There are cities and towns in Southern California that are known for their shopping districts, famous restaurants, epic beaches, or cute main streets. Then again, some quietly amazing places offer a little bit of all of that, along with some unexpected surprises, in one place. Take, for example, Ventura with its walkable downtown in Southern California that is worthy of a little day trip.
With its beachside location, Downtown Ventura has an artsy, laid-back vibe with plenty to do in the way of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Downtown Ventura
A great place to shop small with its collection of art galleries, independent coffee houses, thrift and antique stores, book shops, and more. Add to that a diverse selection of restaurants and bars, from a casual 50s diner and an Irish pub to fine dining and cocktail bars.
Downtown Ventura/Facebook
Buffalo Exchange is just one of several vintage, secondhand, and antique stores where you can browse for unique finds along Main Street.
Buffalo Exchange/Google Local 532 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
The area boasts several historic buildings with beautiful architecture. One of these, the historic Bank of Italy building, is now the home of Bank of Italy Cocktail Trust, serving a fun selection of Italian comfort food dishes, specialty cocktails, local beers, and natural wines. Stop in for Happy Hour on weekday evenings or Montenegro Mondays for a selection of unique cocktails.
Chris Garay/Google Local 394 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
Nurture your inner traveler at Passport Habits, a locally-owned shop that carries artisanal treasures from every part of the globe, items, and crafts that are unique to the places and people from which they come.
Leah Dilbeck/Google Local 542 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
A day of walking and shopping definitely calls for a great cup of coffee or tea, and Palermo is a great choice. Not only does it offer a unique menu - with specialty drinks like Viennese Latte, Ancho Chili Mocha, and five types of Chai tea latte - but you can enjoy a wide selection of pastries, chocolates, and gelato. Did we mention Palermo is also a cool gift shop?
Chris Garay/Google Local 321 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
Family-owned Rice by Mama is a local favorite for Thai food. This cute, contemporary restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, and offers authentic dishes plus a few house specialties.
Keziah Aaliyah/Google Local 419 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
The Majestic is a historic landmark, a luxury theater - the only one of its kind in the area at the time - built in the 1920s. It has a beautiful marquee and a restored opulent interior. Spacious, but with an intimate feel, the theater now hosts a variety of concerts and performances.
Warren Apel/Google Lola 26 S Chestnut St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
The Main Street of Downtown Ventura is just a few short blocks from the beach where you will find the oldest pier in California, golden sand, views of the Channel Islands, and stunning sunsets.
Slices of Light/Flickr
We have only touched the surface of what this walkable area has to offer. Have you ever spent a day exploring Downtown Ventura? What are your favorite spots in town? If you are looking for a few more towns worth spending a day, check out these Southern California day trips that make the most of the winter season.
Downtown Ventura
Downtown Ventura/Facebook
Buffalo Exchange/Google Local
532 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
Chris Garay/Google Local
394 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
Leah Dilbeck/Google Local
542 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
321 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
Keziah Aaliyah/Google Local
419 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
Warren Apel/Google Lola
26 S Chestnut St, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
Slices of Light/Flickr
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Address: Downtown Ventura, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
