Bench Yourself in the Conejo Valley

There are over 150 miles of public multi-use trails surrounding the Conejo Valley managed by the Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency and hundreds of miles more in the neighboring Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Learn more about these great trails here on Conejo Valley Guide.

All of this hiking, biking and running can make one tired. Not to worry...there are benches in strategic spots all throughout the area, all with great views! Here we highlight some of them. Click the images for more information about the trails that lead to these benches.

Views from Angel Vista Peak bench in Newbury Park.

Views from Angel Vista Peak bench in Newbury Park.

Bench at top of peak just east of Angel Vista Peak.

Bench at top of peak just east of Angel Vista Peak.

Bench at the top of "Space Mountain" on the Los Robles Trail West.

Bench at the top of "Space Mountain" on the Los Robles Trail West.

Bench with perfect sunset view off of the Autumn Ridge Trail in the Lang Ranch Open Space.

Bench with perfect sunset view off of the Autumn Ridge Trail in the Lang Ranch Open Space.

A bench on a hilltop overlooking the Conejo Valley on Los Robles Trail East Scenic Loop.

A bench on a hilltop overlooking the Conejo Valley on Los Robles Trail East Scenic Loop.

Bench on Los Robles Loop East Scenic Loop looking towards the south.

Bench on Los Robles Loop East Scenic Loop looking towards the south.

Benches at the top of Big Sycamore Canyon Road in Point Mugu State Park (adjacent to Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa in Newbury Park).

Benches at the top of Big Sycamore Canyon Road in Point Mugu State Park (adjacent to Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa in Newbury Park).

Another bench that overlooks Sycamore Canyon from the Boney Mountain Trail.

Another bench that overlooks Sycamore Canyon from the Boney Mountain Trail.

Image of the Upper Sycamore Canyon bench after the Rancho Sierra Vista area in Newbury Park was ravaged by the Springs Fire of 2013.

Image of the Upper Sycamore Canyon bench after the Rancho Sierra Vista area in Newbury Park was ravaged by the Springs Fire of 2013.

Upper Sycamore Canyon bench was subsequently replaced. Here it is in April 2014.

Upper Sycamore Canyon bench was subsequently replaced. Here it is in April 2014.

Bench on the west side of Tarantula Hill in Thousand Oaks.

Bench on the west side of Tarantula Hill in Thousand Oaks.

Another view of the Tarantula Hill bench before sundown in June 2022.

This bench is located at the juncture of the Sunrise and Meadow Vista Trails in the Lang Ranch Open Space and the Long Canyon Trail in Simi Valley. Nice view towards Simi Valley.

This bench is located at the juncture of the Sunrise and Meadow Vista Trails in the Lang Ranch Open Space and the Long Canyon Trail in Simi Valley. Nice view towards Simi Valley.

Bench on Indian Creek Trail in Wildwood Park.

Bench on Indian Creek Trail in Wildwood Park.

Bench overlooking Bard Reservoir on the Sunset Hills Loop.

Bench overlooking Bard Reservoir on the Sunset Hills Loop.

Sunset Hills Trail bench in early spring 2023.

One of two benches in the hills above CLU overlooking Thousand Oaks.

One of two benches in the hills above CLU overlooking Thousand Oaks.

Oakbrook Vista Trail bench off of Lang Ranch Parkway in Thousand Oaks

Oakbrook Vista Trail bench off of Lang Ranch Parkway in Thousand Oaks

This bench on a hill connected to the Rancho Potrero trail in Newbury Park faces the west and gets you some nice views of several of the Channel Islands on clear days.

This bench on a hill connected to the Rancho Potrero trail in Newbury Park faces the west and gets you some nice views of several of the Channel Islands on clear days.

<
Bench off the Lizard Rock Loop trail on the west side of Wildwood Park.

Bench off the Lizard Rock Loop trail on the west side of Wildwood Park.

Bench with a view of Boney Peak from the Potrero Ridge Trail in Newbury Park.

Bench with a view of Boney Peak from the Potrero Ridge Trail in Newbury Park.

There are dozens of benches facing all directions in the beautiful hilltop Conejo Valley Botanic Garden in the heart of Thousand Oaks

There are dozens of benches facing all directions in the beautiful hilltop Conejo Valley Botanic Garden in the heart of Thousand Oaks

Another bench on the west side of top of the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden.

Another bench on the west side of top of the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden.

Bench overlooking the Potrero Grade from the Vista Del Mar Trail in Newbury Park.

Bench overlooking the Potrero Grade from the Vista Del Mar Trail in Newbury Park.

This is a new bench on the Vista Del Mar Trail in Newbury Park that made its premiere in 2023.

Bench on the El Encanto Trail in the Dos Vientos section of Newbury Park. Panaromic view towards Boney Mountain while catching the sunset.

Bench on the El Encanto Trail in the Dos Vientos section of Newbury Park. Panaromic view towards Boney Mountain while catching the sunset.

