What to Do Before and After Jackalope Block Party Ventura

We can’t wait for the high-flying energy this weekend will bring as the Jackalope Block Party Ventura comes to the heart of Downtown Ventura, but the experience doesn’t stop at the vert ramp. Ventura makes it easy to turn a day at Jackalope into a full-on coastal getaway.

Here’s how to make the most of your time before and after the action.

Start Your Morning Like a Local: Coffee and Breakfast Spots

If there’s something that Ventura does right (and there are many), it’s breakfast and coffee. Locals love their coffee, tea, and breakfast like no other place, so it’ll be easy to find a spot to fuel up for the fun ahead. Grab a cup from Freedom Coffee, located right on the Ventura Promenade, or grab an acaci bowl from Palm & Boy. You can get a full Aussie breakfast at Frontside Cafe or indulge in the best cinnamon rolls you’ve ever tried at Art’s Corner Cafe. 

Cruise the Coast: Outdoor Activities

Bring your board or rent a bike from Wheel Fun Rentals and explore Ventura the way it’s meant to be seen: outside. With the ocean next to you, you could never get tired of the view. 

Then make your way to the Ventura Pier for sunrise or sunset and walk along California’s oldest wooden pier. It’s a simple stop, but one that never misses.

Keep the Skate Energy Going: Westpark Skate Park

If Jackalope leaves you inspired, head over to Westpark Skatepark along the Ventura Avenue to keep the momentum going. It’s a newer addition to Ventura’s skate scene and a solid spot to ride, practice, or just watch locals do their thing.

Family-Friendly Fun: Ventura Harbor Village

Photo by Ventura Harbor

A trip to Ventura isn’t complete without visiting the Ventura Harbor Village. A great spot for families and your crew, there’s plenty of waterfront views, cute coastal souvenir shops, and sweet treats for everyone.

Grab a fish cone at Coastal Cone or enjoy a laid-back tasting at Deep Sea Winery while the kids explore nearby. To burn off some energy, rent a pedal boat from Ventura Boat Rentals and cruise through the harbor in style. Loose Cannon is a barcade with bowling and plenty of arcade games and it pairs perfectly with a giant boba drink from Boba By the Sea. 

Have a Taste of Ventura: Restaurants to Try

There are a ton of restaurants to choose from in Ventura, and you’ll have some time to sample and taste restaurants and eateries around town. 

• Ventura Avenue tacos are a must. Check out about a dozen locally-owned taquerias within a few walking blocks.
• Aloha Steakhouse for a more classic sit-down dinner with ocean views
• Paradise Pantry is keeping their outdoor patio open all weekend long if you’re leaning toward a shareable, elevated spread (and yes, the butterscotch is worth it)
• Ventura boasts a great happy hour everywhere you look

Wind down with a drink at one of Ventura’s local spots. Topa Topa Brewing Co. is a go-to for craft beer lovers, while Ventura Spirits offers a uniquely local tasting experience just off the Avenue.

Mix in a Little Play

Looking for something casual and fun?

• Hit the arcades at Moby’s on Main
• Wander downtown and see what catches your eye. Shops, thrift stores, and live music are always part of the mix

Ventura’s outdoor access is kind of the whole point. If you have extra time:

• Surf or watch surfers at C-Street or Surfer’s Point
• Explore the Ventura Botanical Gardens for sweeping ocean views and unique plant life
• Catch golden hour at Grant Park for one of the best views in town

So come for the competition, stay for everything else.

Things to Do

Family Fun

Music & Nightlife

Arts, Culture & History

Pet Friendly

Parking

Outdoors

Beaches & Surfing

Biking & Hiking Trails

Food & Drink

Restaurants

Outdoor Dining

Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries

Happy Hours

Palm & Boy Coffee and Acai 451 E Main St #8, Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 667-9201

Freedom Coffee 364 S California St, Ventura, CA 93001

Frontside Cafe 1070 E Front St, Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 628-9566

Art’s Corner Cafe 1907 E Thompson Blvd, Ventura, Ventura , California 93001

(805) 653-5011

Wheel Fun Rentals 850 Harbor Boulevard , Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 650-7770

Ventura Pier Beachfront Promenade, Ventura, CA 93001

805-652-4550

Ventura Botanical Gardens 567 South Poli Street, ventura, CA 93001

(805) 232-3113

Westpark Skatepark 401 W Park Row Ave, Ventura, CA 93001

Aloha Steakhouse 364 S California St, Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 652-1799

Paradise Pantry 222 E. Main St., Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 641-9440

Moby’s on Main 369 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001

Ventura Harbor 1583 Spinnaker Drive , Ventura, CA 93003

Surfers Point at Seaside Park Shoreline Dr, Ventura, CA 93001

(805) 658-4726

Serra Cross Park at Grant Park Father Serra Cross, Ventura, CA 93001

Ventura Partners With