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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Ventura

Fun activities

Somewhere to find fun activities without the stress of hunting for a parking space the moment you arrive.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated April 2026
01
Ventura Aquatic Center image 1
Ventura Aquatic Center image 2
Ventura Aquatic Center image 3
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Outdoor pools include heated lap pool, water slides, and a splash pad for kids. Grounds offer ample lounging space with chairs, tables, and grass areas. The atmosphere is family-friendly with lifeguards on duty and a mix of quiet and lively moments depending on the time.

Huge parking lot offers easy parking and plenty of space. The area is RV friendly with spacious grounds.

Entry costs just $10 for a full day of fun activities including lap swimming, slides, and a water park for younger kids. Family Swim Night offers a safe, community environment where kids and adults can enjoy the pools and cool off.

People are saying

"It's a fun, kid-friendly spot with water slides and play areas."

"I found the parking available to be easy to find."

"It's a fun place with slides for the kids."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $10 per person for a full day of fun.

2

Open swim sessions might require advance reservations, especially during peak season.

3

Parking is easy and RV friendly at the Ventura Aquatic Center.

02
The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at Channel Islands National Park image 1

Visitor center combines interactive exhibits, live tidepool aquarium, and 3D island maps within a beautiful, multi-level structure. Atmosphere is calm and educational, with spectacular ocean views from observation decks. Families and nature enthusiasts gather here to explore coastal wildlife and native plants.

Free and ample parking exists at the visitor center. Signs indicate limited parking near the pier and no parking at the beach across the street.

Fun activities include exploring the educational exhibits and browsing a gift shop with items for kids and adults. The center offers a free and engaging experience that appeals especially to families.

People are saying

"The visitor center's exhibits are really good and informative."

"I found the visitor center fun and educational."

"Parking available here is free and plentiful."

Good to know

1

Rangers offer free public programs about park resources at 11am and 3pm on weekends and holidays.

2

Island Packers offers whale watching and camping trips from Channel Islands harbor.

3

The visitor center is free to visit and includes a museum and movie theater.

03
Ventura Harbor Village image 1

Shopping mall set by a harbor with beautiful bay views and live music creates a colorful, lively atmosphere. Visitors enjoy boat rentals and a mix of shops and restaurants, with a cozy, relaxed vibe. The place combines harbor scenery with casual indoor and outdoor seating.

Free and easy parking is available, with spots close to shops, restaurants, and the beach. Rates are inexpensive, around $1 per hour or $10 for a full day, with free parking from Monday to Thursday.

Vibrant events like Pirate Day and Mermaid Day create a playful atmosphere. Small boat rentals and shops add to the variety of fun activities available.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great views and the lively, energetic atmosphere."

"The atmosphere here is so playful and energizing, it makes for great fun activities."

"Parking is paid on weekends and holidays."

Good to know

1

Live music occurs on weekends at Ventura Harbor Village.

2

Special events like Pirate Day and Mermaid Day are held on weekends.

3

Parking is paid, but free parking is available from Monday to Thursday.

04
Marina Park image 1

Oceanfront park offers serene atmosphere with lush green hills and breathtaking views. Family-friendly space includes a nautical-themed playground and large lawn for picnics and games. Dog-friendly paths and water access create a peaceful, inviting environment.

Free and abundant parking is available throughout the day. Spaces are close to the entrance, though it can get busy early in the morning on weekends.

A pirate ship sandbox sits right on the water line with waves crashing nearby. Kids can climb around on a fun ship in the sand, making it a solid spot for family fun.

People are saying

"It's a fun beach with a playground and activities for all ages."

"The playground with the ship was so much fun for the kids."

"I found plenty of free parking available."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed at Marina Park.

2

Part of the parking at Marina Park is closed due to construction.

3

The pier walk is closed due to storm damage.

05
Arroyo Verde Park image 1

Spacious green park with scenic hills and diverse hiking trails featuring steep inclines and stunning views. Atmosphere is peaceful and dog friendly, attracting families and outdoor enthusiasts. Facilities include playgrounds, barbecue areas, and ample picnic spots, supporting gatherings and daily activities.

Parking is free on weekdays with spots usually available inside the park. Weekends require a cash-only fee between $3 and $5 for parking.

A fun playground sits in the back parking lot with a new play structure. Plenty of grass areas offer space for more fun and activities. Dog days and group outings add to the overall fun experience.

People are saying

"It's so Dog Friendly with plenty of open space to run."

"Parking is free during the week and costs $3 on weekends."

"It's got a great playground for kids of all ages."

Good to know

1

There is a small $3 entry fee on weekends.

2

Parking is free during the week but charged on weekends.

3

The park is well-maintained and clean.

06
Ventura Music Hall image 1
Live music venue

Intimate live music venue with great sound system and excellent sight lines from every spot. The space combines reserved tables and a large dance floor, creating a laid-back yet energetic atmosphere. Shows attract both large bands and close-up performances, offering a personal concert feel.

Parking includes a dedicated lot but is limited. Arriving early helps secure a spot and avoid street parking.

Concerts offer real family fun with a lively atmosphere. Performances by charming, talented artists like Demola keep the energy high and the crowd engaged.

People are saying

"I had a lot of fun at this cool venue."

"It's a small, intimate venue perfect for seeing bands."

"Parking fills up quickly, so arrive early."

Good to know

1

Re-entry is not allowed during shows.

2

Parking is available right in front on Thompson Boulevard.

3

Tickets should be purchased early as many shows sell out.

07
The Jolly Oyster Ventura image 1
Oyster bar restaurant

Food truck by the beach offers picnic tables with umbrellas and open-air seating on sand. Atmosphere stays laid back and family-oriented with vibrant, uplifting energy and occasional live music. Guests can shuck oysters themselves or enjoy fresh seafood with ocean views and a dog-friendly setting.

