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Explore the Possibilities of Conejo Valley While at CLU

Posted on March 27, 2023 by Christina Wicker

Expand upon your learnings when you visit California Lutheran University. Conejo Valley has a wide breadth of interesting places to explore, from the Santa Monica Mountains to museums, live performances, and amazing restaurants, and everything in between.

Only in town for a couple days? Use this guide to make the most of your stay.  

Photo Credit: @historiabakery

First on the List: Historia Bakery

Treat your group to the culinary magic of Chef Keven Alan Lee, known as “Cheven” to most, at Historia Bakery. He’s a globally recognized culinary master who mixes international cuisine with a modern farm-to-table approach. Sweet, savory, and so, so good – just 10 minutes from CLU. 

Visit Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum 

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum is a must-see for the area. Largest of all federally operated presidential libraries, the enormous Simi Valley site sits encircled by a pristine backdrop of mountains, rolling hills and the glittering Pacific Ocean. Experience history by climbing aboard Reagan’s actual Air Force One, where you will bear witness to an impressive collection of artifacts, gifts and papers. Special exhibits rotate through regularly, making this stop worth multiple trips. 

Photo Credit: @thefive07

Enjoy your Joe at The Five07  

Equal parts creativity hive for free-thinkers and hot spot for java, The Five07 touts both inspired music and a mouthwatering menu.

Gaze at the Gardens of the World 

There are few gardens quite like the Gardens of the World. It was created by Ed and Lynn Hogan, founders of one of the country’s largest travel companies Pleasant Holidays, as a gift for the community representing the many world cultures they visited in their travels. 

Photo Credit: @tarantulahillbrewingco

Crawl Over to Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. 

Artisan food and exciting new beers are what Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. is best known for, as well as being just 5 minutes away from the Gardens of the World. On some nights, you can find live music and events, too. They’re always innovating new craft brews, so feel free to ask for a recommendation. If you crave something other than beer, the spot offers ice cream and other refreshments like hard kombuchas, too. 

Catch a Concert 

Make time to catch a show at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center at least one night in town. They put on a mix of concerts, live theater and comedy tours, so it’s always worth seeing what’s playing. 

Photo Credit: @jinkys_cafe

Start Your Day Off Right at Jinky’s Café 

Feast at one of the best breakfast spots in Conejo Valley, Jinky’s Café. From vegan to decadent and everything in between, you’ll be sure to find a favorite amongst the abundance of options, from Martin’s Spicy Chilaquiles to the Lemon Pistachio Cream French Toast.   

Check Out Paramount Ranch 

HBO’s Westworld, the film American Sniper and the TV series Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman have all filmed at Paramount Ranch for a reason. It’s beautiful and makes an ideal location for hiking and horseback riding. The ride is an hour long and goes through some of the most beautiful spots.  

Photo Credit: @solesoups

Stop at Solé Soups 

This place is serious about soup and they’re seriously good at it. With Italian origins, Solé Soups has 30+ flavors made fresh daily from natural and local ingredients. It’s delicious, and since you’ll have worked up an appetite at Paramount Ranch, good thing it’s only six minutes away. 

Photo Credit: pexels.com

Cuddle Up for Bunny Yoga 

Specializing in family yoga, Harmony Family Yoga offers both afternoon and evening sessions. It’s a wonderfully calming way to sum up your day. You can opt for Candlelight Restorative Yoga, Bunny Yoga with real bunnies and De-Stress Yoga, among many others. Ready to take down the stress even further? You’re only 12 minutes from Solé Soups. 

Land at Tavern Tomoko & Ladyface Brewery 

Southern California is a unique blend of cultures and Tavern Tomoko & Ladyface Brewery is a great example. It combines contemporary Japanese small plates with elevated American fare, along with award-winning Ladyface craft ales, inventive cocktails and a robust list of wine by the glass. The view from their patio isn’t bad either.  

Plan for Extra Days 

Being close to LA, Conejo Valley makes for a great home base to explore the area. Stay in one of the 15 hotels in Thousand Oaks or Agoura Hills to make trip planning easy.  

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