Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Chatsworth, CA

Chatsworth is a locality with a population of around 42,000 individuals, situated in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles County. This suburban enclave is renowned for its small-town atmosphere, despite its proximity to urban Los Angeles.

Renowned for its favorable climate year-round, Chatsworth boasts a central position with convenient access to nearby cities, such as Northridge, Canoga Park, and West Hills. The area is characterized by tranquility and a distinctive Old West charm.

Located in the foothills of the Santa Susana Mountains, Chatsworth serves as an excellent base for numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

The community features a variety of parks, restaurants, and shopping destinations, including Northridge Fashion Center, Mason Devonshire Plaza, and Chatsworth Center.

Below are 15 top attractions and activities to consider in and around Chatsworth, California.

1. Relax and Rejuvenate in Chatsworth Park North

Chatsworth Park North is an ideal location to unwind and familiarize yourself with the city upon your arrival.

This park offers numerous amenities, including basketball and volleyball courts, softball fields, fitness equipment, playgrounds, and picnic areas equipped with barbecue grills.

A pleasant hiking path leads to a spectacular viewpoint, ideal for watching sunsets or taking in the breathtaking vistas. Restroom facilities are available on-site.

2. Enjoy a Live Performance at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center

The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center was originally established as the Simi Community Methodist Episcopal Church.

Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the preserved original features dating back to the 1920s, including magnificent stained-glass windows.

Since its transformation into a cultural venue in the mid-1990s, it has hosted an eclectic range of live entertainment events. Throughout the year, theatrical productions, musicals, jazz performances, and concerts are presented.

3. Indulge with Southern Soul Food at Les Sisters’ Southern Kitchen & BBQ

Since its inception in 1986, Les Sisters Southern Kitchen & BBQ has been providing residents of Southern California with authentic flavors of New Orleans and the Southeastern United States.

The establishment features a menu rich in Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes served during lunch and dinner. Offerings include appetizers, sandwiches, poboys, burgers, baby back ribs, black-eyed peas, rice, wings, southern fried chicken, cornbread, and various barbecue selections.

4. Visit the Los Angeles Pet Memorial Park

While visiting a memorial park might seem unusual during a trip, the Los Angeles Pet Memorial Park located in nearby Calabasas offers a unique experience particularly for pet lovers.

This park is the final resting place for over 42,000 pets from the vicinity and was initiated by a local veterinarian, housing many pets that belonged to notable figures.

5. Admire Modern Art at Artvanta

Artvanta is a contemporary art museum located in Chatsworth that displays an extensive range of modern art pieces from across the globe.

The museum features rotating exhibits throughout the year, including displays such as “Alphabets – Reinvented” and “Vessels of Light,” showcasing a mix of paintings and sculptures.

Guided tours are offered, along with various events scheduled throughout the year.

6. Learn About Local History at the Strathearn Historical Park & Museum

The Strathearn Historical Park & Museum, located in nearby Simi Valley, offers visitors an immersive experience into local history.

Commence your visit at the onsite visitor center before exploring the grounds. You can navigate the park independently or opt for a guided tour.

Throughout the area, you will encounter well-preserved buildings including the Simi Library, the Strathearn Windmill, the Printz/Powell Colony House, and the Currier Apricot Pitting Shed.

It is permitted to visit the exterior of the buildings; however, internal explorations are restricted to guided tours.

7. Sample Local Craft Beer at Hand-Brewed Beer Co.

Since its establishment in 2014, Hand-Brewed Beer Co. has been crafting quality craft beers on-site. Visitors can explore a range of unique creations in a relaxed tasting room atmosphere.

Available on tap are various selections, including Rocky Peak Red, War Eagle Lager, Flat Earth IPA, and Imperial Honey Hand Blonde Ale.

8. Visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum

At the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, located in nearby Simi Valley, visitors can explore the life and legacy of former President Ronald Reagan.

This expansive complex features various exhibits showcasing artifacts from different stages of his life, encompassing his childhood, film career, political journey, military service, and family life, including his marriage to former First Lady Nancy Reagan.

Among the highlights is the vintage Ford Mustang that he drove during his campaign and the attire worn during his inauguration.

9. Explore Corriganville Park

Formerly known as Corriganville Movie Ranch, Corriganville Park, located in nearby Simi Valley, is an attractive green space and popular destination. This park was once both a movie studio and ranch.

Its diverse landscape, featuring large boulders, mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and caves, provided stunning backdrops for many popular television shows and films.

Currently, visitors can navigate the park, admire the beautiful scenery, and discover remnants of its cinematic history. A network of walking trails is available for ease of exploration.

10. Check Out Grandma Prisbrey’s Bottle Village

Grandma Prisbrey’s Bottle Village, located in nearby Simi Valley, is an extraordinary attraction recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. The remarkable creation of Tressa Prisbrey took nearly twenty years to complete and is now seen as an artistic achievement.

Constructed entirely from recycled materials sourced from a nearby landfill, the village features walkways lined with shrines, sculptures, and distinctive structures. Guided tours are available to enhance the experience.

11. Go on a Shopping Excursion at The Commons at Calabasas

The Commons at Calabasas attracts shoppers and observers alike. Shoppers are drawn to this upscale venue, featuring luxury retailers such as Sephora and Williams-Sonoma.

Visitors often come to spot celebrities and admire the impressive architecture of the complex.

Additively, the site hosts various entertainment options and numerous dining establishments.

12. Go Hiking along the Trails at Stoney Point

Stoney Point, located near Chatsworth, is a favored destination for hiking and rock climbing. The area features a variety of trails, each offering distinctive sights and experiences.

As you venture through the paths, observe the diverse natural features, including large boulders, rock formations, caves, and streams.

You will also have opportunities to spot various bird and animal species and appreciate the native flora. Many trails are dog-friendly.

13. Go Back in Time at the Santa Susana Depot Museum and Model Railroad

Chatsworth and its surrounding region boast a rich railroad history, encapsulated by the Santa Susana Depot Museum and Model Railroad located in nearby Simi Valley.

This compelling museum is housed within a beautifully restored Southern Pacific Depot, which reflects the historical architecture of the 1950s.

Inside, visitors will discover artifacts, memorabilia, a miniature representation of Simi Valley, and numerous items detailing the history of the city and its railroads.

14. Get Back to Nature in Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park

Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park represents a stunning natural area where the Santa Susana Mountains converge with Simi Hills.

The most enjoyable way to discover this park is by traversing the hiking trails that meander through its landscape. Enjoy breathtaking views of steep ridges, deep canyons, and scenic overlooks displaying the area’s natural beauty.

While exploring the park, one can also observe a variety of plant life and potentially spot wildlife, including ring-tailed cats and gray foxes that inhabit the region.

Your excursion in the park will also provide insights into its vibrant history, which dates back to its use as a major transportation corridor in the mid-1700s.

15. Visit the Leonis Adobe Museum

Constructed in 1844, the Leonis Adobe Museum in nearby Calabasas stands as the oldest surviving structure in the San Fernando Valley.

Originally serving as the residence of Miguel Leonis, a prominent rancher, the museum is now recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, dedicated to preserving the rich history of adobe architecture.

While touring the museum and its grounds, visitors can gain insights into the ranch lifestyle of the era, with various historical structures, including a barn and a blacksmith shop, available for exploration.