Do It Like a Local - A Weekend in Woodland Hills, CA

Woodland Hills isn't just another town in The Valley - the San Fernando Valley that is. While it seems like a blip as you drive northwest to the beach or Santa Barbara on the 101, you might want to stop and check out some of the undiscovered places that you'll be glad you visited.

Holiday Inn Woodland Hills

Your basic, dependable Holiday Inn is located in the heart of Woodland Hills on Ventura Blvd. There's a Trader Joe's nearby if you need some special snacks. The dining room serves a delicious buffet, and the pool is secured by fencing so little ones can't just wander off and fall in. A good base camp for a weekend trip.

Something's Fishy

If this is your first time in Woodland Hills, don't skip Something's Fishy. Don't even think about it. Best Teppan grill experience ever. There's a sushi bar up front, and skilled showmen who double as chefs at the grills tables in the back. Be sure to order warm sake and edamame while you wait for your table to fill up.

She got so excited when she found this place that if you are into quilting, sewing, fabric, or notions, I'll bet you will too.

Quilt Emporium

Maybe not every traveler looks for a quilt shop when they're out and about but my mother does. She got so excited when she found this place that if you are into quilting, sewing, fabric, or notions, I'll bet you will too. The Emporium is located in a little enclave of stores and shops along Topanga Canyon Boulevard, south of Ventura,... More >

Warner Park

On a regular day Warner Park is a basic city park - several blocks of green space with a children's play area, street parking only. But in the summer time the Valley Cultural Center transforms the park into a community gathering place every weekend for music, art, food, movies, and other fun.

Westfield Shoppingtown Promenade

This is the confusing part. Woodland Hills has two malls, and they're right next to each other. The Westfield mall is the new one, and the one to see if you are visiting. It's the northernmost mall on Topanga Canyon Boulevard and the one with the Nordstroms at one end and Target at the other. Something for everyone. The interior is scattered with sculpture, fountains, a children's play area complete with a double decker merry-go-round, and several fabulous restaurants. Because this is the Valley, parking is free.

The Westfield mall is the new one, and the one to see if you are visiting.

La Frite

This French restaurant is easy to miss, but don't. Look for the yellow awning. There is an indoor patio seating area (not a good call on hot days) which is lovely, and a dark inner part of the restaurant where the bar is. The cuisine is French and they serve "crepes in casserole dish" which are like pot pies - very decadent. I recommend the La Frite Salad and the bread pudding, too. Valet parking is available but you s... More

Map View Hide Map