Hotels in Ventura, California

A little about Ventura...

Incorporated in 1866, the city of San Buenaventura (usually referred to as Ventura) is the county seat of Ventura County, California. Ventura has a population of 105,000. Ventura is accessible via U.S. Route 101, California State Route 33, and California State Route 126.

Ventura hosts two college campuses, the Brooks Institute of Photography and Ventura College. Ventura College is a community college, part of the Ventura County Community College District.

Ventura is an excellent location for surfing. One great surf spot is Surfer's Point, also referred to as C Street where some surfing competitions are held.

Downtown Ventura is home to the Mission San Buenaventura, museums, galleries, dining and shopping. Primary areas of activity include California Street and Main Street between Ventura Avenue and Fir Street. Also located in downtown is the historic Ortega adobe, home to the Ortega family now famous for their chile products. Numerous thrift stores contrast with high-end shops and restaurants. Also in Downtown Ventura are the ornate city hall with a statue of Junipero Serra, and the Rubicon Theatre.

In Plaza Park (Chestnut and Santa Clara Streets, downtown) one of the nations largest Morton Bay Fig Trees is marked with a historic plaque. Across the street is the main post office which houses WPA murals on its interior walls.

The Ventura Harbor is home to a thriving fishing industry, seafood restaurants and a shopping village at Ventura Harbor Village. The Channel Islands National Park Headquarters are also located in the harbor, and the boats to the national park depart from the harbor daily.

Ventura's fairgrounds are also the home of the Ventura County Fair.

The Olivas Adobe, one of the early California Rancho homes, is operated today as a museum and performing arts venue. Located adjacent to the Olivas Park Golf Course, the home is one of the most visited historic sites on the central coast. Living history reinactments, demonstrations of Rancho life, and wonderful ghost stories abound.