Things to do in Ventura

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A coastal landscape with cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and distant mountains.
A coastal landscape with clear turquoise waters and rocky cliffs.
A rocky beach with kayaks and a boat in the water.
A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs and calm sea.
A marina filled with sailboats and yachts, calm water, and a clear blue sky.

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 {15 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.

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!

 

 

Stay near popular Ventura attractions

A pier extending into the water with a flag on top, street lamps, and a sunset in the background.

Ventura Pier

9.0/10 (2,401 reviews)
Built in 1872, this historic wooden pier stretches 1,600 feet into the Pacific, offering panoramic coastal views. Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants while watching local fishermen bring in their daily catch.
See properties

Where to stay in Ventura

Find the best Ventura areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ventura
Learn more about Ventura
A neon sign for 'San Ventura' with 'Shop, Surf, Stay, Eat' and a 'Rip Curl' logo.
Photo by Terry Fletcher
Open Photo by Terry Fletcher

Downtown Ventura

If you're spending some time in Downtown Ventura, Ventura City Hall and Albinger Archaeological Museum are top sights worth seeing.

A marina with several sailboats docked, surrounded by buildings with red-tiled roofs.

Ventura Harbor Village

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

A pier extending into the ocean at sunset.

Pierpont Bay

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

A coastal city with a beach, residential areas, and mountains in the background.

Midtown

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

A beach with palm trees, a path, and sailboats in the distance.

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 Cinemark Century Riverpark.

 

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

A coastal city with a long pier extending into the ocean, a sandy beach, and a mountainous backdrop.

Oxnard

An aerial view of a coastal town with residential areas, roads, and solar panels.

Carpinteria

A mountainous landscape with vineyards and fields.

Ojai

A flower garden with various colorful flowers and a mountainous backdrop.

Santa Paula

A beach with footprints leading to the water, waves crashing onto the shore, and a distant city skyline.

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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia