Situated in the heart of Ventura County, Thousand Oaks has established a reputation for being one of the most desirable places to live in the Conejo Valley. This prestigious locale is known as a premier residential destination, boasting an impressive array of high-end custom homes, townhouses, and condominiums that beautifully blend Mediterranean and Ranch architectural styles.
Complementing its exceptional housing options, Thousand Oaks offers easy access to diverse outdoor recreational activities together with cultural, historical, and artistic attractions that showcase the region’s unique blend of Southern California charm and history.
For those contemplating making this picturesque Southern California gem their home, here are some of the best things to do in Thousand Oaks and its surrounding areas:
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Explore nature at Wildwood Regional Park
Located in western Simi Hills, Wildwood Regional Park is a premier outdoor destination for residents and visitors alike. Managed by the Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency (COSCA), Wildwood spans an impressive 1,765 acres and is an ideal spot for year-round outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Hikers and outdoor lovers will find paradise in Wildwood’s extensive trail system, which boasts 14 nature trails covering miles and miles of breathtaking terrain. The park’s trails are ideal for every skill level:
- Mesa Trail Loop (2.5 miles)
- Lizard Rock Trail (3 miles)
- Moonridge Trail (3 mile)
- Paradise Falls Trail (3 miles)
- Two Springs Trail (3 miles)
- Wildwood Park Loop (4 miles)
- Lower Butte Trail Loop (6 miles)
- Lynnmere Trail (6 miles)
- Santa Rosa Trail (6.3 miles)
- Santa Rosa Loop (6.5 miles)
- Hill Canyon Trail (7 miles)
Aside from these trails, the park also boasts spectacular natural attractions such as the 70-foot Paradise Falls, a cascading wonder that serves as the park’s centerpiece; and Lizard Rock, a serrated volcanic outcropping that offers panoramic views of the Conejo Valley.
More than just a park, Wildwood is a testament to the natural beauty of Southern California, providing visitors with an immersive journey through diverse landscapes and rich ecological environments. With over 250 plant species and a rich wildlife population including 37 mammal species and 70 bird species, the park offers endless opportunities for discovery, especially for children interested in learning more about the environment.
That said, planning a family trip to Wildwood requires some preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to follow:
- Start by checking the weather and trail conditions before setting out.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas.
- Bring a field guide or download a wildlife identification app.
- Bring binoculars for long-range wildlife viewing.
- Always stay on marked trails and stay on designated paths to avoid dangers like rattlesnakes and poison oak.
- Keep children close.
- Take your trash with you to help preserve the park’s natural beauty.
- Consider the fitness levels of all family members when choosing a trail, and be prepared to turn back if the hike becomes too challenging.
Cultural immersion at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center
The Bank of America Performing Arts Center (BAPAC), nestled within the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, offers an extraordinary range of entertainment options for residents. Catching a performance at the venue is one of the best things to do in Thousand Oaks.
The centerpiece is the Fred Kavli Theatre, a stunning 1,800-seat venue that has hosted an impressive array of world-class performers, solidifying its position as a premier entertainment destination. The theater’s lobby doubles as a fine art gallery for exhibitions by both local and internationally acclaimed visual artists, enriching the overall experience.
The center is also home to the 394-seater Janet & Ray Scherr Forum, which provides a more personal and intimate setting for performances.
BAPAC has welcomed legendary performers like Liza Minnelli, Willie Nelson, Art Garfunkel, Kris Kristofferson, Peter, Paul and Mary, and The Beach Boys. In addition to these icons, the center has also hosted notable contemporary pop acts such as Switchfoot, Jason Mraz, Colbie Caillat, Vince Gill, and Sheryl Crow.
Beyond concerts, the center presents touring Broadway musicals, international ballet shows, folk and modern dance companies, classical symphonic performances, choral ensembles, jazz concerts, big band orchestras, and live theatre and opera productions.
