Where to stay in Van Nuys
Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Sherman Oaks
15433 Ventura Boulevard, CA, 91403
Staying in the San Fernando Valley’s center brings laid-back luxury at this Marriott hotel. There’s a palm tree-lined pool, a business library and even a ballroom.
Check in to enjoy evenings on the atmospheric terrace and rooms that come with group-friendly sofa-bed options.
Hotel Amarano Burbank-Hollywood
322 N Pass Avenue, Burbank, CA 91505
Situated just over 10 minutes from the center of Van Nuys by car, this four-star stay combines an Old Hollywood feel with Valley charisma – and it’s in the ideal location for Warner Bros. Studios.
Rooms are kitted out with details to charm you, such as old-style telephones, trunk dressers and cinematic art. There’s a saltwater pool, plus cozy outdoor social spaces.
Airtel Plaza Hotel
7277 Valjean Avenue, CA, 91406
Airtel Plaza Hotel, near Van Nuys Airport, provides goose down pillows across all 250-plus rooms. It’s popular with production crews – teams working on the likes of Grey’s Anatomy and The Bachelor have set up here.
The Clipper Cafe prepares pastries for on-the-go guests, while The Landings Restaurant whips up tacos and fresh salads.
Best restaurants in Van Nuys
Kobee Factory
14110 Oxnard Street, CA, 91401
At Kobee Factory, the menu is distinctly Syrian. Expect made-to-order chicken and beef kebabs paired with hummus, yogurt and pickle – plus kobee, the restaurant’s staple. This Syrian dish typically combines beef, wheat and spices, but in Van Nuys there’s a vegetarian version.
Ay Papa Que Rico
7344 Van Nuys Boulevard, CA, 91405
A family-owned Cuban restaurant known for its fire-grilled chicken, Ay Papa Que Rico brings together barbecue ribs, Argentinian sausage and a choice of Latin-style sandwiches and burritos. Swap French fries for yuca fries or plantain for the full experience.
Fresh Grill Mediterranean
15355 Sherman Way, CA 91406
At Fresh Grill Mediterranean, it’s all about the flavor. Greek salads come tossed with feta and traditional Persian grape leaves are packed with rice and spice. Share appetizer dips, pick up a light salad or dive into marinated steak wraps. The kebabs are reliably excellent.
What to do in Van Nuys and Los Angeles
Lake Balboa
CA, 91316
There’s more to Lake Balboa than peaceful water, but that certainly helps to soothe the soul. In this half-acre park just south of Van Nuys, you can rent a pedal boat, explore hiking trails or take your children to the maritime-themed playground, which also has interactive drums.
Universal Studios Hollywood
100 Universal City Plaza, CA, 91608
It takes just 20 minutes or so to drive from Van Nuys to Universal Studios Hollywood, one of LA’s premier attractions.
Visit to take the world-renowned studio tour, explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or hop on the thrilling Jurassic World – The Ride. If it’s busy, get an Express Pass so you can cut the lines.
The Great Wall of Los Angeles
12900 Oxnard Street, CA 91606
Amid North Hollywood suburbia lies a vibrant mural which stretches for half a mile. Stop by to see Judith F. Baca’s depiction of Californian history.
Sections are separated by eras, telling stories from prehistoric times to the Beat Generation and beyond.