Things to Do in Sherman Oaks: A Local's Guide

Sherman Oaks sits right next door to Studio City, where I live and work, so it's a neighborhood I spend a lot of time in, both with clients and on my own weekends.

It has a personality of its own. Ventura Boulevard gives it a village feel, the hills to the south bring trails and views, and the flats to the north are full of parks, shopping and everyday conveniences. Whether you live here, are visiting, or are thinking about buying a home in Sherman Oaks, here are some of my favorite ways to spend a day.

1. Hike Dixie Canyon Park

Dixie Canyon Park is one of the neighborhood's hidden gems: a 20-acre preserve of California black walnut and coast live oak, less than a mile south of Ventura Boulevard. The trailhead is at the top of Dixie Canyon Place.

The loop is short, a little over half a mile, with some shade and a narrow dirt path. It's the kind of quick nature break you can fit into a busy morning.

My tip: wear real shoes. The trail is small, but it's steep in places and can be overgrown.

2. Catch the View From Longridge Park

Between Dixie Canyon Park and Coldwater Canyon Park, Longridge Park climbs quickly and rewards you almost right away with views across the canyons and the Valley.

On a clear day, look back to the north and you can see all the way to the Santa Susana and San Gabriel Mountains. It's a great reminder of how close the Santa Monica Mountains are to everyday life in Sherman Oaks.

3. Shop the Saturday Farmers Market

The Sherman Oaks farmers market runs on Saturday mornings, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., on Sepulveda Boulevard at Camarillo Street, just north of the Sherman Oaks Galleria.

Expect seasonal fruit and vegetables, baked goods, flowers and more. It's a relaxed way to start a weekend, and a good way to meet neighbors. Hours can change, so check before you go.

4. Bring the Kids to Sherman Oaks Castle Park

Sherman Oaks Castle Park, at 4989 Sepulveda Boulevard, has been a Valley favorite for years. There are three 18-hole miniature golf courses, batting cages and an arcade.

It's an easy win for birthdays, a rainy-day plan, or a friendly family competition.

5. Swim, Play and Picnic at Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park

Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Park, at 14201 Huston Street, is the neighborhood's big recreation hub. You'll find baseball, basketball and tennis, with lights for evening play, plus an outdoor heated pool.

For families and dog owners on the flats, it's one of the most-used parks in the area, and buyers often ask me about the streets around it.

6. Spend an Afternoon on Ventura Boulevard

Ventura Boulevard is the heart of Sherman Oaks. Restaurants, cafés, boutiques and longtime local businesses line the street, and it's at its best when you park the car and walk a few blocks.

Look for the La Reina Theater sign at 14626 Ventura Boulevard. The former movie theater was designed by S. Charles Lee in 1937, and its marquee is still one of the boulevard's best-known landmarks.

Each stretch feels a little different, so try a section you don't usually visit. You'll likely find a new favorite spot.

7. Shop the Galleria and Westfield Fashion Square

Sherman Oaks has two well-known shopping centers. The Sherman Oaks Galleria sits at Ventura and Sepulveda boulevards, and Westfield Fashion Square is on Riverside Drive.

Between them, you can run errands, eat and shop without leaving the neighborhood, which is a big plus for anyone who wants convenience close to home.

8. Head to the Sepulveda Basin

Just north of Sherman Oaks, the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area is a large open space with Lake Balboa, walking and biking paths, sports fields and the Japanese Garden.

It's a short drive from most of the neighborhood, and a great choice when you want wide-open space without heading into the hills.

9. Take a Drive Along Mulholland

The hills above Sherman Oaks lead up to Mulholland Drive. A slow drive along the ridge at sunset is one of the simplest ways to see why people love living in the Valley.

Thinking About Living in Sherman Oaks?

Sherman Oaks isn't one market. The condos and flat-lot homes north of Ventura Boulevard and the hillside homes to the south live and sell very differently. If you're curious about a particular street or building, I'm always happy to be a local resource.

Learn more on my Sherman Oaks neighborhood page, or reach out for a short conversation about your plans.

Cover photo: La Reina Theater, Sherman Oaks, by Wikimedia Commons user "Los Angeles", licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.