Los Angeles in the United States is a tourist destination that fully satisfies its visitors. While Downtown and Hollywood are well-known, did you know there are also charming spots in the northern part of the city?
The town of Van Nuys in the north features a park that welcomes visitors with beautiful scenery in every season. North Hollywood, also known as NoHo, is home to classic American-style theaters, offering fulfilling sightseeing experiences.
Northern Los Angeles is not widely known among tourists. So, this time, we’re introducing spots and areas in Van Nuys and North Hollywood that you should consider including in your travel plans.
1. Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park (Van Nuys)
If you're heading to Van Nuys, Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park is a must-visit. It's a park with a beautiful lake. While strolling along the lake surrounded by nature, you can spot small wildlife like birds and squirrels and enjoy a heartwarming time.
The biggest highlight of this park is the cherry blossoms in spring. It’s also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Los Angeles. These cherry trees were donated by a Japanese company, making it a symbolic location. During full bloom, the view around the lake is truly enchanting. Seeing cherry blossoms in a foreign land has its own charm. If you’re visiting Los Angeles in spring, why not plan a hanami (cherry blossom viewing) at Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park in the northern part of the city? The best time to see cherry blossoms in Los Angeles is typically from late March to early April.
Name: Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park
Address: 6300 Balboa Blvd Van Nuys, CA 91406
Official/Related Site URL: http://www.laparks.org/aquatic/balboa
2. North Hollywood (NoHo)
If you're planning a sightseeing trip to northern Los Angeles, be sure to visit North Hollywood. From Downtown, you can take the Metro Red Line from Union Station and arrive in 30 minutes.
The NoHo Arts District in this area is often called the “Broadway of Los Angeles,” and you can visit theaters showcasing unique performances. Most of the theaters are located north of the Ventura Freeway, and it’s all walkable, making it a super enjoyable area to explore. There are also vintage boutiques and stylish cafes, making it a great spot for shopping as well.
If you want to enjoy a show, “El Portal Theatre” is recommended. It’s a historic theater in the area that attracts many fans. Performers range from promising newcomers to renowned stars. Why not look forward to a hidden gem performance by a future star?
Name: North Hollywood
Address: North Hollywood, Los Angeles
3. Idle Hour (NoHo Arts District)
If you’re exploring North Hollywood in northern Los Angeles, make sure to stop by a café-bar called Idle Hour. This café-bar originally opened in the 1940s and has a very photogenic exterior. It’s shaped like a whiskey barrel—an iconic landmark in the NoHo area. Though it was closed for a while, it was revived in 2015. The building itself dates back to the 1920s and is designated as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument.
While the architecture and history draw much attention, it’s also a great place to enjoy a meal. Of course, there's a wide selection of alcoholic drinks, but you can also enjoy classic American fare like hamburgers. Many of the dishes are nicely presented and tidy. Except on Sundays, the usual hours are 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM, so it’s great for tea time (though heavy on alcohol…), dinner, or drinks. It might be the perfect place to visit after an evening show.
Name: Idle Hour
Address: 4824 Vineland Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Official/Related Site URL: http://idlehourbar.com/
◎ Summary
Even in northern Los Angeles, areas like North Hollywood and Van Nuys are convenient for sightseeing. Since they aren’t as frequently featured in typical Los Angeles travel guides, visiting them could give you lots of unique stories to tell. They're not as mainstream as Hollywood or Santa Monica, making them perfect for travelers who want a more insider, local-style experience.