Do It Like a Local - A Weekend Guide to Thousand Oaks, CA

Smack in the middle of the Conejo Valley northwest of Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks probably has more than a thousand oaks. But it would take you longer than a weekend to count them, so allow me to suggest other things to do - from cultured gardens to culture centers, shopping, and dining.

1

Palm Garden Hotel

The Palm Garden is located right where you want it - within a quick driving distance of all the places you'll need to see. There's happy hour in Eric's Restaurant Monday through Saturday, and the hotel offers a museum package that includes tickets to the Reagan Library in Simi Valley.

2

Gardens of the World

This is my favorite place in Thousand Oaks. Behind a giant brick wall lies a magical sculpted land of different gardens, topped by an adobe mission style building that houses an ode to the missions of old - a series of paintings on the courtyard wall arranged around a beautiful fountain. Admission to the gardens is free.

You'll definitely want to make a stop at a show or an event at Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza.

3

Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza

You'll definitely want to make a stop at a show or an event at Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. From musicals to concerts to live theater, the auditorium has entertainment galore. There is shopping and dining in the adjacent buildings, and a lovely park for strolling.

4

Conejo Valley Botanic Garden

Yes, more plants. But you really can't get enough - there are gorgeous plants here that grow so well in Southern California, and soothe your senses. There is a sign-guided nature walk that follows a small stream through sunny and shady spots, and will help you work up an appetite for dinner.

5

The Melting Pot - Thousand Oaks Restaurant

I don't normally recommend chain restaurants but come on. This is fondue. With a four-course menu including cheese fondue, salad, entree, and chocolate - all served with dipping sauces and goodness, you will get a memorable meal experience. And I'm so happy there's one on my side of town.

I don't normally recommend chain restaurants but come on.

6

Shave It

A Shave It is a pile of snow with flavored syrup served over your choice of ice cream. You choose among countless flavor combinations, and then you sit down somewhere to eat the creation and the amazing cold yumminess blows your head off. Need I say more? More

A Shave It is a pile of snow with flavored syrup served over your choice of ice cream. You choose among countless flavor combinations, and then you sit down somewhere to eat the creation and the amazing cold yumminess blows your head off. Need I say more?

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Do It Like a Local - A Weekend Guide to Thousand Oaks, CA

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Kim Tracy Prince

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