The City of San Buenaventura, more commonly known as Ventura, is a city by the sea just north of Los Angeles. Surrounded by ocean, foothills, and rivers, Ventura is ladened with outdoor fun. When folks in town finished busy surfing, hiking, or enjoying the natural beauty of the city, they are actively promoting and preserving the Ventura heritage with historical sites. Take a look at some of the amazing things Ventura has to offer.
Ventura pier, a dock overlooking Pierpont Bay and the Channel Islands, is one of the most popular spots to spend the day in Ventura. Bring the camera to take some unforgettable snapshots of a fun day on the western coast.
Ventura is famous worldwide for its choice waves. Make sure to bring sunscreen when you visit one of California’s most beloved surf spot, Surfer’s Point.
Check out popular things to do in Ventura:
The Two Trees on a hill overlooking the city is a local landmark
Rancho Ventura Conservation is a perfect place to go bird watching
The Museum of Ventura County has a collection of modern and fine art
Historic Mission San Buenaventura is where Ventura gets its name
The Ventura Harbor Village is a fun place to watch the boats
Nothing says “Ventura” like a handmade gifts by local artisans. Main Street is filled with a variety of boutiques, jewelry stores, and thrift shops to explore and find the perfect gift for your friends or home.
Activities happening near Ventura today include:
Eating at Eric Ericsson's Seafood Restaurant by the pier
Watching the races at Ventura Raceway on the fairgrounds
When the sun goes down, Ventura stays up. Originally a movie theater, the Majestic Ventura Theater is now a National Historic Landmark and popular concert venue for touring artists. Buy tickets to see one of the many up and coming performers that play on the stage, like the Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Doors.
Check out these popular nighttime activities in Ventura:
As the seat of Ventura County, Ventura has an active relationship with neighboring towns Ojai and Oxnard. Both of these towns have plenty of kid-approved attractions, like the Gull Wings Children's Museum in Oxnard and the Ojai Skate Park.
Top family-friendly things to do in Ventura include:
Getting ice cream at Coastal Cone and Parlour
Playing a round of putt-putt at Golf N’ Stuff
Climbing the water playground at Casitas Water Adventure
Flying kites at Arroyo Verde Park
Renting a boat and being buccaneers with Pirate Boat Ride
After a day in the California sun, there’s still plenty of fun to be had indoors. The Museum of Ventura County is a center educates the public about art and history. When visiting the museum, be sure to check out the approximately 30,000 pieces of fine art and artifacts. If you have extra time, review the documents available in the research library.
Other things to do indoors near Ventura include:
Customize a unique soap from The Refill Shoppe
Sip on wine and paint a masterpiece with Paint Nite
Just across the water from Ventura is the Channel Islands National Park, a preserve on five islands that is home to a variety of wildlife. After riding a ferry from Ventura, visitors can take advantage of the many outdoor activities on the island, including hiking, camping, and birdwatching.