Bench with panoramic views at the top of the Triunfo Canyon Trail (part of the Los Robles trail system) in Westlake Village.

Bench with panoramic views at the top of the Triunfo Canyon Trail (part of the Los Robles trail system) in Westlake Village.

Enjoy views towards Newbury Park, Wildwood Park and so on from this bench on the Lynnmere Trail in Thousand Oaks.

Enjoy views towards Newbury Park, Wildwood Park and so on from this bench on the Lynnmere Trail in Thousand Oaks.

Bench at Box Canyon Overlook in Wildwood Park.

Bench at Box Canyon Overlook in Wildwood Park.

Bench #1 on the Albertson Motorway Fire Road Trail in Thousand Oaks.

Bench #1 on the Albertson Motorway Fire Road Trail in Thousand Oaks.

Bench #2 on the Albertson Motorway Fire Road Trail in Thousand Oaks.

Bench #2 on the Albertson Motorway Fire Road Trail in Thousand Oaks.

Bench off the Western Plateau Trail in the Conejo Canyons Open Space near the Hill Canyon Trail.

Bench off the Western Plateau Trail in the Conejo Canyons Open Space near the Hill Canyon Trail.

Another bench off the Western Plateau Trail. This one is marked by a “Vista Point” sign and is across from the Outlaw Trail juncture in the Conejo Canyons Open Space.

Another bench off the Western Plateau Trail. This one is marked by a “Vista Point” sign and is across from the Outlaw Trail juncture in the Conejo Canyons Open Space.

This bench is near Elliot Peak in the Conejo Canyons Open Space.

This bench is near Elliot Peak in the Conejo Canyons Open Space.

This bench is off the Outlaw Trail in the Conejo Canyons Open Space, not far from Elliot Peak.

This bench is off the Outlaw Trail in the Conejo Canyons Open Space, not far from Elliot Peak.

Another view from the bench atop Tarantula Hill….at sunset.

Another view from the bench atop Tarantula Hill….at sunset.

Bench off of the Santa Rosa Trail in Wildwood Park, overlooking Santa Rosa Valley

Cycling Clubs and Groups In and Around Ventura County

CyclistsCam.JPG

Any given Sunday morning I come across hundreds of bicyclists on my morning runs in the Thousand Oaks area and throughout Ventura County.

Here are some local cycling groups:

CLICK HERE for some family-friendly friendly bike path options around Ventura County.

And for some local BMX track options, Freedom Park BMX Raceway in Camarillo

Bike shops in the local area:

EBike shops:

Halloween Events and Activities In and Around Ventura County

Halloween season is upon us again! Halloween 2024 looks to be a fun time with this compilation of Halloween events taking place in Ventura County and surrounding areas.

Dates/times subject to change; contact event organizers to confirm. This list will be updated regularly. For calendar view, click here.

Pumpkin Patches in Ventura County and Surrounding Areas

EVENTS COMING UP

Thu, Oct 31: SHINE Homeschool, Century Acadamy Trunk or Treat (12:30-2:30PM RSVP)

Thu, Oct 31: Halloween Carnival in Oak Park (3:30-6:30PM RSVP)

Thu, Oct 31: Halloween Carnival in Simi Valley (4-7PM RSVP)

Thu, Oct 31: Haunted High Street Event in Moorpark (4-7PM)

Thu, Oct 31: Trick or Treat at the Camarillo Premium Outlets (4-6PM)

Thu, Oct 31: Trick or Treat at The Oaks Mall (4-6PM)

Thu, Oct 31: Halloween in the Park in Camarillo (5-8PM)

Thu, Oct 31: Trick or Treat Haunted House in Thousand Oaks (5:30-9PM)

Fri, Nov 1: Festival de los Muertos Event in Newbury Park (4-9PM)

Sat, Nov 2: Dia de los Muertos Celebration at the Newbury Park Library (10:15AM-4PM)

Sat, Nov 2: Dia de los Muertos Event at Santa Paula Art Museum (Noon-3PM)

Sat, Nov 2: Dia de los Muertos Event at Pierce Brothers Santa Paula (11AM-5PM)

Sat, Nov 2: Dia de los Muertos Celebration at the Oxnard Performing Art Center (4-9PM)

ONGOING EVENTS

Sep 28 to Oct 31: Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest on the Farm in Moorpark

Sept 27 to Nov 2: Reign of Terror Haunted House at Janss Marketplace Thousand Oaks

Sept 27 to Nov 3: Nights of the Jack Halloween Experience at King Gillette Ranch

Oct 11-13, 18-20, 25-27: Santa Paula Theater Center “Ghostwalk” Event

Oct 18-20, 25-27: Boo at the Zoo at the Santa Barbara Zoo (5-8PM)

Sept 13 thru Oct 28: Ghost Hunter’s Experience at the Simi Valley Town Center

Oct 3 to 27: Nightmare at Santa Town (Child-Friendly Haunt) at Simi Valley Town Center

