By Visit Ventura

Posted: Tuesday, May 2nd, 2017

Updated: Wednesday, Aug 11th, 2021

Family Fun Zone

by Sing Weist

photo by Heekyong Kim

Whether you are traveling with a newborn, toddler, and/or teenager, there is always family fun activities that Ventura has to offer.  There are multiple parks that allow you to have a picnic in the park, while enjoying the beautiful sunshine and coastal breeze.  San Buenaventura Mission Gardens, Mission Park and Figueroa Plaza on Main Street are spacious, historic, and close to downtown Ventura and the Museum of Ventura County.  Bring a picnic basket, blanket, snacks, and a Frisbee or football to throw back and forth with the family.

A post shared by @the__best__gift on

A few miles away is the Ventura pier where there is a scenic beach with a boardwalk that stretches down the coast. Your child can play on the swings in the playground and create a sand castle, while you relax, sunbathe and soak in the warm sun. With swings and ropes, this playground is perfect for your kids to run around and play in the sand. If your family would like to go for a bike ride, right next to the Ventura Pier is Wheel Fun Rentals, where you can rent tandem, single, or group bikes.  Additionally, they offer bike tours where you can explore all the main attractions in Ventura.  Some points include the Ventura Pier, Surfers’ Point at Seaside Park, Mission San Buenaventura, Libbey Park and Bowl, and more!

A post shared by Visit Ventura (@visitventura) on

If your children are looking for adventure, Arroyo Verde Park offers trails, picnic benches, and a trail filled with trees, flowers, and lush greens. This trail is a great exploration to take with your children.  After a long hike, you can enjoy a snack on the grass under the shade of multiple trees. Ventura offers multiple locations where families can go for a bike ride, play in the sand on the beach, and go for a long hike in the wildflowers. After a long day in the sun, enjoy a delectable scoop of ice cream at McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream or Coastal Cone & Parlor. With multiple flavors, you and your family will be wanting more than just one scoop. If you are planning your next family vacation, Ventura is the perfect weekend getaway for you and the kids.  Get ready for a relaxing, yet adventurous weekend and be ready to leave with sand between your toes, sun-kissed skin, and smiling children!

Discover More

Get to know Ventura, and discover the best things to do around the city.

Get Inspired Screenshot 2024-01-17 at 7.47.12 AM

Request an
Inspiration Guide

View the current Ventura Inspiration Guide online. And prepare to be INSPIRED.

Be in the know

Visit Ventura
Monthly Newsletter

Sign up for everything you need to know; from new hikes, to new restaurants, to upcoming festivals, music, and entertainment.

Ventura Partners With