If you have turned on the news over the past few months – at the very least – you have undoubtedly heard some flashpoint terms like “supply chain shortages” and “aggressive inflation.” And, if you’re like us, this set off some alarm bells being that living in the Golden State was already so expensive.

As we learn to navigate these rough seas during such unprecedented times, the following suggestions for more affordable places to go near Woodland Hills – from restaurants and coffee shops to recreation centers and bowling alleys – should help relieve at least some of the uneasiness we’re all feeling.

Bobby’s Coffee Shop, located at 22821 Ventura Boulevard, has been doing its best to keep the tradition of comfort and family alive for more than 70 years. This popular breakfast diner in Woodland Hills offers a charming, classic coffee shop environment to enjoy uber-affordable homestyle dishes. This “OG diner”-Esque restaurant has become renowned for its Eggs, Sourdough Toast, and Bacon special, but all of its menu selections are presented in gargantuan sizes that must be seen to be appreciated.

The Habit Burger Grill, located at 17320 Red Hill Avenue Suite 140 in Irvine, traces its roots back to Santa Barbara of 1969 and now enjoys a reputation for serving the tastiest burgers on the coast. The two brothers who run the operation are now turning their attention to other beach-inspired recipes, like a fresh-grilled ahi sandwich made with line-caught tuna, a chicken sandwich topped with crisp bacon, and velvety avocado and crisp salads made to order. One bite of a Charburger from The Habit will transport you to a place where cool ocean breezes sweep gently through majestic green palm fronds and a time when two enterprising young brothers established what it means to “make it a habit.”

California Chicken Café, with 10 locations throughout metro Los Angeles but situated at 22333 Ventura Boulevard in Woodland Hills, has been serving rotisserie chicken, salads, and wraps since 1991. They evolved from the place UCLA kids used to call “CCC” to a “lifestyle chicken brand” and made it cool to stand in line at a chicken shop rather than a Starbucks. To this day, there isn’t a restaurant quite like California Chicken Café that offers fast-casual style and taste.

Pickwick’s Pub, located at 21010 Ventura Boulevard, has been a local favorite since 1974. The structure was rebuilt from scratch in 2005 after a devastating fire – but it remains owned and operated by a local family that strives to provide patrons a perfect pub experience. So for a fun, affordable time, stop by Pickwick’s and enjoy two tournament dartboards, 14 large televisions, and a menu diverse enough for anyone.

Woodland Hills Recreation Center, located at 5858 Shoup Avenue, offers everything from sports and fitness programs to cultural experiences, summer/winter camps, and a plethora of classes, including pre-school, Parent and Me, Art Academy, Dance (Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, and Bollywood), Guitar, Karate, Tennis (children and adult), Cinema Arts, Painting and Drama. The Recreation Center serves the South Valley region and is situated in council district three.

Art Departure, located at 23233 Saticoy Street #113 in West Hills, is a full gallery and studio experience for artists of all ages and abilities, focused on creativity and personal growth through the wonderful medium of artmaking. Artist/owner Jaye Weiner was an Art Specialist for nine years at CHIME Charter School, the inclusive education model school in LAUSD for children with disabilities. The remainder of her staff – including Michele Hausman and Heide Briggs – inspires kids and adults through wonderful artistic sensibilities. Are you looking for an affordable afternoon out? Try some classes, workshops, or even an art party at Art Departure.

Warner Center Park, located at 5800 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, has landed on countless Woodland Hills Magazine lists in the past. Yet, the venue remains a SoCal staple that people can enjoy concerts, picnics, playgrounds, and much more. This community green space offers a perfect way to spend a Sunday relaxing, listening to music, drinking a little wine, or socializing with friends. So head on over by yourself and make some new pals!

Kids Ahoy, KidzCity, Playsource, Under the Sea Indoor Playground and We Rock the Spectrum are all wonderful options for Woodland Hills parents when something exciting and cost-effective is on the agenda. These facilities offer a myriad of activities to enjoy with the kids, from gym exercises to all manner of amusement indulgences. Check with each facility to ensure hours of operation and current business status.

Woodland Hills Ice, located at 6100 Topanga Canyon Boulevard at Erwin Street, is an outdoor winter ice rink that offers a uniquely holiday-Esque backdrop for birthday parties, hockey lessons, family nights, and other events, including skating school and private learning sessions. The only one of its kind in the San Fernando Valley, Woodland Hills Ice sits on more than 7,000 square feet of the frozen stuff and remains conveniently situated at the Westfield Promenade – perfect for gathering up the family and enjoying a unique and affordable experience.

AMF Woodlake Lanes, located at 23130 Ventura Boulevard, is not only known for its bowling but also its food – case in point: So many SoCal bowling enthusiasts come for the alley action but end up staying for the Meat Lover’s Pizza, perfect for a big group. With super-friendly staff and an eclectic mix of college kids and baby boomers, Woodlake Lanes is everything you could ask for in an entertaining yet affordable evening out. 

Los Angeles offers world-class arts and culture, but in some areas, such as Woodland Hills, it offers them at a bargaining price. With the way things are going in this all-too-real inflation situation we currently find ourselves in, the aforementioned spots around Woodland Hills represent refreshing options for having fun.