Daily: Interactive Walkthrough at “The Best Halloween Store Ever” Thousand Oaks

Cool Residential Displays (Click links for footage and more info)

Residential display synchronized to music at 1455 Valley High, Thousand Oaks

“Blackwood Cemetery” annual display at home on Blackwood Street in Newbury Park

Golden Crest Avenue in Newbury Park (Cross Street Antelope Place)

Annual awesome display at this home on Yew Drive in Newbury Park

Camino Dos Rios west of Lynn Road in Thousand Oaks

Flaming Star and Shenandoah in Thousand Oaks

Bernadine St and Wauneta St in Newbury Park

Donald Avenue, just east of Wendy Drive in Newbury Park

Mapleleaf Ave west of Madrid Ave in Newbury Park

Orangewood and Felton in Newbury Park

507 Yarrow Drive in Simi Valley

Feather Ave near Hendrix in Thousand Oaks

Calle Pecos, west of Calle Yucca, in Lynn Ranch section of Thousand Oaks

Carob Drive, south of Borchard in Newbury Park

Lakota Loop Family-Friendly Walkthrough Halloween Experience in Simi Valley on October 26, 27 and 31 from 6:30-9PM.

Past Events

Thu, Oct 17: VC Dept of CSS 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat in Camarillo (4-6PM)

Sat, Oct 19: Trail or Treat at Camarillo Grove Park (10AM-1PM; $5 hike requires RSVP)

Sat, Oct 19: Free Pumpkin Patch at the Simi Valley Town Center (10AM)

Sat, Oct 19: Spooks by the Sea at Portside Ventura (Noon-5PM)

Sat, Oct 19: Harvest Festival at Stagecoach Inn Museum (1-4PM)

Sat, Oct 19: Halloween Haunted Trail, Costume Contest and Trick or Treat Street in Thousand Oaks (6-9PM)

Sat, Oct 19: Rancho Simi Heritage Halloween and Magic in the Park (4-8:30PM)

Sat, Oct 19: Simi Valley YMCA Fall Fest and Trunk or Treat (3-6PM) (RSVP)

Oct 19-20: Boo at the Zoo at The Teaching Zoo in Moorpark

Sun, Oct 20: Calabasas Pumpkin Festival (10AM-5PM)

Mon, Oct 21: “Pick Your Own” Pumpkin Patch at Mizel Estate Wines (4-6PM)

Mon, Oct 21: Oxnard Police Department Halloween Spooktacular (5:30-7:30PM)

Wed, Oct 23: Halloween Celebration in Port Hueneme (5-8PM)

Wed, Oct 23: Trick-or-Treat at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard (5PM) (RSVP)

Thu, Oct 24: “Pick Your Own” Pumpkin Patch at Mizel Estate Wines (4-6PM)

Fri, Oct 25: Spooky Swim at Pleasant Valley Aquatic Center in Camarillo (5:30PM) (RSVP)

Fri, Oct 25: City of Malibu Bu Bash Halloween Carnival (Ages 2-10) (2PM-Sunset)

Fri, Oct 25: Frankenstein Ball at Camarillo Community Center (5-7PM Age 50+)

Fri, Oct 25: Spooky Town at the Simi Valley Town Center (5-9PM)

Fri, Oct 25: Spooky Swim at the Pleasant Valley Aquatic Center (5:30-8:30PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Dia De Los Muertos Festival at Conejo Mountain in Camarillo (10AM-5PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Peace Pumpkin Fest in Camarillo (10AM-3PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Howl-O-Ween Dog Costume Contest in Camarillo (10AM-1PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Camarillo Old Town BooFest Trick or Treating (Noon-4PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Howl-O-Ween Dog Costume Contest at Ventura Harbor Village (Noon)

Sat, Oct 26: Pumpkin Party at the Leonis Adobe Museum in Calabasas (1-4PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Pumpkin Festival at Christ the King Newbury Park (2-6PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Parade of Freights Marketplace at Harbor View Park, CI Harbor (2-9PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Downtown Ventura Costume Contest and Trick-or-Treating (3-7PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Spooktacular “Trunk or Treat” at Inside Car Guys Newbury Park (4-6PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Halloween Haunt in the Park at Plaza Park in Oxnard (4-7PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Fright Maze at Christ the King Newbury Park (5:30-9:30PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Songs, S’mores & Pumpkins at UMC of Thousand Oaks (6-8PM)

Sat, Oct 26: Channel Islands Harbor Parade of Frights (7PM)

Oct 26-27: Boo at the Zoo at The Teaching Zoo in Moorpark

Sun, Oct 27: Dia de los Muertos Celebration at Strathearn Historical Park (11AM-5PM)

Sun, Oct 27: Seaside Trick or Treat at Ventura Harbor Village (Noon-2PM)

Sun, Oct 27: Trunk or Treat at Iceoplex Simi Valley (2:15-6PM)

Mon, Oct 28: Camarillo Police Department Trunk or Treat (6-8PM)

Tue, Oct 29: Trunk or Treat at Thousand Oaks Post Acute (5:30-7:30PM)

Live Music and Other Nightlife Options In and Around Ventura County

Guitar Player

Are you a night owl looking for something to do around town? Here's a list of places in and around Ventura County that have things to do during nighttime hours, including live music, concerts, dancing, darts, comedy, trivia and other activities scheduled on a regular basis.

