.
Parent tip: Bring binoculars for bird and turtle spotting, and pack snacks, since there's nothing to buy in the canyon. Check MRCA's site for closures on red flag warning days.
3400 Warner Boulevard
Burbank, CA 91505
Cost: Paid; check the official site for current ticket prices
Best for: Ages 5 and up; children under 5 are not permitted
For movie-loving older kids, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Burbank is a behind-the-scenes look at a working studio, with backlot sets, soundstages and exhibits from famous films and shows. Fans of superheroes, wizards and classic sitcoms will find plenty to geek out over.
It's a guided tour, so it's better suited to kids with a longer attention span than to toddlers. Children under 5 aren't allowed on any studio tour, and guests ages 5 to 17 must be with an adult.
Parent tip: Book ahead online, and note the tour is closed on some dates, including November 3–5 and November 26 this fall. Pair it with a burger at Bob's Big Boy nearby. Our Burbank guide has more ideas.
400 South Bob Hope Drive
Burbank, CA 91505
Cost: Free
Best for: Ages 2–10
Named for the late-night legend, Johnny Carson Park in Burbank is a pleasant neighborhood park with play structures, bridges, ladders and balance beams for climbing, plus open lawns, a nature trail and picnic tables.
It's close to the studios in Burbank, so it's a great place to let kids run before or after a studio tour. The shady setting also makes it comfortable for a summer picnic.
Parent tip: Bring a picnic and let kids explore the nature trail. It's an easy stop on the way home from Burbank errands.
4211 West Riverside Drive
Burbank, CA 91505
Cost: Casual family diner
Best for: All ages
Bob's Big Boy in Burbank is a mid-century diner landmark, complete with the famous Big Boy statue out front. Kids get a kick out of posing with the statue, and the menu of burgers, shakes and breakfast classics is an easy win for picky eaters.
It's a fun slice of Southern California car culture and a great stop after a studio tour or a day at the Burbank parks.
Parent tip: Snap a photo with the Big Boy statue on your way in, and check the official site for any current car show nights or special events.
5333 Zoo Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Cost: Paid; check the official site for current prices
Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
The L.A. Zoo is an easy 15-minute drive from Studio City and one of the most rewarding full-day outings in the area. Kids can see gorillas, elephants, giraffes and hundreds of other animals, along with gardens and play areas throughout the grounds.
Fall is an especially good time to go, with Boo at the L.A. Zoo on two weekends in late October and L.A. Zoo Lights in the evenings starting November 20, 2026.
Parent tip: Arrive right at opening when animals are most active and the air is cooler. Wear comfortable shoes, since the zoo is hilly.
5200 Zoo Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Mondays
Best for: Train-obsessed toddlers and preschoolers
Travel Town in Griffith Park is an outdoor railroad museum where kids can climb aboard real steam locomotives and vintage railcars. For little train fans, it's pure bliss.
There's also a miniature train that loops around the grounds; check the official site for current ride times and prices. It's an easy outing that can fill a whole morning.
Parent tip: Remember Travel Town is closed on Mondays. Go early on weekends to beat the crowds, and bring cash or a card for the train ride. It's close to the L.A. Zoo if you want to combine them.
5202 Zoo Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Cost: Check the official site for current ride details
When: Public ride days vary; check the official site
Right next to Travel Town, the Los Angeles Live Steamers run small-scale steam trains that kids and grown-ups can ride. Volunteers maintain the trains and tracks, and the rides are a family favorite.
Nearby, Walt Disney's Carolwood Barn, the workshop from Walt's backyard railroad, is open on select days, making this a wonderful stop for Disney fans.
Parent tip: Check the Live Steamers website for current ride days and times before you go. Lines can be long, so arrive early.
4800 Crystal Springs Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages and abilities
Shane's Inspiration is a two-acre inclusive playground in Griffith Park, designed so kids of all abilities can play together. It features slides, climbing structures, zip lines, spinners, musical instruments and shaded play areas.
It's one of the best playgrounds in LA for mixed-age siblings, because there's something for every stage. It's a great stop on the way to or from the zoo.
