Park for free in the Public Parking Structure, then enjoy the shopping and restaurants along the pedestrian only sections of Main Street.

Check out the Senior Craft Center for awesome art and handcrafts made by local seniors. Olive Ventura has a enormous collection of artisanal olive oils and vinegars. You can also visit the San Buenaventura Mission, established in 1782.

We recommend getting lunch and something to drink at the Kaapicat Cafe. Busy Bee Cafe and Peirano's are also highly recommended. If you're looking for something sweet, Rori's Artisanal Creamery has excellent ice cream, including vegan options.

For dinner, try Cafe Fiori, Rumfish y Vino, or the Taj Cafe.

Rumfish y Vino also has excellent drinks, as does The Twist on Main, VenTiki, and Rocks and Drams.

Another option for food, activities and shopping, Ventura Harbor village boasts the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center, an Escape Room, and is right across the street from the beach.

If you're looking for seafood, hit up Brophy Bros or the Boatyard Pub.

Enjoy walking through five different Mediterranean climate zones with spectacular views of downtown Ventura, the Channel Islands and Topa Topa peak.

The entrance fee is $7 and parking is free.

Several easy hiking trails wind through the park. Don't miss Paradise Falls.

Another great place to go hiking, with trails of varying lengths and difficulties.

Beautiful coastal park with walking trails, beaches, tide pools, a seal preserve, and natural tar pits. Located about 25 minutes from Ventura.

Located right off the 405 freeway, enjoy touring the exhibits and walking through the gardens with views of the breadth of Los Angeles. Afterwards, stop by Sor Tino for the best Italian food we've had outside of Italy.

Board the Island Packers ferry out of Ventura Harbor for the hour long trip to Santa Cruz Island, with the potential to see dolphins and migrating whales on the way.

Once on the island, there are several hiking trails offering amazing views and encounters with island foxes. Or you can separately book a guided kayak tour and explore the coastline.

Ferry tickets cost $70-$92 round trip for adults, $50-$72 for children. Kayak tours are $145-$275 for adults, and $127-$275 dollars for children, plus the cost of the ferry.