This compilation includes restaurants as well as some bars. TVs are great, but don't count as "something to do" for the purposes of this compilation.

Are we missing something? Let us know!

For other nighttime fun, check out these compilations of Ventura County area movie theaters, comedy shows and entertainment venues. Or bowling. Perhaps wine tasting.

Local area craft breweries with taprooms!

(Information is subject to change, so contact the business to confirm.)

Conejo Valley (Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village)

Azar's Sports Bar at 2215 Michael Drive, Newbury Park has Tuesday night karaoke and live music and dancing on Fri/Sat nights. 805.498.2365 azarsportsbar.com

Crown and Anchor at 2891 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks is a British restaurant and pub, offering authentic British dishes along with American fare. Live music on the patio Fri/Sat nights and Sun afternoons. 805.497.0070 crownnanchor.com

14 Cannons Brewery at 31125 Via Colinas, Suite 907 in Westlake Village offers trivia nights, open mic nights and comedy nights 818.652.6971 www.14cannons.com

Mikey’s Restaurant at 579 N. Ventu Park Road in Newbury Park offers karaoke, live music and comedy on select nights. Contact them for more information. www.instagram.com/mikeysrestaurant

NABU Wines at 2649 Townsgate Road, Suite 200, Westlake Village offers live bands and dancing on many nights. nabuwines.com or 805.778.1100 or 818.835.3704.

Naughty Pine Brewing Co. at 766 Lakefield Dr., Ste A in Westake Villlage offers live music and trivia nights most nights as well as food trucks. 808.269.7975 www.naughtypinebrewingco.com

Pedals & Pints Brewing Company is located at The Oaks mall east parking lot, offering freshly brewed beer, artisan pizzas, baked tater tots, wings and other small plates…and live music every Saturday night, trivia nights at 7pm on Wednesday nights, and periodic special events on Friday nights. 805-551-0547 www.pedalsandpintsbrewing.com

Sunland Vintage Winery Tasting Room at 1321 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard #108 hosts live music on Thursday and Friday nights as well as other events. 805-379-2250 www.sunlandvintagewinery.com/events

Sunset Terrace Restaurant and Lounge at Janss Marketplace has live music, dancing, three pool tables, shuffleboard, four lanes of bowling and more. 805.497.4847 www.sunsetterracerestaurant.com

Tarantula Hill Brewing Company at 244 Thousand Oaks Boulevard offers live music and other events - check their events calendar at www.tarantulahillbrewingco.com/events for details.

Lions Peak Tasting Room at 1321 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks has periodic live music, such as a jazz sax performer or a guitarist. Check their events calendar at lionspeakwine.com/events

The Bamboo Room is a craft cocktail lounge at The Shoppes at Westlake with a DJ and dancing on Friday/Saturday nights and Happy Hour Thursdays. www.bambooroomwlv.com

The Mighty Axe at Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks offers the ultimate in nighttime excitement…axe throwing and beer! And you can order food from eateries at Janss. themightyaxe.com

The Original Pizza Cookery at 75 West Thousand Oaks Blvd offers live music most Friday/Saturday nights. See www.pizzacookery.com/entertainment for details.

The Tipsy Goat at 159 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks has karaoke, pool tables, a dartboard, ping pong, shuffleboard, video games, trivia and more. www.facebook.com/TipsyGoat 805-494-9996

Louie’s (formerly Bogies) at the Westlake Village Inn at 32001 Agoura Road, Westlake Village is a bar/nightclub open Wednesday through Saturday nights. 818.889.2394 www.clublouies.com/calendar

Zin Bistro Americana at 32131 Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village (The Landing) offers live music on certain nights. 818.865.0095 zinwestlake.com

Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Malibu

The Canyon at Whizin Market Square in Agoura Hills is a hot spot for live music of all types, from original rock bands to cover bands, tribute bands, comedy and more. 888.645.5006 wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com

Tavern Tomoko and Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie at 29281 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills offers live jazz, blues and other acoustic music on some Fri/Sat nights and trivia on Wednesday nights beginning at 6:30pm. 818.477.4566 www.taverntomoko.com

Sagebrush Cantina at 23527 Calabasas Road hosts karaoke on Thursday nights, live music and dancing on Fri/Sat nights and music on Sun afternoons. 818.222.6062 sagebrushcantina.com

Ventura

Bombay Bar & Grill, located at 143 S. California Street in Ventura has a DJ and dancing on weekends. 805.643.4404 bombayventura.com