Parent tip: Bring sunscreen and water, and use the nearby Griffith Park picnic areas for lunch. See our list of the best outdoor playgrounds in LA for more.
2800 East Observatory Road
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Cost: Free admission; planetarium shows and parking extra
Hours: Check the official site for current hours
Griffith Observatory offers free admission, space exhibits, planetarium shows and one of the best views in LA. Kids can see a real Tesla coil in action, explore exhibits about the planets and peek through telescopes on clear evenings.
It's an amazing late-afternoon outing, and the free public telescope viewing on clear nights is a highlight for curious kids.
Parent tip: Parking fills quickly, so arrive early or use the shuttle. Read our complete Griffith Observatory guide for more tips.
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Cost: Paid; check the official site for current prices
Best for: Ages 5 and up
The Autry, across from the L.A. Zoo, tells stories of the American West through art, artifacts and hands-on exhibits. Kids tend to love the historic objects, cowboy gear and interactive spaces.
It's a great indoor option for a hot or rainy day in Griffith Park, and it pairs well with the zoo or Travel Town.
Parent tip: Check the Autry's website for family days and current hours. Combine it with the zoo or Travel Town for a full Griffith Park day.
6300 Balboa Boulevard
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Cost: Free; pedal boat and bike rentals extra
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
About 15 to 20 minutes west of Studio City, Lake Balboa Park is a big Valley park built around a lake with a 1.3-mile walking loop. Kids can watch ducks and geese, play on the children's play equipment and ride bikes along the paths.
Pedal boat and bike rentals add to the fun, and kayak classes are offered too. Swimming and paddleboards aren't allowed, but a pedal boat ride is plenty exciting for most kids.
Parent tip: The park may close in rainy weather, so check before you go. Bring a picnic and a bike, and keep dogs on a leash and out of the lake.
Annual Events & Seasonal Fun in Studio City
Studio City's calendar is especially lively in fall. Here are the seasonal events worth circling, with 2026 dates where they've been officially announced.
When: Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 5–6 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge, Studio City
The final Kids Club of the 2026 season goes full Halloween, with trick-or-treating, a costume contest and live performers on the lower deck. It's free and ends early enough for little ones to be home by bedtime.
Parent tip: Bring a small treat bag and arrive a few minutes early for the costume contest.
When: October 23, November 20 and December 18, 2026, 7 p.m. (check-in around 6:30 p.m.)
Where: TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park, 12601 Mulholland Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
TreePeople hosts evening Moonlight Hikes at Coldwater Canyon Park, with music and a chance to experience the trails after dark. Tickets are required; check the event page for pricing and any age guidance before booking with kids.
Parent tip: Bring flashlights or headlamps, warm layers and a blanket, and consider it for older kids who can stay up past 8 p.m.
When: Usually one weekend in October and one in May (2026 fall dates to be announced)
Where: Moorpark Park, 12061 Moorpark Street, Studio City, CA 91604
The Rotary Club of Studio City/Sherman Oaks hosts an arts and crafts show at Moorpark Park, featuring original, handmade goods. It's a pleasant browse with kids, especially for early holiday gifts.
Parent tip: Go early in the day and pair it with a playground break at the park's fenced play area.
When: Halloween night, Saturday, October 31, 2026
Where: Around Toluca Estates Drive and Valley Spring Lane, Los Angeles, CA 91602
Just east of Studio City, Toluca Lake is one of LA's best-known trick-or-treating neighborhoods, with elaborate yard displays and a block-party vibe. Our best LA neighborhoods for trick-or-treating guide has tips for navigating the crowds.
Parent tip: Park a few blocks away and walk in, and start right at dusk before the biggest crowds arrive.
When: Boo at the L.A. Zoo, October 24–25 and October 31–November 1, 2026; L.A. Zoo Lights, November 20, 2026–January 10, 2027
Where: Los Angeles Zoo, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027
About 15 minutes from Studio City, the L.A. Zoo hosts Boo at the Zoo from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with trick-or-treating stations, keeper talks and animal enrichment, all included with zoo admission. Then the holiday light show L.A. Zoo Lights runs evenings from 6 to 10 p.m.