Things to know before you go:
Attending an event at the Bern Chandler Auditorium in the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza? Here are essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
- All tickets are digital. Save your tickets to Apple Wallet or Google Pay before arriving, and ensure your mobile device is charged.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before the event starts to allow time for parking, security checks, and finding your seat comfortably.
- Bring only small clutch purses or bags.
- The venue reserves the right to confiscate items that could disrupt the event, as well as deny entry to patrons who refuse security searches.
Shop and dine at Thousand Oaks Boulevard
Thousand Oaks Boulevard is a premier shopping destination offering a sophisticated and diverse retail experience. Previously known as Ventura Boulevard, Thousand Oaks Boulevard is located in the city’s downtown area. One of the first streets in the city, it remains one of the busiest commercial areas in Thousand Oaks and is home to several major shopping centers, including The Lakes at Thousand Oaks.
Located just steps from the Civic Arts Plaza, The Lakes has become a cornerstone of retail in Ventura County, providing something for everyone.
Beyond shopping, Thousand Oaks Boulevard offers additional entertainment in the form of Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza and Gardens of the World, making it a comprehensive destination for both shopping and recreation.
When it comes to things to do in Thousand Oaks, nothing comes close to dining at Thousand Oaks Boulevard, with the renowned boulevard hosting a variety of culinary options guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Here are some must-visit dining spots:
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Go Fish Sushi – This celebrated sushi establishment has earned its reputation as one of Ventura County’s premier Japanese restaurants, even being voted the best sushi in Simi Valley by Ventura County Star and Restaurant Guru. Go Fish Sushi combines traditional Japanese expertise with California flair, featuring chefs who have trained under distinguished Japanese masters. Their signature Red Bull roll, topped with seared filet mignon, has become a destination dish that draws visitors from far and wide. The dining experience is enhanced by eight taps of local and Japanese draft beers, plus an impressive selection of wines, seltzers, and sake varieties.
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Basta – Residents and visitors looking to experience classic Italian cookery will want to give Basta a visit. Located in Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Basta elevates Italian dining to an art form, emphasizing house-made dishes and the freshest ingredients available. Their commitment to authenticity shines through in every dish, making it an ideal destination for both romantic evenings and family gatherings. The talented kitchen staff takes pride in creating memorable Italian classics that keep diners coming back for more, while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere that’s so central to Italian dining culture.
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Mastro’s Steak House – A sophisticated chophouse in every sense of the word, Mastro’s Steak House stands as a beacon of fine dining in Thousand Oaks. The restaurant combines world-class service with highly acclaimed cuisine in an elegant yet energetic atmosphere. What sets Mastro’s apart is its commitment to creating an all-encompassing experience – from their premium cuts of meat to live entertainment seven nights a week at the bar. The plush supper-club setting provides the perfect backdrop for special occasions, while their hand-crafted cocktails and eclectic wine selection satisfy even the most discerning beverage enthusiasts. Having earned accolades as one of the “top 10 steakhouses in the U.S.” from Gayot, Mastro’s continues to be a favorite among celebrities and locals alike.
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Slice House – Founded by 13-time world pizza champion Tony Gemignani, this establishment brings world-class pizza expertise to a fast-casual setting. While technically a chain, Slice House stands out for its artisanal approach to pizza-making and impressive variety of styles. From New York to Detroit, Grandma to Sicilian, each pizza style is crafted with authenticity and precision. The restaurant also caters to health-conscious diners while maintaining its commitment to quality, and their carefully selected local craft beers and natural wines make the perfect accompaniment to any pie.
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The Cliffdiver – For those seeking a transportive dining experience, this coastal Mexican establishment delivers in spades. The restaurant’s tropical ambiance evokes the feeling of a Mexican Pacific coast beach resort, complete with separate dining room and bar areas, plus generous patio seating. Their menu has earned quite a following for standout items like the Lobster Tacos and Poke Tostadas, while the shrimp ceviche offers a refreshing taste of the sea. The bar program deserves special mention, featuring an impressive selection of margaritas, micheladas, and tequilas.