Margarita Villa Mexican Restaurant at Ventura Harbor Village, 1567 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura hosts live music Friday through Sunday - check for times and schedule at margaritavillaventura.com/music.html 805-654-7906

The Copa Cubana at Ventura Harbor Village offers live music a number of nights each week 805.642.9463 www.facebook.com/TheCopaCubana

The Garage is a dive bar located at 1091 Scandia Avenue, Ventura with live music on Fri/Sat nights. 805.814.2234 www.facebook.com/TheGarageBarVTA

The Twist on Main at 454 E. Main Street in Ventura offers live music daily, including jazz on Thursday nights. 805.641.0053 thetwistonmain.com

The Greek at the Harbor at Ventura Harbor Village offers belly dancing starting at 6:30pm on Fri/Sat nights and 6pm on Sundays. Greek dance shows Fri/Sat at 7pm. 805.650.5350 www.thegreekventura.com

Keynote Lounge at 10245 Telephone Road in Ventura is a bar with live music on Fri/Sat nights. 805.647.9390 www.keynotelounge.com

Leashless Brewing at 585 East Thompson Blvd., Ventura is a tasting room that hosts live music most Thursdays through Sundays. Check their events calendar at www.leashlessbrewing.com/event-calendar. 805.628.9474

O'Leary's Tavern at 6555 Telephone Road, Suite 7 in Ventura has a pool table, shuffleboard, air hockey, dartboard machine, karaoke and live music. 805.644.4619 www.facebook.com/olearysventura

Paddy's Bar & Lounge at 2 W. Main St, Ventura is a LGBT owned/operated nightclub bar offering pool, darts, karaoke on Wed nights and more. 805.652.1071 paddysventura.com

Prime Steakhouse at 2009 E. Thompson Blvd, Ventura has live music three to four nights a week, including "Frank Sinatra" Tuesdays. 805.652.1055 www.primesteakhouseventura.com

The Saloon at 456 E. Main St in Ventura has live music. 805.667.8550 www.thesaloonvta.com

The Grape House of Jazz & Spirits is a winery and jazz club with a full menu at 2351 E. Main Street in Ventura, offering live jazz Tues through Sun nights. 805.643.7300 thegrapeventura.com

Ventura Music Hall is located at 1888 E. Thompson Boulevard in Ventura. Live music from local talent and touring musicians, along with food from local eateries and drinks at several bars throughout the venue. Learn more at www.venturamusichall.com.

Victoria Pub & Grill at 1413 Victoria Avenue, Suite F, Ventura has pool tables and darts. 805.650.0060 www.victoriapubandgrill.com

Winchester’s Grill & Saloon hosts live music Thursday through Sunday plus open mic night on many Tuesdays. www.winchestersgrill.com 805-653-7446

Simi Valley/Moorpark/Heritage Valley (Fillmore, Santa Paula)

Arena Sports Grill at the Grand Vista Hotel, 999 Enchanted Way, Simi Valley has live music, dancing, pool tables, dartboards, video games, 20 TVs and more. 805.583.2000 arenasimi.com

Chuy's Mesquite Broiler Simi West at 1397 E. Los Angeles Avenue hosts live music various nights 805.582.4897 www.facebook.com/ChuysReno

Enzo's Italian Restaurant at the historic Glen Tavern Inn at 134 N. Mill St, Santa Paula offers live entertainment on weekends. 805.933.5550 www.glentavern.com/dining.aspx

The Golden Nugget Pub and Tavern at 4435 Cochran St, Simi Valley is the oldest bar in Simi, established in 1964. Trivia on Monday and Wednesday nights. 805.583.9715 www.goldennuggetpub.com

Lucas Sellers Winery at 330 Zachary Street in Moorpark (at The Alley in Moorpark) hosts live music most Saturday nights from 6-9pm. www.lucassellers.com

Lucky Fool's Pub at 75 E. High Street in Moorpark offers Sunday night trivia games, a pool table and dart board, not to mention live music several nights a week. 805.532.1500 www.luckyfoolspub.com

Rock & Roll Pizza at Harley’s Valley Bowl, 5255 Cochran Street, Simi Valley, offers live music on Friday/Saturday, Reggae on Sundays, Karaoke Night 9-12 on Tuesdays and Live Comedy on many Wed nights. Details at www.harleysbowl.com/rocknrollpizzabar 805-584-2695

Other West Ventura County (Camarillo, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Ojai)

Copper Blues Rock Pub & Kitchen at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard opened in September 2016, with live music on Saturday nights and more. 805.457.5551 www.copperblueslive.com/oxnard

Corner Pocket Billiards on 7th & A Street in Oxnard is a billiards, arcade, lounge, restaurant and sports bar for the whole family. 805.844.7266 www.facebook.com/cornerpocketoxnard

The El Rey Cantina at 2302 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo has occasional live music. 805.484.4433 www.instagram.com/elreycantinacam

