What to do in Ventura, CA

Activities, attractions and tours
Channel Islands National Park

Ventura Attractions

Are you a fan of shopping or delicious food? Or maybe you just prefer to get to know a new travel destination like a real local. While staying in Ventura, it doesn't matter which category you fall in — this happening city offers all the attractions and experiences you could hope for.

Explore the sights of Ventura with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {70 fun activities in Ventura fun activities in Ventura}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can rest easy and concentrate on planning the ultimate vacation.

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Most fun & popular experiences in Ventura

Tours & day trips

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Classes & workshops

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Adventure & outdoor

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What to do in Ventura

Free Things to Do in Ventura

Sightseeing on a shoestring budget in Ventura? Spend time, not your paycheck, on fabulous experiences.

Mission San Buenaventura - You'll feel like you've taken a step back in time while wandering around this historic attraction.

Ventura Pier - Open up your guidebook and discover why this place is worth adding to your must-see list.

Emma Wood State Beach - Keep a lookout for colorful shells and other ocean gems sprinkled along the coastline here.

Things to Do in Ventura with Kids

There's nothing nicer than spending time together with the family. Ventura boasts a thrilling range of family friendly experiences that the entire gang will love:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Ventura? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Read travel guides and advice on visiting Ventura

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Frequently asked questions

What to do in Ventura on a sunny day?
Make the most of the great weather with a couple of these outdoor experiences:


What should I not miss in Ventura?
Ventura Pier is one sight you shouldn’t head home without exploring.
Are there cheap things to do in Ventura?
Have a ball without putting a dent in your budget with an Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Buffalo by Operation City Quest or a Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Sunnyvale by Operation City Quest.
What can you do in Ventura for free?
You could store your wallet in the hotel safe for the day, because these fantastic attractions won’t cost you a penny:

  • Ventura Pier
  • Ventura Harbor
  • Emma Wood State Beach
  • The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at Channel Islands National Park

Popular places to visit

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Ventura Harbor

Appreciate delicious seafood, sandy beaches, whale watching and charming friendliness in this waterfront area with access to Channel Islands National Park.

Ventura Harbor
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Ventura Pier

Enjoy seafood or tacos at the foot of this pier and wander along its old wooden planks for panoramic views of the Channel Islands.

Ventura Pier
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Lake Casitas Recreation Area

Explore the great outdoors at Lake Casitas Recreation Area, a lovely green space in Ventura. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this romantic area.

Lake Casitas Recreation Area
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Ventura County Fairgrounds

Catch an event at Ventura County Fairgrounds during your trip to Ventura. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its entertainment choices.

Ventura County Fairgrounds
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Ventura City Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Ventura City Beach during your trip to Ventura? Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Ventura City Beach
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Emma Wood State Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Emma Wood State Beach during your travels in Ventura? Stroll along the area's waterfront or experience its lively festivals.

Emma Wood State Beach
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San Buenaventura Mission

Find out about the history of Ventura with a stop at San Buenaventura Mission. Stroll along the area's waterfront, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.

San Buenaventura Mission
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Ventura City Hall

You can learn about the history of Ventura with a visit to Ventura City Hall.

Ventura City Hall
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Rincon Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Rincon Beach during your trip to Ventura? Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Rincon Beach

Explore areas of Ventura

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Pierpont Bay

4/5Very Good!(158 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Pierpont Bay, Ventura City Beach and San Buenaventura State Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Pierpont Bay
Ventura showing a sunset

Downtown Ventura

4/5Very Good!(59 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Downtown Ventura, San Buenaventura Mission and Ventura City Hall are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Ventura
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Saticoy

Sterling Hills Golf Club is one noteworthy place to stop while you're exploring Saticoy and the surrounding area.

Saticoy
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Montalvo

3/5(1 area review)

While Montalvo isn't home to many top sights, Ventura Harbor and Ventura City Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.

Montalvo
See our Where To Stay guide

Day trip destinations from Ventura

Ventura - Oxnard showing signage and outdoor art

Oxnard

Carpinteria

Carpinteria

Ojai

Ojai

Santa Paula

Santa Paula

Photo by Priyanka Paliwal

Oak View