Things to do in Ventura

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park showing rugged coastline and general coastal views
Channel Islands National Park showing kayaking or canoeing, rocky coastline and general coastal views
Channel Islands National Park which includes rocky coastline and general coastal views
Ventura Harbor which includes a bay or harbor, a river or creek and sailing

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 {17 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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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!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Ventura

Ventura Harbor featuring sailing and general coastal views

Ventura Harbor

4.5/5(803 reviews)

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

Ventura Harbor
Ventura Pier which includes general coastal views, landscape views and a sunset

Ventura Pier

4.5/5(757 reviews)

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
Ventura, CA. Rated as one of the happiest cities in United States to live in. I believe it is due to the fabulous surf conditions, the sound of the sea upon the shore and the incredible sunsets.

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
🇱🇷 Situated along California's scenic central coast, the City of Ventura was once referred to as the “land of endless summer". There are many uncrowded beaches to discover in this area. • 🏊‍♀️ Like Emma Wood State Beach this area is popular for swimming, surfing, and fishing. It attracts a variety of wildlife on the beach and in the ocean! The beach also offers family camping or RV parking.

Emma Wood State Beach

4.5/5(30 reviews)

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

Emma Wood State Beach
#goldenhour

South Jetty Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at South Jetty Beach during your trip to Ventura? Stroll along the area's waterfront or experience its lively festivals.

South Jetty Beach

Ventura County Fairgrounds

4/5(139 reviews)

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

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

Solimar Beach

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Solimar Beach during your travels in Ventura. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Solimar Beach

San Buenaventura Mission

4.5/5(58 reviews)

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

San Buenaventura Mission

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Ventura

A panoramic view from the bronze mermaid statue at Soter's Point. The place was just a strip of rocky breakwater area until it was developed a few years back. Now park goers and visitors frequent the once neglected place.

Pierpont Bay

4/5(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

4/5(59 area reviews)

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

Downtown Ventura
Amazing Napoleon! Basil pesto over smoked mozzarella over heirloom tomato over Portobello mushroom over potato au gratin over spinach! Love the dog friendly outdoor patio.

Midtown

Midtown might not have many top sights, but Ventura City Beach and Ventura Harbor are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Midtown
Ventura Harbor which includes a bay or harbor, a river or creek and sailing

Ventura Harbor Village

While visiting Ventura Harbor Village, you might make a stop by sights like Ventura Harbor and Channel Islands National Park.

Ventura Harbor Village
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East End

Though East End might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Golf N' Stuff and Olivas Adobe Historical Park.

East End
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Westside

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Westside and surrounding area, you can visit Ventura City Hall and San Buenaventura Mission.

Westside
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Ventura

Ventura - Oxnard showing signage and outdoor art

Oxnard

Carpinteria

Carpinteria

Ojai

Ojai

Santa Paula

Santa Paula

Photo by Priyanka Paliwal

Oak View

Frequently asked questions

Is Ventura worth visiting?
Ventura offers a unique blend of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into nature, history or traditional cuisine, there are many things you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Ventura?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Ventura Pier and Ventura City Beach. Then, explore other areas of Ventura for a bite to eat and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ventura?
Don't go home without visiting Ventura City Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Ventura.
Is three days enough to stay in Ventura?
Three days in Ventura is more than enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many guests spend two days on average. Ventura City Beach, Solimar Beach and Emma Wood State Beach are among the top-rated sights. Want to see more? Stick around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots like Santa Barbara.
Is Ventura a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city center, Ventura is a good destination to see on foot. Wander between Ventura City Beach and Emma Wood State Beach. Then take a stroll through Pierpont Bay, located 2 miles from the center, and Downtown Ventura, which is about 0.5 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Ventura with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Ventura with kids.

What to do in Ventura for adults?
Ventura City Hall is one of the main things to do in Ventura. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Ventura?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Ventura is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without opening your wallet. Ventura City Beach is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.