Four Brix Winery at 2290 Eastman Ave, Ste 109, Ventura offers live music every Saturday and Sunday from 1-3:30pm. www.fourbrixwine.com

Harley’s Camarillo Bowl offers live music most Saturday nights and select other nights. Check their events calendar at www.harleysbowl.com/camarillo-events 805-482-0747

The Lamplighter is dive bar at 1936 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo that has three pool tables, foosball and darts for your nighttime activities. www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064177201671 805-484-2113

The Lookout Bar & Grill at Channel Islands Harbor (2800 Harbor Blvd, Oxnard) offers Tuesday night trivia and live music on designated days. Open mic night on Mon nights. 805.985.9300 www.facebook.com/TheLookoutBar

The Manhattan of Camarillo at 5800 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 140 offers live music and dancing Thursday through Sunday nights. Also Trivia Night on Thursday nights. 805.388.5550 www.themanhattanofcamarillo.com

The Ojai Deer Lodge at 2261 Maricopa Highway showcases live local entertainers up to 5 nights a week. 805.646.4256 deerlodgeojai.com

Q Club Oxnard at 2362 N. Oxnard Blvd is a sports lounge with 25 TVs and 15 pool tables, karaoke, games, DJ and more 805.278.1231 www.facebook.com/qcluboxnard

Onyx Bistro at 2390 Las Posas Road (at Arneill) offers live music from 5;30-8:30pm on Friday/Saturday nights. 805.991.7356 onyxbistrocamarillo.com

Ric's Restaurant at 2500 Las Posas Road, Camarillo offers live music on Sunday afternoons and other time frames. www.ricsrestaurant.com/entertainment 805.389.9919

The Raven Tavern at 1651 Victoria Avenue, Oxnard in the Seabridge Marina Harbor offers live music every Friday and Saturday night and Wine Wednesdays. www.theraventavern.com 805.686.7683

The Shores Restaurant at 1031 S. Harbor Blvd in Oxnard has karaoke on Thursdays and live music on weekends. 805.984.5533 www.facebook.com/theshoresoxnard

The Six Chow House at 419 E. Main Street, Ventura offers live music or DJ Thursday through Sunday nights. www.thesixrestaurant.com

Sam’s Place at 308 E. Ojai Avenue offers live music Wednesday thru Sunday from 8-10 PM www.facebook.com/The-Vine-1471139523136821 805.646.1555

Beerly departed:

Senior Adult Centers and Programs Throughout Ventura County

Here is a list of senior centers and programs throughout Ventura County. For more extensive information about serving the needs of seniors, visit the County of Ventura Area Agency on Aging website at www.vcaaa.org

The Goebel Senior Center is located at 1385 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, between the Thousand Oaks Teen Center and Grant R. Brimhall Library. Open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m, Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday noon to 4 p.m. The 21,000 sq ft facility offers classes, events, excursions, drop-in programs and more. The facility also has meeting rooms, kitchen/dining room, billiards room, putting green, horseshoe pits and more. Senior Nutrition Program 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. weekdays. Suggested donation $3 for ages 60+. Visit www.crpd.org/programs-sports/adults-seniors or call 805-381-2744.

The Simi Valley Senior Center at 3900 Avenida Simi is a 22,000 square foot enrichment and learning center for adults. The center provides learning programs, exercise classes, meal programs, health services, excursions, computer classes, book clubs, support groups, billiard room, social services, art classes and more. For ages 50+. The Rendezvous Café operates weekdays and offers hot lunch for a suggest donation of $3 for 60+ seniors and $8.25 for others (as of June 2024). Visit www.simivalley.org/departments/city-manager-s-office/community-programs-and-facilities/senior-center or call 805.583.6363.

The Pleasant Valley Senior Center is located at 1605 E. Burnley Street in Camarillo. The center is open M-F from 9am to 4pm and offers a variety of recreation and leisure program, a meal site for ages 60+ and social services for local residents. Programs and activities are not limited to Camarillo residents.

Visit www.pvrpd.org/senior-center or call 805.482.4881. More information on senior meal programs available from the Camarillo Health Care District at www.camhealth.com/senior-meals-program..

City of Oxnard Recreation and Community Services offers 3 senior centers. The Wilson Senior Center at 350 N. C Street is open M-F 10am to 4pm (805.385.8028), South Oxnard Senior Center at 200 East Bard Road is open M-F 8:15am to 2:15pm (805.385.8042) and Colonia Senior Center at 126-B Amelia Court, open M-F 8:30am to 2:30pm (805.385.8163). Visit www.oxnard.org/recreation/senior-services for more information.

MoorparkActiveAdult.jpg

The Moorpark Active Adult Center is located at 799 Moorpark Avenue. The center is open M-F from 8am to 4pm and offers classes, programs and more to ages 55+. Home delivered meals available to local 60+ residents and meals offered for low cost at the center. Visit moorparkca.gov/200/Active-Adult-Center for more information or call 805.517.6261.

