Ojai, a charming town nestled in the picturesque Ojai Valley, is about 80 miles northwest of Los Angeles and just under an hour west of Santa Barbara. Known for its vibrant community and laid-back atmosphere, Ojai is my go-to escape—a place where I can indulge in self-serve peppermint frozen yogurt during the holidays. Every time I drive into the valley, it feels like I’m shedding the weight of daily stress. If you’re looking for a family getaway, Ojai is the perfect destination! Here are ten engaging activities to explore with your kids.
1. Explore the Bike Paths
Ojai boasts a smooth, seven-mile bike path that winds through the town, providing ample opportunity to tire out your little ones. For those still on training wheels, numerous bike rental shops offer child trailers. Who knows, maybe one day there will be adult-size bike trailers too!
2. Visit the Farmer’s Market
On Sundays, take your family to the lively Farmer’s Market where you can share a Free Hug, be entertained by a young sitar player, and choose from a delightful array of fresh produce and snacks.
3. Dine at Bonny Lu’s Country Café
If you’re in the mood for classic American comfort food, Bonny Lu’s is the place to be. This retro diner is incredibly kid-friendly, and when my friend Amy and I needed a break with our newborns, the staff was so accommodating that they even held our babies while we enjoyed our meals. Don’t forget to tip generously!
4. Savor Bliss Frozen Yogurt
For those with a sweet tooth, Bliss Frozen Yogurt offers a wide range of flavors and toppings, catering to dairy lovers and vegans alike. The cozy atmosphere, complete with toys and books, makes it a great spot for kids to enjoy.
5. Discover Rose Valley Falls
Just a short drive into the Los Padres National Forest, Rose Valley is home to stunning waterfalls and swimming holes. The easy one-mile round trip hike to Rose Valley Falls is perfect for families—my toddler managed it with ease! Bring a change of clothes, as the chilly pools are irresistible.
6. Spot Celebrities
Ojai’s ban on paparazzi means you might spot a celeb or two while you’re out and about. Whether it’s a well-known actress or an actor from your favorite series, the small-town charm makes it easy to mingle with famous faces.
7. Relax at Libbey Park
This classic grassy park in downtown Ojai features a large playground and plenty of space to spread out. It’s an ideal spot for your kids to play while you dream about bumping into a star!
8. Browse Bart’s Books
If your children enjoy stories, you’ll love spending time at Bart’s Books, known as the “World’s Greatest Outdoor Bookstore.” With a variety of unique and rare books, it’s a wonderful place to instill a love of reading in your family.
9. Enjoy Lake Casitas WaterPark
This compact water park is perfect for families. With a water playground for younger children and a lazy river for parents to relax, it’s a fantastic way to spend a hot day.
10. Visit the Ojai Skateboard Park
For older kids, this safe and clean skate park offers a great place to practice skills on their skateboards or scooters. Younger children will have fun watching the action from the sidelines.
And while you’re exploring Ojai, don’t forget to check out other local attractions and perhaps indulge in some wine tasting (in moderation, of course!).
In summary, Ojai is a family-friendly destination that offers a mix of outdoor adventures, delicious food, and unique experiences. Whether you’re biking along scenic paths or enjoying a scoop of frozen yogurt, Ojai is sure to create lasting memories for your family. For more information on pregnancy resources, visit this excellent resource on IUI or learn how to track your baby’s movements on this authority site here. And for those interested in enhancing fertility, check out our post about fertility boosters for men.