Posted on June 13, 2022 by Claire Marcus
Happy kids make for a happy summer and it’s all just a short drive from Los Angeles and Malibu in Conejo Valley.
Here, the cities of Thousand Oaks and Agoura Hills have the sun, views and serious play potential with far less crowds, which makes for a pretty great vacation for everyone. From outdoor adventures to indoor fun, read on for the best things to do for families in Conejo Valley:
Photo: Cheeseboro Canyon
From little legs to long ones, you can find suitable view-worthy trails in Agoura Hill, Thousand Oaks and surrounding areas. Reward yourself with wildflowers and wildlife along the way and take your time on any of our picturesque trails. Spots like Sycamore Canyon Trail, Malibu Lake and Cheeseboro Canyon allow you to comfortably take your time and enjoy the views.
Photo: @maliburiders
A short horseback ride will grant you some of the best views in the Los Angeles region. Opt for beautiful forests, with streams and views of wildlife or head into the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains with a forest-like canopy, wildflowers and relaxing views. Also, you can get in the spirit of the Old West by taking a ride near Paramount Ranch with Malibu Riders. It’s all yours to explore in Conejo Valley.
If you haven’t been, you need to. If you have, then you know why a repeat visit is totally worth it. The Ronald Regan Presidential Library and Museum is set on a mountaintop and has amazing views, especially at sunset. You can go inside his actual Air Force One, check out an exact replica of his White House Oval Office and see an actual piece of the Berlin Wall. They often have new and seasonal exhibits to enjoy as well – like their current exhibit on World War II.
Fresh air and fresh-picked fruit are just a few of the perks your crew can enjoy at Underwood Family Farms. Located in Moorpark, it’s a fully operational farm where you can pick your own fruit and veggies, shop at their farm market, take a tour and check out their Farm Animal Center where there are farm animal displays, pony rides and games. It’s a great spot for toddlers on up and admission is just $5 M-F and $8 on weekends and holidays with kids 2 and under being free. The farm is open year-round, but is especially special in the fall during harvest time.
Photo: @k1speedthousandoaks
Strap in and then take off at K1 Speed, the best indoor go-kart racing experience in Conejo Valley. Located in Thousand Oaks, they can handle groups from large to small with engaging fun on and off the track. A little friendly competition and a lot of air conditioning are a great combination for a good time with your kids.
Photo: @defythousandoaks
If bouncing off the walls is one of the things your kids do best, then let them defy gravity at DEFY, an ultimate aerial sports and extreme recreation park in Thousand Oaks. From foam pits to climbing walls and climb-worthy obstacle tracks, it’s the perfect place to let them test their parkour skills without damaging your furniture. This fun attraction is located in Janss Marketplace, so there’s plenty to do post-jump like shopping, dining, even catching a movie.
Photo: Boulderdash
If the rock-climbing pun doesn’t give it away, then you should know that this is one of the most epic indoor facilities in SoCal with 10,000 sq. ft. of top-rope, bouldering and lead climbing. Since they have climbs for all levels, everyone can interact and climb together. It’s all the fun and challenge of rock-climbing with the full benefits of air conditioning.
Photo: @DnBThousandOaks
Give your kids a glimpse of the awesome childhood you had at Dave & Busters, only way better than what you had. The games are pretty legit all by themselves, but they also have virtual reality, billiards, bowling and a full restaurant and bar with the game on. So yeah, it’s a good time for pretty much everyone.
Photo: @CoachesMP
There’s no shortage of options for good eating in Conejo Valley. For some kid-friendly options, we recommend The Waffle Experience, where the classic breakfast staple is elevated for some fun combinations. Coaches Old Fashion Ice Cream Parlor in Newbury Park also offers a sweet treat along with some nostalgia. The Original Pizza Cookery serves up classic pizza options and some of the best warm garlic knots around.
There are plenty of places to rest amidst all the fun. And if you prefer a relaxing day by the pool, there are hotel options for that as well. We have something for every style and budget. See you soon!