The City of Agoura Hills runs a Senior Recreation Program for ages 50+ at its Recreation Center, located at 30610 Thousand Oaks Blvd.  The program offers fitness, social, educational and other great events and activities. Visit https://www.agourahillscity.org/department/community-services-parks-recreation/senior-recreation-program or call 818.597.7366 for more information.

The City of Ventura Senior Services program offers computer, recreational, specialty, social, health and fitness programs to 50+ at the Ventura Avenue Adult Center, 550 N. Ventura Avenue, 805.648.3035, and satellite sites at the Salvation Army (east Ventura), Pacific View Mall, TowneHouse, Ventura College and YMCA. A Travel Program office and special events are held at the Senior Recreation Center, 420 E. Santa Clara St, 805.648.2829. Visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/669/Adult-Senior-Services for more information.

Ventura's Senior Lunch Program operates Monday through Friday from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. $3 suggested price for ages 60 and up; $6.75 for others (as of January 2024). Nutritious hot entree with fresh fruit and vegetables plus special events. Westside Cafe located at the Ventura Avenue Adult Center, 550 N. Ventura Avenue. Call 805.648.3035 for more information.

The Santa Paula Senior Center is located at 530 W. Main Street and is open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Phone is 805.933.4272. The center offers classes, card games and meal programs to seniors. spcity.org/403/Senior-Center

The City of Fillmore Active Adult Center is located at 535 Santa Clara Avenue and is open 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Phone is 805.524.4533. Meals, games, activities and classes are offered. www.fillmoreca.com/177/Active-Adult-Center

The Orvene S. Carpenter Community Center is located at 550 Park Avenue in Port Hueneme and is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.  The city's Senior Nutrition Program offers meals to those in need and classes are offered. Visit www.ci.port-hueneme.ca.us/facilities/facility/details/orvenescarpentercommunitycenter-2 or call 805.986.6542 for more information.

LittleHouseOjai.jpg

The Little House Multipurpose Center in Ojai at 111 W. Santa Ana Street next to Ojai City Hall is run by Help of Ojai, Inc., a non-profit organization that has been serving the needs of Ojai's seniors since 1968. The center offers programs, services, recreation and meals. Visit www.helpofojai.org or call 805.646.5122 for more information.

And for thousands of classes each year specifically geared towards seniors, check out THESE LINKS to community recreation programs throughout Ventura County.

Pumpkin Patches in Ventura County and Adjacent Areas

The star of the Halloween show is the pumpkin. According to my favorite resource Wikipedia, the name pumpkin originated from the ancient Greek word pepon ("large melon"). The French called it pompom. The British changed it to pumpion. Then American colonists changed it to pumpkin.

Pumpkins are gourd-like squashes and technically are a fruit. They can range in size from 1 lb to 1,000 lbs.

But who cares about all that...what we REALLY want to know is, where are the pumpkin patches in Ventura County and surrounding areas for the 2024 fall season!? Well, here are some choices...but make sure to call before you go for hours, etc.

OTHER HALLOWEEN EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AROUND VENTURA COUNTY

Big Wave Dave's Pumpkin Patch will be operating one pumpkin patch this year at the Pacific View Mall in the Trader Joe's/Target parking lot from October 1st through October 31st, 2024. Free admission to the pumpkin patch, with kids’ activities, photo opps and more. Visit bigwavedaveschristmastrees.com/pumpkin-patch.html

Pumpkins_moreof.jpg

Boccali Ranch Pumpkin Patch at 3277 E. Ojai Avenue in Ojai will be open 7 days a week from 10am to 7pm starting October 5 to October 31, 2024, They offer tiny to extra-large “Big Mac” pumpkins, squash, gourds, Indian corn and seasonal produce. More details at boccalis.com/pumpkinpatch.html.

Prancer's Pumpkin Patch Santa Paula is located at 18540 East Telegraph Road and their Fall Fest will take place September 28 to October 31, 2024. Pumpkin patch events on weekends from 9am to 6pm with the following themes:

  • 9/28-9/29: Heroes of the Farm

  • 10/5-10/6: The Wild West

  • 10/12-10/13: Animals of the Farm

  • 10/19-10/20: Fiesta at the Farm

  • 10/26-10/27: Harvest Fest

Fall fest includes 10 acres of pumpkin patch, wagon hay ride, corn field maze, farm games, live entertainment and more. Movie nights on Saturdays: 10/5 - Hocus Pocus, 10/12 - Hocus Pocus 2, 10/19 - Coco, 10/26 - Haunted Mansion. Admission $20 to $26 on weekends, $13 on weekdays. Ages 2 and under free. Check for details at prancersfarm.com.

Stu Miller's Pumpkin Patch just east of the Simi Valley Town Center.

Stu Miller's Pumpkin Patch just east of the Simi Valley Town Center.