Parent tip: Costumes are welcome at Boo at the Zoo; go on the first weekend for smaller crowds. For more fall fun, see our pumpkin patches and fall festivals guide.
When: Opening date not yet announced
Where: Former Weddington Golf & Tennis site, Whitsett Avenue, Studio City
Harvard-Westlake is transforming the old Weddington Golf & Tennis property into a sports park with a pool, fields, tennis courts and a gym, and the school describes community partnerships as part of the plan. Construction updates posted in late September 2026 show tennis courts getting their final surface and pool bleachers going in, but no public opening date yet.
Parent tip: Check the project's construction updates page for public-access details before you visit.
Parent Tips for Visiting Studio City With Kids
Hike early. Valley afternoons get hot, especially from June through October. Start Wilacre, Fryman and Betty B. Dearing hikes before 10 a.m., and skip trails entirely on red flag warning days.
Budget for Wilacre parking. The Wilacre Park lot now charges $7 for up to two hours, with a four-hour daily maximum. Street parking nearby is limited and signed, so read the signs carefully.
Make Sunday your market day. Park free in the Radford Studio Center garage, then walk to the farmers market, Joan's on Third and the LA River Greenway without moving your car.
Use the Metro. Universal City/Studio City Station on the B Line connects you to Universal, North Hollywood and Hollywood, which saves parking fees and doubles as an adventure for kids.
Mark your Wednesdays. The free Kids Club at The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge runs through October 28, 2026.
Register for Kids Bowl Free. Pinz's free bowling program for ages 2–15 ends October 31, 2026, and requires online registration plus shoe rental.
Double-check hours. Small shops, historic sites and special events change schedules often, so confirm hours on official websites before you go.
Takeaway
Studio City packs a lot of family fun into a compact, easy-to-navigate neighborhood. Canyon trails, river walks and playgrounds give kids room to explore, while the farmers market, Kids Club, bowling, library storytimes and a railroad-car chili stand make every weekend feel a little different.
And when you want to go bigger, Universal Studios Hollywood, Griffith Park, North Hollywood and Burbank are all just minutes away. Pair this guide with our 41 fun things to do in Burbank with kids and our 75+ indoor activities for kids in LA for even more ideas.
📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox
Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best free things to do in Studio City with kids?
The best free things to do in Studio City with kids are the Wednesday Kids Club at The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge, the LA River and Valleyheart greenways, TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park, and storytimes at the Studio City Branch Library. Woodbridge, Moorpark and Beeman parks have free playgrounds, and registered kids ages 2–15 can bowl free at Pinz through October 31, 2026.
2. Where can kids hike in Studio City?
Kids can hike at Wilacre Park, Fryman Canyon Park and TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park, all in the hills above Studio City. Wilacre's wide, shady fire road is the most popular family hike, while the Betty B. Dearing Trail is a moderate 4.9-mile route better suited to older kids.
3. Is the Studio City Farmers Market good for kids?
Yes, the Studio City Farmers Market is very kid-friendly, with a dedicated children's section run by vendors such as Non Stop Fun and face painters. It takes place every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Ventura Place, and free parking is available in the Radford Studio Center garage at 4200 Radford Avenue.
4. What can kids do indoors in Studio City on a hot or rainy day?
Indoor options in Studio City include bowling at Pinz, sensory-friendly play at We Rock the Spectrum on Tujunga Avenue, storytimes at the Studio City Branch Library and browsing the kids' section at Bookstar (Barnes & Noble) inside the historic Studio City Theatre. For a bigger day, Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk are next door in Universal City.
5. Is Weddington Golf & Tennis still open in Studio City?
No, Weddington Golf & Tennis has closed, and the property is being rebuilt as Harvard-Westlake River Park. As of late September 2026, construction is still underway and no public opening date has been announced, so check the project's official updates page for public-access details.
Comments