Things to Do in Ventura (2025)

Family-run since 1968, Island Packers is the official boat concessioner for Channel Islands National Park. Naturalist-led rides to Anacapa and Santa Cruz mix dolphin and whale sightings with island history, often praised by travel editors and park rangers alike.

Climb gentle trails through five Mediterranean-climate zones and take in huge Pacific views. Featured by the Los Angeles Times, the 107-acre nonprofit offers free Fridays, leashed-dog days, and evolving plantings shaped by the community after the Thomas Fire.

This downtown museum anchors Ventura’s cultural scene with rotating art and history shows, lively community events, and free First Sundays. It’s a reliable window into local stories, from surfing heritage to regional art.

An intimate, award-winning professional company where big-name performances meet a passionate local audience. With Ovation and Drama Desk honors and a full 2025 calendar, it’s the spot for memorable plays, concerts, and talkbacks.

A nonprofit hub in the Westside Arts District with dozens of working studios and classes. Doors fling open on First Fridays, when locals and visitors browse, buy, and chat with artists in a welcoming, community-forward setting.

This indie distillery channels the Central Coast into bottles—think Wilder Gin with native botanicals, strawberry brandy, and a sunny tasting room. Profiled by the Los Angeles Times and LAist, it’s a flavorful lesson in creative, regional distilling.

Certified organic and proudly local, Leashless pours gluten-reduced beers in a lively taproom with live music and a dog-friendly patio. Industry outlets have noted its sustainability focus and community programming.

A 1920s bungalow with a garden patio and a cult following for brioche French toast and maple-bacon beignets. Recommended by the Los Angeles Times and included in Eater LA’s Ventura guide, it’s a quintessential local brunch.

Downtown’s Italian-leaning brunch star serves a talked-about breakfast lasagna alongside spritzes on a sunny patio. Nationally recognized in Yelp’s Top 100 Brunch Spots, it’s a lively, family-run slice of Ventura’s café culture.

At San Buenaventura State Beach, slurp sustainably farmed oysters steps from the sand. Celebrated by Eater LA, this family business lets you shuck-your-own or go grilled—bring friends and make it a beachfront picnic.

A downtown gallery devoted to Ventura and Channel Islands photography by owners Stephanie Hogue and Steve Munch, whose images have appeared in national magazines. Open late on weekends and active in First Fridays.

A member-run ceramics gallery in Ventura Harbor Village showcasing work by 40+ local potters, with demos and special markets throughout the year. It’s an easy place to meet artists and bring home functional art.