Ventura - Premier Visitors Guide 2007-2008 - (Page 8) VENTURA Welcome to T —a place where families can still set off on bicycles, the scent of sun-warmed blossoms fills the air, and surfers ride liquid curls in the morning mist. ucked between the rugged Los Padres National Forest and the sparkling Pacific at the southern tip of California’s Central Coast, Ventura is a classic beach town with much more to it than sand and surf. Since its beginnings as a Chumash village, the city evolved from a bustling 18th-century Mission town, booming oil capital, and verdant agricultural hub. Today Ventura glitters with new sophistication thanks to a revitalized downtown, a culinary revolution, and refurbished parks, hotels and new construction in every sector. It’s a multifaceted city with a diverse and dynamic cultural scene, historic sites and museums, fascinating architecture, an array of culinary delights, and just the right blend of casual and “cool.” Ventura’s spectacular setting and warm climate offer boundless opportunities for fun in the sun. Hiking, fishing, golf, surfing, roller-blading, bird watching, camping, and boating are just a few vacation suggestions. With everything from cozy vintage stores to upscale galleries and outdoor malls—Ventura is also a shopper’s paradise. And of course, no visit to Ventura would be complete without some beach time, riding the waves or simply soaking up some rays. So go ahead and explore our sunsplashed corner of the world—whether your idea of adventure is hiking on the Channel Islands (also known as North America’s Galapagos), or staying closer to shore for shopping treasures and fusion cuisine. Whatever your interests, this guide is designed to help you get the most out of your stay. Each section focuses on the highlights of a particular area of Ventura, starting with the artsy westside neighborhood, historic downtown, and midtown region, through the waterfront and harbor to the east end, then beyond Ventura to the Channel Islands and popular county visitor destinations. GLOBA L D I N I N G In the last few years, Ventura has become a sought-after destination for food aficionados. Gourmands from the Los Angeles area drive here regularly to feast on revolutionary cuisine that fuses California’s bounty with flavors of the world. Here you’ll find Peruvian/Thai menus, Italian/South American pizza, and fresh, locally caught seafood topped with tropical fruit salsas, Italian marinara, or locally grown herbs and spices. 8 VENTURA VISITORS GUIDE MARK DOLYAK Whatever your taste or budget, Ventura’s restaurants are finding exciting new ways to please the palate. The choices are many: from upscale dining rooms to casual beachside atmospheres, you’ll find the freshest California seafood, the juiciest burgers, and a host of international foods, from falafels to sushi. If you’ve brought the kids along, no problem! Many Ventura restaurants provide a children’s menu with dishes that appeal to the pint-sized set. For a comprehensive guide to the culinary arts, see insert on page 17.
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