24 Hours – Downtown/Historical District

8 am

Walk from your accommodation or park at the free 24-hour parking in the structure on California street, or in the free lot behind the City Hall. You won’t need your car today!

8:30 am

Have a classic contemporary Californian breakfast of organic acai bowls and handcrafted espresso or a matcha latte at Palm & Boy on Main Street.

palm & boy coffee and acai

9 am

Take a brisk morning hike up to the Ventura Botanical Gardens and over to Grant Park and enjoy the panoramic view of the rolling hills and Pacific ocean.

10 am

Mission San Buenaventura opens for the day at 10 am. Explore the classic architecture of this historic building and its grounds.

san buenaventura ventura mission mural mosaic

11 am

While you’re there, stop in at some of the quirky shops near the Mission, including The Mission Gift Shop, Copperfield’s, the Refill Shop, Iron & Resin, and EcuGreen.

12 pm

Walk back up Main St. to take lunch at the local favorite Thai restaurant, Rice By Mama. Try a classic Pad Thai or take a chance with their traditional sour Tom Kha soup or spicy Panang Curry. Wash it down with a sweet Thai iced tea if you need an afternoon pick me up.

rice by mama pad thai

1-4pm

Walk lunch off along the Promenade and Pier, or spend the afternoon relaxing at Surfers Point Beach, catching some sun and watching the surfers catch some waves.

Still, feel like shopping? Peruse the many thrift stores and consignment shops Downtown instead.

downtown ventura shopping

5 pm

For dinner try out Barrelhouse 101’s Garlic Truffle Fries and a Bratburger or Market Ahi Salad to go with your flight of craft beers from their massive selection.

7 pm

Still going strong? Finish off the day with an artisanal mixed drink in the at the classy-casual Saloon BBQ Co or tequila at the eclectic El Rey.

downtown ventura saloon bbq

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