Ample parking spots sit within walking distance to the beach. A booth attendant often hands out free 60-minute parking passes at the gate.

Shucking oysters offers a fun hands-on activity with a lively, engaging atmosphere. The experience centers on enjoying fresh oysters in a setting that encourages interaction and enjoyment.

People are saying

"The food, especially the ceviche and uni, is so fresh and delicious."

"The oysters here are so fresh and delicious."

"You get an hour of free parking when you arrive."

Good to know

1

Parking in the beach area costs $10 all day.

2

You receive a free 60-minute parking pass when dining at the restaurant.

3

The oysters cost $40 for 8, which may be considered pricey.

08
Camino Real Park image 1

Large park with mature trees and a barranca walkway creates a peaceful, shaded environment. Multiple playgrounds, dog parks separated by size, and sports fields attract families and pet owners. The space feels tucked away from the city, offering a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

Plenty of parking exists with clean lots and paved streets. Parking near the dog park can be a bit far to walk for some people.

Multiple playgrounds offer unique fun experiences for kids. A dedicated dog park provides space for pets to play. The area supports family-friendly activities throughout.

People are saying

"It's dog friendly with separate large and small dog parks."

"The parking lot here is clean and well maintained."

"It's a fun place to take your dog for a walk."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the park.

2

The park has clean restrooms and well-maintained facilities.

3

Camino Real Park features separate areas for small and large dogs.

09
Ventura County Fairgrounds and Event Center image 1

Fairgrounds offer spacious grounds with beach views and a lively atmosphere filled with bright lights and music. Crowds gather for live performances and diverse food vendors, creating a festive and energetic environment. The setup includes multiple buildings hosting various booths and entertainment acts, blending classic fair elements with coastal charm.

Easy access to ample parking makes arriving straightforward. Free shuttles connect the large parking lots to the event area, and the grounds offer wheelchair accessibility from parking through the venue.

Events like Cirque du Soleil and concerts provide great entertainment. The fairgrounds offer rides and festivals that make for a fun day with family.

People are saying

"I loved the fair food, especially the monster chicken kabobs."

"I had such a fun time here!"

"There was lots of parking available, it was great."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on site, but can be limited during events.

2

VIP tickets allow for front row seating and shorter wait times.

3

The entrance fee is $16 per person for events.

10
Surfers Point at Seaside Park image 1

Beachside setting offers stunning ocean views and golden sands with walkways lined by towering palms. Atmosphere blends peaceful reflection around a memorial with a laid-back, lively vibe typical of a coastal community. Visitors find a chill, tranquil space for walking, surfing, and enjoying nature's rhythm.

Parking offers easy access with reasonable pricing at 0.25 per 15 minutes and a four-hour maximum per ticket. Facilities include restrooms and a changing area nearby.

Mellow waves and mid to above waves offer fun surfing opportunities. It also serves as a rest spot along the Coast bike trail.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful and relaxing."

"I found the parking available to be easy and inexpensive."

"It's a fun rest spot with mellow waves and great surf."

Good to know

1

Parking is often full, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Paid parking is the only option available at Surfers Point.

3

The beach is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

11
Tony's Pizzaria Surfers Point, Ventura Beach image 1

Old school walk-up window with large patio and fire pit tables creates a beach party vibe. Live music fills the outdoor space, often loud enough to challenge conversation. Crowd enjoys line dancing and games, making it a lively spot for music and pizza.

Expanded parking includes a heated patio area and an outdoor space for larger parties with a band and bar. Motorcycle riders can access VIP parking.

Fun atmosphere makes it a solid all-ages spot. People there are engaging and lively, adding to the good time. The place keeps getting better and more fun over the years.

People are saying

"I loved their homemade pizza; it was delicious."

"The live music here creates an electric atmosphere."

"The parking lot here is dusty and windy, watch your pizza."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Outside food is not allowed, so plan accordingly.

3

Live music is offered on select days, check the schedule.

12
Pacific View image 1
Shopping mall

Mall features Pacific Ocean views and a spacious food court with a clean kids' playpen at its center. Atmosphere feels quiet and declining, with many stores closed and low foot traffic. Large anchor stores remain, but overall energy is subdued and the design feels outdated.

Plenty of spacious parking surrounds the entrance and all sides of the mall. Security patrols keep the parking areas monitored and safe.

Two levels offer shopping fun and space to walk around. Activities like trampolines once added to the family fun vibe, making it a place kids enjoy.

People are saying

"This mall is super clean and well lit."

"There was plenty of parking available, it was easy."

"It's a fun mall to hang out at with family fun."

Good to know

1

The mall has a Macy's, JCPenney, Old Navy, and Target store.

2

Restrooms are well-maintained and clean throughout the mall.

3

The playground for kids is clean and well-kept.

13
The Majestic Ventura Theater image 1

Historic theater with a gorgeous vintage design and multi-tiered seating offers intimate views and phenomenal sound and lighting. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and lively, especially during metal and punk shows. Space can get hot and crowded but maintains strong energy and good vibes.

Nearby options include a parking structure and free street parking. Arriving early helps with parking and seating challenges.

Small size creates an intimate setting that adds to the fun atmosphere. The venue consistently offers an enjoyable experience for various events.

People are saying

"I loved the nostalgic, classic atmosphere of this historic theater."

"I found parking available nearby and could walk to dinner."

"I always had a good time and found it a fun place."

Good to know

1

The theater has no air conditioning, making it very hot during events.

2

Cash transactions only accepted; no credit cards.

3

Expect sticky floors and poorly maintained restrooms.

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