The 2024 Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest Festival in Moorpark is back from September 28 to October 31 at 3370 Sunset Valley Road. Admission includes huge pumpkin patch, tractor-drawn wagon rides, corn maze, giant tractor display, hay pyramids, animal center, and many other family-friendly activities. Themed weekend events include animal shows, pig races, live performers, roaming entertainment and more. Weekday admission is $14 at the gate only. Weekend admission varies from $22 to $28 per person purchased online. Children 2 and under and parking are free. More details at www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com/fall-harvest.

The Underwood Farm Center in Somis at 5696 Los Angeles Avenue also has a pumpkin patch along with its year-round animal center. Open 9am to 6pm.

Mizel Family Foundation is hosting a “Pick Your Own” Pumpkin Patch in Hidden Valley on October 21 and 24 from 4-6pm. Learn more at THIS LINK.

The 2024 Calabasas Pumpkin Festival is planned for Sunday, October 20th from 10am to 5pm at De Anza Park. Event will feature pumpkin patch and plenty of other fun activities. $10 per person in advance online. $15 at the gate. Kids under 2 are free. www.calabasaspumpkinfestival.com

The Seasonal Adventures Pumpkin Patch will be back this year at 450 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd (at Hodencamp) in Thousand Oaks from October 1-31, 2024. Hours are 3-9pm Mon-Thu, 3-10pm Fri, 11am-10pm Sat and 11am-9pm Sun. Closes at 7pm on 10/31. Free admission. Rides and attractions priced separately. www.seasonaladventures.com/thousandoakspumpkins

The Simi Valley Seasonal Adventures Pumpkin Patch is also back this year at 1898 Simi Town Center Way from October 1-31, 2024. Hours are 3-9pm Mon-Thu, 3-10pm Fri, 11am-10pm Sat and 11am-9pm Sun. Closes at 7pm on 10/31. Free admission. Rides and attractions priced separately. www.seasonaladventures.com/simivalleypumpkins

McGrath Brothers Great Pacific Pumpkins is located at 5100 Olivas Park Drive in Ventura. Call 805.644.1235. They are open the entire month of October from 9am to 6pm. Admission is $2. Tractor ride is $2. Hay Maze is $2. Check their Instagram page at www.instagram.com/mcgrathgreatpacificpumpkins for updates.

Pumpkin Patch at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 3947 W. Kimber Drive, Newbury Park. October 21 through 31, 2024, Mon-Fri 2-7pm, Sat 10am-7pm, Sun noon-7pm and Oct 31 9am-4pm. They will also be hosting a free Pumpkin Fest event from 2-6pm on the 26th. ctknp.com/pumpkin-patch

Bennett's Best Pumpkin Patch has locations next to the Whizin Market Square at 28900 Roadside Drive and at the corner of Kanan and Agoura Roads. They are both now open.

Great Pacific Pumpkins Ventura1.JPG

Aviation Museum of Santa Paula is Open to the Public the First Sunday of Each Month

The Santa Paula Airport was dedicated in August 1930. Today it is a non-towered facility with nearly 300 aircraft, handling approximately 97,000 arrivals/departures a year. Much of the original 1930’s-era facilities still exist and are used today, giving the airport a very authentic representation of the Golden Age of Aviation.

Located at the Santa Paula Airport, the Aviation Museum of Santa Paula is open the first Sunday of each month, with an array of hangars open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Upcoming dates: December 1

SPAirport_Dedication.JPG

Each of the privately owned hangars houses a variety of vintage aircraft and collections of various types, as well as other memorabilia, such as antique radios, model aircraft and race cars. Some hangars celebrate highlights of fascinating aviation careers, while others contain antique aircraft undergoing the process of restoration. Hangar owners or docents are available to answer questions. 

SPAviationMuseum.JPG

You've got to take the time to stop by. It is fun, low key and quite interesting. The hangars are directly adjacent to the airfield, so you are guaranteed to see aircraft taking off and landing up close.

Obviously an aviation aficionado in this hangar!

Obviously an aviation aficionado in this hangar!

The participating hangars are fairly well spread out at the 51 acre airport but if you're not up for walking, there's a complimentary tram that will take you around. These are some very nice people who have obvious passion for what they do and enjoy sharing it with the general public. I struck up conversations with several hangar owners and they were full of great stories and information.

AviationMuseumTram.JPG

There is no charge for visiting the Aviation Museum, though donations are welcomed. Visit www.aviationmuseumofsantapaula.org or call 805.525.1109 for more information.

The Museum is not open on rainy days.

Directions: Arriving by car from the east, exit the Santa Paula Freeway (SR 126) at 10th street, turn right off the ramp, and then a quick left onto Harvard Boulevard. Turn left at the next signal at Eighth Street, under the freeway, left onto Santa Maria Street and park in the lot. Arriving from the west, exit the freeway at Palm Avenue, turn right and then a quick left onto Santa Maria Street, about a half mile to the end at the parking lot.

Lots to see, both inside and outside of the hangars.

Lots to see, both inside and outside of the hangars.