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Sadaf Modern Persian Cuisine – Originally from Encino, Sadaf Modern Persian Cuisine brings a contemporary twist to traditional Persian dining. The restaurant offers a thoughtfully curated menu that balances healthy, fresh ingredients with authentic flavors. Vegetarians and meat-lovers alike will find plenty to enjoy here, from their celebrated hummus and maust appetizers to the chef’s favorite Sadaf salad. The menu truly shines with its grilled specialties, including succulent rack of lamb, perfectly seasoned salmon kabob, and the distinctive albaloo polo. The addition of a full bar featuring specialty cocktails makes this an excellent choice for both casual dining and special occasions.
Discover local history at the Chumash Indian Museum
Nestled within the 432-acre Oakbrook Regional Park, the Chumash Indian Museum is a picturesque outdoor destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.
Declared a designated archaeological zone in 1971, this remarkable site provides an immersive experience that goes far beyond a typical museum visit and invites guests to explore a living landscape that has been home to Indigenous people for over 10,000 years.
The museum’s comprehensive exhibits provide an intimate look into Chumash life through a remarkable collection of locally retrieved artifacts, including intricate tools for grinding acorns, traditional instruments, and a reconstructed tomol or traditional Chumash canoe. The museum also has several murals and dioramas that provide vivid representations of life before Spanish colonization, as well as mockups of local wildlife to help visitors connect with the region’s ecosystem.
In addition to its exhibits, the museum also has four Ethnobotany Gardens which highlight the incredible plant knowledge of the Chumash people. Each garden represents a different ecological zone – riparian, chaparral, desert, and orchard – and comes with signs explaining how various plants were used for food, medicine, tools, and spiritual practices, offering visitors a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between the Chumash and their environment.
Some of the most scenic hiking trails in Thousand Oaks are steps away from the museum. A shaded trail behind the museum winds through groves of centuries-old oak trees and passes through several important archaeological sites, including a reconstructed Chumash village. Visitors can join docent-led nature hikes to get a rare opportunity to view pictographs from thousands of years ago offering glimpses into the spiritual life of the Chumash people.
Family fun at the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden
The Conejo Valley Botanic Garden is a breathtaking 33-acre natural sanctuary that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Southern California’s diverse plant life.
Since its acquisition in 1973, the garden has blossomed into a cherished community resource, providing an immersive, family-friendly outdoor experience that captivates visitors of all ages.
The garden boasts an impressive array of natural attractions that showcase the region’s botanical diversity. 15 distinct hillside specialty gardens wind through the landscape, offering sweeping vistas and intimate natural encounters. A dedicated nature trail follows a riparian stream, creating an enchanting walking experience that highlights the local ecosystem. A standout feature is the butterfly garden, which attracts a vibrant array of local wildlife and offers visitors a chance to observe these delicate creatures in their natural habitat.
Added in 2003, the children’s garden provides an interactive space where young explorers can learn about plants, ecology, and the natural world through hands-on experiences.
EXPLORE THOUSAND OAKS WITH DEB KERNAHAN TODAY
Are you looking to make Thousand Oaks your new home? Don’t hesitate to give me a call.
With three decades of real estate expertise, I’ve navigated every market shift since earning my California Real Estate License in 1986. My commitment goes beyond transactions – I provide unsurpassed guidance and understand each client’s unique vision.
Whether you’re purchasing your dream home or selling a luxury property, my meticulous approach and deep market knowledge ensure your success. I pride myself on navigating challenging negotiations with ease and providing personalized service that turns real estate goals into reality.
If you’re ready to explore homes for sale in the city or simply want to discuss things to do in Thousand Oaks, I’m here to assist you with personalized guidance and expert negotiation. Contact me today at 818.519.8357 or via email. I look forward to helping you find your dream home.